P1 Past Paper Questions

Sub-topic 01

1. First Revelation of the Holy Qur’an

Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked 7 uploaded entries analysed

Quick Revision Box

Key Facts

Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.
When the wording says “reaction” or “reassured”, do not stop at the Cave scene. Add fear, “Cover me”, Khadijah’s support and Waraqa’s explanation.

Important Names

Cave Hira610 CEIqraKhadijah (RA)WaraqaUnlettered Prophet

Important Events / Concepts

23 years

Important Dates

610 CE2023202220202019201820162014

Qur’anic / Hadith References

Surah al-‘AlaqSurah al-‘Alaq 96:1–5

Key Examination Themes

Importance / Explanation QuestionDescribe / Narrative QuestionEvaluation Question

High-Yield Exam Preparation

Most important questions: the first repeated entries in this sub-topic usually represent the safest master-answer route.
Examiner favourite theme: Importance / Explanation Question.
Last-minute revision: memorise the keywords, then practise one 10-mark and one 4-mark answer.
Frequently confused area: students often mix neighbouring topics; keep the answer limited to this sub-topic.
Top-scoring area: connect facts to significance and modern application where required.

Cave Hira610 CEIqraKhadijah (RA)WaraqaUnlettered Prophet23 years

Describe / Narrative Question

2 questions

October/November 2019 – Variant 2

Question 4

10 + 4 marks Describe / Narrative Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about the Prophet Muhammad's ﷺ first experience of revelation.

B · 4 marks

The Prophet ﷺ could not read or write. In what way has this always been significant for Muslims?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 7 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Keep the answer in chronological order and avoid jumping between events.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Missing sequence, names or clear stages of the event.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Cave Hira610 CEIqraKhadijah (RA)WaraqaUnlettered Prophet23 yearsWriteProphet Muhammad'sThe Prophet

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 1. First Revelation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Cave Hira, 610 CE, Iqra, Khadijah (RA), Waraqa.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

May/June 2014 – Variant 1

Question 7

10 + 4 marks Describe / Narrative Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Give an account of how the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

B · 4 marks

Was it significant that the Qur’an was revealed to someone who could not read or write? Give reasons for your answer.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 7 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Keep the answer in chronological order and avoid jumping between events.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Missing sequence, names or clear stages of the event.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Cave Hira610 CEIqraKhadijah (RA)WaraqaUnlettered Prophet23 yearsGiveQur’anProphet Muhammad

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 1. First Revelation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Cave Hira, 610 CE, Iqra, Khadijah (RA), Waraqa.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

Importance / Explanation Question

4 questions

May/June 2023 – Variant 1

Question 1

10 + 4 marks Importance / Explanation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

The Prophet ﷺ received revelation from Allah when he was 40 years old. Write about his experience of receiving the first revelation.

B · 4 marks

Explain the importance of the revelation being sent to a Prophet ﷺ who could not read or write.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 7 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Use ‘because / therefore / this shows’ to explain significance.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Cave Hira610 CEIqraKhadijah (RA)WaraqaUnlettered Prophet23 yearsThe ProphetAllahWrite

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 1. First Revelation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Cave Hira, 610 CE, Iqra, Khadijah (RA), Waraqa.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

May/June 2022 – Variant 2

Question 2

10 + 4 marks Importance / Explanation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Give an account of the Prophet Muhammad's ﷺ experience of receiving the first revelation of the Qur’an.

B · 4 marks

What was the significance of the Qur’an being revealed over a period of 23 years?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 7 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Use ‘because / therefore / this shows’ to explain significance.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Cave Hira610 CEIqraKhadijah (RA)WaraqaUnlettered Prophet23 yearsGiveProphet Muhammad'sQur’an

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 1. First Revelation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Cave Hira, 610 CE, Iqra, Khadijah (RA), Waraqa.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

May/June 2020 – Variant 1

Question 3

10 + 4 marks Importance / Explanation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about the events of the first revelation received by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and explain how he was reassured afterwards.

B · 4 marks

What can Muslims today learn from the first revelation about the importance of reading and understanding the Qur’an?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 7 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Use ‘because / therefore / this shows’ to explain significance.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Cave Hira610 CEIqraKhadijah (RA)WaraqaUnlettered Prophet23 yearsWriteProphet MuhammadWhat

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 1. First Revelation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Cave Hira, 610 CE, Iqra, Khadijah (RA), Waraqa.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

May/June 2018 – Variant 2

Question 5

10 + 4 marks Importance / Explanation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write an account of the events of the first revelation and describe the Prophet's ﷺ reaction afterwards.

B · 4 marks

The Qur’an was revealed in parts over a number of years. Why was this important?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 7 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Use ‘because / therefore / this shows’ to explain significance.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Cave Hira610 CEIqraKhadijah (RA)WaraqaUnlettered Prophet23 yearsWriteProphet'sThe Qur’an

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 1. First Revelation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Cave Hira, 610 CE, Iqra, Khadijah (RA), Waraqa.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

Evaluation Question

1 question

October/November 2016 – Variant 2

Question 6

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

The first revelation came to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in 610 CE. Describe his experience of this event.

B · 4 marks

Why do you think the revelation was sent to a person who could not read or write?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 7 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Cave Hira610 CEIqraKhadijah (RA)WaraqaUnlettered Prophet23 yearsTheProphet MuhammadDescribe

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 1. First Revelation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Cave Hira, 610 CE, Iqra, Khadijah (RA), Waraqa.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Background of Makkah, seclusion in Cave Hira, true dreams, Jibril’s command “Read”, the first verses of Surah al-‘Alaq, fear and reaction, Khadijah’s reassurance, Waraqa’s confirmation.

Sub-topic 02

2. Different Ways, Forms and Experiences of Revelation

Revelation through Jibril, bell-like sound, true dreams, direct communication from Allah, Jibril in original form, and the physical/emotional effects of revelation.

