World Religions
Final Reflection Paper
Summative
Due Dec. 7th
This is a final reflection paper. It does not require outside research (unless you choose to do so). Instead,
you will be reflecting on the different religions which we have studied this semester. You may use any
information from the book or from class notes. I have intentionally left this open ended so that you may
take it in many different directions depending on your interests.
Introduction: A brief introduction to your paper.
1-2 paragraphs
● What do you think are the most important elements that make up a religion?
● Discuss the relationship that you see between the different religious traditions and ultimate truth.
○ Do you agree with the Elephant parable by the Buddha?
○ Does one religion have more truth? All of the truth? No truth?
○ Why so many religions?
Your paper should include at least a 6 sentence paragraph on each of following religious traditions:
Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism. You may, of course, write more than this if you choose.
● What is the defining elements of this religion?
● What do you appreciate about it--you must have at least one positive.
● What did you find most difficult to understand or appreciate?
● What questions, if any, do you still have?
Conclusion: What have you gotten out of this study of some of the world’s religious traditions?
● The following are guidelines--you do not have to choose to respond to these but you may
○ What questions do you still have?
○ What have you learned about bias?
○ What have you learned that you find valuable?
○ Any other conclusions you may have.
Proofread and edit your paper before you turn it in. It must be typed and printed.
There is not a specific page limit to this paper. It should be at least 7 paragraphs (Intro, Religion,
Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, conclusion), but may be more.
This is SUMMATIVE and is due Monday, December 7th.