SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

English for Academic

and Professional
Purposes
Quarter 2 – Module 3
Writing a Position Paper

Department of Education ● Republic of the Philippines

English for Academic and Professional Purposes
Alternative Delivery Mode
Quarter 2 – Module 3: Writing a Position Paper
First Edition, 2020

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i
 SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

English for Academic

and Professional
Purposes
Quarter 2 – Module 3
Writing a Position Paper

This instructional material was collaboratively developed and reviewed

by educators from public and private schools, colleges, and/or universities. We
encourage teachers and other education stakeholders to email their feedback,
comments, and recommendations to the Department of Education at
action@deped.gov.ph.

We value your feedback and recommendations.

Department of Education ● Republic of the Philippines

ii
iii
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE NO.

OVERVIEW 1

MODULE CONTENT 1

COMPETENCIES 1

LESSON 1

Objectives 2
Pre-assessment 3
Lesson Proper 4
Enrichment Activities 5
Generalization 7
Application 9
Post-assessment 12
Additional Activities 15

LESSON 2

Objectives 16
Pre-assessment 16
Lesson Proper 18
Enrichment Activities 20
Generalization 24
Application 25
Post-assessment 28
Additional Activities 30

ANSWER KEY 32

REFERENCES 32

iv
 WHAT I NEED TO KNOW

For the Learners

Congratulations for completing the previous modules! You are now

ready for the next step which is writing position paper. This will help you
become objective about the issues that the world is facing this modern time.
Also, this will allow you to share your thoughts and opinions, reasons through
factual evidences and express a stand through writing. To learn more
effectively, do not forget to enjoy learning. Good luck!

Module Content:

In this part of the module, you will learn to critically evaluate issues, use factual
evidences and consequently pose convincing stand through a well-crafted position
paper. So, have fun and maximize your speaking potential.

Learning Competencies:

 Define what is a position paper (CS_EN11/12A-EAPP-IIa-d-1)

 Identify situations in which a position paper may be effectively used in the
present society (CS_EN11/12A-EAPP-IIat-d-2)
 Gather manifestos and analyze the arguments used by the writer/s
(CS_EN11/12A-EAPP-IIa-d-3)
 Defend a stand on an issue by presenting reasonable arguments supported
by properly cited evidences (CS_EN11/12A-EAPP-IIa-d-4)
 Write various kinds of position paper (CS_EN11/12A-EAPP-IIa-d-5)

General Instructions:

To do well in this module, you need to remember the following:

1. Read texts carefully so that you can easily comprehend what you are
reading.

1
 2. Cultivate unbiased judgement through keen evaluation of evidences on
issues that affect the community nowadays.
3. Ensure valid expression of stand and opinion through a position paper.
4. Follow instructions given and ask if there is something that you did not
understand.
5. Have fun as you learn. This course is very important no matter what your
strand is. When you have fun, you can easily learn the lessons.

LESSON 1

WHAT IS A POSITION PAPER?

 

OBJECTIVES:

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to:

 define what a position paper;

 identify situations in which a position paper may be effectively used in the
present society; and
 gather manifestos and analyze the arguments used by the writer/s.

WHAT I KNOW

Pre-Assessment

Test I. IDENTIFICATION

Instructions: Identify the term being described from the statements below.
Write T if the statement is true and write F if otherwise. Write your answers in your
notebook.

________1. Position Paper reflects series of statements for or against something that
involves logic, research evidence and assertion to make persuasion.

2
_______2. As a type of paper, position paper should not only criticize but should also
express challenges.
_______3. A manifesto can be written by anybody regardless of status.
_______4. A social issue can be a good subject of an essay.
_______5. The body of an essay is where evidences are stated to prove a claim.
_______6. Conclusions in an essay are more detailed than the body.
_______7. Evidences in an argument add weight to a claim.
_______8. An emphatic statement at the end of an argument will influence
adjudicators / judges in a debate to merit the speaker’s claim.
_______9. Gathering of evidences need not be done as long as words are chosen
properly to express strong claim.
_______10. Thorough investigation about a subject must be observed in any essay.

WHAT'S NEW

What I KNOW about

Copy the puzzle below in your notebook and encircle the terms that pertains to
writing a Position Paper. You can go horizontal or diagonal.

A A R G U M E N T L
S M R F G U I L T Y
F T I M M I N L E D
P L A I N N E D E I
H I N N D R N C K S Issues
A L L I D C K W Z S Opinion
L C R U E L T Y P U
E V I D E N C E S E Evidences
D I S C U S S E S S
Stand
L O P I N I O N B R
D D W O R M E D E D Argument
E G R E T T I E N L

How did you find the activity? Keep your focus. You will come across
those words in the next activities. Good Luck!

3
 WHAT IS IT

Position paper- is an essay that expresses a position about an issue. It gives

arguments that support the opinion of the writer based on the facts collected. Its goal
is to convince an audience that the opinion raised underwent thorough investigation
and data collection and that it is therefore valid.