★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked 4 uploaded entries analysed

Quick Revision Box

Key Facts

Revelation through Jibril, bell-like sound, true dreams, direct communication from Allah, Jibril in original form, and the physical/emotional effects of revelation.
For a 10-mark answer, give method + example + effect. A list of methods alone will not reach the top band.

Important Names

Jibril (AS)Bell soundTrue dreamsMi‘rajOriginal formHeavy word

Important Events / Concepts

Main events in the repeated questions

Important Dates

2023202120202018

Qur’anic / Hadith References

Use authentic Qur’anic/Hadith references only when directly relevant

Key Examination Themes

Evaluation Question

High-Yield Exam Preparation

Most important questions: the first repeated entries in this sub-topic usually represent the safest master-answer route.
Examiner favourite theme: Evaluation Question.
Last-minute revision: memorise the keywords, then practise one 10-mark and one 4-mark answer.
Frequently confused area: students often mix neighbouring topics; keep the answer limited to this sub-topic.
Top-scoring area: connect facts to significance and modern application where required.

Jibril (AS)Bell soundTrue dreamsMi‘rajOriginal formHeavy word

Evaluation Question

4 questions

May/June 2023 – Variant 2

Question 8

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about the different ways that revelations were received by the Prophet ﷺ.

B · 4 marks

Why do you think it was important for revelations to come over a period of time?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 4 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Revelation through Jibril, bell-like sound, true dreams, direct communication from Allah, Jibril in original form, and the physical/emotional effects of revelation.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Jibril (AS)Bell soundTrue dreamsMi‘rajOriginal formHeavy wordWriteProphetWhy

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 2. Different Ways, Forms and Experiences of Revelation.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Jibril (AS), Bell sound, True dreams, Mi‘raj, Original form.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Revelation through Jibril, bell-like sound, true dreams, direct communication from Allah, Jibril in original form, and the physical/emotional effects of revelation.

May/June 2021 – Variant 1

Question 9

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Give an account of the different ways in which the Prophet ﷺ received revelation.

B · 4 marks

The Qur’an was not revealed all at one time. Why do you think this was important?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 4 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Revelation through Jibril, bell-like sound, true dreams, direct communication from Allah, Jibril in original form, and the physical/emotional effects of revelation.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Jibril (AS)Bell soundTrue dreamsMi‘rajOriginal formHeavy wordGiveProphetThe Qur’anWhy

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 2. Different Ways, Forms and Experiences of Revelation.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Jibril (AS), Bell sound, True dreams, Mi‘raj, Original form.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Revelation through Jibril, bell-like sound, true dreams, direct communication from Allah, Jibril in original form, and the physical/emotional effects of revelation.

October/November 2020 – Variant 2

Question 10

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Describe the different ways that the Prophet ﷺ received revelation from Allah.

B · 4 marks

Why do you think that the revelation was sent to someone who could not read or write?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 4 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Revelation through Jibril, bell-like sound, true dreams, direct communication from Allah, Jibril in original form, and the physical/emotional effects of revelation.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Jibril (AS)Bell soundTrue dreamsMi‘rajOriginal formHeavy wordDescribeProphetAllahWhy

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 2. Different Ways, Forms and Experiences of Revelation.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Jibril (AS), Bell sound, True dreams, Mi‘raj, Original form.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Revelation through Jibril, bell-like sound, true dreams, direct communication from Allah, Jibril in original form, and the physical/emotional effects of revelation.

October/November 2018 – Variant 1

Question 11

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Write an account of the different ways in which revelations came to the Prophet ﷺ. Include examples in your answer.

B · 4 marks

Muslims around the world memorise and recite the Qur’an in Arabic even though they might not understand the meaning. What do you think are the benefits of this?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 4 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Revelation through Jibril, bell-like sound, true dreams, direct communication from Allah, Jibril in original form, and the physical/emotional effects of revelation.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Jibril (AS)Bell soundTrue dreamsMi‘rajOriginal formHeavy wordWriteProphetIncludeMuslims

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 2. Different Ways, Forms and Experiences of Revelation.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Jibril (AS), Bell sound, True dreams, Mi‘raj, Original form.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Revelation through Jibril, bell-like sound, true dreams, direct communication from Allah, Jibril in original form, and the physical/emotional effects of revelation.

Sub-topic 03

3. Revelation at Different Times and Places

Revelation was gradual and contextual: in Hira, Makkah, Madinah, during journeys, battles, ease and hardship, responding to the needs of the Prophet ﷺ and the early Muslim community.

★☆☆☆☆ Very Rare 2 uploaded entries analysed

Quick Revision Box

Key Facts

Revelation was gradual and contextual: in Hira, Makkah, Madinah, during journeys, battles, ease and hardship, responding to the needs of the Prophet ﷺ and the early Muslim community.
Use clear examples: Hira for first revelation, Mi‘raj for prayer, and battles/events for practical guidance.

Important Names

MakkahMadinahJourneysBattlesGradual guidanceOral revelation

Important Events / Concepts

Main events in the repeated questions

Important Dates

20152012

Qur’anic / Hadith References

Use authentic Qur’anic/Hadith references only when directly relevant

Key Examination Themes

Comparison Question

High-Yield Exam Preparation

Most important questions: the first repeated entries in this sub-topic usually represent the safest master-answer route.
Examiner favourite theme: Comparison Question.
Last-minute revision: memorise the keywords, then practise one 10-mark and one 4-mark answer.
Frequently confused area: students often mix neighbouring topics; keep the answer limited to this sub-topic.
Top-scoring area: connect facts to significance and modern application where required.

MakkahMadinahJourneysBattlesGradual guidanceOral revelation

Comparison Question

2 questions

May/June 2015 – Variant 1

Question 12

10 + 4 marks Comparison Question Advanced ★☆☆☆☆ Very Rare

A · 10 marks

The Angel Jibril brought the revelation of the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ at different times and places. Give examples to show how this took place.

