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Questions and Answers
What is the primary purpose of a position paper?
What is the primary purpose of a position paper?
Which of the following best describes the qualities of a convincing position paper?
Which of the following best describes the qualities of a convincing position paper?
What does 'objective expression of ideas' in a position paper entail?
What does 'objective expression of ideas' in a position paper entail?
Which logical reasoning mode involves drawing general conclusions from specific instances?
Which logical reasoning mode involves drawing general conclusions from specific instances?
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What is a critical element to include in the introduction of a position paper?
What is a critical element to include in the introduction of a position paper?
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What should be avoided when creating balanced assignments in a position paper?
What should be avoided when creating balanced assignments in a position paper?
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Which of the following practices helps to improve the clarity of a position paper?
Which of the following practices helps to improve the clarity of a position paper?
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What is a logical thinker expected to do?
What is a logical thinker expected to do?
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What is a primary concern regarding the implementation of a policy for restaurants?
What is a primary concern regarding the implementation of a policy for restaurants?
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How does the author suggest countering the costs associated with the proposed policy?
How does the author suggest countering the costs associated with the proposed policy?
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What role does the author believe the government should play in public safety?
What role does the author believe the government should play in public safety?
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What is the main purpose of the introductory paragraph in a position paper?
What is the main purpose of the introductory paragraph in a position paper?
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Which element is crucial in the body of a position paper?
Which element is crucial in the body of a position paper?
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What writing style does the author recommend when drafting a position paper?
What writing style does the author recommend when drafting a position paper?
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Which statement reflects an important 'do' when writing a position paper?
Which statement reflects an important 'do' when writing a position paper?
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What is essential for establishing authority in your argument?
What is essential for establishing authority in your argument?
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What should you do when facing challenges to your position?
What should you do when facing challenges to your position?
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Which aspect should a position paper's conclusion fulfill?
Which aspect should a position paper's conclusion fulfill?
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What is the first step in crafting a well-constructed argument?
What is the first step in crafting a well-constructed argument?
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What is one method to challenge your own topic effectively?
What is one method to challenge your own topic effectively?
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Which of the following strategies is important when addressing opposing views?
Which of the following strategies is important when addressing opposing views?
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Study Notes
Position Paper Overview
- A position paper is an essay or report expressing a stance, conclusion, or recommendation about a contested issue or unresolved question.
- Its goal is to generate support for a particular viewpoint on an issue.
- It clearly defines a position on an issue and justifies that position using rational arguments.
- It's based on facts to provide a solid foundation for arguments.
Position Paper Objectives
- Defining a position paper.
- Identifying situations suitable for a position paper.
- Gathering and analyzing arguments.
- Defending a standpoint on an issue.
- Writing different kinds of position papers.
Position Paper Qualities
- Contains a clear proposition or statement needing defense.
- Evaluates conflicting opinions or opposing views on the issue.
- Takes a definitive stance on the issue.
- Presents arguments in a structured manner to support the stance.
- Includes factual evidence or proof to support arguments.
Position Paper Structure
- Introduction: Starts with a topic sentence to grab attention, summarizing the issue, and outlining the writer's viewpoint (1 paragraph).
- Body: Focuses on three main points: a general statement of the position, detailed elaboration referencing documents, data, past experiences, and authoritative testimonials (3 paragraphs).
- Conclusion: Summarizes and concludes the argument (1-2 paragraphs).
Guidelines for Writing a Position Paper
- Values Communicated: Focus on logical thinking, objective expression of ideas, and balanced consideration of opposing viewpoints.
- Modes of Reasoning: Employ inductive and deductive reasoning.
- Logical Thinking: Use rational, systematic steps based on sound procedures and given statements to reach conclusions. Logical thinkers observe, analyze phenomena, draw conclusions, and justify strategies based on collected facts.
- Objective Expression: Express facts and conditions as perceived without distortion, personal feelings, prejudices, or interpretations.
- Balanced Assignments: Use language that shifts from opposing viewpoints to supporting arguments, while acknowledging and responding to counterarguments.
Tips for Writing a Good Position Paper
- Use simple language.
- Give each separate idea its own paragraph.
- Start each paragraph with a topic sentence.
- Proofread thoroughly for errors.
- Cite all sources properly.
How to Select a Topic
- Conduct preliminary research.
- Challenge your own topic.
- Collect supporting evidence.
- Create an outline.
Crafting a Well-Constructed Argument
- Choose a side on a controversial issue.
- Develop a case for your viewpoint using facts, opinions, statistics, and other evidence to convince the reader of the position.
Position Paper Writing Considerations
- A topic can be straightforward or complicated—but the argument must be logical.
- The topic should center on a personal belief supported by research that is meaningful to the writer.
- Understand the opposing viewpoint to better define your stance, anticipate challenges, and address counterarguments effectively.
- Present opposing arguments fairly, then explain why they aren't valid.
Establishing a Position Paper Outline
- Introduce the topic with background information leading to the thesis statement outlining your position.
Potential Objections to a Position
- Analyze potential objections to your position (e.g., cost, overreach of government control, lack of clear criteria).
Addressing Objections
- Demonstrate how your position remains the best option, despite acknowledging counterarguments (e.g., the cost can be justified by the improvement in public health).
Writing Style
- Write with confidence and authority, presenting your viewpoint as the correct one.
- Be assertive without being arrogant.
- State your points and back them with evidence.
- Use clear and explicit language.
- Write in the present tense and avoid the first-person pronoun.
- Avoid exaggerated or extreme language (superlatives).
Sample Position Paper Questions
- What is the proposed stance?
- What are potential opposing arguments?
- How were the counterarguments addressed?
- What words or phrases define the author's position?
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Description
This quiz provides an overview of position papers, outlining their definition, objectives, and key qualities. It explores how to effectively define a stance on a contested issue and develop structured arguments backed by factual evidence. Prepare to enhance your writing skills with essential insights into crafting a compelling position paper.
