Academic English: Position Paper Writing

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Questions and Answers

What is the first step in writing a position paper?

Summarize counterarguments

Reflect on your position

Conduct in-depth research

Choose an issue (correct)

Which characteristic is NOT essential for defining an issue for a position paper?

It should be debatable

It should be widely accepted (correct)

It should be current and relevant

It should be narrow and manageable

What should be done after identifying weaknesses in a position?

Ignore them to strengthen the argument

Align them with the target reader's interests

Explain and analyze them objectively (correct)

Promote opposing views instead

How many pages should a position paper be limited to?

2 pages Signup and view all the answers

Which approach should be used to arrange evidence in a position paper?

Inductive or deductive approach Signup and view all the answers

What type of appeals should be used in a position paper?

Ethical, logical, and emotional appeal Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with counterarguments in a position paper?

Summarize and refute them using evidence Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of aligning arguments with the target reader's beliefs?

It engages the reader more effectively Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a position paper?

To present a persuasive argument based on evidence Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a part of a position paper?

Literature Review Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential element of the introduction of a position paper?

A catchy opening that presents the issue Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a thesis statement in a position paper?

A clear statement of the writer's position Signup and view all the answers

What should be included in the claims of a position paper?

Statements that support the author's stand Signup and view all the answers

Which example represents an appropriate thesis statement for a position paper?

Cycling as a mode of transport should be promoted because of its health, financial, and environmental benefits. Signup and view all the answers

What is the meaning of the term 'issue' in the context of a position paper?

A central concept up for contention Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about crafting a position paper?

It should present a balanced view without a clear position. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of receiving a Covid-19 Vaccine Booster?

It improves neutralizing antibody titers. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a method of providing evidence for arguments in a position paper?

Personal opinions Signup and view all the answers

What should be included when stating the main arguments in a position paper?

Sufficient evidence to support each argument. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical aspect of addressing counterarguments in a position paper?

Summarizing and acknowledging potential weaknesses. Signup and view all the answers

The thesis statement for the position on Covid-19 Vaccine Booster emphasizes what main points?

It improves neutralizing antibody titers and elicits strong immune responses. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the purpose of collecting expert testimonies when writing a position paper?

To enhance credibility and support arguments with authoritative sources. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of Covid-19 vaccine booster arguments, what kind of claims should be avoided?

Speculative claims without evidence. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following illustrates a potential counterargument regarding the establishment of condominiums in urban areas?

They may lead to increased urban density and competition for resources. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

English for Academic and Professional Purposes

Course taught by Ms. Eunice L. Montesor
Focuses on position papers

Position Paper

A position paper is an essay needing a persuasive argument supported by research.
It presents a writer's viewpoint on a specific topic.
The paper outlines arguments and suggests a course of action.

Content of a Position Paper

Definition: A position paper is an essay type requiring critical thinking to craft a view supported by research.
Features of an Effective Position Paper:
- Parts of a position paper: Introduction, Body, Conclusion
- Guidelines for writing a position paper: choosing an issue, research, defining terms, considering various stances, summarizing counterarguments, using active voice, organizing evidence logically, eliminating argumentative fallacies, using ethical appeal, logical reasoning and emotional appeal, and limiting the paper's length.
I. Introduction:
- Issue and its background
  - What is an issue? Central concept open for contention.
  - Examples of issues: dress code in school, condominiums near universities.
- Thesis Statement or Argumentative Thesis
  - Presents the writer's general position.
  - A developed statement containing author's stand on an issue and claims.
  - What is a Claim? Statements supporting the author's stand.
Example Thesis Statements:
- Cycling should be promoted due to its health, financial, and environmental benefits.
- Covid-19 Vaccine Booster should be implemented to improve neutralizing antibody titers and elicit strong immune responses.
II. Body:
- Elaboration of claims and arguments.
- Sufficient evidence for each argument using data like surveys, research, experiments, interviews and expert testimonies.
- Summarizing counterclaims to address opposing viewpoints, or weaknesses in your position.
III. Conclusion:
- Restating the position and main arguments.
- Suggests course of action.
- A powerful closing statement (quotation, challenge, or question).

Guidelines for Writing a Position Paper

Choose a debatable, current, relevant, answerable, narrow and manageable issue.
Conduct deep research on the issue.
Define unfamiliar terms when mentioning them.
Be aware of various positions and analyze them objectively.
Reflect on the position, identifying and addressing weaknesses.
Cite valid and reliable sources.
View the issue from different perspectives.
Limit the paper to 2 pages.
Align arguments to the reader's beliefs, needs, interests and motivations.
Summarize opposing arguments, using evidence to refute them
Eliminate fallacies or errors in reasoning.
Use ethical, logical and emotional appeals in writing the arguments..

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Description

This quiz focuses on the essentials of writing an academic position paper, essential for both academic and professional purposes. You'll explore key components such as the structure, guidelines, and persuasive techniques necessary for a compelling argument. Perfect for students looking to enhance their writing skills in English.