B · 4 marks

What was the significance of the Prophet ﷺ being given the revelation by word rather than in writing?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 2 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as very rare for revision priority. Examiner focus: Revelation was gradual and contextual: in Hira, Makkah, Madinah, during journeys, battles, ease and hardship, responding to the needs of the Prophet ﷺ and the early Muslim community.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

MakkahMadinahJourneysBattlesGradual guidanceOral revelationThe AngelJibrilQur’anProphet Muhammad

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 3. Revelation at Different Times and Places.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Makkah, Madinah, Journeys, Battles, Gradual guidance.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Revelation was gradual and contextual: in Hira, Makkah, Madinah, during journeys, battles, ease and hardship, responding to the needs of the Prophet ﷺ and the early Muslim community.

October/November 2012 – Variant 1

Question 13

10 + 4 marks Comparison Question Advanced ★☆☆☆☆ Very Rare

A · 10 marks

Write about the Prophet’s ﷺ different experiences of revelation after the first revelation.

B · 4 marks

Explain the significance of the Qur’an being revealed over a period of time.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 2 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as very rare for revision priority. Examiner focus: Revelation was gradual and contextual: in Hira, Makkah, Madinah, during journeys, battles, ease and hardship, responding to the needs of the Prophet ﷺ and the early Muslim community.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

MakkahMadinahJourneysBattlesGradual guidanceOral revelationWriteProphet’sExplainQur’an

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 3. Revelation at Different Times and Places.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Makkah, Madinah, Journeys, Battles, Gradual guidance.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Revelation was gradual and contextual: in Hira, Makkah, Madinah, during journeys, battles, ease and hardship, responding to the needs of the Prophet ﷺ and the early Muslim community.

Sub-topic 04

4. Preservation, Compilation and Standardisation of the Holy Qur’an

Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked 8 uploaded entries analysed

Quick Revision Box

Key Facts

Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.
Build chronology: Prophet’s time → Yamama problem → Abu Bakr’s compilation → Hafsah’s copy → ‘Uthman’s standard Mushaf → outcome.

Important Names

HuffazYamamaAbu Bakr (RA)Zayd ibn ThabitHafsah (RA)Uthman (RA)Qurayshi dialect

Important Events / Concepts

Main events in the repeated questions

Important Dates

20242021202220191400201720162015

Qur’anic / Hadith References

Use authentic Qur’anic/Hadith references only when directly relevant

Key Examination Themes

Compilation QuestionPreservation QuestionEvaluation Question

High-Yield Exam Preparation

Most important questions: the first repeated entries in this sub-topic usually represent the safest master-answer route.
Examiner favourite theme: Compilation Question.
Last-minute revision: memorise the keywords, then practise one 10-mark and one 4-mark answer.
Frequently confused area: students often mix neighbouring topics; keep the answer limited to this sub-topic.
Top-scoring area: connect facts to significance and modern application where required.

HuffazYamamaAbu Bakr (RA)Zayd ibn ThabitHafsah (RA)Uthman (RA)Qurayshi dialect

Compilation Question

3 questions

May/June 2024 – Variant 2

Question 1

10 + 4 marks Compilation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Describe the way the Qur’an was compiled and standardised into one book.

B · 4 marks

In what ways is it beneficial for Muslims to have a written Qur’an?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 8 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Mention people, method and purpose; accuracy matters more than decorative detail.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

HuffazYamamaAbu Bakr (RA)Zayd ibn ThabitHafsah (RA)Uthman (RA)Qurayshi dialectDescribeQur’anMuslims

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 4. Preservation, Compilation and Standardisation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Huffaz, Yamama, Abu Bakr (RA), Zayd ibn Thabit, Hafsah (RA).
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

May/June 2019 – Variant 1

Question 4

10 + 4 marks Compilation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about the way in which the Qur’an was compiled after the Prophet’s ﷺ death.

B · 4 marks

How does the Qur’an in written form help Muslims around the world?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 8 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Mention people, method and purpose; accuracy matters more than decorative detail.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

HuffazYamamaAbu Bakr (RA)Zayd ibn ThabitHafsah (RA)Uthman (RA)Qurayshi dialectWriteQur’anProphet’s

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 4. Preservation, Compilation and Standardisation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Huffaz, Yamama, Abu Bakr (RA), Zayd ibn Thabit, Hafsah (RA).
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

October/November 2014 – Variant 2

Question 8

10 + 4 marks Compilation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about the methods used to compile the Qur’an into a book after the death of the Prophet ﷺ.

B · 4 marks

Why is understanding the teachings of the Qur’an important to Muslims?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 8 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Mention people, method and purpose; accuracy matters more than decorative detail.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

HuffazYamamaAbu Bakr (RA)Zayd ibn ThabitHafsah (RA)Uthman (RA)Qurayshi dialectWriteQur’anProphet

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 4. Preservation, Compilation and Standardisation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Huffaz, Yamama, Abu Bakr (RA), Zayd ibn Thabit, Hafsah (RA).
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

Preservation Question

1 question

May/June 2021 – Variant 2

Question 2

10 + 4 marks Preservation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about the ways in which Abu Bakr (RA), ‘Umar (RA) and ‘Uthman (RA) were involved in the compilation and preservation of the Qur’an.

B · 4 marks

What is the significance for Muslims to have the Qur’an written in the form of a book?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 8 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Mention people, method and purpose; accuracy matters more than decorative detail.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

HuffazYamamaAbu Bakr (RA)Zayd ibn ThabitHafsah (RA)Uthman (RA)Qurayshi dialectWriteAbu BakrUmar

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 4. Preservation, Compilation and Standardisation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Huffaz, Yamama, Abu Bakr (RA), Zayd ibn Thabit, Hafsah (RA).
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

Evaluation Question

4 questions

October/November 2022 – Variant 2

Question 3

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about the ways in which the Qur’an was compiled and preserved after the Prophet’s ﷺ death.

