Studies of Religion Past HSC ExamsPart A — Religion and Belief Systems in Australia post-1945 Section 1 Multiple Choice Questions and 5 mark extended response 2015 – 2007
20151. Which of the following is an important aspect of the Dreaming?
a. It arranges events in order of time.b. It recognises totems as an ancient form of worship.c. It establishes a moral code that informs and unites all life. d. It symbolises the secular nature of customs and traditions.
2. Which of the following is true of the Anglican Church?
a. It separated from the Uniting Church in 1987.b. It is the largest Christian denomination in Australia.c. It is no longer a member of the NSW Ecumenical Council.d. It was formerly known as the Church of England in Australia.
3. A selection of churches in Australia’s current religious landscape is shown.
Baptist Presbyterian Greek Orthodox Uniting Church
How many of these churches are Protestant?
a. 1b. 2c. 3d. 4
4. The main reason why interfaith dialogue is important is that it provides
a. a forum for the discussion of social justice issues.b. a basis for the future merger of religious traditions.c. a structural basis for the development of secularism.d. funding to support the work of the World Council of Churches.
5. Of the following, which is the most common pattern of denominational switching?
a. From Catholic to Unitingb. From Pentecostal to Anglican c. From Anglican to Salvation Armyd. From Pentecostal to another Pentecostal
6. Statement 1: The 1992 Mabo decision applied to land lived on continuously by Aboriginal people.Statement 2: The 1996 Wik decision allowed pastoral leases to extinguish Native Title.Which of the following is correct?
a. Both statements are true.b. Both statements are false.c. Statement 1 is false and statement 2 is true.d. Statement 1 is true and statement 2 is false.
7. Which of the following led to Aboriginal people being separated from their kinship groups?
a. Assimilationb. Secularismc. Self-determinationd. Wik decision
8. According to recent census data, what proportion of people in Australia identify as having no religion?
a. 50% or moreb. Between 40% and 49%c. Between 30% and 39%d. Less than 30%
9. Which of the following contributed significantly to the growth of Buddhism in Australia?
a. The aftermath of World War IIb. The aftermath of the Vietnam Warc. An increase in migration from Pakistand. An increase in migration from the Philippines
10. What would supporters of ecumenism be likely to reject?a. Sectarianismb. Reconciliationc. Interfaith dialogued. Denominational switching
20141. Which of the following is a common characteristic of New Age religions?
a. They value ecumenism.b. They all reject materialism.c. They focus on the spiritual needs of their adherents.d. They integrate all non-Christian religions into a common set of beliefs.
2. What aspect of Aboriginal spirituality best relates to this quotation?
a. Artb. Magicc. Kinshipd. Dreaming
3. To what was Kevin Rudd referring in this part of the Apology to Australia’s Indigenous peoples?
a. The ending of the White Australia policyb. Assimilation policies that had led to injusticesc. The gap in health and education equality between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginalpeoplesd. The empowering of non-Aboriginal people in the decision-making process forReconciliation
4. Which of the following is central to the Dreaming?
a. Lawb. Marriagec. Assimilationd. Dispossession
5. Which of the following enabled pastoral leases and Native Title to co-exist?
a. Mabo decision 1992b. Native Title Act 1993(Cth)c. Wik decision 1996d. Native Title Amendment Act 1998(Cth)
6. Since 2001, which of the following churches has been the least affected by denominational switching?
a. Unitingb. Catholic c. Anglicand. Pentecostal
7. Which of the following is true of totemic identity in Aboriginal spirituality?
a. It is a life-force that symbolises relationshipsb. It encourages separation from one’s country.c. It identifies a temporary relationship between individuals and their totem.d. It connects individuals with the wider Australian community.
Statement 1: The Anglican Church is the largest Christian denomination in AustraliaStatement 2: The majority of Presbyterians, Methodists and Baptists merged toform the Uniting Church in Australia.
8. Which of the following is correct?
a. Both statements are true.b. Both statements are false.c. Statement1 is false and statement2 is true.d. Statement1 is true and statement2 is false.
9. According to current census data, which religious affiliation is most common among recently-arrived migrants in Australia?
a. Islamb. Buddhismc. No religiond. Christianity
10. Which of the following has been a consequence of immigration since 1945?
a. The Catholic Church has become more multicultural.b. The number of Christian denominations in Australia has significantly declined.c. Several New Age religions are now members of the NSW Council of Churches.d. Hinduism has grown to become the second largest non-Christian religion in Australia.
20131. Within Aboriginal spirituality, which of the following was a result of dispossession?
a. Separation from kinship groupsb. The declining importance of missionsc. Racial Discrimination Act, 1975d. A redefining of the concept of terra nullius
2. Leslie has left the Uniting Church and become a Muslim. Which statement best describes Leslie’s action?
a. Leslie has become sectarian.b. Leslie has switched denominations.c. Leslie has changed religious traditions.d. Leslie has joined an interfaith organisation.
3. What role does an initiation ceremony have in Aboriginal spirituality?
a. It provides a reliable supply of food.
b. It defines gender during different stages of life.c. It prepares young Aboriginal people for political life.d. It teaches young Aboriginal people about their responsibilities.
