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Writing a Position Paper

This document provides a comprehensive guide on writing a position paper, detailing its definition, purpose, and importance in influencing decision-making. It outlines the key steps in crafting an effective argument, including identifying the issue, researching the topic, developing a clear thesis, and addressing counterarguments. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of persuasive writing, proper citation, and peer feedback in refining the final paper.

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janice.belmonte
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6 views

Writing a Position Paper

This document provides a comprehensive guide on writing a position paper, detailing its definition, purpose, and importance in influencing decision-making. It outlines the key steps in crafting an effective argument, including identifying the issue, researching the topic, developing a clear thesis, and addressing counterarguments. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of persuasive writing, proper citation, and peer feedback in refining the final paper.

Uploaded by

janice.belmonte
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Writing a Position

Paper
ACADEMIC ARGUMENTATION

This presentation will guide you through the process of crafting


an effective position paper. From identifying the issue to citing
sources properly, you'll learn the key steps to develop a well-
researched and persuasive argument.

MC
by Mary Joy Chavez
What is a Position Paper?
Defined Purpose
A position paper is a The goal is to persuade
concise, well-researched the reader to adopt the
essay that presents a clear writer's point of view on a
stance on a specific issue. controversial or complex
topic.

Audience Clarity
Position papers are often A strong position paper
written for policymakers, conveys a definitive, well-
stakeholders, or decision- reasoned argument
makers who can influence supported by evidence.
the outcome.
Importance of Position Papers
Influence Decision-Making Demonstrate Expertise Facilitate Dialogue

Position papers can sway Well-written position papers They encourage discussion and
policymakers and stakeholders showcase the author's deep debate, leading to greater
to take action on important understanding of a topic. awareness and informed
issues. decisions.
Identifying the Issue
1 Define the Problem 2 Understand Context
Clearly articulate the issue or controversy you aim Research the historical, political, and social factors
to address in your position paper. that have shaped the problem.

3 Identify Associate 4 Pinpoint Key Questions


Determine the individuals or groups who have a Formulate the critical questions that your position
vested interest in the issue. paper will seek to answer.
Researching the Topic
1 Gather Information
Conduct thorough research using credible sources
such as academic journals, government reports,
and industry publications.

2 Analyze Existing Positions


Explore the arguments, evidence, and counter-
arguments presented by other stakeholders or
experts.

3 Identify Key Insights


Synthesize the research to uncover new
perspectives, trends, or potential solutions to the
problem.
Developing Your Argument

State Your Position Anticipate Counterarguments Provide Evidence


Clearly articulate your stance on Acknowledge and address potential Support your claims with relevant
the issue and the key points that objections to your position, data, expert opinions, and real-
support your argument. demonstrating your understanding world examples to strengthen your
of the complexities. case.
Parts of Concept Paper

Conclusion

- provides a restatement of your main


Introduction
argument; may propose a decision point
- provides background or context or course of action.- provides a
on why the topic is pursued. Counterargument/Argument restatement of your main argument;
may propose a decision point or course
Counterargument- discusses
of action.
counterclaims made on the topic/issues.

Argument- raises one’s assertions/


position on the issue.
Writing Persuasively
1 Tone and Voice 2 Language and Rhetoric 3 Clarity and Concision
Adopt a confident, Use persuasive language, Present your ideas in a
authoritative, and objective rhetorical devices, and clear, concise, and
tone to establish credibility. logical reasoning to structured manner to
influence the reader. enhance readability.
Citing Sources Properly
In-Text Citations Follow the appropriate
citation style (e.g., APA,
MLA) to credit sources
within your text.
Reference List Provide a comprehensive
list of all sources used,
formatted according to the
citation style.
Credibility Proper citation
demonstrates the
thoroughness of your
research and enhances the
credibility of your
argument.
Polishing and Revising
Proofread Seek Feedback
Carefully review your Ask peers, instructors, or
paper for any subject matter experts to
grammatical, spelling, or provide constructive
formatting errors. feedback.