B · 4 marks

Muslims today can access the Qur’an in a number of different ways. How useful is this? Give reasons to support your answer.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 8 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

HuffazYamamaAbu Bakr (RA)Zayd ibn ThabitHafsah (RA)Uthman (RA)Qurayshi dialectWriteQur’anProphet’s

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 4. Preservation, Compilation and Standardisation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Huffaz, Yamama, Abu Bakr (RA), Zayd ibn Thabit, Hafsah (RA).
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

October/November 2017 – Variant 2

Question 5

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

The Qur’an has been preserved in writing for over 1400 years. Give an account of the way in which it was compiled in written format.

B · 4 marks

Do you think, for Muslims nowadays, having the Qur’an in a written format outweighs the benefits of having the oral tradition? Give reasons for your answer.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 8 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

HuffazYamamaAbu Bakr (RA)Zayd ibn ThabitHafsah (RA)Uthman (RA)Qurayshi dialectThe Qur’anGiveMuslims

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 4. Preservation, Compilation and Standardisation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Huffaz, Yamama, Abu Bakr (RA), Zayd ibn Thabit, Hafsah (RA).
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

May/June 2016 – Variant 1

Question 6

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Describe the ways in which Abu Bakr (RA), ‘Umar (RA) and ‘Uthman (RA) were involved in the compilation of the Qur’an.

B · 4 marks

“The Qur’an should not have been compiled in written form because it did not take place during the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime.” Agree or disagree with this statement, giving reasons for your answer.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 8 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

HuffazYamamaAbu Bakr (RA)Zayd ibn ThabitHafsah (RA)Uthman (RA)Qurayshi dialectDescribeAbu BakrUmar

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 4. Preservation, Compilation and Standardisation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Huffaz, Yamama, Abu Bakr (RA), Zayd ibn Thabit, Hafsah (RA).
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

October/November 2015 – Variant 2

Question 7

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about the preservation of the Qur’an in the form of the mushaf held by Hafsah (RA).

B · 4 marks

“Memorising the Qur’an is no longer important because the Qur’an is preserved as a book.” Discuss whether you agree or disagree with this statement, giving reasons for your answer.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 8 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

HuffazYamamaAbu Bakr (RA)Zayd ibn ThabitHafsah (RA)Uthman (RA)Qurayshi dialectWriteQur’anHafsah

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 4. Preservation, Compilation and Standardisation of the Holy Qur’an.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Huffaz, Yamama, Abu Bakr (RA), Zayd ibn Thabit, Hafsah (RA).
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Oral and written preservation in the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime, Battle of Yamama, ‘Umar’s concern, Abu Bakr’s compilation, Zayd ibn Thabit’s method, Hafsah’s Mushaf, ‘Uthman’s standardisation, and the unity of the Muslim community.

Sub-topic 05

5. Major Theme: God in Himself

Allah’s oneness, uniqueness, creative power, knowledge, authority, independence and freedom from human limits.

★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked 4 uploaded entries analysed

Quick Revision Box

Key Facts

Allah’s oneness, uniqueness, creative power, knowledge, authority, independence and freedom from human limits.
Always link the passage to an attribute of Allah and then explain how that attribute shapes Muslim belief and behaviour.

Important Names

TawheedCreatorPowerKnowledgeBeyond limitsSustainerWorship Allah alone

Important Events / Concepts

Main events in the repeated questions

Important Dates

1011032024255112202220172013

Qur’anic / Hadith References

Surah 6Surah 41Surah 42Surah 2Surah 1126.101–103

Key Examination Themes

Evaluation QuestionSource-Based / Theme-Based Question

High-Yield Exam Preparation

Most important questions: the first repeated entries in this sub-topic usually represent the safest master-answer route.
Examiner favourite theme: Evaluation Question.
Last-minute revision: memorise the keywords, then practise one 10-mark and one 4-mark answer.
Frequently confused area: students often mix neighbouring topics; keep the answer limited to this sub-topic.
Top-scoring area: connect facts to significance and modern application where required.

TawheedCreatorPowerKnowledgeBeyond limitsSustainerWorship Allah alone

Source-Based / Theme-Based Question

2 questions

October/November 2022 – Variant 1

Question 2

10 + 4 marks Source-Based / Theme-Based Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about how God describes Himself so humans can know Him using: Surah 2.255 (Ayat al-Kursi) and Surah 112 (Ikhlas).

B · 4 marks

How can Muslims use the verses from part (a) to connect to God in their everyday lives?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 4 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah’s oneness, uniqueness, creative power, knowledge, authority, independence and freedom from human limits.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Refer directly to the named passages or themes; do not write a general essay.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mentioning passages generally without explaining their specific teaching.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

TawheedCreatorPowerKnowledgeBeyond limitsSustainerWorship Allah aloneWriteGodHimself

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 5. Major Theme: God in Himself.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Tawheed, Creator, Power, Knowledge, Beyond limits.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah’s oneness, uniqueness, creative power, knowledge, authority, independence and freedom from human limits.

October/November 2013 – Variant 2

Question 4

10 + 4 marks Source-Based / Theme-Based Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Using passages you have studied, write about the main teachings about God in the Qur’an.

B · 4 marks

How might these teachings affect a Muslim’s life today?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 4 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah’s oneness, uniqueness, creative power, knowledge, authority, independence and freedom from human limits.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Refer directly to the named passages or themes; do not write a general essay.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mentioning passages generally without explaining their specific teaching.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

TawheedCreatorPowerKnowledgeBeyond limitsSustainerWorship Allah aloneUsingGodQur’an

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 5. Major Theme: God in Himself.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Tawheed, Creator, Power, Knowledge, Beyond limits.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah’s oneness, uniqueness, creative power, knowledge, authority, independence and freedom from human limits.

