course material

1. Like a debate, a position paper presents one side of an arguable opinion
about a
Like a debate, a position paper presents one side of an arguable opinion about a topic or
issue.The goal of a position paper is to convince the audience that your opinion is valid and
defensible. Review and present the relevant literature. Your job is to take oneside of the
argument and persuade your audience that you have well-founded knowledge of thetopic
being presented. It is important to support your argument with evidence to ensure
thevalidity of your claims, as well as to refute the counterclaims to show that you are well-
informedabout both sides. Be certain to consider all sides and present the issue clearly.1-
introduction to the topic. State the topic of concern (i.e. air pollution); a brief reason why it
is a problem; implications for public/population/community health; any policy issues.2-
Summary of the relevant literature .This is important; the literature supports the
seriousness of the topic; provides evidence of the problem, impact etc. Sources should be
from peer reviewed literature; try to limit web site sources.3.Development and presentation
of the argument .This is your position. For example, if my topic was contaminated water in
Flint, Michigan; I might take the position that the Federal Government needs to provide
more funds, oversight, etc. to remedy the situation;4.Refutation of counterclaimsExplain
briefly, those who have a different perspective/opinion/position about the subject. In
example above, perhaps there are factions of the government that claim that the work is
done and there is no need for additional intervention. After you provide one or two of the
counterclaims, describe why you feel differently. In case above, “new cases of lead
poisoning are emerging since the end of the funding, etc.5.Nursing role in the promotion of
the health of the affected populationSelf-explanatory; Is it participating in screening?
Education? Attending community meetings?6.Summary of issue’s relevance to nursing and
healthWhy as a community of nursing/profession is the issue important? Think of our class,
why are environmental issues important to nursing as a profession?7.Writing style, use of
APA citation