Introduction to the Study of Religion

Project II

Theme based Cross-cultural comparison

Summary of assignment:

Research a particular theme, as it manifests/is expressed in at least three different religions (e.g. dietary regulations in Judaism, Islam and Jainism). Make some observations that compare and contrast what you learn from this research. 
Present your findings orally to the class, proposing two or three “deep thinking” questions on your topic for classmates to reflect upon.
Reflect on at least three of your classmates’ presentations, responding to some of their deep thinking questions.

What you should do:

Step 1: select a theme common to most religions – something that interests you personally (consider the topics covered in the text and course syllabus, those noted during the early lecture on "What is Religion"). You may consult with your mentor regarding possible topics and religions to look at

Step 2: select at least three different religions (not just different forms of the same religion, such as different denominations of Christianity) and research the way each of these religions addresses the theme you've selected. You are encouraged to use some of the resources provided by your classmates from Project I. One of the religions you include here may, but need not be the religion you researched for Project I. One of the religions you include may be your own. The religions you look at should include at least one Eastern religion and one Western (the third may be either).

Step 3: put together a presentation (preferably using PowerPoint) reviewing your research from step 2 and highlighting points of comparison and contrast across the religions you've looked at regarding your selected theme. Be prepared to respond to questions from your classmates and your mentor. Presentations are to be approximately 20 minutes in length (pairs may take longer).

Some helpful resources:

• Creating effective PowerPoint presentations
• Tips for making an oral presentation
• Creating PowerPoint presentations (how to)

At the end of your presentation, propose two or three "deep thinking" questions for your classmates to reflect upon. It would be most helpful to have these questions written out and either distributed to your classmates or presented on your PowerPoint for classmates to copy down. You may choose to begin with these questions and return to them at the end of your presentation or simply present them at the end. Presenting questions at the beginning will help focus your classmates on what to watch for as you go through your presentation but can also limit what they pay attention to.

When you make your presentation, you should provide your mentor with either a printed or electronic copy of your presentation, including your "deep thinking" questions and bibliography. 

Step 4: you are to reflect on questions posed by classmates regarding at least three other presentations (at least a page/500 words total for the three questions - like your journaling)

Presentations will be oral. See sign-up sheet to select a date for your presentation. Each presentation should represent a different theme. If two students wish to research the same theme they may pair up and work together on the research and presentation. If you do this in pairs you are expected to include more in your presentation: research at least five different religions, splitting the research between the two of you and sharing the presentation of your findings, both responding to questions. Students who work together on one presentation will be asked to evaluate each other’s level of contribution to the project (slackers need not apply).

Grading criteria:

• Coverage of topic across religions (suitable diversity/number and kinds of religions covered - not all religions will address a given topic to the same degree) (20%)

• Suitable depth of exploration within religions explored (important, basic information included along with interesting details) (20%)

•  Insights regarding comparison and contrast among religions researched (leaving none out of consideration) (25%)

• Thought provoking questions for reflection (15%)

• Response to questions from audience (10%)

• Bibliography included (10%)

Your reflection on classmate's presentations (three) will be worth 5% course credit (graded on the same standards as your journaling: quantity/content and quality - depth of thought, originality, insight)

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