Final answer:
The New Light denominations were characterized by a focus on personal, emotional religious experiences, while Old Light denominations adhered to traditional religious values and practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
One basic characteristic of a New Light denomination was its emphasis on a personal and emotional religious experience as part of the Great Awakening. This often included revival meetings that encouraged individuals to have deeply personal, internal conversions. In contrast, a basic characteristic of an Old Light denomination was the adherence to traditional religious values and practices, with a greater focus on established doctrine and less emphasis on emotional experiences. Old Lights tended to criticize the emotionalism and perceived excesses of the New Light movements, like the book and clothes burning event led by James Davenport.