Evaluation Question

2 questions

May/June 2024 – Variant 1

Question 1

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about how God describes Himself using: (i) Surah 6.101–103 (Al-An’am), (ii) Surah 41.37 (Fussilat), (iii) Surah 42.4–5 (Shura).

B · 4 marks

In your opinion, how can the knowledge God gives about Himself help Muslims in times of hardship?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 4 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah’s oneness, uniqueness, creative power, knowledge, authority, independence and freedom from human limits.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

TawheedCreatorPowerKnowledgeBeyond limitsSustainerWorship Allah aloneWriteGodHimself

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 5. Major Theme: God in Himself.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Tawheed, Creator, Power, Knowledge, Beyond limits.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah’s oneness, uniqueness, creative power, knowledge, authority, independence and freedom from human limits.

May/June 2017 – Variant 1

Question 3

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Choose two from the following passages and write in detail about the various ways in which God describes how He is unique in them: 6.101–103, 42.4–5, 112, 41.37.

B · 4 marks

In your opinion, why should Muslims try to understand God’s attributes? Give reason(s) for your answer.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 4 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah’s oneness, uniqueness, creative power, knowledge, authority, independence and freedom from human limits.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

TawheedCreatorPowerKnowledgeBeyond limitsSustainerWorship Allah aloneChooseGodMuslims

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 5. Major Theme: God in Himself.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Tawheed, Creator, Power, Knowledge, Beyond limits.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah’s oneness, uniqueness, creative power, knowledge, authority, independence and freedom from human limits.

Sub-topic 06

6. Major Theme: God’s Relationship with the Created World

Allah as Creator, Sustainer and Merciful Provider; nature as signs of Allah; humans as khalifah responsible for balance, gratitude and accountability.

★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked 5 uploaded entries analysed

Quick Revision Box

Key Facts

Allah as Creator, Sustainer and Merciful Provider; nature as signs of Allah; humans as khalifah responsible for balance, gratitude and accountability.
For B parts, move from belief to action: avoid waste, protect resources, maintain balance, and remember accountability.

Important Names

CreatorSustainerMercySignsKhalifahMizanEnvironment

Important Events / Concepts

Main events in the repeated questions

Important Dates

20232021202020182015

Qur’anic / Hadith References

Use authentic Qur’anic/Hadith references only when directly relevant

Key Examination Themes

Describe / Narrative QuestionSource-Based / Theme-Based QuestionImportance / Explanation QuestionEvaluation Question

High-Yield Exam Preparation

Most important questions: the first repeated entries in this sub-topic usually represent the safest master-answer route.
Examiner favourite theme: Describe / Narrative Question.
Last-minute revision: memorise the keywords, then practise one 10-mark and one 4-mark answer.
Frequently confused area: students often mix neighbouring topics; keep the answer limited to this sub-topic.
Top-scoring area: connect facts to significance and modern application where required.

CreatorSustainerMercySignsKhalifahMizanEnvironment

Describe / Narrative Question

2 questions

October/November 2023 – Variant 1

Question 1

10 + 4 marks Describe / Narrative Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Using the set passages you have studied, write about God’s relationship with the created world.

B · 4 marks

What do these passages teach Muslims about responsibility towards their environment?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 5 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah as Creator, Sustainer and Merciful Provider; nature as signs of Allah; humans as khalifah responsible for balance, gratitude and accountability.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Keep the answer in chronological order and avoid jumping between events.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Missing sequence, names or clear stages of the event.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

CreatorSustainerMercySignsKhalifahMizanEnvironmentUsingGod’sWhat

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 6. Major Theme: God’s Relationship with the Created World.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Creator, Sustainer, Mercy, Signs, Khalifah.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah as Creator, Sustainer and Merciful Provider; nature as signs of Allah; humans as khalifah responsible for balance, gratitude and accountability.

May/June 2020 – Variant 2

Question 3

10 + 4 marks Describe / Narrative Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Using three passages you have studied from the syllabus, write about God’s relationship with His created world.

B · 4 marks

How might teachings from these passages encourage people to take care of their environment?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 5 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah as Creator, Sustainer and Merciful Provider; nature as signs of Allah; humans as khalifah responsible for balance, gratitude and accountability.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Keep the answer in chronological order and avoid jumping between events.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Missing sequence, names or clear stages of the event.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

CreatorSustainerMercySignsKhalifahMizanEnvironmentUsingGod’sHis

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 6. Major Theme: God’s Relationship with the Created World.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Creator, Sustainer, Mercy, Signs, Khalifah.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah as Creator, Sustainer and Merciful Provider; nature as signs of Allah; humans as khalifah responsible for balance, gratitude and accountability.

Source-Based / Theme-Based Question

1 question

October/November 2021 – Variant 1

Question 2

10 + 4 marks Source-Based / Theme-Based Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Using passages from the syllabus, write about the duties of humankind towards God and the created world.

B · 4 marks

What do Muslims have to consider when looking after their environment?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 5 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah as Creator, Sustainer and Merciful Provider; nature as signs of Allah; humans as khalifah responsible for balance, gratitude and accountability.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Refer directly to the named passages or themes; do not write a general essay.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mentioning passages generally without explaining their specific teaching.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

CreatorSustainerMercySignsKhalifahMizanEnvironmentUsingGodWhat

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 6. Major Theme: God’s Relationship with the Created World.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Creator, Sustainer, Mercy, Signs, Khalifah.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah as Creator, Sustainer and Merciful Provider; nature as signs of Allah; humans as khalifah responsible for balance, gratitude and accountability.

Importance / Explanation Question

1 question

May/June 2018 – Variant 1

Question 4

10 + 4 marks Importance / Explanation Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

The Qur’an teaches Muslims about their relationship with God. Write about this relationship using the passages you have studied.

