Syllabus: Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies 9488

Syllabus
Cambridge International AS & A Level

Islamic Studies 9488
For examination in June and November 2021, 2022 and 2023.
Version 2
Please check the syllabus page at www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel
to see if this syllabus is available in your administrative zone.
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Contents
1 Why choose this syllabus? ................................................................................................................2
2 Syllabus overview .............................................................................................................................. 6

Aims 6
Content overview 7
Assessment overview 8
Assessment objectives 10
3 Subject content .................................................................................................................................. 11

Paper 1 Islamic beliefs and practices 11
Paper 2 Islamic law (shariah) and its application 15
Paper 3 Heritage of Islam 18
Paper 4 Islam in the modern world 21
4 Details of the assessment ..............................................................................................................24

Paper 1 Islamic beliefs and practices 24
Paper 2 Islamic law (shariah) and its application 25
Paper 3 Heritage of Islam 26
Paper 4 Islam in the modern world 27
Command words 28
5 What else you need to know ......................................................................................................... 29

Before you start 29
Making entries 30
After the exam 31
How students, teachers and higher education can use the grades 32
Grade descriptions 32
Changes to this syllabus for 2021, 2022 and 2023 33
Changes to this syllabus

For information about changes to this syllabus for 2021, 2022 and 2023, go to page 33.
Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies 9488 syllabus for 2021, 2022 and 2023.
1 Why choose this syllabus?
Key benefits
The best motivation for a student is a real passion for the subject
they’re learning. By offering students a variety of Cambridge
International AS & A Levels, you can give them the greatest chance
of finding the path of education they most want to follow. With
over 50 subjects to choose from, students can select the ones
they love and that they’re best at, which helps motivate them
throughout their studies.
Following a Cambridge International AS & A Level programme

helps students develop abilities which universities value highly,
including:
• a deep understanding of their subjects
• higher order thinking skills – analysis, critical thinking,
problem solving
• presenting ordered and coherent arguments
• independent learning and research.
Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies develops a set of transferable skills. These include
a reflective understanding of different values, opinions and attitudes and the ability to present and analyse
differing perspectives and the concepts and values that underpin them.
Our approach in Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies encourages learners to be:
confident, understanding complex social, religious and/or philosophical concepts and expressing views, opinions
and judgements around these
responsible, recognising the complexity and sensitivity of issues that give rise to religious debate
reflective, considering the diversity of views (including personal ones) and the ways in which they are supported
and justified
innovative, exploring the role and significance of religion for Muslims in the contemporary world
engaged, by the complexity and diversity of religion and its responses to the challenges of the contemporary
world.
‘Cambridge students develop a deep understanding of subjects and independent thinking skills.’
Tony Hines, Principal, Rockledge High School, USA
2 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page

Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies 9488 syllabus for 2021, 2022 and 2023. Why choose this syllabus?
Key concepts
Key concepts are essential ideas that help students develop a deep understanding of their subject and make links
between different aspects. Key concepts may open up new ways of thinking about, understanding or interpreting
the important things to be learned.
Good teaching and learning will incorporate and reinforce a subject’s key concepts to help students gain:
• a greater depth as well as breadth of subject knowledge
• confidence, especially in applying knowledge and skills in new situations
• the vocabulary to discuss their subject conceptually and show how different aspects link together
• a level of mastery of their subject to help them enter higher education.
The key concepts identified below, carefully introduced and developed, will help to underpin the course you will
teach. You may identify additional key concepts which will also enrich teaching and learning.
The key concepts for Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies are:
• Beliefs, faith, teachings and sources
Interpreting teachings, sources, authorities and ways of life in order to understand religion, beliefs and faith.
Appreciating and responding critically to beliefs, faith and attitudes.
• Practices, application and ways of life
Exploring the impact of religion, beliefs and faith on how people live their lives. Appreciating that religious
practices and ethics are diverse, change over time and are influenced by locations and cultures.
• Expression
Acknowledging that individuals and cultures express their beliefs, faith, ethics and values through many
different forms. Appreciating that expression can develop and maintain individual and community faith.
Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel 3

Recognition and progression

Our expertise in curriculum, teaching and learning, and assessment is the basis for the recognition of our
programmes and qualifications around the world. Every year thousands of students with Cambridge International
AS & A Levels gain places at leading universities worldwide. They are valued by top universities around the world
including those in the UK, US (including Ivy League universities), Europe, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.
UK NARIC, the national agency in the UK for the recognition and comparison of international qualifications and
skills, has carried out an independent benchmarking study of Cambridge International AS & A Level and found it to
be comparable to the standard of AS & A Level in the UK. This means students can be confident that their Cambridge
International AS & A Level qualifications are accepted as equivalent, grade for grade, to UK AS & A Levels by leading
universities worldwide.
Cambridge International AS Level Islamic Studies makes up the first half of the Cambridge International A Level
course in Islamic Studies and provides a foundation for the study of Islamic Studies at Cambridge International
A Level. Depending on local university entrance requirements, students may be able to use it to progress directly
to university courses in Islamic Studies or some other subjects. It is also suitable as part of a course of general
education.
Cambridge International A Level Islamic Studies provides a foundation for the study of Islamic Studies or related
courses in higher education. Equally it is suitable as part of a course of general education.
For more information about the relationship between the Cambridge International AS Level and Cambridge
International A Level see the ‘Assessment overview’ section of the Syllabus overview.
We recommend learners check the Cambridge recognitions database and the university websites to find the most
up-to-date entry requirements for courses they wish to study.
Learn more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/recognition
‘The depth of knowledge displayed by the best A Level students makes them prime targets for
America’s Ivy League universities’
Yale University, USA

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US Higher Education Advisory Council

2 Syllabus overview
Aims
The aims describe the purposes of a course based on this syllabus.
The aims are to enable students to:

• develop knowledge and understanding appropriate to a specialist study of Islam
• develop an understanding and appreciation of Islamic thought and practice and its contribution to individuals,
communities and societies
• develop an interest in a rigorous study of Islam and relate it to the wider world and their own experiences
• reflect on and develop their own values, opinions and attitudes in the light of their study of Islam
• engage with scholarly debate about Islam and develop an ability to express and justify their own opinions
• adopt an enquiring and reflective approach to the study of Islamic religion which will form a solid foundation
for further study.
Support for Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies

Our School Support Hub www.cambridgeinternational.org/support provides Cambridge schools with a
secure site for downloading specimen and past question papers, mark schemes, grade thresholds and other
curriculum resources specific to this syllabus. The School Support Hub community offers teachers the
opportunity to connect with each other and to ask questions related to the syllabus.

Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies 9488 syllabus for 2021, 2022 and 2023. Syllabus overview
Content overview
This table gives an overview of the syllabus content for Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies.
Paper 1 – Islamic beliefs and practices

The Qurʾan and Sunnah • The life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)
• A study of set texts from the Holy Qurʾan
• A study of set Hadith texts
Islamic beliefs, practices and ceremonies • Main beliefs
• Purification and intention
• Acts of devotion and commitment
• Putting faith into action
Paper 2 – Islamic law (shariah) and its application

Schools of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) • Worship
• Family life
• Finance and employment
• Application of Islamic law (shariah)
• Sources of Islamic law (shariah)
Diversity of schools of thought • The oneness of God (tawhid)
• The role of religious leaders
• Judgement and the afterlife (ʾakhirah)
• Distinctive positions of Islamic schools of thought
Paper 3 – Heritage of Islam

The Umayyads and the ʿAbbasids • The Heritage of the Umayyads
• The Heritage of the ʿAbbasids
Islamic world heritage • Literature and philosophy
• Architecture and design
Paper 4 – Islam in the modern world

Women in Islam
Islam and pluralism
Leadership of the Muslims

Assessment overview
AS Level candidates take Papers 1 and 2. A Level candidates take Papers 1, 2, 3 and 4.
Paper 1 Paper 3
Islamic beliefs and practices Heritage of Islam 1 hour 30 minutes

1 hour 30 minutes 50 marks
50 marks Section A: Structured questions. Candidates
Structured questions answer one question from a choice of two.
Candidates answer one compulsory question Part (a) of each question will be based on
based on the prescribed Qurʾanic and Hadith source material printed on the question paper.
texts and one additional question from a Section B: Structured questions. Candidates
choice of two. answer one question from a choice of two.
Externally assessed Externally assessed
50% of the AS Level 25% of the A Level
25% of the A Level
Paper 2 Paper 4
Islamic law (shariah) and its application Islam in the modern world 1 hour 30 minutes
1 hour 30 minutes 50 marks
50 marks Extended response essays
Section A: Structured questions. Candidates Candidates answer two questions from a
answer one question from a choice of two. choice of three.
Section B: Structured questions. Candidates Externally assessed
answer one question from a choice of two.
25% of the A Level
Externally assessed
50% of the AS Level
25% of the A Level
Information on availability is in the Before you start section.

There are three routes for Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies:
Route Paper 1 Paper 2 Paper 3 Paper 4
1 AS Level only
(Candidates take all AS components  
in the same exam series)
2 A Level (staged over two years)
Year 1 AS Level*  
Year 2 Complete the A Level  
3 A Level
(Candidates take all components in    
the same exam series)
* Candidates carry forward their AS Level result subject to the rules and time limits described in the Cambridge Handbook.
Candidates following an AS Level route will be eligible for grades a–e. Candidates following an A Level route are
eligible for grades A*–E.

Assessment objectives
The assessment objectives (AOs) are:
AO1 Knowledge and understanding

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Islamic teachings, texts, beliefs and
practices including their relevance for individual Muslims and communities.
AO2 Analysis and evaluation

Analyse, evaluate and discuss evidence, points of view and issues in Islam.
Weighting for assessment objectives

The approximate weightings allocated to each of the assessment objectives (AOs) are summarised below.
Assessment objectives as a percentage of each qualification
Assessment objective Weighting in AS Level % Weighting in A Level %

AO1 Knowledge and understanding 50 45
AO2 Analysis and evaluatoin 50 55
Total 100 100
Assessment objectives as a percentage of each component

Assessment objective Weighting in components %
Paper 1 Paper 2 Paper 3 Paper 4
AO1 Knowledge and understanding 50 50 40 40
AO2 Analysis and evaluation 50 50 60 60
Total 100 100 100 100

3 Subject content
Candidates for Cambridge International AS Level study the AS Level content for Paper 1 and Paper 2.
Candidates for Cambridge A Level study all the syllabus content for Paper 1, Paper 2, Paper 3 and Paper 4.
The content for each paper is detailed below.
Paper 1 Islamic beliefs and practices

This paper introduces the origins of Islam and the main beliefs and practices of Islam.
The exemplification of good character in the life of the Prophet (pbuh) is the focus of Section A. Candidates study
examples of good character and trace these from the key texts given for study. Candidates are required to discuss
and debate how good character could be applied in certain situations in the lives of Muslims today.
The main beliefs of Islam are introduced in Section B. Candidates study what the main beliefs are and consider how
they affect the everyday lives of believers. They are required to explore the variety of beliefs held by Muslims.
Section A: The Qurʾan and Sunnah

An introduction to the main sources of Islam through examples from the Qurʾan and Sunnah and their application
as a model for good conduct for Muslims.
1.1 The life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)

Content
• his early years and first proclamation to 622 CE
• his challenges to Meccan beliefs
• the Hijrah and its significance
• his administration and leadership roles (religious, political and military)
• his morals, manners and character as an example to Muslims.

Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies 9488 syllabus for 2021, 2022 and 2023. Subject content
1.2 A study of set texts from the Holy Qurʾan

Content
• 3:144 The Prophet
• 4:12 Inheritance
• 5:89–90 Intoxicants
• 10:99–100 Freedom of belief
• 13:3–4 Signs
• 17:31–34 Orphans
• 17:35 Fairness
• 25:68–70 Punishment
• 31:14–15 Parents
• 31:17–19 Prayer and arrogance
Candidates should be able to:

• explain the teachings in these sources in relation to the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)
• show how the teachings from these sources might be applied in the lives of Muslims today
• discuss how the Prophet (pbuh) is a perfect example for Muslims to follow with reference to these sources.
Specified text for study:

A Yusuf Ali, An English interpretation of the Holy Qurʾan with full Arabic Text: http://tanzil.net
The Qurʾan passages printed on the question paper will be taken from the version of the specified texts
prescribed in the syllabus. If schools wish to use other versions of the translated texts, they are welcome to do
so, but teachers should make candidates aware that there may be differences with the translations that appear
on the question papers.

1.3 A study of set Hadith texts

Content
• 1 Sincerity
• 18 Repentance
• 27 Perseverance
• 54 Truthfulness
• 73 Piety
• 75 Firm belief
• 85 Steadfastness
• 199 Hypocrites
• 309 Neighbours
• 316 Parents

• explain the themes in these Hadith in relation to the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)
• show how these Hadith might be applied in the lives of Muslims today
• discuss how the Prophet (pbuh) is a perfect example for Muslims to follow with reference to the set Hadith
texts.
Specified text for study:

Riyad as-Salihin, Book 1, The Book of Miscellany: https://sunnah.com/riyadussaliheen
The Hadith passages printed on the question paper will be taken from the version of the specified texts
prescribed in the syllabus. If schools wish to use other versions of the translated texts, they are welcome to do
so, but teachers should make candidates aware that there may be differences with the translations that appear
on the question papers.

Section B: Islamic beliefs, practices and ceremonies

Candidates will study Islamic beliefs and practices and how these help Muslims to realise, proclaim and develop
their faith in daily life. Candidates may be required to make connections between the content areas in Section B.
1.4 Main beliefs

Content
• belief in a single Creator God (tawhid)
• the role of prophets as human messengers, delivering revelations (risalah)
• angels as deliverers of books and recorders of human actions (malaikah)
• the revealed word of God as guidance to humankind (wahy)
• the Day of Judgement and the afterlife (ʾakhirah)
• life as a test within the bounds of fate and predestination (qadar).

• consider how the main beliefs are strengthened and realised through a Muslim’s actions
• make links between beliefs and actions and reference examples from the Five Pillars of Islam.
1.5 Purification and intention

Content
• the rituals of purification for prayer, preparation for pilgrimage (Hajj) and purification in Islamic birth and
death rituals
• purification of the mind from worldly thoughts and the importance of making the right intention (niyyah)
and purification of the heart through the statement of faith (shahadah)
• fasting in Ramadan (sawm) as a form of physical and spiritual renewal
• almsgiving (zakat) as a means of purification of wealth.
1.6 Acts of devotion and commitment

Content
• daily and occasional prayer rituals, including the five daily prayers, Eid prayers and prayers on special
occasions
• the importance of acts of worship (ibadah) and developing God-consciousness (taqwa)
• the role of the family in developing faith; marriage (nikah) as an act of commitment
• diversity of acts of devotion carried out by different Muslims, including Ashura, the 10th of Muharram and
personal prayers (duʾa) for guidance.
1.7 Putting faith into action

Content
• support for the poor through almsgiving (zakat), voluntary donations and charitable giving
• creation of equality in the Islamic community (ummah) through acts of devotion including the rituals of
pilgrimage (Hajj)
• the inclusion of everyone in the Eid festivals; importance of sacrifices made for God and rewards shared in
family and community
• the relationship between intentions, actions and belief in judgement and the afterlife.

Paper 2 Islamic law (shariah) and its application

The origins of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) are the focus of Section A. Candidates develop an understanding of why
each source of authority is important and how they are used together to form Islamic teachings. This study gives
candidates an opportunity to debate different interpretations of law applied to moral and ethical issues.
Section B focuses on the study of three areas of Islamic belief: the oneness of God (tawhid), the role of religious
leaders and judgement and the afterlife (ʾakhirah). The study will build on Section B of Paper 1 to involve a
discussion of a variety of points of view and perspectives.
Section A: Schools of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh)

Candidates will focus on the study of some specific aspects of Islamic law (shariah): worship, family life and finance
and employment. They will trace how opinions regarding their application are formed using sources of authority
and their interpretation by different schools of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh).
2.1 Worship
Content
• opinions regarding purification (wudu) before prayer
• the timing and conditions for the daily prayer services, conditions for combination of prayers and the timings
of dawn (fajr), afternoon (asr) and sunset (maghrib) prayers
• the conditions for the Friday prayers ( Jumuʾah).
2.2 Family life

Content
• opinions regarding marriage (nikah) to relatives and those of other faiths
• freedom of choice of marital partners and conditions for divorce (talaq)
• questions of inheritance, in particular shares for female family members.
2.3 Finance and employment

Content
• the principles of trade and business transactions
• issues of handling debt, usury and interest (riba); mortgages
• employment in different local contexts according to Islamic principles.

2.4 Application of Islamic law (shariah)

Content
• for 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 the opinions from two schools of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) should be studied. These
are to be chosen from:
– one of the four Sunni Imams and their Madhab: Hanafi, Shafiʿi, Maliki, Hanbali
– and one from:
○ another of the four Sunni Imams and their Madhab
○ OR a Shiʾi School of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), such as the Twelvers or Ismailis
○ OR a perspective from outside the traditional schools, such as reformist or Salafi.

• make comparisons between the content areas and between interpretations of the two schools of Islamic
jurisprudence (fiqh) which have been chosen for study.
2.5 Sources of Islamic law (shariah)

Content
• sources used to derive opinions; why they are important and how they are used together in order of priority:
– primary sources of Islamic law (shariah), the Qurʾan and Sunnah; the progressive revelations from Mecca
to Medina; issues of strong (sahih) and weak (daʿif) Hadith
– secondary sources including consensus (ijmaʿ), analogy (qiyas) or reasoning (ʿaql) and variation in
opinion about their use
– references to the habits of the people of Medina; local cultural practices (ʿurf); the companions (sahaba)
of the Prophet (pbuh) and their followers.
Section B: Diversity of schools of thought

Candidates will make a study of three areas of Islamic belief and analyse the variety of opinions and perspectives
about them.
2.6 The oneness of God (tawhid)

Content
• interpretation of the anthropomorphic references to God: literal and metaphorical perspectives and the
implications of this for the authority of the Qurʾan
• the statement of faith and the position of ʿAli for Shiʾi Muslims
• opinions regarding the celebration of the birthday of the Prophet (pbuh)
• the extent to which Muslims may develop a spiritual relationship with God as expressed in mystical poetry
and the controversy regarding the claims of Mansur al-Hallaj.

