How to Write a Position Argument

Find an Issue Make a list of possible issues. (generally this will be given to you, but still consider multiple perspectives on the topic) Select a possible issue. Read about your issue. (Have an understanding of your topic before you begin writing and even looking for information)

Analyze your Potential Readers What do your readers likely know about the issue? What views do your readers likely have about the issue? Do your readers likely agree or disagree with your position? If they disagree, why exactly do they disagree?

Develop Reasons and Write a Working Thesis Take a definite position!!! Support your reasons by making observations and finding facts, statistics, and statements from authorities. (This is where your research comes in!) Write a working thesis. (Write this after you have developed your main arguments, that way you know it all ties in together)

Introducing your topic Introduce the issue and give the necessary background. (This is the easy way to write an introduction) If you argue from a definition, set out the criteria. (A lot of words/ideas have multiple interpretations, always make sure your understanding is clear!) Leave no guessing to your reader

Paper lay out Introduction Must have a clear and specific thesis (Take a stance, never sit on the fence) Let your reader know what your paper will be addressing (introduce topic, introduce your position) This won’t always be done in one paragraph: Often you’ll need an entire paragraph to educate your reader on the topic itself) Example: you cant take a position on a leader if no one knows anything about this leader..

Paper Layout Body Paragraphs This is where your research and evidence comes in to back up your thesis. Be sure everything is tied back to your thesis Each topic should have a mini thesis, that answers your main thesis Only one topic per paragraph! Back everything up with actual evidence

Paper Layout Conclusion This is where students struggle the most Don’t just tell them what you told them; rather, bring up your main points and convince your reader that why your position is right.

Revise, Revise, Revise Check that your position argument fulfills the assignment. Make sure that your claim is arguable and focused. Add additional evidence where reasons need more support (Make sure everything is backed up!)

Example Topic: Who is the most overrated singer right now Thesis: Beyoncé is unquestionably the worst singer around in popular culture today. Body Point number one: She writes meaningless songs. Mini thesis: When one examines the lyrics of Beyonce’s most popular songs it becomes apparent no actual time or intellectual thought has gone into the lyrics.

Example Evidence for point one: “Say I'm the one you want If you don't, you'll be alone And like a ghost I'll be gone” Beyonce’s sad attempt at a metaphor clearly shows she spends no time linking her lyrics to any kind of meaning. What does it mean “like a ghost, ill be gone” ..

Example Point number two In order to be considered a good singer there is an expectation that our celebrities uphold good values and remain good role models for their fans, especially those who are loved my our youth. Beyoncé consistently shows she is no role model, and thus can not be considered a good artist. (singing about getting drunk, a song about a sex position, etc.) Note: this only works if you establish in your intro that a good singer is being an overall good artist… make everything clear

Example Position 3: Need I say more…

Example Conclusion: After examining the many facets that make up a good artist it is now evident that Beyoncé fails to meet any of these. From her brainless lyrics, to downright inappropriate for her fan base, she perfectly exemplifies everything that is wrong with music today. Thus, she is labeled the worst singer in the modern era..

Things to consider How long should it be? Stick to the mini skirt rule: Short enough to be interesting, but long enough to cover everything.. Should I mention other perspectives? This can be a useful tool to show a true understanding, but it is not needed. Also, many spend too much time addressing this and get off topic and confuse the reader.. So tread carefully when doing this! Should I save my best argument for last? This is an old fallacy. Someone who has done strong research and thought about their topic carefully should have multiple strong points. Consider an order that makes logical sense. Such as: do any points build off previous ones, then keep them in order, even if one seems stronger than the other.

Things to consider Avoid talking in first person (My, Myself, I, etc.) write it as if everyone feels this way. Keep it formal (Don’t, put little things like “I’m not sure about this” or personal side bars) Don’t make overgeneralize statements : All Nazi’s were horrible people.. This is not something you can prove, so make your statement more specific: When viewing a political group as a collective whole, one can only arrive at the conclusion that the Nazis were horrible.