SRSP 16-19 Topic 4 Unit 1a – Cosmology and Eschatology

This unit seeks to give students an understanding of some of the science behind the Big Bang theory. The three main pieces of evidence for the theory will be examined; the red shift of distant galaxies, the cosmic microwave background and the abundance of helium in the universe.

These three pieces of evidence together interlock to make a powerful case. Students will examine the scientific account of the development of the universe from the Big Bang to the present day. They will look at creation narratives, in particular those in Genesis 1-3, and consider the influence of culture on these, both in relation to the time in which they were written and on our own reading of these texts. These narratives will be compared to the scientific accounts.

Finally, students will look at different possible scientific scenarios for the end, or continuation, of the universe and reflect on how these relate to the eschatological thinking of the main faith traditions.

This unit consists of 3 lessons and is suitable for students aged from 16 to 19 years

Key Questions

How reliable is the evidence for the Big Bang?
How has our universe developed from the Big Bang to the state it is in now?
Will the universe last for ever?

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