This document discusses how to write a position paper. It explains that a position paper expresses a writer's stance on an issue while presenting valid arguments and refuting counterclaims with evidence. It notes position papers are meant to persuade readers to a particular viewpoint or course of action. The document outlines considerations for writing a position paper, including understanding its unique features and purpose for different audiences, and using a pattern of development that compares and contrasts arguments and counterarguments to ensure objectivity.

1. Reading and
Writing a Position
Paper
Module 9

2. Learning Objectives:
At the end of the discussion, the students should be
able to:
a. explain how one’s purpose is a crucial consideration in
academic and professional writing;
b. identify the unique features of and requirements in
composing texts that are useful across disciplines;
c. perform writing tasks involved in the different stages of
the writing process; and
d. write a position paper.

3. Let’s Reflect!
What current political, social,
environmental issue in the country
do you want to give an opinion on?
Is it worth writing a position paper
for?

4. Considerations in Writing a Position
paper:
1. Unique Features of a position paper
2. Purpose and Audience
3. Pattern of Development

5. Unique Features of a Position Paper
A position paper expresses a writers’ position on
an issue and the reasons for his or her stance.
In doing so, the writer must prevent valid arguments
and counterclaims. He or she must also strongly
refute the counterclaims of others by adding
supporting evidence. In explaining some points, he
or she may use figurative language such as simile,
metaphor, or analogy.

6. Purpose and Audience
This type of writing persuades the readers to
accept the writer’s point-of-view and take a
particular course of action. The specific purpose
and audiene of a position paper differ depending on
the context.

7. In the academe, the purpose of the position paper is
to demonstrate the student’s higher-order thinking
skills by the way he or she argues and supports
his or her arguments. However, in politics and law, a
position paper may function as an introduction of a
policy proposal to government officials and lawyers.

8. Pattern of Development
The writer of a position paper is able to to
persuade the audience by comparing and
constrasting the arguments and
counterclaims. In this way, the writer ensures
objectivity by presenting the points from both
sides of an issue.

9. In conlusion ...
In writing a position paper, you should
describe the issue and your position on it,
present both sides of the issue, refute
counterclaims, and use figurative language
and analogies to explain a point. You
should keep the properties of a well-written
text in mind to make your writing easy to read.

10. DEBATE!