B · 4 marks

God gave humankind guidance and teachings. Why does the Qur’an lay emphasis on the need to gain knowledge?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 5 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah as Creator, Sustainer and Merciful Provider; nature as signs of Allah; humans as khalifah responsible for balance, gratitude and accountability.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Use ‘because / therefore / this shows’ to explain significance.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

CreatorSustainerMercySignsKhalifahMizanEnvironmentThe Qur’anMuslimsGod

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 6. Major Theme: God’s Relationship with the Created World.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Creator, Sustainer, Mercy, Signs, Khalifah.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah as Creator, Sustainer and Merciful Provider; nature as signs of Allah; humans as khalifah responsible for balance, gratitude and accountability.

Evaluation Question

1 question

May/June 2015 – Variant 2

Question 5

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Using Qur’an passages from the syllabus, describe what the Qur’an teaches about God’s responsibility to His creatures and their duties towards Him.

B · 4 marks

“The Qur’an teaches that humans should be responsible towards the environment.” Give reasons to agree or disagree with this statement.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 5 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah as Creator, Sustainer and Merciful Provider; nature as signs of Allah; humans as khalifah responsible for balance, gratitude and accountability.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

CreatorSustainerMercySignsKhalifahMizanEnvironmentUsing Qur’anQur’anGod’s

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 6. Major Theme: God’s Relationship with the Created World.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Creator, Sustainer, Mercy, Signs, Khalifah.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah as Creator, Sustainer and Merciful Provider; nature as signs of Allah; humans as khalifah responsible for balance, gratitude and accountability.

Sub-topic 07

7. Major Theme: God’s Relationship with His Messengers

Allah chooses, guides, teaches and supports His messengers; Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS) and Isa (AS) show knowledge, obedience, trials and closeness to Allah.

★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked 5 uploaded entries analysed

Quick Revision Box

Key Facts

Allah chooses, guides, teaches and supports His messengers; Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS) and Isa (AS) show knowledge, obedience, trials and closeness to Allah.
Do not narrate only stories. Explain what each conversation or event teaches about Allah’s relationship with the messenger.

Important Names

GuidanceChosen messengersKnowledgeTrialsObedienceCommunicationRole model

Important Events / Concepts

Main events in the repeated questions

Important Dates

20202019201720162015

Qur’anic / Hadith References

Use authentic Qur’anic/Hadith references only when directly relevant

Key Examination Themes

Source-Based / Theme-Based QuestionImportance / Explanation QuestionEvaluation Question

High-Yield Exam Preparation

Most important questions: the first repeated entries in this sub-topic usually represent the safest master-answer route.
Examiner favourite theme: Source-Based / Theme-Based Question.
Last-minute revision: memorise the keywords, then practise one 10-mark and one 4-mark answer.
Frequently confused area: students often mix neighbouring topics; keep the answer limited to this sub-topic.
Top-scoring area: connect facts to significance and modern application where required.

GuidanceChosen messengersKnowledgeTrialsObedienceCommunicationRole model

Source-Based / Theme-Based Question

1 question

October/November 2020 – Variant 1

Question 10

10 + 4 marks Source-Based / Theme-Based Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Using passages from the syllabus, write about what God says about His relationship with two of His Messengers.

B · 4 marks

How might Muslims use the Qur’an to have a closer connection with God?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 5 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah chooses, guides, teaches and supports His messengers; Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS) and Isa (AS) show knowledge, obedience, trials and closeness to Allah.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Refer directly to the named passages or themes; do not write a general essay.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mentioning passages generally without explaining their specific teaching.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

GuidanceChosen messengersKnowledgeTrialsObedienceCommunicationRole modelUsingGodHis

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 7. Major Theme: God’s Relationship with His Messengers.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Guidance, Chosen messengers, Knowledge, Trials, Obedience.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah chooses, guides, teaches and supports His messengers; Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS) and Isa (AS) show knowledge, obedience, trials and closeness to Allah.

Importance / Explanation Question

3 questions

May/June 2019 – Variant 2

Question 11

10 + 4 marks Importance / Explanation Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Using the Qur’an passages set for special study in the syllabus, outline the relationship between God and two of His Messengers: Adam (AS), Abraham (AS), and Jesus (AS).

B · 4 marks

God’s Messengers experienced trials. How can their responses help Muslims face difficulties in their own lives?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 5 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah chooses, guides, teaches and supports His messengers; Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS) and Isa (AS) show knowledge, obedience, trials and closeness to Allah.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Use ‘because / therefore / this shows’ to explain significance.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

GuidanceChosen messengersKnowledgeTrialsObedienceCommunicationRole modelUsingQur’anGod

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 7. Major Theme: God’s Relationship with His Messengers.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Guidance, Chosen messengers, Knowledge, Trials, Obedience.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah chooses, guides, teaches and supports His messengers; Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS) and Isa (AS) show knowledge, obedience, trials and closeness to Allah.

October/November 2016 – Variant 1

Question 13

10 + 4 marks Importance / Explanation Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

From the Qur’an passages you have studied, write about what lessons can be learnt from God’s conversations with Adam (AS) and Jesus (AS).

B · 4 marks

As God’s “representative (khalifah) on Earth”, say how men and women can serve God, giving examples.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 5 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah chooses, guides, teaches and supports His messengers; Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS) and Isa (AS) show knowledge, obedience, trials and closeness to Allah.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Use ‘because / therefore / this shows’ to explain significance.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

GuidanceChosen messengersKnowledgeTrialsObedienceCommunicationRole modelFromQur’anGod’s

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 7. Major Theme: God’s Relationship with His Messengers.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Guidance, Chosen messengers, Knowledge, Trials, Obedience.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah chooses, guides, teaches and supports His messengers; Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS) and Isa (AS) show knowledge, obedience, trials and closeness to Allah.

October/November 2015 – Variant 1

Question 14

10 + 4 marks Importance / Explanation Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

Using the Qur’an passages you have studied from the syllabus, describe how God guided His messengers to increase their belief in Him. Refer to at least two messengers in your answer.