4. According to recent Australian census data, which of the following is correct?
a. Anglicanism is the largest Christian denomination.b. The number of people reporting ‘No Religion’ has decreased.c. The Uniting Church is the third largest Christian denomination.d. The number of people reporting a non-Christian faith has decreased.
5. What is the most likely reason for the current rise in secularism in Australia?
a. A perception that the responses of religious traditions to enduring questions are out datedb. Increasing sectarian rivalry between Christian denominations.c. Recent trends in denominational switchingd. Growing interest in New Age religions
6. Which of the following best explains why religious traditions are engaged in Aboriginal reconciliation?
a. They support ecumenical dialogue.b. They recognise injustices of the past.c. They encourage conversion to their own tradition.(D)They desire to incorporate Aboriginal
symbolism into their own tradition.
7. Which of the following lists the next three religious traditions in Australia, afterChristianity, from largest to smallest?
a. Islam, Buddhism, Judaismb. Buddhism, Hinduism, Islamc. Islam, Hinduism, Buddhismd. Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism
8. Which of the following is an important role of interfaith dialogue?
a. It promotes social justice among denominations.b. It promotes tolerance and religious understanding.c. It provides a structure for the sharing of resources.d. It helps people who are considering switching religions.
9. Which of the following is a key focus of the NSW Ecumenical Council?
a. To promote unification among different religious traditionsb. To express a common Christian voice on issues of concern in societyc. To encourage more Christian adherents to undertake active roles in Australian political lifed. To provide a common voice for different religious traditions on refugee and asylum seeker issues
Statement 1: The worship of ancestral beings is central to ceremonial life.Statement 2: Territorial boundaries form the basis of ritual estates.
10. How do these statements relate to Aboriginal spirituality?
a. Both statements are true.b. Both statements are false.c. Statement 1 is false and statement 2 is true.d. Statement 1 is true and statement 2 is false.
20121. What is the basis of the Dreaming?
a. Ceremonial life b. Kinship c. Totem d. Land
2. Which of the following names the three major Christian denominations in Australia in decreasing size?
a. Anglican, Uniting, Catholic b. Catholic, Anglican, Uniting c. Anglican, Catholic, Orthodox d. Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican
3. According to census data, what proportion of people in Australia identify with a religious tradition?
a. More than 60% b. Between 50% and 60% c. Between 40% and 50% d. Less than 40%
4. Which church can be considered to have been formed as a consequence of the ecumenical movement in Australia?
a. Congregational b. Presbyterian c. Anglican d. Uniting
5. The traditional role of initiation ceremonies in Aboriginal spirituality has been to prepare young people
a. for the effects of dispossession. b. for their struggle for Land Rights. c. to undertake adult responsibilities. d. to develop a relationship with the religious traditions.
6. Which of the following is a typical feature of New Age religions?
a. Foundational texts form the basis of all beliefs. b. Individual fulfilment is sought. c. Divine beings are worshipped. d. Cult status is achieved.
7. In which of the following do both examples refer to ecumenical developments in Australia?
a. Support for Aboriginal Reconciliation and the dismantling of the White Australia policy b. The formation of the National Council of Churches in Australia and the sharing of resources among
rural Australian churches c. The formation of the Australian Partnership of Religious Organisations and the formal dialogue
between the major world religions d. The Seventh Assembly of the World Council of Churches in Canberra and the Parliament of World
Religions in Melbourne
Type of Marriage Celebrant
Year Ministers of Religion Civil Celebrants1990 57.9% 42.1%2010 30.7% 69.3%
8. Which of the following is likely to best explain the trend shown?
a. Increased denominational switching b. Increased interfaith dialogue c. Increased secularisation d. Increased immigration
9. Burial in one’s ‘country’ is important in Aboriginal spirituality because
a. relatives can access the burial site. b. the deceased’s spirit can be comforted. c. relatives can complete the burial rituals. d. the deceased’s spirit can return to its ancestors.
Statement 1: Kinship within traditional Aboriginal society regulates social relationships, including marriage. Statement 2: Totemism expresses a system of kinship within the natural world
10. Which of the following is correct?
a. Both statements are true. b. Both statements are false. c. Statement 1 is false and statement 2 is true. d. Statement 1 is true and statement 2 is false.
20111. What is the purpose of ecumenical dialogue?
a. Conversion b. Unification c. Social justice d. Mutual understanding
2. Why are Elders in Aboriginal communities given significant status and respect?
a. They promote modern non-Aboriginal spiritualities. b. They possess valued sacred knowledge about Aboriginal spirituality. c. They lead all negotiations among Aboriginal people about land rights claims. d. They encourage young people from Aboriginal communities to enter the professions.
3. What effect do the Native Title Act and the Mabo and Wik decisions have on Aboriginal spiritualities?
a. They support the concept of terra nullius. b. They discourage the economic ambitions of pastoralists. c. They contribute to the revitalisation of Aboriginal traditions. d. They address past economic injustices for Aboriginal Australians.
4. Within Aboriginal spirituality, which of the following requires ceremonial initiation?
a. Belonging to ritual estate b. Adoption of language group c. Transition into adult roles d. Introduction to totemic group
5. How was the formation of the Uniting Church in 1977 received by the Christian denominations involved? a. Almost all Methodists supported it. b. Almost all Methodists opposed it. c. Almost all Congregationalists opposed it. d. Almost all Presbyterians supported it.
