Position Papers Paper #7

Presenting the Issue n Identify and explain the issue to your readers. n To present the issue, you can use several kinds of information: –detail historical and cultural context –cite specific examples –explain your personal interest in the debate –establish or redefine the terms of the debate.

Estrada n presents issue n states thesis clearly n clarifies history of use of terms n counter argues n provides example of offense n uses analogy to make his point n restates his position on the issue

Some issues? n If you did a lot of work with your issue presentation, you could turn that research into a position paper. n Current events -- terrorism, war, environmental issues, education. n Local issues -- roundabouts, CWD, tourism, water rights

Practice and Share n Conferencing in Writing Classes. –Set up the issue. –Assert your position. –Support it with facts, statistics, stories, quotations by experts, ANALOGY. (Everybody make one. Conferencing is to writing classes as _______ is _________) –Counter argue. What does the other side think? How can you connect with them? How can you answer their objections?

Assert a Clear Position n Take a side!!!! n Try to influence your readers!!!! n State your thesis simply and directly. n Perhaps you want to use your thesis to forecast stages of your argument. n Restating your thesis throughout your essay helps keep your reader focused on your position.

Argue for the Position n Why is your position valid? Why should readers be persuaded by you? n Offer –facts –statistics –examples –stories –quotes from authorities –analogies

Counter Arguing Objections and Opposing Positions n Consider your reader. To what in your position are they likely to object? Why? How can you answer their objections?

Establish Credibility n Advocate forcefully for your position. n Do do the following: –support your argument responsibly –let your readers know that you share at least some of their values and beliefs. –Try to express understanding of your opponents’ position n Don’t do the following: –misrepresent the other point of view –attack your opponents personally –manipulate readers’ emotions –moralize, condescend or belittle your reader