B · 4 marks

God sends humankind messengers from amongst their own communities. Explain why this is significant.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 5 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah chooses, guides, teaches and supports His messengers; Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS) and Isa (AS) show knowledge, obedience, trials and closeness to Allah.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Use ‘because / therefore / this shows’ to explain significance.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

GuidanceChosen messengersKnowledgeTrialsObedienceCommunicationRole modelUsingQur’anGod

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 7. Major Theme: God’s Relationship with His Messengers.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Guidance, Chosen messengers, Knowledge, Trials, Obedience.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah chooses, guides, teaches and supports His messengers; Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS) and Isa (AS) show knowledge, obedience, trials and closeness to Allah.

Evaluation Question

1 question

May/June 2017 – Variant 2

Question 12

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★☆☆☆ Rarely Asked

A · 10 marks

From the Qur’an passages set for special study in the syllabus, describe the ways in which God gave knowledge of Himself to His Messengers.

B · 4 marks

“Undergoing hardships brings a person closer to God.” Agree or disagree with this statement, giving reasons for your answer.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 5 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as rarely asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: Allah chooses, guides, teaches and supports His messengers; Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS) and Isa (AS) show knowledge, obedience, trials and closeness to Allah.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

GuidanceChosen messengersKnowledgeTrialsObedienceCommunicationRole modelFromQur’anGod

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 7. Major Theme: God’s Relationship with His Messengers.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Guidance, Chosen messengers, Knowledge, Trials, Obedience.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

Allah chooses, guides, teaches and supports His messengers; Adam (AS), Ibrahim (AS) and Isa (AS) show knowledge, obedience, trials and closeness to Allah.

Sub-topic 08

8. Sources of Islamic Law: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘ and Qiyas

The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked 10 uploaded entries analysed

Quick Revision Box

Key Facts

The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.
Show how the sources work together: Qur’an gives the principle, Sunnah explains it, Ijma‘ unifies understanding, and Qiyas extends it to new cases.

Important Names

Qur’anSunnahIjma‘QiyasHierarchyMethodModern issues

Important Events / Concepts

Main events in the repeated questions

Important Dates

20242022202120192018201720161400

Qur’anic / Hadith References

Use authentic Qur’anic/Hadith references only when directly relevant

Key Examination Themes

Importance / Explanation QuestionDescribe / Narrative QuestionBiography / Personality QuestionEvaluation Question

High-Yield Exam Preparation

Most important questions: the first repeated entries in this sub-topic usually represent the safest master-answer route.
Examiner favourite theme: Importance / Explanation Question.
Last-minute revision: memorise the keywords, then practise one 10-mark and one 4-mark answer.
Frequently confused area: students often mix neighbouring topics; keep the answer limited to this sub-topic.
Top-scoring area: connect facts to significance and modern application where required.

Qur’anSunnahIjma‘QiyasHierarchyMethodModern issues

Describe / Narrative Question

2 questions

May/June 2022 – Variant 1

Question 2

10 + 4 marks Describe / Narrative Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about the Qur’an and Sunna and how they are used with Ijma’ in Islamic Law.

B · 4 marks

How has the Qur’an, as a primary source of law, helped to unify Muslims over time?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 10 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Keep the answer in chronological order and avoid jumping between events.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Missing sequence, names or clear stages of the event.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Qur’anSunnahIjma‘QiyasHierarchyMethodModern issuesWriteSunnaIjma

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 8. Sources of Islamic Law: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘ and Qiyas.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘, Qiyas, Hierarchy.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

October/November 2021 – Variant 2

Question 4

10 + 4 marks Describe / Narrative Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about the way in which the Qur’an and Sunna are used in Islamic Law.

B · 4 marks

Give one example where using Ijma or Qiyas has been significant for Muslims today.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 10 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Keep the answer in chronological order and avoid jumping between events.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Missing sequence, names or clear stages of the event.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Qur’anSunnahIjma‘QiyasHierarchyMethodModern issuesWriteSunnaIslamic Law

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 8. Sources of Islamic Law: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘ and Qiyas.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘, Qiyas, Hierarchy.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Biography / Personality Question

1 question

May/June 2022 – Variant 2

Question 3

10 + 4 marks Biography / Personality Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Consensus (Ijma’) is the third source of Islamic law. Write an account of Ijma’ and give two examples of how it was practiced in the time of the Companions.

B · 4 marks

By using analogy (Qiyas) the laws of Islam can be applied at any time and in any case. Do you agree? Give reasons to support your answer.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 10 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Writing later-life material when the question limits the answer to the Prophet’s ﷺ lifetime.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Qur’anSunnahIjma‘QiyasHierarchyMethodModern issuesConsensusIjmaIslamic

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 8. Sources of Islamic Law: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘ and Qiyas.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘, Qiyas, Hierarchy.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Importance / Explanation Question

2 questions

May/June 2024 – Variant 2

Question 1

10 + 4 marks Importance / Explanation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Describe analogy (Qiyas) and how it is used in the making of Islamic Law. Give one example to support your answer.

B · 4 marks

Give reasons why some Muslims might be reluctant to use analogy (Qiyas) to solve present day issues.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 10 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Use ‘because / therefore / this shows’ to explain significance.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Qur’anSunnahIjma‘QiyasHierarchyMethodModern issuesDescribeIslamic LawGive

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 8. Sources of Islamic Law: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘ and Qiyas.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘, Qiyas, Hierarchy.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

October/November 2014 – Variant 1

Question 10

10 + 4 marks Importance / Explanation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about how the Qur’an is used with the other three sources in Islamic law.