6. The graph below shows the growth in some of Australia’s non-Christian religions, based on the censuses of 1981 to 2006.What is the most likely reason for the trends shown in the graph?
a. Increased secularisation in Australiab. Conversion of Australian Christians to non-Christian religionsc. Increased immigration from predominantly non-Christian countriesd. Greater acceptance of non-Christian religions by the general Australian population
7. Taylor is planning a New Age religion study tour. Which destinations are most likely to be on the tour?
a. The Ka’ba, Mecca and the River Ganges, India b. Angkor Wat, Cambodia and St Paul’s Cathedral, London c. The Wailing Wall, Jerusalem and Anzac Cove, Gallipoli d. Stonehenge, Salisbury and the Festival of Body, Mind and Spirit, Oslo
8. Which of the following is a distinctive feature of Aboriginal spirituality?
a. It places a high value on material possessions. b. It values competition within Aboriginal communities. c. It values competition between Aboriginal communities. d. It makes no separation between the spiritual and the secular.
9. Which of the following statements about Aboriginal native title is true?
a. The Wik Decision found that native title coexists with pastoral leases. b. The Bringing them home report was the first legal recognition of Aboriginal native title. c. The Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation recognised that native title exists over seabeds. d. The Mabo Decision responded to the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody.
10. The percentages of people attending Australian churches in 2006, organised by age groupand denominational group, is shown below.Using the information in the table, which group is most likely to be a Pentecostal church?
a. Denomination 1b. Denomination 2c. Denomination 3d. Denomination 4
20101. What did the Mabo decision recognise?
a. Australia was declared terra nullius. b. Native title overrules pastoral leases. c. Indigenous peoples have native title to land. d. Aboriginal peoples have the right to negotiate.
2. How has Christianity changed in Australia since 1945?
a. Denomination switching has caused Pentecostalism to grow. b. Ecumenism has caused Christianity to become a more dominant tradition. c. Funding arrangements for religious schools have caused Catholicism to grow. d. Immigration has caused sectarianism and secularism to grow in Christian denominations.
3. Which of the following is an example of secularisation? a. Peace march on Palm Sunday b. Shops trading seven days a week c. Rise in the number of cults in Australia d. Multifaith service for the victims of the Victorian bushfires
4. What is the main function of the National Council of Churches?
a. To promote ecumenism b. To prevent secularisation c. To promote reconciliation d. To prevent denominational switching
Use your own knowledge and the following table to answer Question 5.
Changing patterns of religious adherence in Australia
Census year Anglican Catholic Presbyterian/Reformed
Methodist/ Uniting
Other religions and no religion
1961 34.9% 24.9% 9.2% 10.2% 0.7%1981 26.1% 26.0% 4.4% 3.4% 1.4%2001 20.7% 26.7% 3.4% 6.7% 4.8%2006 18.7% 25.8% 3.0% 5.7% 5.6%
5. Immigration was responsible for the greatest percentage growth in which group?
a. Catholicb. Non-Christianc. Methodist/Unitingd. Presbyterian/Reformed
6. What is the primary function of Aboriginal ceremonial life?
a. To celebrate the Dreamingb. To worship ancestral beingsc. To commemorate past activitiesd. To merge past, present and future
7. Which of the following best explains the rise of New Age religions?
a. Post-war immigrationb. Abolition of the White Australia Policyc. Wider visions of enlightenment and fulfilment in societyd. Changes in the governing structures of traditional, mainstream religions
8. What is the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Melbourne an example of?
a. Secularism b. Ecumenism c. New Age religions d. Interfaith dialogue
9. Which of the following statements best reflects religion in Australia?
a. Australia is an ecumenical community. b. Australia is a multifaith society that believes in God. c. Australia endorses ecumenical relationships with Asia. d. Australia is a multifaith society that fosters religious diversity.
10. Which three religions have experienced growth in Australia as a result of immigrationsince 1990?
a. Hinduism, Islam, Judaism b. Buddhism, Islam, Judaism c. Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam d. Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism
20091. What is the role of ritual and ceremony for Aboriginal spiritualities?
a. To renew and conserve life b. To gain support for the Land Rights movement c. To implement traditional Aboriginal legal decisions d. To promote cultural understanding among non-Indigenous people
2. Which of the following best expresses the Aboriginal Dreaming?
a. Smoking ceremony and totems b. Kinship groupings and voting rights c. Myths, legends and enactment ceremonies d. Australia Day, the Wik Legislation and the Aboriginal flag
3. What aspect of religious dialogue is reflected in the illustration?
a. Totemic identity b. Kinship groupings c. Reconciliation process d. Rainbow Spirit Theology
4. Which statement best expresses the basis of Aboriginal Land Rights claims?
a. A formal legal relationship based on title deeds b. A spiritual relationship of the people to country c. An economic relationship of the people exploiting natural resources d. A political relationship where the people have sovereign power over territory
5. What did the Wik decision mean for the Land Rights movement?
a. Aboriginal people gained sole ownership over land of continuous habitation. b. Aboriginal people gained unlimited access to their ritual estates. c. Pastoral leases and native title rights could co-exist. d. Mining companies gained free access to resources.