Refine and Revise


Incorporate feedback to strengthen your argument and
polish the overall presentation.
Principles of Writing a Position Paper
1. Clear Thesis Statement: 2. Strong Supporting Arguments:

Definition: Clearly state your position on the issue Definition: Present well-reasoned arguments that
at the beginning. support your thesis.

Purpose: Provides a roadmap for your paper and m Purpose: Convince the reader of the validity of
akes your stance immediately clear. your position with solid reasoning and logic.

Example: “Government intervention is necessary t Example: “Renewable energy investments can


o combat climate change effectively.” create jobs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”
3. Use of Evidence: 4. Addressing Counterarguments:

• Definition: Back up your arguments with • Definition: Acknowledge opposing


credible data, research, and examples. viewpoints and refute them with evidence.
• Purpose: Strengthen your arguments and • Purpose: Demonstrates critical thinking and
add credibility to your position. shows that you have considered multiple
perspectives.
Example: “According to the International Energy Example: “While some argue that renewable
Agency, renewable energy sources could supply energy is costly, the long-term savings and
nearly 30% of global electricity by 2050.” environmental benefits outweigh initial
investments.”
5. Logical Structure: 6. Clear and Concise Language:

• Definition: Organize your paper with a clear • Definition: Use straightforward language
introduction, body, and conclusion. and avoid unnecessary jargon.
• Purpose: Ensures the paper is easy to follow • Purpose: Makes your paper accessible and
and that each point builds on the previous easy to understand.
one.
Example Structure: Example: Instead of “Utilizing renewable energy
solutions can significantly mitigate adverse
• Introduction: State your thesis.
environmental impacts,” say “Using renewable
• Body: Present your arguments and evidence. energy can reduce environmental harm.”
• Conclusion: Summarize your points and
restate your thesis.
7. Persuasive Tone:

• Definition: Write in a way that is convincing and engaging.


• Purpose: Captures the reader’s attention and persuades them to your point of view.

Example: “By embracing renewable energy, we can secure a healthier future for our planet and generations to come
Activity: Position Paper Carousel
Objective: Students will collaboratively brainstorm,
write, and present a position paper in a dynamic
and interactive way.

Topic Selection:

Instructions: Divide the students into small groups


and provide them with a list of topics to choose
from. Ensure that each group picks a different topic.

Examples:

• "Should homework be banned in schools?"


• "Is social media beneficial for teenagers?"
• "Should cities invest more in public transportation?"
Brainstorming: Carousel Writing:

Each group will brainstorm arguments for and This part gets students moving! Set up “stations”
against their chosen topic. Use a whiteboard or with large sheets of paper or poster boards around
large paper for students to jot down their ideas. the room. Each station represents a different
element of the position paper (Introduction,
Allocate 10 minutes for brainstorming, encouraging
Argument 1, Argument 2, Counterarguments,
creativity and open-minded thinking. Each group
Conclusion).
should come up with at least three arguments for Activity: Groups rotate around the stations,
and three against. spending 5 minutes at each one to add content.
Each group builds upon what the previous group
wrote. Rotate until every group has contributed to
each station.
Group Synthesis: Peer Review: Final Draft and Presentation:

Instructions: After the carousel Instructions: Groups exchange Instructions: Groups


writing, each group returns to their drafts with another group incorporate the feedback to
their original topic. They now for peer review. finalize their position papers.
have a collection of ideas and
Activity: Each group reviews Activity: Each group presents
points.
Activity: Groups synthesize the the draft they received, their position paper to the class.
information into a cohesive draft providing constructive feedback Allow for a brief Q&A session
of a position paper. They refine on clarity, coherence, and after each presentation, where
the arguments, ensuring logical persuasiveness. Focus on peers can ask questions or
flow and clarity. strengths and areas for challenge points.
improvement.
Evaluation Criteria
• Clarity of the thesis statement.
• Strength and coherence of arguments.
• Use of evidence to support arguments.
• Addressing and refuting counterarguments.
• Overall presentation and persuasiveness.

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