research paper on a topic of their choosing that is theological in nature. There will be a lecture devoted to researching and writing a theology paper, and a handout entitled, “Online Sources and Research Topics” is posted on Moodle for your benefit. This assignment is divided into two components – a provisional outline and the paper itself.
1) Each Student will be required to complete and submit an “Essay Proposal Form” (see Moodle for the document). This assignment is intended to start you thinking about your topic as early as possible. I will accept these for marks at any time during the semester up until the due date. Please note that the due date is approximately one month before the paper is due. I will have these graded and returned promptly for your benefit. * Please note that your research paper will not be graded if you have not submitted the form. No exceptions. Due February 18th before midnight. 5%. Must be submitted electronically via Moodle.
2) m
The research paper will be 7-8 pages in length, double-spaced, paginated, Times New Roman 12- point font, have standard default margins, and use a minimum of 6 sources. For matters of style and form use Chicago Style (‘Notes and Bibliography style’) and refer to the handout on Moodle entitled “Chicago Style Quick Guide.” As students in a Religious Studies course you must use this format (APA or MLA will not be accepted — ignorance of this requirement is no excuse).
• The research paper will focus on a particular issue related to theology. If you are in doubt, please ask me! Many students get tripped up here and submit a paper that is not really theological in nature.
• It will be primarily descriptive in approach (describe the issue or doctrine from a theological
perspective), but the paper should go beyond mere description and critically interact with the topic.
• It will have a clearly articulated thesis statement or question in your introduction. Let the reader know
what you intend to do in the paper.
• Sources are absolutely essential. Select them with great care; they must be of a scholarly nature and
support your topic. Be sure to utilize and cite sources that specifically address the topic directly, not indirectly. Beware of web sources. There are many excellent sources out there, but there are also many poor ones. Evaluate and discern. When in doubt, ask! For help in this area please see handout entitled “Research Using the Internet” on Moodle.
• The use of primary sources will be rewarded. Please see the handout on Moodle entitled “Primary or Secondary Sources” for definitions and tips. An “A” paper will make an honest attempt to wrestle with primary sources. Neglect them at your peril.
Due April 4th before midnight. 30%. Must be submitted electronically via Moodle.
Topic:
I would recommend a research question like: “should Christians get tattoos?” Your thesis would then be the answer that you will argue for.
Please note that none of your listed sources are theological in nature. It will be important to find several scholarly sources that approach this issue from a theological perspective, discussing what Christians should think about tattoos based on interpreting the Bible.
It will be important to focus on the primary theological argument that the paper is making. This means that much of your current outline may need to be removed, as it does not directly contribute to the theological question being asked.
I would recommend a research question like: “should Christians get tattoos?” Your thesis would then be the answer that you will argue for.
Please note that none of your listed sources are theological in nature. It will be important to find several scholarly sources that approach this issue from a theological perspective, discussing what Christians should think about tattoos based on interpreting the Bible.
It will be important to focus on the primary theological argument that the paper is making. This means that much of your current outline may need to be removed, as it does not directly contribute to the theological question being asked.