B · 4 marks

How important is the use of Ijma’ or Qiyas in Islamic law in present day situations? Give reasons for your answer.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 10 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Use ‘because / therefore / this shows’ to explain significance.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Qur’anSunnahIjma‘QiyasHierarchyMethodModern issuesWriteIslamicHow

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 8. Sources of Islamic Law: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘ and Qiyas.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘, Qiyas, Hierarchy.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Evaluation Question

5 questions

October/November 2019 – Variant 1

Question 5

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write an account of how the four sources of Islamic Law are used together.

B · 4 marks

Why do you think some scholars do not favour the use of Qiyas?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 10 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Qur’anSunnahIjma‘QiyasHierarchyMethodModern issuesWriteIslamic LawWhy

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 8. Sources of Islamic Law: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘ and Qiyas.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘, Qiyas, Hierarchy.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

October/November 2018 – Variant 2

Question 6

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write an account of how the four sources of Islamic Law are used together.

B · 4 marks

How useful are Ijma’ and Qiyas when dealing with modern issues?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 10 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Qur’anSunnahIjma‘QiyasHierarchyMethodModern issuesWriteIslamic LawHow

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 8. Sources of Islamic Law: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘ and Qiyas.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘, Qiyas, Hierarchy.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

October/November 2017 – Variant 1

Question 7

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

Write about the function of the Qur’an and Sunna as the two primary sources of Islamic law.

B · 4 marks

Why do you think the Qur’an and Sunna are not the only sources of law and are supplemented by Ijma’ and Qiyas?

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 10 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Qur’anSunnahIjma‘QiyasHierarchyMethodModern issuesWriteSunnaIslamic

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 8. Sources of Islamic Law: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘ and Qiyas.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘, Qiyas, Hierarchy.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

May/June 2016 – Variant 2

Question 8

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

The Qur’an is the main source of Islamic Law. Write an account of how it is used with each of the other three sources.

B · 4 marks

Do you think that both Ijma’ and Qiyas are equally important for solving present-day issues? Give reasons for your answer.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 10 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Qur’anSunnahIjma‘QiyasHierarchyMethodModern issuesThe Qur’anIslamic LawWrite

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 8. Sources of Islamic Law: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘ and Qiyas.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘, Qiyas, Hierarchy.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

May/June 2014 – Variant 2

Question 9

10 + 4 marks Evaluation Question Advanced ★★★☆☆ Moderately Asked

A · 10 marks

The Sunna is often used with the Qur’an as a primary source of Islamic law. Describe the ways in which they are used together.

B · 4 marks

“The Qur’an is not as relevant to Muslims now as it was 1400 years ago.” Give two reasons to agree or disagree with this statement.

Frequency reason: This card belongs to a sub-topic with 10 uploaded past-paper entries, so it is marked as moderately asked for revision priority. Examiner focus: The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Examiner guidance, mistakes and answer outline

Examiner Tips

Make a judgement; do not only narrate the event.
For 4 marks, write two developed reasons instead of four undeveloped points.
Top candidates adapt a prepared master answer to the exact command word.

Common Student Mistakes

Ignoring the command word and writing a memorised answer without adaptation.
Giving vague moral lessons without examples from the topic.
Mixing this sub-topic with a neighbouring topic and losing relevance.
Writing too much story for a 4-mark evaluation question.

How to Answer

Treat Part A as the main knowledge/narrative answer and Part B as application or evaluation.
For Part A, write in a clear sequence and include accurate names, events and examples.
For Part B, give two developed reasons with direct relevance to Muslims today.
Avoid repeating Part A in Part B; shift from story to significance.
End with a brief judgement where the wording asks for opinion or importance.

Key Points Required

Qur’anSunnahIjma‘QiyasHierarchyMethodModern issuesThe SunnaIslamicDescribe

Model Answer Outline

Part A: introduce the required topic: 8. Sources of Islamic Law: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘ and Qiyas.
Develop the main narrative/theme using: Qur’an, Sunnah, Ijma‘, Qiyas, Hierarchy.
Add accurate examples in sequence and avoid unrelated material.
Part B: give two explained reasons or lessons linked to the wording.
End with a concise judgement or significance statement.

Expected Examiner Focus

The hierarchy and cooperation of the four sources: Qur’an as supreme authority, Sunnah as explanation and practice, Ijma‘ as consensus, and Qiyas as analogy for new issues.

Read-only page

History & Importance of the Holy Qur’an

Frequency & Pattern Analysis

Most Important Questions

Examiner Favourite Themes

Last-Minute Revision Method

1. First Revelation of the Holy Qur’an

Quick Revision Box

High-Yield Exam Preparation

Describe / Narrative Question

Question 4

Examiner Tips

Common Student Mistakes

How to Answer

Key Points Required

Model Answer Outline

Expected Examiner Focus

Question 7

Examiner Tips

Common Student Mistakes

How to Answer

Key Points Required

Model Answer Outline

Expected Examiner Focus

Importance / Explanation Question

Question 1

Examiner Tips

Common Student Mistakes

How to Answer

Key Points Required

Model Answer Outline

Expected Examiner Focus

Question 2

Examiner Tips

Common Student Mistakes

How to Answer

Key Points Required

Model Answer Outline

Expected Examiner Focus

Question 3

Examiner Tips

Common Student Mistakes

How to Answer

Key Points Required

Model Answer Outline

Expected Examiner Focus

Question 5

Examiner Tips

Common Student Mistakes

How to Answer

Key Points Required

Model Answer Outline

Expected Examiner Focus

Evaluation Question

Question 6

Examiner Tips

Common Student Mistakes

How to Answer

Key Points Required

Model Answer Outline

Expected Examiner Focus

2. Different Ways, Forms and Experiences of Revelation

Quick Revision Box

High-Yield Exam Preparation

Evaluation Question

Question 8

Examiner Tips

Common Student Mistakes

How to Answer

Key Points Required

Model Answer Outline

Expected Examiner Focus

Question 9

Examiner Tips

Common Student Mistakes

How to Answer

Key Points Required

Model Answer Outline

Expected Examiner Focus