Point of view Point of view- the perspective with which a writer sees a subject. It is shaped by the author’s knowledge, beliefs, and experiences. Notice, point of view can refer to more than just first person, second person, and third person. Stated point of view Stated point of view- the writer simply states his or her point of view Example: As president of the Bike Club, I support bicycle lanes. Implied point of view Implied point of view- the reader must infer the writer’s point of view Example: I spent my childhood going on bike trips. One of my first words was derailleur.

Point of view and position are not the same thing. Two people who support the same position can have different points of view. Common Position: Students should wear uniforms. PrincipalStudent Point of View: I am responsible for student safety. Point of View: I spend too much money and time on clothes. Specific Position: If students wore uniforms, we could identify non-students more easily. Specific Position: Uniforms would allow us to focus on our studies.

When writers disagree about an idea, it is often because they hold different points of view. To make their argument stronger, writers anticipate and counter opposing viewpoints. Example: I know that some students disagree with me. They want to express themselves through their clothing. I think, however, that most students agree that safety outweighs expression.

 In "The Trouble With Television," Robert MacNeil makes a strong argument that criticizes the effects of television on American society. Marie Winn in “Television Addiction” also has an opinion about television viewing.  Write an argumentative essay in which you agree or disagree with MacNeil's claims about television.  Review the speech and article to identify several key points to focus on in your essay.  As you write, maintain a formal style and use appropriate transitions that clarify the relationships between your ideas and MacNeil and Winn’s claims.  Support your argument with well-chosen details and quotations from the speech as well as from the article. Be sure to cite your sources. Conclude your argumentative essay with a strong statement that summarizes and reinforces your position.