Lesson Plans

Syllabus:
Read & Blog: Religious Perspectives Readings. Draft Essay I Proposal (One printout; one digitally accessible; don’t worry; it will be rather brief!). In Class: Discussion and Workshop.

Writing to Frame Conversation:

• You're sitting at a table with one of these writers. Blog a short imaginary dialogue between the two of you concerning religion and homosexuality.

Considerations:

• What are the primary religious points concerning homosexuality (as a matter of Judeo-Christian belief)? Are there conflicting views within the particular sects or branches?
• Prager argues that "the...prohibition of non-marital sex simply made the creation of Western Civilization possible." What may support or detract from Prager's stance? Do you agree with his stance (your agreement may be predicated upon how/when you define Western Civ.)? Using the types of argument listed in SMH, what type(s) of argument does he use?
• Consider Prager in the light of the writings of La Escondida. How might this affect your interpretation?
• Phelps, Madden, and Morrissey all respond to religious views concerning homosexuality. How might you characterize these arguments? Which affected you the most and why?
• Many believe that Phelps's argument concerning homosexuality has the opposite effect than intended. What do you think and why?

Other Perspectives:

• Is Homosexuality a Sin?
• Judaism and Homosexuality

Writing:

• Review proposal questions.
• Remember, this is a proposal-- not the paper itself. You are demonstrating the feasability and value of your proposed project.
• The 'Who Cares?' Test
• Rutgers Sample Proposal Ideas
• Research Papers: Defining Your Research (Your proposal is expected to contain a working thesis; the thesis, geographically, will probably be in the last sentence of your introductory paragraph-- a position of power!)
• Break down parts of proposal:
  Intro. Provides overview of problem/situation and proposed solution and/or stance (via thesis)
  Background of topic/ writer's interest in topic / relevance and importance to reader
  Consideration of Alternative Viewpoints
  Methodology-- What types of sources will you use and why? ('books' is not an appropriate response)
  Limitations (possible ways in which you will have to confine/refine your research)/Opportunities (interesting 'places' your analysis may bring you-- perhaps alternative considerations)/ Challenges (anything from considerations to overcoming assumed prejudices)

Looking Ahead (2/16):

• SMH Online: “The St. Martin’s Tutorial on Avoiding Plagiarism: Knowing Which Sources to Acknowledge.” Read tutorial and complete exercise, “Acknowledging Sources.”
• In Class: Religious Perspectives Presentations.
• Essay I Proposal Due (250 wds.)