2.7 The role of religious leaders

Content
• the Sunni Caliph, as religious and political leader, and Sunni Imams appointed by merit of education and
piety
• the importance of the Shiʾi Imam, in Muhammad’s family line, to make interpretations without error
• the role of a Sufi master (murshid) who is given allegiance by followers within a Sufi order (tariqa) and guides
practices of remembrance (dhikr)
• the extent to which individuals may interpret teachings (ijtihad) for the modern world, based on their own
understanding and the practices of the companions (sahaba).
2.8 Judgement and the afterlife (ʾakhirah)

Content
• interpretations of the Mahdi, the return of the twelfth Imam for Shiʾi Muslims
• Sufi focus on rising through the spiritual stations towards union with God, to be fully achieved in the afterlife
(ʾakhirah)
• the Muʾtazilah and application of rationalism to achieve justice in the afterlife (ʾakhirah)
• the extent to which humans have free will or whose fate is predestined (qadar); the possibility of adjustment
to the Divine plan.
2.9 Distinctive positions of Islamic schools of thought

Content
• comparison of the Sunni beliefs to the alternative positions of all the following:
– the Shiʾi, Party of ʿAli, and leadership descended from the Prophet’s family
– the Muʾtazilah, the party of Divine Unity, in comparison to the views of al-Ashʿari
– the mystical approach of Sufism with examples from Sufi orders (tariqa)
– modern Salafi and reformist positions: literal reinterpretations of sources of authority compared to
modernist application of the original principles.

• compare distinctive positions taken by the different schools of thought about the oneness of God (tawhid),
the role of religious leaders and the afterlife (ʾakhirah).

Paper 3 Heritage of Islam

In Section A, candidates will study the rich heritage of the Umayyads and ʿAbbasids. Candidates will study aspects
of their rule and their scientific and cultural achievements. Candidates will critically evaluate the contribution of
these caliphates to the development of education, science and other cultural aspects; and reflect on the influence
of their legacy for Muslims and the wider world today.
In Section B, candidates will have the opportunity to discuss the extent to which Islam encourages rational
scientific enquiry in comparison to acceptance of revelation.
The origins of Islamic art from the removal of idols, to the creation of new works of art and architecture, are also
covered. Candidates study famous mosques and compare their styles and features.
Section A: The Umayyads and ʿAbbasids

3.1 The Heritage of the Umayyads
Content
• leadership of the Umayyad caliphs
• religious, educational and trade policies
• a critical assessment of their rule according to the principles of the Qurʾan and Sunnah
• the change in art and culture from the days of Pre-Islamic Arabia to the Umayyads; how far the Umayyads
accommodated earlier traditions and how far they introduced changes
• the development of the minaret and architecture to reflect distinct Islamic beliefs
• the architectural achievements of the Umayyads including one of the following:
– The Grand Mosque of Damascus
– Masjid al-Aqsa, Jerusalem
– The Grand Mosque and Palace of Córdoba
• the legacy of interfaith relations in Muslim Spain.

3.2 The Heritage of the ʿAbbasids

Content
• leadership under the ʿAbbasid caliphs
• religious, educational and trade policies
• a critical assessment of their rule according to the principles of the Qurʾan and Sunnah
• the importance of openness to the translation movement
• the development of science, observation and evidenced conclusions, and the differences and similarities with
the modern scientific approach
• the scientific achievements of the Golden Age of Islam including one of the following:
– Al-Khwarizmi’s development of algebra
– Ibn Sina’s Canon of Medicine
– Ibn al-Haytham’s development of optics
• the legacy of safeguarding knowledge and progress in science.

• make comparisons between the leadership and policies of the Umayyad and ʿAbbasid caliphs
• compare the extent to which the Umayyad and ʿAbbasid caliphates followed the Qurʾan and Sunnah
• analyse the contribution of the Umayyad and ʿAbbasid caliphates to the development of a studied area such
as education, or the promotion of religious facilities
• evaluate the influence of the Umayyad and ʿAbbasid legacies for Muslims today.
Section B: Islamic world heritage

Candidates will study how Islamic beliefs are reflected in literature and philosophy and expressed through
architecture.
3.3 Literature and philosophy

Content
• the concept that God sends people knowledge through revelations and through signs in the natural world
that may be studied and understood through philosophy (falsafah)
• the ways in which Islamic philosophy was similar to and differed from the writings of the ancient Greeks in
Pre-Islamic times
• a comparative study of two significant writings, their contribution to learning and the perspective taken on
Islamic beliefs. These must be chosen from:
– Ibn Tufayl’s work Hayy ibn Yaqzan
– Al-Ghazali’s Incoherence of the Philosophers
– Ibn Khaldun’s work on social science, The Muqaddimah
– the mystical poetry of Rabiʿa al-ʿAdawiyya
– Al-Biruni’s work on comparative religion, History of Religions
– a published work chosen by the candidate
• a comparison of the different ways of deriving beliefs through interpretation of revelations
• observation of the created world; philosophical reasoning and mystical meditation
• evaluation of the different ways in which Muslims might explain to others their main beliefs (daʿwah) today.

