There
are three types of question, generally corresponding to (a), (b) and (c).
It is really important to understand what sort of answer each type of question
expects.
(a)
Knowledge and Understanding (example from Q1 1999 paper) [8 marks]
Describe the special clothes that
some Jews use for prayer and explain why they are worn.
Notice
the terms describe (how) and explain why. You need to know what
Jews believe and practice, and the reasons or symbolism that make them
important. The following might be
included in a typical answer:
They
do this because the Torah instructs them to (give a quote or reference if
possible)
This
has been a tradition since the time of Moses
It is
part of their covenant (agreement) with God
It
shows obedience to God
It has
symbolic meaning – it stands for…
This
is a reminder of… (God as creator; God’s presence; God’s power etc.)
This
makes Jews think about…
(b)
Application [7 marks]
Explain how praying every day might
help Jews in their daily lives.
In
section (b), you have to explain how Jewish beliefs and practices affect their
daily lives. This is where you have to 'think Jewish'. You
have to imagine the effects of the Torah, the Jewish community, Jewish customs
and celebrations, Jewish history etc. on Jewish life. It may be
appropriate to mention some of the difficulties that arise, but really this
section could be called the "How Judaism changed my life!" section.
You should explain how being Jewish gives extra meaning, purpose
and value to someone's life. Your
answer might include some of the following:
This
links them to Israel, Jews around the world and throughout history
It
gives them a sense of identity and belonging
It
reminds them of their history and what God has done for them
It
strengthens the local community
It
reinforces important family relationships
They
get support from the rabbi; the other Jews in the community; their family
It
helps them to know what is right and wrong
It is
enjoyable and uplifting, making them grateful for all the things they have
It
focuses them on God and reminds them of their special relationship with God
(c)
Evaluation [5 marks]
'Prayer should be in your own words; there is no need
to follow a prayer book.'
The
question is misleading - it always asks 'do you agree?', but however well you
back up your answer, just giving your own opinion will only get a couple of
marks. It should say: 'Discuss all of the issues raised by this
comment, making your own opinion clear.' This is not like Christian
Perspectives - the debate here is
usually about WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT in Judaism. Therefore, you should be arguing that each aspect is
important (say WHY). You should
show which you think is MOST important in a brief summary at the end.
The following general principles might help:
The
Torah is from God and following it is part of their covenant (agreement)
with God
Orthodox
Jews believe God wrote the Torah and therefore it never changes; Reform Jews
believe God inspired the Torah but it was written by humans in a different
culture; therefore Reform Jews follow the moral laws of the Torah, but
change some traditions and rituals
Festivals/food
laws etc. are important because by following simple laws/traditions, Jews
get into the habit of obeying all laws, including the important moral laws
that hold society together
The
family is very important, as this is where Jews learn and practice how to
follow the Torah
The
community gives mutual support and helps keep history, tradition and culture
alive