Welcome to Your Critical Thinking Activity!
In this activity, you will draft a persuasive essay or presentation about the idea of separation of
church and state. The term “separation of church and state” comes from a letter drafted by
Thomas Jefferson and is often applied to the First Amendment. People differ, however, over
how the Establishment and Free Exercise clauses of the First Amendment interact to prevent
the government from establishing religion while protecting the religious liberties of individuals. How
do you think the idea of separation of church and state applies to the First Amendment?
Objectives
Draft a persuasive essay or presentation on the issue of separation of church and state
regarding the principles of religious liberty found in the Establishment and Free
Exercise clauses of the First Amendment
Assignment Overview
Write a 1½-page, single-spaced persuasive essay or