I. Choose the topic for your position paper (this is usually an arguable opinion about an issue).
This may be related to policy, sport, governance, or a specific issue.
II. The position paper should have a one side arguable opinion about an issue. A position paper
should convince the audience that your opinion is defensible. It is important to support your
argument with evidence as well as negate the counterclaims. This is important to recognize
both sides of the situation.
III. Criteria
Is this a current issue? Will it cause controversy?
Is this a manageable issue?
Are you personally involved in this issue?
Do you have enough material to support your position?
If there is something specific, prove it and apply it? What is your plan of action?
Meaning if you want to instill a new policy, this is where you would assert the plan
of action.
IV. Organization
a. Introduction
i. Introduce the topic
ii. Provide background on the topic and explain it.
b. Summarize an article (that may discuss the topic that we discussed through a round
table or through class.) -It may be one article or a series of articles on a certain issue.
i. Go over the main points- Stay on point and be brief.
c. State your thesis (what is your view of the issue).
i. Be objective when you present the issue, rather than using feelings. It is
important to use facts, other than using attacking language. Give an informed
and educated opinion by using references that are supported.
d. Focused topic
i. Write paragraphs that support your information- full paragraphs, that are well
written with style and clarity. Which means only one idea per paragraph. Then
move on to the next paragraph.
e. Good grammar & spelling- do not forget to proofread!
f. APA format- Paraphrase, when necessary, apa citations when necessary.
g. Conclusion- Restate the argument, provide the plan of action, but do not introduce new
information.