6. From 1945 to 2006, the pattern of adherence in Australian Christianity changed. By 2006, there was
a. a smaller proportion of Anglicans and a smaller proportion of Catholics. b. a greater proportion of Anglicans and a smaller proportion of Catholics. c. a greater proportion of Catholics and a smaller proportion of Pentecostals. d. a greater proportion of Uniting Church members and a smaller proportion of Presbyterians.
7. What is secularism?
a. A search for interfaith cooperation in society b. A concept that diminishes the influence of religion in society c. A school of thought emphasising allegiance to one’s religious group d. Communities and individuals who live in isolation and share a common belief
8. Which of the following is a typical feature of New Age religions?
a. Eucharist b. Meditation c. Communal worship d. Ordained female clergy
9. Which of the following best reflects the reason for ecumenism in Australia’s current religious landscape?
a. A shared concern for social justice issues b. Increased awareness of the potential for interfaith dialogue c. A decline in the number of Christian adherents in the population d. The beginning of resource sharing including church buildings in rural Australia
10. What best explains increasing interfaith dialogue in Australia since 1945?
a. Growing secularism b. Increased sectarianism c. The work of the council for Aboriginal Reconciliation d. Catholic membership of the National Council of Churches (NCCA)
20081. What is a totem in Aboriginal spirituality?
a. A symbol of unity among all Aboriginal peopleb. A burning stick that is carried between Aboriginal campsc. A wooden pipe used to create musical sounds at ceremoniesd. A fish, plant or animal that represents a spirit ancestor in a region
2. What was a consequence of the Mabo decision?
a. Aboriginal people gained the right to vote.b. The policy of assimilation was abandoned.c. The concept of terra nullius was overturned.d. Aboriginal people gained equal citizenship status.
3. What relationship between Aboriginal people and the land is central to Aboriginal spirituality?a. They should conserve the land.b. They have obligations to the land.c. The land provides them with an income.d. The land provides them with food and shelter.
4. What is the main purpose of initiation for young Aboriginal people?
a. To ensure continuation of the lawb. To celebrate kinship relationshipsc. To train the leaders of the Land Rights movementd. To enable them to resist the effects of dispossession
5. In Australia, which of the following has gained the greatest number of followers as a result of denominational switching?
a. Catholicismb. Anglicanismc. Pentecostal churchesd. Uniting Church of Australia
6. Which statement describes a change that has occurred in Australia’s religious landscape since 1945?
a. An increasing proportion of Jews and a decreasing proportion of Buddhists b. An increasing proportion of Buddhists and an increasing proportion of Hindus c. A decreasing proportion of Christians and a decreasing proportion of Muslims d. A decreasing proportion of Buddhists and an increasing proportion of Christians
7. In the 1990s the Catholic Church overtook the Anglican Church as the largest religious group in Australia.
What is the best explanation of this trend?
a. Changing immigration patterns b. The implementation of World Youth Days c. The increased role of Catholics in political activities d. The inclusion of women in leadership roles in the Anglican Church
8. What would followers of New Age spirituality reject?
a. Spirituality focused on deity b. Modern materialistic values c. Neo-pagan belief systems d. Self-awareness
9. In a religious context, what is the meaning of the term adherent?
a. A person who becomes a religious leader b. A person who follows a secular perspective c. A person who follows a religious perspective d. A person who takes part in religious dialogue
10. What has been an effect of interfaith dialogue in Australia?
a. The formation of the Uniting Church in 1977 b. Joint social welfare work of the Christian churches in Australia c. The Reconciliation walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge in 2000 d. Joint statements on homelessness by representatives of religious traditions
20071. How is Aboriginal spirituality determined by the Dreaming?
a. It explains the concept of ‘terra nullius’. b. It forms the basis for the covenant with God. c. It explains why the ancestral spirits are no longer alive. d. It explains how the world was formed and how it is sustained.
2. Which of the following was the first legal recognition of the spiritual connection of the Aboriginal people to ‘the land’?
a. Mabo v Queensland 1992 b. The Native Title Act 1993 c. Wik Peoples v Queensland 1996 d. The Native Title Amendment Act 1998
3. What has been the traditional role of Aboriginal elders?
a. To develop the independence of the Aboriginal community b. To organise the purchase of Crown Land by Aboriginal communities c. To protect the integrity of Aboriginal sacred texts which embody the Dreaming d. To preserve and transmit the most sacred meaning of Aboriginal ritual and ceremonies
4. How is the kinship group of an Aboriginal person determined?
a. By personal choice b. By being born into the group c. By completing initiation rites
d. By the location of their birthplace
5. What was the main reason for removing many Aboriginal children from their families after 1945?
a. To lessen the burden on large Aboriginal families b. To force them to adopt European culture and behaviour c. To provide them with opportunities to improve their literacy d. To allow them to share Aboriginal spirituality with Europeans
6. What is an impact of Aboriginal Reconciliation on Christianity?
a. Loss of traditional Aboriginal culture b. Reduced awareness of Aboriginal ritual and ceremony c. Increased acceptance of Aboriginal ritual and ceremony d. Loss of traditional practices in other religious traditions
7. Which of the following is an example of denominational switching?
a. Changing from Catholicism to Zen Buddhism b. Changing from Uniting Church to Humanism c. Changing from Orthodox Judaism to Reform Judaism d. Changing from Christianity to new religious expressions
8. What is the main cause of the increasing religious diversity in Australia since 1945?
a. The declining impact of secularism b. The changing patterns of immigration c. The adoption of a policy of assimilation d. The strengthening of the ecumenical movement
At a meeting in December 2006, leaders from all religious traditions agreed that their faiths required Australians to take care of God’s creation and immediately tackle climate change.
