the deliberate ending of a pregnancy so it does not result in the birth of a child

the developing human from around eight weeks of pregnancy until birth

generally support a woman’s right to choose to have an abortion

generally opposed to abortion and in favour of the life of the foetus

something that is considered holy, divine or deserving of great respect

Contrasting views on abortion

Religious education

In this unit pupils will focus firstly on the relationship between religion and science - looking at ideas of creation. They will examine how Christians and non-religiious people view the world. Finally they will examine how people speak about the sanctity of life.

Issues of life and death

Depiction or discussion of abortion, euthanasia, organ donation.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

the medical process of delivering a baby early

What does the term ‘abortion’ refer to?

a woman should have the right to choose to terminate her pregnancy

abortion should be legal under all circumstances

What is a key belief of those who support the pro-life argument?

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.” (Jeremiah 1:5)

“Love your neighbour as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39)

“Let the little children come to me.” (Mark 10:14)

Which biblical teaching could be used to argue against abortion?

abortion should never be allowed under any circumstances

abortion may be the most loving option in certain circumstances

Which of these is a view of abortion held by some Christian denominations such as the Church of England?

abortion is permissible if the mother’s health is at risk

abortion is wrong because it violates the natural order of life

Natural Law has no bearing on the issue of abortion

What does Natural Law, as discussed by Thomas Aquinas, say about abortion?

the foetus has intrinsic value and a right to life

a woman has the right to make decisions about her own body

abortion is only acceptable in extreme cases

Which of the following is a pro-choice argument for allowing abortion?

a process where species evolve based on survival advantages

the belief that humans are superior to animals

the ethical treatment of animals used in scientific research

What does the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 regulate?

it is caused by genetic mutations and survival of the fittest

What does Richard Dawkins believe about evolution?

the belief that some species are naturally superior to others

the idea that all animals should have the same rights as humans

Peter Singer believes that all {{}} beings deserve moral consideration.

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Adult supervision recommended

Starter Quiz