3.4 Architecture and design

Content
• expressions of Islamic beliefs through art and architecture, including God as Creator expressed through
geometrical patterns and domes; and the Garden of Paradise expressed in the design of Islamic gardens
• the ways in which Islamic art and architecture differs from Pre-Islamic Arabia in the removal of idols and the
creation of calligraphy to express the 99 names
• a comparative study of two mosques, their main distinctive features and how they reflect Islamic beliefs.
These must be chosen from:
– Timurid Bibi Khanum Mosque, Samarkand
– Ottoman Sultan Ahmed Mosque, Istanbul
– Mughal Jama Mosque, Delhi
– The Great Ming Mosque, Xiʾan
– Safavid Shah Mosque, Isfahan
– The Great Mosque, Djenne
– a mosque, such as a local mosque, chosen by the candidate
• discussion of the extent to which artistic expression and cultural diversity should be embraced by Muslims
• the extent to which environmental stewardship and preservation of architecture should be an obligation
upon Muslims.

• compare how an Islamic belief, such as the oneness of God (tawhid), is expressed through philosophy and
through architecture
• compare the influence of philosophy with architecture for Muslims today
• compare the expression of beliefs in one philosophical text with one mosque chosen for study.

Paper 4 Islam in the modern world

This paper focuses on three contemporary aspects of Islam in the word today: Women in Islam, Islam and
pluralism and Leadership of the Muslims. Candidates will consider the current position in each content area; make
evaluations of how far this reflects the teachings from the Qurʾan and Sunnah and consider examples from the
history of the Muslims. They will discuss a range of issues and consider the responses of Muslims in modern times.
4.1 Women in Islam

Content
• an analysis of the position of Muslim women in society in the modern world; how far they are treated
equally to men and the challenges they face
• different Muslim opinions about the role of women and their rights within Islamic law (shariah)
• women’s rights within married relationships and their roles in family life
• discussion regarding issues of religion and culture, including women’s dress, greeting and social relations,
professional careers, prejudice and discrimination
• evaluation of how far the position of Muslim women today is in accordance with the teachings in the Qurʾan
and Sunnah
• the extent to which the rights of women improved with the coming of Islam and how far these
improvements have been applied in the modern world
• the influence of Khadija and Aisha, wives of the Prophet (pbuh), and his daughter Fatima, as role models
• a historical perspective of the contributions made by two Muslim women at different times, including:
– Lubna of Córdoba, librarian and secretary of Caliph Al Hakam II
– missionary Ruqayyah bint Ali
– Queen Arwa al-Sulayhi of Yemen
– Razia Sultana of Delhi
– Mughal Noor Jahan
• a study of one influential contemporary Muslim woman; evaluation of her contribution to the position of
women in Islam and issues she faced, chosen from:
– a Muslim woman campaigner for human rights (such as Malala Yousafzai) or social issues, or
– a contemporary or recent Muslim woman who has held political office, such as a president, prime
minister or member of parliament, or
– an influential Muslim woman chosen by the candidate.

4.2 Islam and pluralism

Content
• an analysis of the position of minorities within Muslim societies and Muslims living as minorities within
mixed societies; how they are treated and the challenges they face
• opinions about the position of people of other faiths living among Muslims and their rights within Islamic
law (shariah)
• the extent of rights to freedom of individual thought, belief and expression
• discussion regarding issues of religion and culture, prayer during working hours, taking time off for festivals,
difficulties establishing mosques
• evaluation of how far the treatment of people of other faiths by Muslims today follows the model of the
early Medina community, the Sunnah and the teachings in the Qurʾan
• the extent to which the rights of non-Muslims improved with the coming of Islam and how far these
improvements have been applied in the modern world
• the influence of Caliph Umar and the Dhimmi contract with those of other faiths living under Muslim rule
• a historical perspective of different approaches taken by Muslims towards those of other faiths, including
either the contrasting policies of Mughal Emperors Akbar and Aurangzeb or the approaches taken towards
those of other faiths during the period of Muslim rule in Spain
• a study of two countries or communities to evaluate issues of Islam and pluralism, inter-faith and
community relations; these may be where Muslims form a minority or are in a majority living alongside
others. Examples might include, but are not limited to:
– Muslims living as a minority in Mauritius
– Muslim minorities living in secular France
– other faiths living in majority Muslim Malaysia.

4.3 Leadership of the Muslims

Content
• an analysis of the position of leadership of Muslims in Muslim majority countries and communities where
Muslims form a minority in the world today
• different opinions about the qualities and characteristics required for eligibility to be a leader
• human rights for Muslims and their responsibilities to their leaders
• discussion regarding issues of just rule, provision for the less fortunate and responses to corruption and
oppression
• evaluation of how far leadership of Muslims today follows the teachings in the Qurʾan and Prophet
Muhammad’s example of leadership in the city of Medina
• the extent to which leadership improved with the coming of Islam compared to the leadership of the Shaykh
in Pre-Islamic Arabia
• how far Muslims support the principles of democracy and consultation in exercising leadership and policy-
making, including reference to examples from the time of the Four Rightly-Guided Caliphs Abu Bakr, Umar,
Uthman and ʿAli
• a historical perspective of the contribution of two Muslim leaders in the development of Muslim practice in
the modern world, chosen from:
– Muhammad ʿAbduh
– Syed Abul Aʿla Maududi
– Hasan al-Banna
– Syed Ahmad Khan
– Allama Iqbal
• a study of one influential contemporary or recent Muslim leader. Candidates should be able to evaluate
them in line with the principles of leadership in Islam
– a Muslim who has held political leadership such as a president, prime minister or member of parliament
or
– a religious or spiritual leader, such as a famous Imam or preacher, or
– an influential Muslim leader, religious or political, chosen by the candidate.
Candidates should be able to (for 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3):

• draw comparisons and make evaluations between the content areas in 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3 such as:
– a comparison of an influential Muslim woman (studied for Section 4.1) with a Muslim leader (studied for
Section 4.3)
– how do Muslims leaders approach living with people of other faiths
– issues faced by Muslim women compared to issues faced by faith minorities.

4 Details of the assessment
Across the assessment of all four papers, candidates will be required to demonstrate knowledge and understanding
of Islam and to evaluate and analyse differing points of view, providing supporting evidence for these.
Candidates will be required to present their response using well-structured continuous prose.
For all four papers the levels of response marking grids are published in the specimen papers which accompany the
syllabus. These are available on our public website and our school support hub.

