The IB World Religions SL syllabus has three parts: an introduction to world religions, in-depth studies, and an investigative study. Together, these cover knowledge, analysis of lived religion, and independent research.
| Syllabus part | What you study | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Part 1: Introduction to world religions | Five of nine religions through the three fundamental questions: What is the human condition? Where are we going? How do we get there? | Paper 1, 50 teaching hours, 30% |
| Part 2: In-depth studies | Two of six religions from different sections, studied through key concepts and five themes | Paper 2, 80 teaching hours, 45% |
| Part 3: Investigative study | A focused investigation of religious experience, practice, or belief using research and, where appropriate, fieldwork | Internal assessment, about 20 hours, 25% |
In Part 1, the nine religions are arranged in three sections. Section A contains Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism; Section B contains Judaism, Christianity, and Islam; Section C contains Taoism, Jainism, and the Bahá'í Faith. You study five religions overall, with at least one from each section.
Part 2 requires two religions from different sections. Its five themes are rituals, sacred texts, doctrines and beliefs, religious experience, and ethics and moral conduct. You must connect beliefs and concepts to the behaviour and experiences of particular believers, while recognizing denominational, cultural, and geographical diversity.
For Part 3, your investigative study may focus on any religion, including one outside the nine studied in Parts 1 and 2. It is 1,500-1,800 words and must use the required headings, evidence, reflection, and references.
For exam technique, avoid the misconception that every student studies all nine religions in depth. Paper 1 assesses your five introductory religions, Paper 2 assesses your two in-depth religions, and the investigative study has its own research question and criteria.