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Writing A Position Paper

This document provides guidance on how to write an effective position paper. It explains that a position paper describes and rationalizes a stance on an issue using facts to support the argument. It should use evidence, references, and examine strengths and weaknesses of the position. The paper should choose an arguable issue, research it thoroughly, and consider feasible solutions. It outlines the structure as an introduction stating the position, a body with background, supporting evidence, and discussion of both sides, and a conclusion with suggested actions and restating the thesis.

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Mel GB
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79 views

Writing A Position Paper

This document provides guidance on how to write an effective position paper. It explains that a position paper describes and rationalizes a stance on an issue using facts to support the argument. It should use evidence, references, and examine strengths and weaknesses of the position. The paper should choose an arguable issue, research it thoroughly, and consider feasible solutions. It outlines the structure as an introduction stating the position, a body with background, supporting evidence, and discussion of both sides, and a conclusion with suggested actions and restating the thesis.

Uploaded by

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

Paper
MELODY GEMINIANO - BELISARIO
How to Write a Position Paper

The purpose of a position paper is to


generate support on an issue. It
describes a position on an issue and
the rational for that position. The
position paper is based on facts that
provide a solid foundation for your
argument.
In the position paper you should:

• Use evidence to support your position, such as


statistical evidence or dates and events.
• Validate your position with authoritative references
or primary source quotations.
•Examine the strengths and weaknesses of your
position.
•Evaluate possible solutions and suggest courses of
action.
How to write a position paper?
 Choose an issue where there is a clear division of
opinion and which is arguable with facts and
inductive reasoning.
 You may choose an issue on which you have already
formed an opinion. However, in writing about this
issue you must examine your opinion of the issue
critically.
How to write a position paper?

 Prior to writing your position paper, define and limit


your issue carefully. Social issues are complex with
multiple solutions.
 Narrow the topic of your position paper to something
that is manageable. Research your issue thoroughly,
consulting experts and obtaining primary documents.
 Consider feasibility, cost-effectiveness and
political/social climate when evaluating possible
solutions and courses of action.
Structure of a position paper:
Introduction

• Identification of the issue


• Statement of the position
Introduction

 Issue (who, what, where, when and why


 Yesor no question containing the issue
and the argumentative issue
Body

• Background information
 • Supporting evidence or facts
• A discussion of both sides of the
issue
Body

 Summary of Counterclaims devoted


to an enumeration of arguments
opposing a stand.
Summary of Counterclaims - Unique
feature of argumentations as it
highlights the author’s opposite claims.
This will refute these claims in the body
of your argument.
Conclusion

• Suggested courses of action


• Possible solutions
Conclusion

 Contains the re statement of your thesis


and summarizes your main claims. Similar
to the introduction, the conclusion holds a
powerful position as it contains the thesis
statement and gives readers a strong
sense of the author’s position.

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