An Introduction (C. T. R. V Hewer)

By Robert O. Smith

For students: How to Use This Guide

Islam is a diverse and complex faith. It may take a while before you are comfortable with the many facets of the religion and the many ways Muslim believers express their faith. This study guide can help you get the most out of your textbook Understanding Islam: An Introduction.

The study guide is organized like the book; each section of the guide corresponds to a chapter in the book and includes a summary of the text; key names, terms, and concepts; questions for discussion and reflection; suggestions for further reading and selected web resources.

Before you begin to read a section, it is a good idea to read the Summary. This offers a basic overview of the section's major themes and issues, organized under the section's subheadings.

Before or after you read each section of the book, you can review the list of Key Names, Key Terms, and Key Concepts listed in the corresponding section of this guide. You will want to be familiar with these terms by the time you have finished reading the section.

Immediately after you have read a section of the book, go through the related Questions for Discussion and Reflection. This will help you think critically about what you have read and prepare for classroom discussions. It also may give you some ideas for paper topics. If you are interested in what you've read and are eager to learn more, use the list of selected resources found under the link For Further Reading. These books and websites will... www.google.com/help/refinesearch.html

In addition to this Study Guide, this website for Understanding Islam offers a guide to writing research papers on topics related to Islam. In that section you will find bibliographies of reference works in print and electronic media, including additional online sources related to church history; you can also learn about useful research methods and gain tips on writing effective papers, as well as see examples of proper footnote and bibliographic citation form.