RELS101 - Introduction to the Study of Religion

Objective: Students will be transformed into reporters to write a newspaper article on one of the given topics in religious studies.

Course Objectives:

• CO3: Articulate and evaluate the scholarly methods used in the study of religion
• CO4: Identify and give examples of the universal forms of religious expression (e.g., sacred places, symbols, ethics, rituals)
• CO5: Describe the basic concepts that make up a religious world view (e.g., creation of the world, good and evil, salvation, suffering)
• CO7: Determine and report on the diversity of human religious expression and belief

• LO 3.1 Evaluate the observable aspects of a particular religious study
• LO 3:2 Analyze religious ideology
• LO 3:3 Evaluate the processes of conceptualizing a higher being

The task:

Using the Newspaper Article Template enclosed, including proper formatting for in-text citations/resource page, you will write a newspaper article on one of the given topics.

1. Your article also needs to include at least one graphic (see rubric on this area) and to draw on at least two scholarly/reliable resources.
2. The article needs to be a minimum of 300 words (not to exceed 500 words); your document is single-spaced. You will need to write this article very concisely using your critical thinking skills to keep it focused. Every word matters. You need an introduction, body paragraph(s), and a conclusion.
3. Write a newspaper story explaining one of the following choices below in your own words. Do not use long direct quotes.

Topic Choices:

1. Most religions are focused on a higher power. What is this higher power and how do you define a higher power? Not one you practice or are familiar with though. Be specific.
2. Focus on one religion we have studied thus far and explain the moral guidelines of said religion - not one you practice or are familiar with though.
3. Do pets go to an afterlife based on religious rites in one of our studied faiths? Be specific.
4. Describe two specific sacraments vital to a religion along with their meanings - not one you practice or are familiar with though.
5. What is Iconography in regard to a specific religion you do not practice or are familiar with?
6. What is a Sacred Ritual in regard to a specific religion you do not practice or are familiar with?
7. Your own thoughtful idea with teacher approval.

Remember...

• Before you submit, please thoroughly edit your writing to ensure it is professional and academic.
• The newspaper article is clearly written, addresses all objectives, and demonstrates mastery of the subject.
• The newspaper article has a clear thesis, introduction, and a conclusion. Well - developed paragraphs and smooth transitions are vital.
• The newspaper article contains carefully structured and varied sentences, no spelling errors, and correct punctuation and grammar.
• Appropriate vocabulary without colloquialism or slang. Concise but vivid language.