In your Research-Based position paper, you will present a well-researched perspective about an issue you chose
earlier in the semester (that you want to convince your audience to consider). You must address different sides of
your chosen issue and provide understandable information, that is not only collegiate, but also concise. Even
though you will address different sides, you must take one side of the argument (as well as defend) and persuade
your audience that you have well-founded knowledge of the topic being presented. The evidence you utilize will
help construct your argument that persuades the audience of the importance of your stance. All in all, students
will present a case as to why their position is justified.
I. Introduction
A. Introduce the topic
B. Provide background on the topic
C. Assert the thesis (your view of the issue)
II. Your Argument
A. Assert point of your claim
1. Give your opinion
2. Provide support
B. Repeat
III. Counter Argument
A. Summarize the counterclaims
B. Provide supporting information for counterclaims
C. Refute the counterclaims
D. Give evidence for argument
IV. Conclusion
A. Restate your argument
B. Provide a plan of action
V. Works Cited
A. List of all six sources in alphabetical order and MLA formatted
