Buddhism Paper

By choosing a particular school of Buddhism to explore more fully, you will learn about the diversity within the tradition and how it is practiced today.

Choose one of the following schools of Buddhism:

  • Theravada Buddhism
  • Mahayana Buddhism
  • Vajrayana Buddhism
  • Zen Buddhism–as a special school of Mahayana Buddhism

Write a 700- to 1,050-word paper that addresses the following:

  • Summarize the history of Buddhism and the life of Buddha.
  • Explain the basic teachings and moral aspects of Buddhism.
  • Explain what makes the school of Buddhism you selected unique.

Format citations and references consistent with course-level APA guidelines.

Grading Form for Buddhism Presentation Content / Development 70 Points Points Earned xx/70 Additional Comments: All key elements of the assignment are covered in a substantive way. (10 pts/each) Summarize the history of Buddhism and the life of Buddha. Explain the basic teachings of Buddhism. Explain what makes the school of Buddhism you selected unique. The paper develops a central theme or idea, directed toward the appropriate audience. (10 pts) Major points are stated clearly, are supported by specific details, examples, or analysis, and are organized logically. (10 pts) The introduction provides sufficient background on the topic and previews major points. (10 pts) The conclusion is logical and reviews the major points. (10 pts) Readability and Style 15 Points (5 pts/each) Points Earned xx/15 Additional Comments: Paragraph transitions are logical and maintain the flow throughout the paper. The tone is appropriate to the content and assignment. Sentences are well-constructed, clear and concise, with consistently strong and varied sentences. Mechanics 15 Points (3 pts/each) Points Earned xx/15 Additional Comments: The paper includes a title page and reference page following APA standards. Citations of original works within the body of the presentation are included and follow APA standards. The paper is laid out with effective use of headings, font styles, and white space. Rules of grammar, usage, and punctuation are followed. Spelling is correct. Total 100 Points Points Earned xx/100 Overall Comments: 90-100 – 8pts. 80-89 – 7pts. 70-79 – 6pts. 60-69 – 5pts. 50-59 – 4pt.