9. Which of the following does this statement reflect?
a. Ecumenism b. Sectarianism c. Interfaith dialogue d. New Age religions
10. What is a likely outcome of this statement?
a. Combined religious pressure on politicians b. Conflict between leaders of religious traditions c. Decreased peace and tolerance in the wider community d. Encouragement for religious leaders to become politicians
2015In what ways has dispossession continued to affect Aboriginal spiritualities?2014For some Australians, God is no longer important. Religion does not seem attractive as the country is becoming increasingly secular.With reference to the statement, account for the current religious landscape in Australia.2013With reference to the quotation, outline the importance of Native Title legislation in achieving the objectives of the Land Rights movement.2012How have religious traditions in Australia given support to the process of Aboriginal reconciliation?2011
Explain the role of the ecumenical movement and/or interfaith dialogue as religious responses to growing secularism. Include examples in your answer Question 11(5 marks)2010Describe the ways in which Aboriginal spirituality is closely linked to belonging to country.2009Church sign 1965 Church sign 2009MIDDLETON METHODIST CHURCH
SUNDAY SERVICES 9.30am, 6.30pmCommunion service First Sundayof the monthSunday school 8.30am and 10.30amLadies Church Aid Tuesdays 10.00amYouth Group Wednesdays 7.00pmMen’s Brotherhood Thursday 7.00pmLadies Church Aid Tuesdays 10.00amYouth Group Wednesdays 7.00pmMen’s Brotherhood Thursday 7.00pm
MINISTER: Rev William Thomas, BA, LTh
Tel. WT 4763
MIDDLETON UNITING CHURCH
Sunday Service 9.30amSunday School 10.30amCommunion service First Sundayof the month
MINISTER: Rev Jennifer Hill, BBus, MTh
Chinese Service 12 noon MINISTER: Rev Peter Lim, BA, Dip Theol
Tongan Service 5.00pm MINISTER: Rev Jione A’Fuangu’a, MTh
Church Office: Tel. 9876 5432
With reference to the two signs above and your own knowledge, account for changes in Australia’s religious landscape since the 1960s.2008‘The churches should act together in all matters except those in which deep differences of conviction compel them to act separately.’Conference on Faith and Order, 1952Using the above statement and your own knowledge, describe the impact of Christian ecumenical movements in Australia2007‘The churches should act together in all matters except those in which deepdifferences of conviction compel them to act separately.’Conference on Faith and Order, 1952Using the above statement and your own knowledge, describe the impact of Christianecumenical movements in Australia.
Answers20151C2D3C4A5D6D7A8D9B10A
Question 11 Criteria Marks• Demonstrates detailed knowledge and understanding of the continuing effect of dispossession on Aboriginal spiritualities • Integrates relevant and specific terminology
5
• Demonstrates knowledge and understanding of the effect of dispossession on Aboriginal spiritualities • Uses some relevant terminology 3–4
• Makes simple statements about dispossession and/or Aboriginal spirituality 1–2
With European settlement across Australia, many Indigenous peoples found themselvesforced off their lands and dispossessed. Separation from land has had a devastating effect onAboriginal spiritualties. Removal from land meant ceremonies, rituals etc could no longeroccur and were lost. Totemic obligations could no longer be fulfilled and links to ancestorspirits were broken.People separated from kinship groups, also known as The Stolen Generations, were expectedto assimilate into white society and adopt Christianity. With kinship ties broken, elders whohad sacred knowledge were unable to pass this on, resulting in the inability of newgenerations to connect with their Aboriginal spirituality. Thus the continuing effect as a resultof separation from kinship groups has resulted in Aboriginal peoples’ loss of language andculture. While some Aboriginal people have tried to re-establish connection with the landthrough Native Title claims many Aboriginal people today are unable to connect with theirspirituality and have resorted to other artificial ways, such as substance abuse, of coping withthis loss.
20141C2D3B4A5C6B7A8B9D10A
Question 11 Criteria Marks• Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge and understanding of Australia’s current religious landscape • Makes specific reference to the quotation to support own knowledge
5
• Demonstrates sound knowledge and understanding of Australia’s current religious landscape • Makes some reference to the quotation to support own knowledge
3–4
• Demonstrates basic knowledge of Australia’s religious landscape • May make some reference to the quotation 1–2
The quotation draws links between the rise of materialism and the increasingly secularist
nature of Australian society. The statement reflects trends revealed in current census dataabout Australia’s religious landscape. In particular, the ‘no religion’ category has shown asteady increase from 15.5% in 2001 to 22.3% in 2011. However, despite this increase,identification with a religious tradition continues to be a dominant characteristic ofcontemporary Australian society — exceeding two-thirds of the population in the 2011census. Immigration is providing a greater religious diversity in Australia, particularly withthe increasing number of Buddhists and Hindus. The main Christian churches (excluding thePentecostals) have experienced a significant decline in church attendance as reflected inrecent National Church Life Survey data. Hence, as the quotation infers, Australia’s religiouslandscape has undergone significant change in recent years and data validates this conclusion.
