This contains the definition of a position paper, as well as its parts and a few key points to remember. it also contains tips on choosing a topic on writing a position paper.

1. Position Paper:
its Definition and Parts
Christian C. Pabunan
STEM 11-Pascal

2. Definition
A position paper is a type of
academic writing that presents
one’s stand or viewpoint on a
particular issue.

3. Definition
• The main objective of writing a position paper
is to take part in a larger debate by stating your
arguments and proposed course of action.
• On the other hand, it do not simply states your
opinion. It supports an argument and uses
evidence from sources to validate your position.

4. Parts
Introduction
Body
Conclusion

5. Introduction
• Uses a lead that grabs the attention of readers.
“Students who used an interactive, digital version of an Algebra 1 textbook for
Apple’s iPad in California’s Riverside Unified School District in 2012 scored 20
percent higher on standardized tests versus students who learned with print
textbooks”(mobiledia.com).
With the ever-increasing pressures of standardized testing, and with the need for students to
compete in a global economy, students need every edge they can get. Using tablets instead of
textbooks can give students the advantage they need. Yet this small increase in test scores is not the
only advantage of replacing textbooks with tablets. Tablets are also less expensive than textbooks
and are a lighter option for students.
Source: https://www.kibin.com/essay-writing-blog/this-position-paper-outline-will-help-you-get-started/

6. Introduction
• Defines an issue and provides a thorough
background.
“Students who used an interactive, digital version of an Algebra 1 textbook for Apple’s iPad in
California’s Riverside Unified School District in 2012 scored 20 percent higher on standardized tests
versus students who learned with print textbooks”(mobiledia.com).
With the ever-increasing pressures of standardized testing, and with the need for
students to compete in a global economy, students need every edge they can get.
Using tablets instead of textbooks can give students the advantage they need. Yet this small increase
in test scores is not the only advantage of replacing textbooks with tablets. Tablets are also less
expensive than textbooks and are a lighter option for students.
Source: https://www.kibin.com/essay-writing-blog/this-position-paper-outline-will-help-you-get-started/

7. Introduction
• Provides a general statement of your position
through a thesis statement.
“Students who used an interactive, digital version of an Algebra 1 textbook for Apple’s iPad in
California’s Riverside Unified School District in 2012 scored 20 percent higher on standardized tests
versus students who learned with print textbooks”(mobiledia.com).
With the ever-increasing pressures of standardized testing, and with the need for students to
compete in a global economy, students need every edge they can get. Using tablets instead of
textbooks can give students the advantage they need. Yet this small increase in test
scores is not the only advantage of replacing textbooks with tablets. Tablets are
also less expensive than textbooks and are a lighter option for students.
Source: https://www.kibin.com/essay-writing-blog/this-position-paper-outline-will-help-you-get-started/

8. Body
• States your main arguments and provide
sufficient evidence for each argument.
• Evidences may include:
– Statistics
– Interview with Experts
– Testimonies

9. Body
• Sample Argument:
Tablets increase standardized test scores
• Evidence from sources:
1.“A research study, conducted in Auburn, Maine showed that kindergarten students
using iPads scored much higher on literacy tests than students that didn’t use the
device”(8 Studies Show iPads in the Classroom Improve Education).
2.“Among the main findings were that fractions knowledge increased an average of
15%, and participants gained confidence in their fractions ability and reported liking
fractions more after playing the game [on an iPad]”(gamedesk.org/project/motion-
math-in-class).
Source: https://www.kibin.com/essay-writing-blog/this-position-paper-outline-will-help-you-get-started/

10. Body
• Provides counterarguments against possible
weaknesses of your arguments.

11. Conclusion
• Restates your position and main arguments.
Reminder: Just stress the importance of your ideas. Don’t just
repeat the key ideas and reword the introduction.
• Suggest a course of action.
• Explain why your position is better than any other position.
• Ends with a powerful closing statement.
(You may use a quotation, challenge, or question.)

12. Conclusion
• Sample Conclusion:
Ultimately, using tablets over textbooks is a smart strategy for schools. Even though
tablets can become a distraction, they also have the potential to increase standardized
tests scores, save schools money, and relieve students of the burdens of heavy
backpacks. With so many advantages, tablets should replace textbooks in the
classroom.
Source: https://www.kibin.com/essay-writing-blog/this-position-paper-outline-will-help-you-get-started/

13. Choosing an Issue
• The issue should be debatable.
• The issue should be current and relevant.
• The issue should be written in question form and answerable
by yes or no.
• The issue should be specific and manageable.