Islam in the Modern World — AS & A Level Islamic Studies (9488) questions by topic
Discuss and to what extent set the tone for this topic, whether the question concerns da'wah for Muslims living as a minority, women in leadership, or how far today's Muslim leaders face challenges like those in the past when applying the Sunnah.
How far and evaluate ask you to weigh alternative viewpoints, not just present one side. These 15 questions drawn from 2023 to 2025 papers carry up to 25 marks, and this page's instant marking shows quickly whether you engaged with the actual question, since responses that cover leadership qualities in general rather than the specific issue asked about are marked down.
What examiners look for
- Examiners repeatedly note weaker responses covering leadership qualities in general rather than engaging with the specific question asked.
- A recurring criticism is naming relevant figures, such as Khadija or Razia Sultana, without making clear how they connect to the promotion of knowledge.
- Strong answers used alternative views to reach higher levels, and referenced the charter of Medina to discuss how Muslim leaders protected non-Muslims' rights.
- Reports praise responses naming a specific country and describing what is actually being done there, rather than generalising.
May–June 2025, Paper 42
'Muslims should fulfil all their responsibilities towards their leaders.' Discuss with reference to different points of view.
Answer this question and get it marked →To what extent are Muslim women able to hold a political office without compromising their religious values? Discuss with reference to a contemporary Muslim woman whom you have…
Answer this question and get it marked →To what extent should Muslims address challenges of modern society together with people of other faiths? Discuss with reference to different points of view.
Answer this question and get it marked →May–June 2024, Paper 42
Should a Muslim woman's role be greater inside the household or outside? Discuss by referring to different points of view.
Answer this question and get it marked →To what extent is da'wah (calling people to Islam) limited for Muslims living as a minority? Discuss by referring to different points of view.
Answer this question and get it marked →'Muslim women should be allowed to lead in any field.' Do you agree? Discuss by referring to different points of view.
Answer this question and get it marked →October–November 2024, Paper 42
'Modesty does not prevent Muslim women from achieving in life.' Discuss this statement by referring to two women you have studied, including one modern woman.
Answer this question and get it marked →Compare the challenges faced by Muslim leaders today with those faced by leaders in the past in applying the Sunnah.
Answer this question and get it marked →Discuss the role of Muslims in a country where they are in a minority. Refer to different points of view in your answer.
Answer this question and get it marked →May–June 2023, Paper 42
'It is difficult for Muslim women to be promoters of knowledge.' How far do you agree with this statement?
Answer this question and get it marked →Discuss how Muslim leaders can promote justice and human rights. Refer to either women or non-Muslims in your answer.
Answer this question and get it marked →Evaluate different ways in which Muslims could improve inter-faith and community relations. Refer to a country of your choice where Muslims form a minority in your answer.
Answer this question and get it marked →October–November 2023, Paper 42
Discuss the challenges faced by Muslim women in countries where Muslims form a minority.
Answer this question and get it marked →Discuss how a Muslim leader can contribute to the development of Muslim practice. Refer to the contribution of contemporary leaders that you have studied.
Answer this question and get it marked →'Pious Muslims can effectively lead both Muslims and non-Muslims.' To what extent do you agree with this statement?
Answer this question and get it marked →Other AS & A Level Islamic Studies topics
- Islamic Law (20)
- Heritage of Islam (20)
- Islamic Beliefs and Practices (15)