Overview
Throughout this semester, we have been exploring the subject of origins in the context of the Christian faith. We’ve had textbook readings, the Origins book, classroom discussions, and the discussions online, as well as wrestling with multiple forms of data related to biological evolution. Address the following two questions in one essay of 750 to 1000 words (about 2 full pages double spaced), being sure to refer to the books and discussions as it relates to categorizing your own positions.
- Why is the question of whether a Christian can accept evolution beyond the species level an important question for a biology student in a Christian university? [NOTE: This question does not ask you why is it important to accept evolution beyond a species level, but rather, why is this an important question for a biology student to consider/think about/discuss because you are in a Christian university?]
- How have your views been influenced by the readings and discussions (from both the faith and scientific aspects) during this semester?
- At the end of your essay, list how many words are in your paper, not including the title and bibliography (Example: "Word Count: 950").
USE OF AI IS NOT PERMITTED ON THIS ASSIGNMENT.
In your essay, justify your thoughts as fully as you can. It is completely okay if your views differ from those you think your professor holds, just be sure you fully explain that position. And it is definitely okay to be undecided, just be sure to fully explain what you are undecided about and why. Finally, you might also agree with the sorts of things you think you heard your professor say, but again, be sure you justify those views as well.
The essay should be submitted on Canvas by 11:59PM (PT) on Friday, 5/2/25.
Please proofread! This essay will be marked down for poor writing and grammar.
[NOTE: a majority of students each year lose points on this essay because they do not clearly answer Question 1. The student explains what his or her position is and why, but he/she does not address why this issue is an important one for a biology student to be wrestling with. Be sure to answer that!] Also, please don’t use the phrase “Christian scientist” – as this means something very different than what you mean. If you need a replacement phrase, how about Christian biologist?]
- Submit your final reflection paper here as a Word .doc or .docx file. Your submission will be checked for plagiarism by Turnitin. After submitting your paper, you should get an Originality Report which checks for plagiarism, a serious academic offense. If any plagiarism is detected, revise your paper and resubmit before the due date.
Special Project – Wrestling with Science and Faith
Grading rubric
- 5pts 750-1000 words (max is 1000 words); Word Count listed at end of the essay
- 10pts Refers to a variety of books, articles, and discussions & has bibliography (use the format described in the provided CITATION guide Download CITATION guide)
- 15pts Answers Q1: Why is the question of whether a Christian can accept evolution beyond the species level an important question for a biology student in a Christian university?
- 15pts Answers Q2: How have your views been influenced by the readings and discussions during this semester?
- 10pts Writing and Grammar: well-structured paragraphs and reasoning
Helpful tips: Im a Catholic who came to the university because of it's religious aspect.
DO NOT USE AI!