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      Linda Woodhead's exploration of the 'nones' - atheism

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain what nones are and why this group has increased, using Linda Woodhead's research.

      Key learning points

      1. People with no religion are known by different terms including 'nones' but nones are not all atheist.
      2. Linda Woodhead is a Professor of Religion and has completed research on the rise of atheism in the UK.
      3. Research suggests the rise is due to factors including upbringing, freedom of belief and the diversity of society.
      4. Woodhead suggets that nones are the 'new norm' which has contributed to its rise.

      Keywords

      • Athiesm - a belief that there is no God or higher power/ a lack of belief in ‘God’

      • Nones - people who self-report that they do not affiliate with any religious group

      • Linda Woodhead - academic who studies the place of religion in modern British society

      Common misconception

      Nones are atheist.

      Data shows that there are nones that are theists.

      Teacher tip

      Students could research and mindmap some of the reasons why people may become athiest.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      What is the purpose of asking about religion in the census?

      To assign people to faith groups.
      To enforce religious rules.
      Correct answer: To understand religious affiliation across the population.

      Q2.
      In 2021, fewer people identified as than in 2011.

      Correct Answer: Christian

      Q3.
      What does the census reveal about UK society?

      It’s secular only.
      There is one dominant religion.
      Correct answer: It is multi-religious.

      Q4.
      The census does not ask about religious like prayer.

      Correct Answer: practices, Practices

      Q5.
      What does the census reveal mostly?

      Correct answer: self-identified religion
      prayer frequency
      spiritual awards

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      The term ‘no religion’ covers a wide range of individuals, not just actual .

      Correct Answer: atheists, Atheists

      Q2.
      Who is known for researching the 'nones' in Britain?

      Richard Dawkins
      Correct answer: Linda Woodhead
      Karen Armstrong

      Q3.
      The 'no religion' label may include people who believe in a power.

      Correct Answer: higher, Higher

      Q4.
      According to Linda Woodhead, which of these contributes to the rise of the 'nones'?

      increased church membership
      reduced education
      Correct answer: freedom of belief

      Q5.
      Which of the following is NOT one of Linda Woodhead’s three broad reasons?

      living in a pluralist society
      upbringing
      Correct answer: Genetic predisposition

      To help you plan your 9 religious education lesson on: Linda Woodhead's exploration of the 'nones' - atheism, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...