Candidates showed strength in these areas:• referring to the quote when responding to the question • recognising that there are a range of reasons for the current landscape, including the effect of immigration • supporting the response with relevant examples.
Candidates need to improve in these areas:• ensuring that statistics are up to date; for example, referring to 2011 census data rather than 2006 • focusing on the current religious landscape, rather than early colonisation • addressing the key term ‘account for’ rather than giving a descriptive response.
20131A2C3D4C5A6B7D8B9B10C
Question 11 Criteria Marks• Makes informed and clear statements about the importance of Native Title legislation in achieving the objectives of the Land Rights movement • Makes clear reference to the views expressed in the quotation
5
• Makes informed statements about the importance of Native Title legislation in achieving the objectives of the Land Rights movement • Makes clear reference to the views expressed in the quotation
4
• Makes statements about the importance of Native Title legislation in achieving the objectives of the Land Rights movement • Makes reference to the views expressed in the quotation
3
• Makes simple statements about the importance of Native Title legislation 2• Makes a general statement about Native Title and/or Land Rights 1
The Land Rights movement recognises the inextricable connection between the land andexpressions of the Dreaming. Native Title is a legal term recognising the rights of Aboriginaland Torres Strait Islanders to use and occupy their lands for traditional purposes. Thusproviding a continued connection with the land. Therefore the Native Title process has playedan important role in achieving the objective of the Land Rights movement. There is however,as suggested by John Sosso, ‘always room for improvement’.The Mabo Case (1992) overturned the notion of ‘Terra Nullius’. This judgment was verysignificant as the first legal recognition for the Land Rights movement giving ‘Indigenouspeople a seat at the negotiating table’. In 1993, the Native Title Act and subsequentamendments (1997) stated Native Title and leasehold rights could coexist, giving leaseholders‘priority’. Although a clarification of the Act, the Land Rights movement sees this as an areafor further negotiation.The Native Title Act continues to be reviewed in relation to its perceived ‘shortcomings’ andthis has assisted the objectives of the movement. Changes include a focus on traditional
people and connection to the land and coexistence, addressed in the Wik decision 1996.Indigenous peoples are now members of the bodies created and possess legal authority tomanage land rights claims, recognising the importance of inclusion in the decision makingprocess. Native Title legislation, following on from Mabo and Wik, has seen significant stepsforward. Although important, there is still much to be achieved.
Candidates showed strength in these areas:• identifying the objectives of the Land Rights movement and the connection between the Native Title Act and these objectives • recognising the importance of land to the preservation and realisation of the Dreaming and the connection between Indigenous spirituality and the Land Rights movement.
Candidates need to improve in these areas:• referring explicitly to the quote • understanding the difference between the Land Rights movement and reconciliation • relating the Land Rights movement to Aboriginal belief systems and spirituality.
20121D2B3A4D5C6B7B8C9D10A
Question 11 Criteria Marks• Provides a detailed and accurate understanding of how religious traditions in Australia have given support to the process of Aboriginal reconciliation. • May make reference to relevant examples
5
• Provides an accurate understanding of how religious traditions in Australia have given support to the process of Aboriginal reconciliation • May make reference to examples
3–4
• Makes simple statements about religious traditions in Australia and may make a simple link to the process of Aboriginal reconciliation 1–2
Religious traditions in Australia have given strong support to the process of reconciliation.The traditions recognised that this process must include an understanding and valuing ofAboriginal culture as well as ensuring that programs and strategies to be put in place worktowards justice and equity.The Jewish tradition sees Aboriginal reconciliation as a human rights issue while the Islamictradition supports reconciliation on both moral and humanitarian grounds.Actions that support the relationship between Aboriginal spiritualities and religious traditionscould include:• Corroboree 2000 Bridge Walk – religious leaders and adherents of all major traditionsparticipated.• Statements of support by religious leaders for Prime Minister’s 2008 Apology to the StolenGenerations and the commitment by the government to the process of reconciliation.• The Christian and other religious traditions have politically supported the process of landrights recognition• Hindus and Buddhists have similar views towards the process of Aboriginalreconciliation.
In better responses, candidates wrote within the space provided and produced quality rather than quantity. In these responses, candidates clearly demonstrated how at least two religious traditions have contributed to the process of Aboriginal reconciliation. Candidates also referred to variants of the religious traditions
where appropriate and provided relevant examples. A comprehensive understanding of the timeline and aspects of Aboriginal reconciliation were included in these responses. In mid-range responses, candidates generally referred to one religious tradition and may have included some examples. In weaker responses, candidates provided general statements about the process of Aboriginal reconciliation and/or some aspects of religion. In these responses, candidates referred only to the secular or political approach to Aboriginal reconciliation. In some responses, candidates did not identify a religious tradition and instead confused the concept with, for example, Aboriginal rituals such as smoking ceremonies being included in Christian Eucharist.
