This document provides guidance on structuring an essay about whether religious art must have a religious subject. It suggests introducing the topic and types of religious art. The main body should present all the "for" arguments followed by all the "against" arguments on having a religious subject. It should conclude by summarizing the points and taking a focused position. Well-structured essays include an introduction and conclusion, paragraphs on separate points backed by clear examples, and arguments that directly address the original question.

1. Essay Writing Starter: Which Bible story are these pictures depicting… Obj: To understand how to structure an essay.

6. Assess the view that religious art must have a religious subject. FOR: Makes the meaning & purpose of the art clear. If it’s purpose is to show or tell ‘religious truths’ then the subject needs to have a religious focus. It will be better understood by the observer. AGAINST: In some religions depicting the divine (God) is forbidden. All art can be interpreted differently by different people. Some will see a religious subject where others do not. Art may not have a religious subject but could still convey ‘religious truths’ or spirituality.

7. Essay writing… Introduction: Introduce the topic of religious art by explaining some of the different types. Main: Your arguments. In this type of questions it would be easier and clearer to go through all the ‘for’ arguments then look at all the ‘against’ arguments. Conclusion: Sum up what you have written. Have you come to a decision? This needs to be focussed.

8. Essays The best answers include the following: A clear introduction and conclusion Paragraphs with a new point or argument in each Clear examples to back up the points being made, not just mentioning the book, film or programme, but using an example from it to justify a point Reference to the question that was set throughout and not going off the point Clear arguments not just vague points