(5.2) Final Summary and Reflections Paper
Objective: The summary paper is an opportunity to demonstrate the concepts, topics, and subsequent learning outcomes associated with Biblical Perspectives in Western Culture.
General Requirements:
View the summary paper as a major exam that is in an open-book, essay format.
• It should demonstrate that you achieved the stated objectives and learning outcomes in the module.
Format
• There will be four sections to the Summary Paper (see below). Make sure that each section is clearly identified: Purpose 1, Purpose 2, etc.
• Summary papers should be 10 pages in length, double spaced, 1 inch margins, and with a font size of 12 with Times New Roman.
Purpose 1: Scripture (2.2 pages)
Choose one of the following essay questions and write a response. Make sure you back up your positions from the Bible and from scholarly sources, i.e. the textbook or even outside resources.
• Using what you have learned, write a brief summary of the different kinds of literary genres found in the Bible.
• Select one major motif or theme from Scripture — examples: redemption, faith, love, holiness, joy or covenant — and describe how that theme shines through in several different books of the Bible
Purpose 2: Theology (2.2 pages)
Choose one of the following essay questions and write a response. Make sure you back up your positions from the Bible and from scholarly sources, i.e. the textbook or even outside resources.
• If you do not currently belong to a church/denomination: Choose 2 – 3 theology statements in your textbook (the large T in the green boxes). How do those statements fit with your understanding of theology? What new insights do they offer that clarifies a theological issue that has been confusing to you? Was there anything that surprised you? Was there anything that raised a question for you?
Purpose 3: Identification of events, persons, or broad themes in history (2.2 pages)
Choose one of the following essay questions and write a response. Make sure you back up your positions from the Bible and from scholarly sources, i.e. the textbook or even outside resources. Based on some of the videos, your readings, and your responses to the Contemporary
• Select two Bible characters (other than Jesus). Compare and contrast those two in terms of personalities and their roles in life. How are they alike/different in their responses to circumstances and challenges laid before them? Could you see ways in which they acted/reacted similar to yourself?
Purpose 4: Links to your real life learning (3.5 pages)
The fourth part of the summary paper forms a transition from information to transformation, from textual analysis to personal application. Focus on the class itself. Illustrate your points with statements, comments, and reflections you have seen in class, readings from the text or Bible, or insights you gained while talking with classmates, friends, co-workers and family.
• What new insights will “stick with you?”
• What assignments or lectures were the most profitable to you?
• Are there specific people in Scripture that you have identified in this course that now have a kind of “hero” status for you? Why?
• Has your understanding of the Bible been changed or enhanced in the last five weeks? How?
• Identify any issues you plan to continue exploring as a result of new insights.