Describe how the fast in the month of Ramadan should be observed by Muslims.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2020). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [1] Fasting starts with the sighting of the moon of Ramadan.
2. [2] Intention is made for observing the fast, and as per the Sunna of the Prophet (pbuh), sahur/sehri is taken before dawn; the fast ends with the adhaan of maghrib.
3. [1] During the fast, a Muslim should not eat or drink.
4. [1] Must avoid anything forbidden or makruh.
5. [1] Must not engage in violence or anger.
6. [1] Must abstain from marital relations.
7. [1] Must spend as much time as possible in reading the Qur'an; prayer; supplication and remembrance of God.
8. [1] Must give zakat and other charity as much as possible.
9. [1] Should spend time in reflection in how to improve one's moral and spiritual conduct.
10. [1] Can open the fast by sharing one's iftar with others and can offer additional prayers.
11. [1] All the above points can be expanded upon to develop the answer.
12. [1] Candidates need to choose any one benefit of fasting in Ramadan and say why they have chosen that benefit.
13. [2] Sound reasoning and maturity of response will help gain the higher level.
14. [1] All valid responses to be credited.