EAPP Module 4

EAPP Module 4

Writing a Position Paper

​Objective

​● Writes position paper focused on defending a stand on an issue by presenting reasonable arguments supported by properly cited factual evidence.

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is NOT to be considered in writing a thesis statement for your position paper?

• Indisputable

• Debatable

• Relevant

• Precise

​POSITION PAPER

​A position paper explains your opinion on a specific issue based on logical support. A position paper is frequently used in politics and business which is a written report outlining someone’s attitude or intentions regarding a particular matter. It is also a report which expresses a position, conclusion, or recommendation in relation to a contested issue or undecided question and which usually contains arguments or reasons in support of this position.

​In the position paper, you should:

​o Use evidence to support your position

o Validate your position with authoritative references

o Examine the strengths and weaknesses of your position

o Evaluate possible solutions

​5 STEPS IN WRITING A POSITION PAPER

​1. Select a Topic for Your Paper

2. Conduct Preliminary Research

3. Challenge Your Own Topic

4. Continue to Collect Supporting Evidence

5. Create an Outline

​Claim, Counterclaim, Rebuttal

​Claim - It is a person’s position or viewpoint on an issue.

Example:

Students should be required to wear uniforms in school.

Counterclaim - It is what the opposing side is arguing about the issue.

Example:

Some students say that this will eliminate free expression and uniforms are too expensive to buy and maintain.

​Claim, Counterclaim, Rebuttal

Rebuttal - It is a person’s response to the counterclaim. It further supports the claim.

Example:

A uniform policy will ensure true equality in schools, save families’ money, and help schools identify visitors.

Multiple Choice

In writing a position paper it should always be biased because it only presents your opinion.

• TRUE

• FALSE

​How to write a position paper?

​TITLE

​

​I. PARAGRAPH 1

A. Define and describe the nature of the phenomenon/problem/issue (add statistics, or outbreaking news, narrative report if necessary)

B. State the importance of the discussion (Why is there a need to talk about the topic?)

C. Write your thesis statement (topic +claim+ 3 reasons)

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​How to write a position paper?

II. PARAGRAPH 2

Write a COUNTERCLAIM

(A counterclaim is an argument (or one of the arguments) opposing your thesis statement. In your thesis paragraph, you make it clear to the reader exactly what you plan on proving and how you plan to go about proving it.)

III. PARAGRAPH 3

Discuss and explain reason number one. Add a reference or explanation using citations searched in a book or on the internet.

​How to write a position paper?

IV. PARAGRAPH 4

Discuss and explain reason number two. Add a reference or explanation using citations searched in a book or on the internet.

V. PARAGRAPH 5

Discuss and explain reason number three. Add a reference or explanation using citations searched in a book or on the internet.

VI. PARAGRAPH 6

A remarkable message to the readers can also be a generalization

​Just check the example in Module 4