You should begin the course by first reading through the syllabus carefully (the syllabus can be reached by clicking on the "Syllabus" tab). The syllabus describes the learning objectives, textbooks, and requirements for this course. The syllabus page also contains links to information on the written assignments and the course participation.

This course is structured by twenty-six lessons, one lesson for each class day of the semester. The schedule and titles of the lessons are listed on the lessons page, which can be reached by clicking on the "Lessons" tab. Each lesson will list a reading assignment, including the appropriate lecture, a writing exercise or an essay topic, and questions for discussion in class. A bibliography for further reading is given at the end of each lesson.

Begin each lesson by reading the assigned texts and lecture. Work through as much of the reading as you can, beginning with the Bible first, followed by the lecture. The other assigned readings will supplement the lecture. The reading assignments will provide you with the information necessary for doing the written assignment.

The written assignments are designed for you to learn the skills of biblical interpretation. Each assignment will require you to analyze critically a biblical text and formulate your own interpretation of it. The written assignments will test your understanding of the reading material and train you in the skills of interpretation.

For each lesson a written assignment will be required. For most of the lessons - those for which another written assignment is not required - you will write a thesis statement on the essay topic. For three of the lessons you will write the essay. A fellow student will write a critical evaluation of each essay. After each essay is evaluated and graded, you will revise the essay and resubmit for a new grade. You also will evalulate three other student's essays. Finally, you will write the final essay for Lesson 26.

The lessons for which you will write essays and critical evaluation will be assigned at the beginning of the course, by the second or third class.

In order to assist you in writing your abstracts, essays, and critical evaluations, read the information on the written assignments and the criteria for grading.

After you have completed the reading for each lesson, you should read through the discussion questions listed on the lesson page and be prepared to discuss the material in class. Questions are also raised in the lectures, and indicated by a question mark (illustrated on the right). Attempt to answer the questions, and be prepared to share your conclusions in class. If the lecture material is not clear, or if it raises further questions for you, you are encouraged to email the professor with your questions.

Finally, have fun! Let the reading assignments challenge you to think about new interpretations of the Bible. Exercise your own interpretation skills through the written assignments. And share your learning and challenge others inside and outside of class.