20111D2B3C4C5A6C7D8D9AQuestion 11 Criteria MarksProvides a detailed and accurate understanding of the role of the ecumenical movement and/or interfaith dialogue as a religious response to growing secularismMakes relevant reference to examples
5
Provides some accurate details of the role of the ecumenical movement and/or interfaith dialogue as a religious response to growing secularismMakes some reference to examples
3–4
Makes simple statements about the ecumenical movement and/or interfaith dialogueMay make some reference to examples
1–2
10B
Australia is a country of diversity. Interfaith dialogue and the ecumenical movement haveacted as links between a more secular society and those who adhere to religious beliefs.Interfaith dialogue has allowed for a greater degree of cooperation and understanding betweenfollowers of different traditions, as well as linking non-religious events with faith eventseg Anzac services, multicultural tolerance, social justice initiatives.The ecumenical movement provides greater sharing and recognition of similarities betweenChristian denominations. Increased tolerance is an outcome.Both movements provide opportunities for faith to be more transparent to the non-religioussector of Australian society.Interfaith dialogue provides opportunities for the wider engagement of religion with the widerAustralian community.Answers could include:• Role of the ecumenical movement in building fellowship between all Christian churches;in providing a united response in terms of a Christian message; motivation can be politicalin supporting a particular viewpoint• 1946 – World Council of Churches (WCC)• 1994 – National Council of Churches (NCCA) – to deepen relationships between Christianchurches; to express unity more visibly, working together• 1977 – formation of the Uniting Church• 1991 – WCC meeting in Canberra• Ecumenical Christian carol services, Way of the Cross/Easter services• Various world peace initiatives• Ecumenical movement is still very important at the local level – interchurch activities inrural and regional Australia• Role of interfaith dialogue allows discussions and dialogue on matters of faith and aspectsof society and culture with the aim of learning, accepting and promoting tolerance andcooperation between different faiths
• 1989 – Conference of World Religions for Peace convention• 1991 – World Council of Christians and Jews• 2009 – Parliament of World Religions, Melbourne• Living in Harmony Program – government initiative• Jewish Christian Muslim Association of Australia (JCMA) – live-in seminars for followersof Judaism, Christianity and Muslims•Women’s Interfaith Network•By 2006, there were 86 interfaith organisations in Australia (mostly formed since 2001)•Secularism – rejection of religious beliefs or adherence; non-religious response to life’s questions•September 11, 2001 catalyst for supporting interfaith activities that assist social cohesion and combat home-grown terrorism in Australia•More recently, the regular meetings with government bodies and religious leaders in Australia indicate a growing interconnectedness of religion and state – despite Australia being a secular society.
In better responses, candidates clearly and specifically identified and explained the relationship between ecumenism and/or interfaith dialogue and secularism. The examples provided were clear, relevant and specific. Candidates made links between aspects of ecumenism and/or interfaith dialogue in maintaining religious relevance and influence in the wider community, allowing individuals to find meaning and purpose, and working to actively promote a sense of community and wellbeing through justice initiatives.
In mid-range responses, candidates identified and explained the features of ecumenism and/or interfaith dialogue. Some candidates attempted to link the relationship between ecumenism and/or interfaith dialogue and secularism without using examples. Some candidates were unclear about the difference between ecumenism and interfaith dialogue.
In weaker responses, candidates simply provided simple definitions of ecumenism, interfaith dialogue or secularism.
20101C2A3B4A5B6D7C8D9D10C
Question 11 Criteria Marks• Provides details of characteristics and features of relevant and accurate ways in which Aboriginal spirituality is closely linked to belonging to country 5
• Provides characteristics and features of some relevant way(s) in which Aboriginal spirituality is closely linked to belonging to country • Makes simple statements about Aboriginal spirituality and/or belonging to country
3–4 1–2
Aboriginal spirituality linked to•Country is ritual estate/territorial estate.•Belong to country by:*Ceremonial life – gathering, sacred sites, song, languages, stories, art, rituals*Kinship:(a)Blood-relationships between people- social control-job and role decisions-custodianship and care of land(b)Totemic kinship- ritual estate-performing of ceremonies
-custodianship and care of plants and animals*Obligations to the Land and People-performance of rituals and social intercourse-correct guardianship and care of ‘mother’ regarding country ritual estateLand: Physical, mental, spiritual sustenance Kanyini – connectedness The effects of dispossession
In higher range responses, candidates provided details of some of the ways in which Aboriginal spirituality is closely linked to belonging to country. In many cases, this involved a description of various aspects of Aboriginal spirituality, making accurate use of terminology in a well-structured response. Many candidates wrote about such aspects as ceremonial life, kinship and land/people obligations. They mentioned the negative effects of dispossession and/or the achievements of the Land Rights movement, as an indication of the significance of belonging to country for Aboriginal peoples.
In mid-range responses, candidates provided one or more ways in which Aboriginal spirituality is closely linked to belonging to country. Some details were provided about aspects of Aboriginal spirituality without explicit links to the significance of belonging to country.
In lower range responses, candidates provided simple or very generalised statements about Aboriginal spirituality or belonging to country.