Written paper, 1 hour 30 minutes, 50 marks
This paper assesses the prescribed syllabus content for Paper 1.
Candidates answer one compulsory question (Question 1) and one additional question out of a choice of two
(Question 2 or 3).
Question 1
Candidates answer Question 1, a compulsory question based on printed textual material from both or either the
Qurʾanic and Hadith prescribed texts specified in the syllabus. Question 1 will be divided in three part questions
totalling 25 marks:
• Q1 (a) 5 marks assessing AO1 knowledge and understanding of the prescribed Qurʾanic and/or Hadith text. This
part question will ask candidates to describe the main teachings of the Qurʾanic and/or Hadith texts printed on
the question paper.
• Q 1(b) 10 marks assessing AO1 knowledge and understanding of the prescribed Qurʾanic and/or Hadith text.
Although in this part question candidates are required to refer to the passages, candidates are encouraged to go
wider than the words from the passages printed on the question paper.
• Q1 (c) 10 marks assessing AO2 analysis and evaluation.
Candidates must answer all the parts of Question 1.
The Qurʾanic and Hadith passages printed on the question paper will be taken from the version of the specified
texts prescribed in the syllabus (translated into English). If schools wish to use other versions of the translated
texts, they are welcome to do so, but teachers should make candidates aware that there may be differences with
the translations that appear on the question papers.
The texts printed on the question paper could be two or three short extracts from both or either the Qurʾan and
Hadith prescribed texts.
Questions 1(b) and 1(c) will be marked using the levels of response marking grids printed on the specimen mark
scheme for Paper 1. Part (b) questions are marked using the AO1 knowledge and understanding marking grid and
part (c) questions using the AO2 analysis and evaluation marking grid.

Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies 9488 syllabus for 2021, 2022 and 2023. Details of the assessment
Question 2 or 3
Candidates also answer either Question 2 or 3 (25 marks). The questions will be in two parts:
• Part (a) 10 marks assessing AO1 knowledge and understanding
• Part (b) 15 marks assessing AO2 analysis and evaluation.
Candidates must answer both parts from the question they have chosen.
Questions 2 and 3 will be marked using the levels of response marking grids printed on the specimen mark scheme
for Paper 1. Part (a) questions are marked using the AO1 knowledge and understanding marking grid and part (b)
questions using the AO2 analysis and evaluation marking grid.

This paper assesses the prescribed syllabus content for Paper 2.
The paper comprises of two sections: Section A and Section B:

• Questions from Section A will sample content from Section A of Paper 2: Schools of Islamic jurisprudence
(fiqh). (25 marks)
• Questions from Section B will sample content from Section B of Paper 2: Diversity of schools of thought.
(25 marks)
Section A
Candidates answer either Question 1 or 2 (25 marks). The questions will be in three parts:
• Part (a) 5 marks assessing AO1 knowledge and understanding of the prescribed syllabus content
• Part (b) 10 marks assessing AO1 knowledge and understanding of the prescribed syllabus content
• Part (c) 10 marks assessing AO2 analysis and evaluation. Part (c) questions will require candidates to consider
different points of view.
Candidates must answer all three parts from the question they have chosen.
Part (b) questions are marked using the AO1 knowledge and understanding marking grid and part (c) questions
using the AO2 analysis and evaluation marking grid published on the specimen mark scheme for Paper 2.
Questions may ask candidates to make comparisons between the content areas and between interpretations of the
two schools of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) which have been chosen for study.

Section B
Candidates answer either Question 3 or 4 (25 marks). The questions will be in two parts:
• Part (b) 15 marks assessing AO2 analysis and evaluation. Part (b) questions will require candidates to consider
different points of view.
Part (a) questions are marked using the AO1 knowledge and understanding marking grid and part (b) questions
Questions may ask candidates to compare different positions taken by the different groups within one content area
or between any combinations of content areas in Section B.

This paper assesses the prescribed syllabus content for Paper 3. Candidates are also required to evaluate and
analyse different points of view, providing supporting evidence and a conclusion.
The paper comprises of two sections: Section A and Section B:

• Questions from Section A will sample content from Section A of Paper 3: The Ummayads and the ʿAbbasids.
(25 marks)
• Questions from Section B will sample content from Section B of Paper 3: Islamic world heritage. (25 marks)
Section A
Candidates answer one question from a choice of two.
Each question is worth 25 marks and consists of two parts:

There will be a source stimulus for Part (a) of each question, which may be a picture, short text and/or image
showing architectural or scientific achievement. Candidates should refer to the source stimulus in their response.
In addition to making reference to the source stimulus, candidates will be also expected to apply their own
knowledge and understanding to answer the part (a) question.

Section B
Candidates answer one question from a choice of two.
Each question is worth 25 marks and consists of two parts:


This paper assesses knowledge and understanding from the prescribed syllabus content for Paper 4. Candidates
are also required to evaluate and analyse differing points of view, providing supporting evidence and a conclusion.
Wider reading of the Qurʾan and Hadith will be credited.
Questions may be set from within one content area of the syllabus content for Paper 4 (Women in Islam, Islam
and pluralism or Leadership of the Muslims) or across one or more content areas, encouraging candidates to draw
comparisons and make evaluations between aspects from the different content areas.
Candidates answer two questions out of a choice of three. These are essay questions worth 25 marks each:
• 10 marks will be assessed against the levels of response marking grid for AO1 knowledge and understanding
published in the Paper 4 specimen mark scheme
• 15 marks will be assessed against the levels of response marking grid for AO2 analysis and evaluation published
in the Paper 4 specimen mark scheme.

