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Welcome to your Islamic Studies revision platform.

This guide covers everything you need for the Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Islamic Studies exam. Before you dive in, here is a quick overview of the exam and how to use this platform effectively.

The exam at a glance

4IS1/01

Paper code

2h 30m

Duration

90

Total marks

27

Topics

There is one exam paper. You answer one question from Section A, one question from Section B, and both questions in Section C.

The three sections

A

Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)

Life, teachings and achievements of the Prophet. Covers topics 1.1 to 1.9.

23 marks — answer one of two questions

B

Early Muslim Community

Key beliefs, practices and features of the early Muslim community. Covers topics 2.1 to 2.9.

23 marks — answer one of two questions

C

Living the Muslim Life

Islamic practice in daily life today. Covers topics 3.1 to 3.9. Both questions are compulsory.

44 marks — answer both questions (22 marks each)

The four question types

Every topic follows the same four-question structure. You will see these on every question paper, so it is worth understanding exactly what each one is asking.

(a)

Identify or Give

1–2 marks

Name something. No explanation needed — just recall the correct fact. Example: "Give one reason why Muslims pray." One sentence is enough.

(b)

Describe

3 marks

Explain what something is or how it works, giving enough detail to show you understand it. Aim for one developed point with two or three supporting facts.

(c)

Explain

6 marks

Give three developed points. For each point: state a fact (AO1), then explain why it matters or what it means (AO2). Think "what" + "so what" three times.

(d)

Assess

12 marks

Write a balanced essay. Argue both sides of a statement, directly reference the assigned Qur'an or Hadith passage, include your own reasoned conclusion. Around 250–350 words.

The most important thing to know

The (d) question is always 12 marks and it is where most marks are won or lost. Every (d) question includes an assigned Qur'an or Hadith passage. You must reference it directly in your answer.

  • 1.Argue one side of the statement using the passage and your own knowledge.
  • 2.Argue the other side. Show you understand more than one perspective.
  • 3.Give your own reasoned conclusion. Do not sit on the fence — commit to a view and explain why.

A Level 3 answer (9–12 marks) is balanced, uses the passage well, and gives a clear personal conclusion.

How to use this platform

This is the order that works best. Do not skip ahead — each step builds on the last.

  1. 1

    Read the topic notes first

    Every topic has a summary, key points, key terms and exam tips. Read them before attempting anything else. The platform marks topics as studied automatically after 30 seconds of reading.

  2. 2

    Do the flashcards until you can answer without hesitation

    Flashcards use spaced repetition — the platform schedules cards based on how well you know them. Do not rush. Come back daily and review what is due.

  3. 3

    Attempt the practice questions

    Write your answers before revealing the mark scheme. For (d) questions, write in full. Resist the temptation to read the answer first — that is not practice, that is just reading.

  4. 4

    Check your mark scheme and be honest

    Award yourself marks based on what you actually wrote, not what you meant to write. If you missed a point, make a note of it.

  5. 5

    Revisit weak topics before the exam

    Your Progress page shows which topics you have covered and how many flashcards are due for review. Use it to guide your revision in the final weeks.

You can revisit this guide any time via Exam Guide in the sidebar.