GLST 525 Research Paper: Outline, Abstract, And References

GLST 525Research Paper: A Outline, Abstract and References Instructions

In a 1-page Word document, submit your research paper topic, a thesis statement (what you intend to show, prove, or argue in your paper), and an outline for your research paper.

Building off of your thesis statement, your next step is to submit an introduction, an abstract of 250–300 words, and a minimum of six scholarly sources (Wikipedia is not considered scholarly). The abstract should be the first page of your paper, including an engaging introduction that shows the rationale for your paper, culminating in your thesis statement. It should also outline how you plan to accomplish your thesis.

Paper For Above instruction

The purpose of this assignment is to guide students through the initial stages of their research paper process, emphasizing clarity of topic, argumentative focus, and outline preparation. The first part, due shortly, involves succinctly defining the research scope and thesis. The second phase entails crafting an engaging abstract that encapsulates the paper’s rationale, methodology, and main argument, supported by scholarly sources. The abstract serves as a concise preview that contextualizes the research, states the thesis, and indicates how the paper will address its objectives. This process ensures students develop a coherent research plan and articulate the significance of their work before moving onto the full paper.

In preparing the abstract, students should consider how to introduce their topic compellingly— highlighting its importance, background, and relevance— leading logically to their thesis statement. The abstract should explain the approach, such as surveys, literature review, or case studies, that will be used to support the thesis. The inclusion of at least six credible scholarly sources is essential; these sources demonstrate familiarity with existing research and provide a foundation for arguments. Sources should be current and peer-reviewed, excluding non-scholarly references like Wikipedia. Proper citation within the full paper, following academic standards, is key to establishing credibility.

This preliminary work lays the groundwork for the final research paper, which must be between 3,500 and 4,000 words— approximately 14 to 16 pages in Turabian style. Students will select a focused topic related to Islamic history, theology, people groups, or witnessing strategies, with an emphasis on practical implications for sharing the Gospel among Muslims. The final paper should include a clear thesis, analytical content, references, and a thorough discussion of implications and applications for ministry.

This structured approach promotes critical thinking, helps students organize their research logically, and ensures their final paper is purpose-driven and academically rigorous. Meeting the outlined deadlines is essential for the successful progression through the course’s research process. Detailed topics include historical events, theological concepts, specific Muslim groups, or strategies for evangelism, among others. The emphasis throughout is on integrating scholarly research with practical ministry applications and demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Paper For Above instruction

The initial step in developing a comprehensive research paper on Islam involves clearly defining a specific, manageable topic that aligns with the student’s interest and course objectives. This could involve exploring the life of Muhammad, particular aspects of Islamic history or theology, specific Muslim communities or countries, or witnessing strategies. Once a topic is selected, students should formulate a precise thesis statement that articulates the main argument or purpose of their paper. The thesis serves as a guiding focal point for subsequent research and writing, shaping the structure and content of the entire work.

Following the thesis development, students are instructed to prepare an outline that maps the key points, supporting evidence, and logical flow of their paper. An effective outline acts as a blueprint, ensuring organized progression from introduction to conclusion. It also helps identify potential gaps in research or reasoning early in the process, allowing for adjustments before extensive writing begins.

Simultaneously, the creation of an abstract must be undertaken. The abstract should serve as a concise, compelling summary of the entire paper—introducing the topic, highlighting its importance, presenting the main research question or thesis, and briefly discussing how the paper will address it. The abstract should clarify the methodological approach, such as historical analysis, theological critique, or case studies, and demonstrate how the research will contribute to understanding or ministry practice.

Incorporating at least six scholarly sources is fundamental to establishing research credibility. These sources must be scholarly articles, books, or peer-reviewed materials relevant to the chosen topic. Proper citation of these references in the final paper will adhere to Turabian style, providing strength and academic integrity to the work. The selected sources should provide context, support, and contrast to the arguments presented and help situate the research within the broader scholarly conversation.

Overall, this preparatory phase emphasizes clarity, focus, and scholarly rigor. By submitting a well-defined topic, thesis statement, outline, and a compelling abstract supported by scholarly sources, students will lay a solid foundation for their final research paper. The final paper, a detailed examination of their specific topic within the context of Islamic history, theology, or practice, will demonstrate both scholarly understanding and practical ministry implications, ultimately contributing to the field of missiology and evangelism among Muslims.

Adherence to deadlines is crucial; the initial outline and abstract are due promptly to keep the research process on schedule. The final paper will be submitted later, expanded to 14-16 pages, synthesizing research and practical insights in a comprehensive manner. This incremental approach ensures depth of understanding, clarity of argument, and effectiveness in communicating findings within an academic and ministry context.

References

  • Armstrong, Karen. The Case for God. Knopf, 2009.
  • Crone, Patricia. Meccan Trade and the Rise of Islam. Princeton University Press, 1987.
  • Esposito, John L. Islam: The Straight Path. Oxford University Press, 2016.
  • Habeeb, M. F. Islamic History and Civilization. University of Chicago Press, 2014.
  • Lings, Martin. Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources. Inner Traditions, 2006.
  • Peters, Rudolph. Islamic Philosophy and Theology. Princeton University Press, 1994.
  • Sardar, Ziauddin. Desperately Seeking Paradise: Journeys of a Sceptical Muslim. Granta Books, 2004.
  • Schimmel, Annemarie. Islam: An Introduction. SUNY Press, 1992.
  • Waines, David. An Introduction to Islam. Cambridge University Press, 2003.
  • Yusuf, Harun. The Islamic Worldview: Case for a Cosmopolitan Way of Life. Islamic Studies, 2020.

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