Command words
The table below includes command words used in the assessment for this syllabus. The use of the command word
will relate to the subject context.
Command word What it means

Analyse examine in detail to show meaning, identify elements and the relationship
between them
Assess make an informed judgement
Comment give an informed opinion
Compare identify/comment on similarities and/or differences
Consider review and respond to given information
Contrast identify/comment on differences
Define give precise meaning
Describe state the points of a topic/give characteristics and main features
Discuss write about issue(s) or topic(s) in depth in a structured way
Evaluate judge or calculate the quality, importance, amount, or value of something
Examine investigate closely, in detail
Explain set out purposes or reasons/make the relationships between things evident/
provide why and/or how and support with relevant evidence
Give produce an answer from a given source or recall/memory
Identify name/select/recognise
Justify support a case with evidence/argument
Outline set out main points
State express in clear terms
Suggest apply knowledge and understanding to situations where there are a range of valid
responses in order to make proposals
Summarise select and present the main points, without detail
Phrases such as ‘To what extent …?’ may also be seen in the assessment for this syllabus.

5 What else you need to know
This section is an overview of other information you need to know about this syllabus. It will help to share the
administrative information with your exams officer so they know when you will need their support. Find more
information about our administrative processes at www.cambridgeinternatinal.org/examsofficers
Before you start

Previous study
We do not expect learners starting this course to have previously studied Islam.
Guided learning hours

We design Cambridge International AS & A Level syllabuses based on learners having about 180 guided
learning hours for each Cambridge International AS Level and about 360 guided learning hours for a Cambridge
International A Level. The number of hours a learner needs to achieve the qualification may vary according to local
practice and their previous experience of the subject.
Availability
All Cambridge schools are allocated to one of six administrative zones. Each zone has a specific timetable.
This syllabus is not available in all administrative zones. To find out about availability check the syllabus page at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel
You can enter candidates in the June and November exam series. You can view the timetable for your
administrative zone at www.cambridgeinternational.org/timetables
Private candidates can enter for this syllabus.
Combining with other syllabuses

Candidates can take this syllabus alongside other Cambridge International syllabuses in a single exam series. The
only exceptions are:
• syllabuses with the same title at the same level.
Group awards: Cambridge AICE

Cambridge AICE (Advanced International Certificate of Education) is a group award for Cambridge International
AS & A Level. It allows schools to offer a broad and balanced curriculum by recognising the achievements of
learners who pass examinations in a range of different subjects.
Learn more about Cambridge AICE at www.cambridgeinternational.org/aice

Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies 9488 syllabus for 2021, 2022 and 2023. What else you need to know
Making entries
Exams officers are responsible for submitting entries to Cambridge International. We encourage them to work
closely with you to make sure they enter the right number of candidates for the right combination of syllabus
components. Entry option codes and instructions for submitting entries are in the Cambridge Guide to Making
Entries. Your exams officer has a copy of this guide.
Exam administration
To keep our exams secure, we produce question papers for different areas of the world, known as administrative
zones. We allocate all Cambridge schools to one administrative zone determined by their location. Each zone has
a specific timetable. Some of our syllabuses offer candidates different assessment options. An entry option code
is used to identify the components the candidate will take relevant to the administrative zone and the available
assessment options.
Support for exams officers

We know how important exams officers are to the successful running of exams. We provide them with the support
they need to make your entries on time. Your exams officer will find this support, and guidance for all other phases
of the Cambridge Exams Cycle, at www.cambridgeinternational.org/examsofficers
Retakes
Candidates can retake Cambridge International AS Level and Cambridge International A Level as many
times as they want to. Cambridge International AS & A Levels are linear qualifications so candidates
cannot re-sit individual components. Information on retake entries is in the Cambridge Handbook at
www.cambridgeinternational.org/examsofficers
Candidates can carry forward the result of their Cambridge International AS Level assessment from one series to
complete the Cambridge International A Level in a following series, subject to the rules and time limits described in
the Cambridge Handbook.
Equality and inclusion

We have taken great care to avoid bias of any kind in the preparation of this syllabus and related assessment
materials. In compliance with the UK Equality Act (2010) we have designed this qualification to avoid any direct
and indirect discrimination.
The standard assessment arrangements may present unnecessary barriers for candidates with disabilities or learning
difficulties. We can put arrangements in place for these candidates to enable them to access the assessments and
receive recognition of their attainment. We do not agree access arrangements if they give candidates an unfair
advantage over others or if they compromise the standards being assessed.
Candidates who cannot access the assessment of any component may be able to receive an award based on the
parts of the assessment they have completed.
Information on access arrangements is in the Cambridge Handbook at

www.cambridgeinternational.org/examsofficers
Language
This syllabus and the related assessment materials are available in English only.

After the exam

Grading and reporting
Grades A*, A, B, C, D or E indicate the standard a candidate achieved at Cambridge International A Level, with A*
being the highest grade.
Grades a, b, c, d or e indicate the standard a candidate achieved at Cambridge International AS Level, with ‘a’ being
the highest grade.
‘Ungraded’ means that the candidate’s performance did not meet the standard required for the lowest grade (E
or e). ‘Ungraded’ is reported on the statement of results but not on the certificate. In specific circumstances your
candidates may see one of the following letters on their statement of results:
• Q (pending)
• X (no result)
• Y (to be issued).
These letters do not appear on the certificate.
If a candidate takes a Cambridge International A Level and fails to achieve grade E or higher, a Cambridge
International AS Level grade will be awarded if both of the following apply:
• the components taken for the Cambridge International A Level by the candidate in that series included all the
components making up a Cambridge International AS Level
• the candidate’s performance on the AS Level components was sufficient to merit the award of a Cambridge
International AS Level grade.
On the statement of results and certificates, Cambridge International AS & A Levels are shown as General
Certificates of Education, GCE Advanced Subsidiary Level (GCE AS Level) and GCE Advanced Level (GCE A Level).
‘Cambridge International A Levels are the ‘gold standard’ qualification. They are based on
rigorous, academic syllabuses that are accessible to students from a wide range of abilities yet
have the capacity to stretch our most able.’
Mark Vella, Director of Studies, Auckland Grammar School, New Zealand

How students, teachers and higher education can use the grades
Cambridge International A Level
Assessment at Cambridge International A Level has two purposes:
• to measure learning and achievement
The assessment:
– confirms achievement and performance in relation to the knowledge, understanding and skills specified in
the syllabus, to the levels described in the grade descriptions.
• to show likely future success

