Homework: Theology Paper
Guidelines for 8 pages paper homework
Most of your paper should be a research work, this means that I look for quoted sources that take various positions or provide different insights/dimensions to your topic. Most social justice issues like refugees or immigration are multifaceted as social, economic, legal, political, etc. Your focus should be on the theological analysis of whatever issue you choose. Theologians are your primary source, and good ones include those other facets. Use books, articles and trustworthy websites (affiliated with University Centers, Institutions, such as an Episcopal Conference, or Catholic organizations such as those listed below).
I. If you use only the sources you were assigned to read that would be C work.
II. You should include at least 4 original sources; this means the actual writings of the person or theologian you are writing about. In the case of issues, the Episcopal Conferences of a particular country living with the issue would be an example of an original theological source.
III. Secondary sources are also appropriate, such as biographies, or studies on a theologian or issue.
IV. The historical context is relevant to the issue as is the particular contribution and influence of the person, theologian you are studying to responding to that issue as it applies to the Gospel.
Avoid long strings of quotations and try to show you understand and integrate these ideas.
o As much as possible, rather than citing whole paragraphs, explain what the author says and then use short phrases from the author that express the idea well. For example: The author describes this mysterious advancement in holiness as "a certain I don't know what", which is hard to express and the memory of which lasts a lifetime.
Begin working with an outline to avoid a paper that rambles in circles
I. a good place to begin any subject is a theological dictionary or the Catholic Encyclopedia to see all the elements entailed in your subject. These also usually provide sources for further study.
II. Another source for additional reading is the bibliography of your class text.
III. Limit your scope accordingly. Don't try to cover everything. I want a succinct work. This means repetition should be avoided, except for your conclusion where you will bring everything together.
IV. Best to run your idea by me so I can direct you to good sources. (remember how St. Thomas begins his de Ente et Essentia, "a small error in the beginning leads to great errors in the end")
Format your homework according to the give formatting requirements:
• The answer must be using Times New Roman font (size 12), double spaced, typed, with one-inch margins on all sides.
• The response also includes a cover page containing the student's name, the title of the homework, the course title, and the date. The cover page is not included in the required page length.
• Also include a reference page. The references and Citations should follow APA format. The reference page is not included in the required page length.