Students write different kinds of papers while in seminary. Each type of paper comes with a different set of expectations. Knowing what type of paper to write will guide how to write the paper. Below are the more common types of papers that students write while in seminary and sometimes beyond.
Exegesis Paper
An exegesis paper is one of the first papers written in seminary. For Presbyterian students taking ordination exams, it could be the last paper written. The exegesis paper is a technical paper that will enhance the understanding of scripture. The library has an online library guide here that highlights essential resources for an exegesis paper. Also, the library director comes into the Bible class to teach students what resources are available and how to use them. The Bible faculty developed a rubric on the expectations of an exegesis paper. The faculty member goes over those expectations in class. To help the student see what a good exegesis paper looks like, the library has two published examples.
Research Paper
A research paper develops a topic; locates information; evaluates, analyzes information and sources; uses, organizes, and communicates that information. Use formal grammar and vocabulary. It is important to know the length of the paper to estimate the research time and writing length. It is also vital to know what resources are required and what resources will best help when looking for information. For more detailed information on writing a research paper, see the library resources listed in the library guide below. Go here to find more information about writing a research paper.
Theological Essays
There are different kinds of theological essays. Typically, in our context, theological essays are when the student writes on the meaning of assigned readings. The student is expected to critically reflect on the assigned reading and explain the deeper meanings of that passage. The professor wants to know that critical thought has gone into the passage, and the student understands what the author is saying. Depending on the professor, a theological essay may not be the time to share your opinion.
Theological Book Review
Listen carefully to what the professor wants in a book review. Sometimes the professor only wants a summary while other times, the professor wants to see critical engagement and critical reflection on the book. Critical reviews involve a summary, but it may also call for evaluation and description. Know what to expect in the assignment.
Sermon
Some students have experience—sometimes years of experience-- writing sermons. It is vital for those that have that experience to be open to the possibility of learning a new way of writing a sermon. Learning how to exegete scripture prepares one to dig deeper into the scripture text so that there is a better understanding not only of the background and context of the passage but the way the text can speak to us now. Commentaries are a helpful tool for understanding the text better, but commentaries are most useful when the background work happens before going to the commentary. Sermons demand academic work, like research and formal writing, but they also call for a style that is personal, inspirational, and evocative. A good sermon works out a delicate balance between those ideas.
Reflection Paper
Reflection papers are written mostly in supervised ministry and pastoral care classes, but they can be used in other classes as well. These papers are an opportunity to reflect on personal experiences from a faith-based perspective. It is a way to theologically reflect and reach a new and more in-depth understanding of an experience. Spiritual discernment is part of this process with the hope that there will be new insights into personal experience and faith journey.
Verbatim
A verbatim is when the exact conversation is written down as precisely as possible after a personal encounter has taken place. The supervising ministry or faculty-person will discuss the content of the conversation. In addition to writing out the literal conversation, a verbatim generally includes a section for theological/psychological reflection on that conversation to explore the content and meaning of that conversation. Like the reflection paper, a verbatim is used mostly in pastoral care classes and supervised ministry.