20091 A2 C3 C/D4 B5 C6 D7 B8 B9 A10 A
Question 11MARKING GUIDELINES Criteria Marks• Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge and understanding of changes in Australia’s religious landscape since the 1960s • Makes reference to both signs and applies own knowledge to explain the changes
5
• Demonstrates sound knowledge and understanding of changes in Australia’s religious landscape since the 1960s • May make reference to one or both signs and applies own knowledge of Australia’s religious landscape to describe changes 3–4
3-4
• Demonstrates limited knowledge of Australia’s religious landscape • May make some reference to the signs 1–2
2
• Changing immigration patterns as indicated by the church signs, for example Chinese and Tongan services to meet the needs of the community • Changing role of women in the church as demonstrated by the gender of ministers in 2009 • Denominational switching and the formation of the Uniting Church as evidenced by the change in the name of the Church on the church signs • Reconciliation with Indigenous Australians • Inter-faith dialogue
Most candidates demonstrated a clear understanding of the question and were able to draw on the stimulus material in their answers. Most candidates were able to identify and explain the contributing factors which led to changes in Australia’s religious landscape since the 1960s. Higher range responses clearly identified and accounted for a range of differences in the church signs from 1965 and 2009. These differences were attributed to changing immigration patterns, denominational switching, new age religions, secularism, and ecumenism. Broader factors such as the changing role of women, interfaith dialogue and Reconciliation with Indigenous Australians were also used by candidates to
demonstrate the changes to Australia’s religious landscape since the 1960s. These responses referred to both Church signs in order to address the question. Mid-range responses identified changes in the stimulus material with reference to one or both signs. These responses made general connections between the changes in the sign and the changes to Australia’s religious landscape. They focused on one or two factors such as changing immigration patterns, denominational switching and ecumenism.Lower range responses compared the two signs at face value without making a connection to changes in Australia’s religious landscape. Reference to features such as the name of the church, times of services and names of ministers were common in these responses.
20081 D 2 C 3 B 4 A 5 C 6 B 7 A 8 B 9 C 10 D
Question 11Marking guidelines criteria Marks• Identifies issues and provides detailed and accurate points for and/or against the continuing effect of dispossession on Aboriginal spirituality • Makes relevant reference to the statement
5
• Identifies issues and provides some points for and/or against the continuing effect of dispossession on Aboriginal spirituality • Makes some reference to the statement
3–4
• Makes general statements about the continuing effect of dispossession on Aboriginal spirituality 1–2
Source – loss of language and information Dispossession – loss of sense of belonging to the Dreaming; to place and sense of purpose; to
spirituality Loss of place of spirit in the afterlife Loss of identity, self-esteem Loss of spiritual world Loss of culture, ceremony, customary law Loss of kinship group, families Stolen generation and impact of removal Separation from land – Land Rights Movement to regain identity and purpose / spirituality 1995 – National Inquiry into Separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children from their
Families and 1997 Bringing Them Home report Dispossession and loss of identity / spirituality has resulted in an underclass in society which has lower life expectancy, higher rates of infant mortality, unemployment and drug and alcohol use and over-representation in prison
Loss of Indigenous culture and knowledge including rituals, the role of elders, destruction of traditional communities / tribal and extended family units
Loss of land and the impact of this on culture (as indicated above) The creation of a culture of dependency results from an inability to overcome the destruction of
Indigenous culture Economic disadvantage perpetuated by inferior living and working conditions and lower rates of pay A sense of isolation from the wider Australian community (resulting from the impact of the above) Lower life expectancy and associated health issues, including dependency on alcohol.
Most candidates had a clear understanding of the question and the necessity to refer to the stimulus material. Many responses provided correct details about Aboriginal spirituality and used correct terminology.
Higher-range responses showed a clear understanding of the question, identified relevant issues and provided detailed and accurate points for or against the continuing effect of dispossession on Aboriginal spirituality.Middle-range responses identified issues and provided some points for or against the continuing effects of dispossession on Aboriginal spirituality. These responses made limited reference to the statement.Lower-range responses provided very general comments about Aboriginal spirituality but did not refer to the continuing effects of dispossession.
2007Section I
1 D 2 A 3 D 4 B 5 B 6 C 7 C 8 B 9 C 10 AQuestion 11MARKING GUIDELINES Criteria Marks• •
Provides detailed and accurate features and characteristics of the impact of Christian ecumenical movements in Australia Makes relevant reference to the source and own knowledge
5
• •
Provides some features and characteristics of the impact of Christian ecumenical movements in Australia Makes some reference to the source and own knowledge
4
• •
Provides ONE detailed feature and some general characteristic of the impact of Christian ecumenical movements in Australia May make reference to the source
3
• •
Makes general statements about the impact of Christian ecumenical movements in Australia May refer to the source and/or own knowledge 1–2
Many responses provided correct details about the ecumenical movements in Australia but failed to refer to the quotation. A large percentage of candidates confused ecumenical movements and interfaith dialogue between traditions, or used a blend of both and therefore did not address the question.Higher-range responses showed a clear understanding of the question and referred to the quotation, effectively linking examples and providing accurate details of the impact of the ecumenical movements in Australia.Middle-range responses described broad features and characteristics of ecumenism and ecumenical movements in Australia, but did not refer to the stimulus or provided limited, often very tenuous, links to the quotation.Lower-range responses were very generalised, often superficial, and did not directly address the question or refer to the quotation.
