For this task, you will read an online discussion. An instructor has posted a question about a topic, and some classmates have responded with their ideas.
You will have 10 minutes to write a response that contributes to the discussion.
An effective response will contain at least 100 words.
Instructor: Religion seeks to answer many of life’s questions. Different religions are integral to cultures across the world. However, religion can also be a highly divisive topic and can quickly become political. Should religion be a required course in schools?
Student1(male):
I don’t believe that religion should be taught in schools. It goes against the separation of church and state. It may go against some students’ personal beliefs to learn about religions other than their won. If students want to learn about religions, they have plenty of time to do so at home. Otherwise, it opens the door for teachers to impose their beliefs and make students uncomfortable.
Student 2 (female) :
Religion should be a required topic in schools. Teaching about different cultures, religions and ideologies opens up a student to a whole world outside of their own. It is key to understanding other people and respecting their beliefs. Part of why religion is so divisive is because nobody is teaching mutual understanding and respect. The only way to ensure that people do not remain close- minded is to teach them about ways of living that differ from their own. There is a way to teach religion without imposing beliefs onto the students, so that concern is unwarranted.