The outcomes:
– help predict which students are well prepared for a particular course or career and/or which students are
more likely to be successful
– help students choose the most suitable course or career.
Cambridge International AS Level

Assessment at Cambridge International AS Level has two purposes:
• to measure learning and achievement
The assessment:
– confirms achievement and performance in relation to the knowledge, understanding and skills specified in
the syllabus.
• to show likely future success

The outcomes:
– help predict which students are well prepared for a particular course or career and/or which students are
more likely to be successful
– help students choose the most suitable course or career
– help decide whether students part way through a Cambridge International A Level course are making
enough progress to continue
– guide teaching and learning in the next stages of the Cambridge International A Level course.
Grade descriptions
Grade descriptions are provided to give an indication of the standards of achievement candidates awarded
particular grades are likely to show. Weakness in one aspect of the examination may be balanced by a better
performance in some other aspect.
Grade descriptions for Cambridge International A Level Islamic Studies will be published after the first assessment
of the A Level in 2021. Find more information at www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel

Changes to this syllabus for 2021, 2022 and 2023

The syllabus has been reviewed and revised for first examination in 2021.
This syllabus is version 2, published July 2021.
You are strongly advised to read the whole syllabus before planning your teaching programme.
Changes to version 2, published July 2021

Changes to availability • This syllabus is available in the June and November series in 2021, 2022 and
2023.
Changes to version 1, published September 2018

Changes to syllabus code • There is a new syllabus code: 9488. This replaces 8053 and 9013.
Changes to syllabus • The subject content section has been completely rewritten and is presented
content in four new papers:
• Some of the current content areas are retained but have been restructured
into the new papers.
• The Qurʾanic set texts for study have been updated.
• A glossary of command words has been added to the syllabus.
Changes to assessment • The syllabus aims have been updated.
(including changes to • There are now four papers. Two papers at AS Level (Papers 1 and 2) and an
specimen papers) additional two papers at A Level (Papers 3 and 4). Each paper has a duration
of 1 hour and 30 minutes. The combined duration of the papers (1, 2, 3 and
4) is the same as the current A Level at 6 hours.
• AS Level candidates now take Papers 1 and 2. A Level candidates take Papers
1, 2, 3 and 4.
• There are new assessment objectives: AO1 knowledge and understanding and
AO2 analysis and evaluation.
• Approximate weightings for the assessment objectives for each paper and
the overall assessment have been introduced to the syllabus.
• The way the assessment is structured has changed with new question types
and a change in the number of marks per paper. Each of the four papers is
now worth 50 marks.
• A new section has been introduced explaining the Details of the assessment.
• Specimen papers are now published to accompany the new syllabus. These
exemplify the changes to the assessment and the syllabus content.
• The marking criteria have been updated with new levels of response marking
grids. These are available in the specimen mark schemes that accompany this
syllabus.
• The specimen mark schemes also include indicative content exemplifying the
types of answers that candidates could give to the questions.

Other changes • Overarching key concepts for Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic
Studies have been introduced.
• There is now a single syllabus document for both AS and A Level under the
same syllabus code, 9488.
• Candidates taking AS Level can now carry forward the results of their AS
components (Papers 1 and 2) to the A Level. For more information please see
page 9.
• The first assessment date for both AS and A Level will be November 2021.
Candidates sitting the current 8053 AS Level in 2020 who wish to sit the
whole A Level in 2021 will have to sit the new A Level 9488.
In addition to reading the syllabus, you should refer to the updated specimen papers. The specimen papers will help
your students become familiar with exam requirements and command words in questions. The specimen mark
schemes explain how students should answer questions to meet the assessment objectives.

‘While studying Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge International A Levels, students broaden their horizons
through a global perspective and develop a lasting passion for learning.’
Zhai Xiaoning, Deputy Principal, The High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China
Cambridge Assessment International Education

The Triangle Building, Shaftesbury Road, Cambridge CB2 8EA
Tel: +44 (0)1223 553554 Fax: +44 (0)1223 553558
Email: info@cambridgeinternational.org www.cambridgeinternational.org
Copyright © UCLES September 2018

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Syllabus

Cambridge International AS & A Level

‘We think the Cambridge curriculum is superb preparation for university.’

Copyright © UCLES September 2018

1 Why choose this syllabus? ................................................................................................................2

2 Syllabus overview .............................................................................................................................. 6

3 Subject content .................................................................................................................................. 11

4 Details of the assessment ..............................................................................................................24

5 What else you need to know ......................................................................................................... 29

Changes to this syllabus

1 Why choose this syllabus?

Following a Cambridge International AS & A Level programme

2 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page

Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel 3

Recognition and progression

Learn more at www.cambridgeinternational.org/recognition

4 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page

Teaching resources Exam preparation resources

Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel 5

The aims are to enable students to:

Support for Cambridge International AS & A Level Islamic Studies

6 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page

Paper 1 – Islamic beliefs and practices

Paper 2 – Islamic law (shariah) and its application

Paper 3 – Heritage of Islam

Paper 4 – Islam in the modern world

Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel 7

Islamic beliefs and practices Heritage of Islam 1 hour 30 minutes

Information on availability is in the Before you start section.

8 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page

Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel 9

AO1 Knowledge and understanding

AO2 Analysis and evaluation

Weighting for assessment objectives

Assessment objectives as a percentage of each qualification

Assessment objective Weighting in AS Level % Weighting in A Level %

Assessment objectives as a percentage of each component

10 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page

The content for each paper is detailed below.

Paper 1 Islamic beliefs and practices

Section A: The Qurʾan and Sunnah

1.1 The life of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)

Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel 11

1.2 A study of set texts from the Holy Qurʾan

Candidates should be able to:

Specified text for study:

12 www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel Back to contents page

1.3 A study of set Hadith texts

Candidates should be able to:

Specified text for study:

Back to contents page www.cambridgeinternational.org/alevel 13

Section B: Islamic beliefs, practices and ceremonies

1.4 Main beliefs

Candidates should be able to:

1.5 Purification and intention

1.6 Acts of devotion and commitment

1.7 Putting faith into action