Elements of a Position Paper

A. Introduction – this part of the paper identifies an issue that is being

discussed by the author emphasizing his position about the issue. Here, the
topic is introduced; background and history of the issue shall also be
discussed.

B. Body of the paper– this part illustrates the central argument which can be
presented through a brief description of the argument. Details, point of view,
evidences are used to support the claim. It can be divided into these
sections namely: background information, evidence supporting the author’s
position, and a discussion which addresses and refutes arguments that
present both sides of the issue.

C. Conclusion – this part restates the main points, then summarizes the
arguments made in the paper and then provides a call of action.

Position papers are utilized to present an issue and to generate a support on

the issue. Therefore, gathering factual information to support your argument would be
very essential.

4
What about Manifesto as a form of writing?

Manifesto is a document publicly declaring the position or program of its issuer.

A manifesto advances a set of ideas, opinions, or views, but it can also lay out a plan
of action. While it can address any topic, it most often concerns art, literature, or
politics. Manifestos are generally written in the name of a group sharing a common
perspective, ideology, or purpose rather than in the name of a single individual.

It combines a sometimes violent societal critique with an inaugural and

inspirational declaration of change. Although manifestos can claim to speak for the
majority, they are often authored by social activists and usually linked to new
ideas(https://www.britannica.com/topic/manifesto).

How did you find the new information you have learned? I hope that you
now pay attention on the basic elements of a position paper. Prepare to examine
one in the next activities. Good Luck!

WHAT'S MORE

ACTIVITY 1. ENUMERATE

Read the essay that follows. Examine its basic elements. Tell whether the
parts were expressed according to the standards that you have just learned from the
discussion. Write your observations in your notebook.

Importance of Education? Essay on Education

By: Priyanka Nagrale

Countless words are written daily about the importance of education.

Indubitably, education is the only valuable asset humans can achieve. Human
evolution over eons is a result of education both formal and informal.

Further, education is the sole basis on which future of the human race depends.
Our quest for knowledge is unending and will continue till planet Earth exists.

5
 Everyone speaks about education and its importance. Hence, let us understand
what defines education. Briefly, education means acquiring knowledge.

In broader terms, education means acquiring various skills in diverse fields that
are vital to our life and very existence. These skills can be acquired by classroom
training and during course of our life.

Classroom education is generally deemed as formal education. Whatever we

learn and imbibe during our lifespan is informal education.

Furthermore, knowledge and the innate human capability to learn continually

distinguish us from other living creatures that inhabit this planet.

https://surejob.in/importance-of-education.html

Write your observations here:

Observation Observation
(Introduction) (Body)

Observation
(Conclusion)

6
 ACTIVITY 2. ENUMERATE

Copy and answer the following sample manifestos made by students. Read and
analyze what argument/s are posted by the writers. List it on the blank lines beside the
boxed items. Use your notebook in answering this activity.

Sofia Gabriel __________________________

I believe that creating a cohesive, vibrant __________________________

community that unites both the young
and the old is important to nurturing the __________________________
growth of individuals. I believe that
__________________________
community artworks are the anchors of
__________________________
this community, creating and maintaining __________________________
this sense of community. Therefore, I
believe that works of art, visual and __________________________
otherwise, should be created and
supported by members of a community __________________________
as important reminders and symbols of
__________________________
cohesive community.
__________________________

_____________________
Katie Sipiora
__________________________
I believe that every child has potential.
Regardless of race, socioeconomic __________________________
class, or IQ, every child has the ability to
contribute to our world. It can be __________________________
intellectual-- the next brilliant math or
physics theorem, the next great poem of __________________________
__________________________
our time-- it can be athletic--
__________________________
representing fair play and competition-- it
can be artistic-- a song, a dance, a play. __________________________
Every child has potential. No child is
confined by where they live, who their __________________________
parents are, what society expects of
them. Every child can contribute __________________________
something beautiful to our world. It can __________________________
be a smile, a laugh, one good thought.
That is all it takes to change someone's __________________________
life.
__________________________

7
 Congratulations! Activities 1 and 2 were great. Remember how the
essays were created, your observations will give you hint on how to make your
own later. Do not worry, you will develop writing the best one through the
activities that this module has prepared for you.

Reflective Questions: Write your answers in your notebook.

1. Why do you think it is important to familiarize the basic parts of an essay?

2. Now that you have learned how to put basic items into its part, what do you
think should you develop more to be able to write a position paper well in the
future?

WHAT I HAVE LEARNED

Remember these key points:

 A position paper - an essay that expresses a position on an issue.

Three elements

o Introduction
o Body
o Conclusion

8
  Manifesto - a document publicly declaring the position or program of its
issuer.

 Learning these, will guide a writer on what to include in each basic part of
the essay.

WHAT I CAN DO

ACTIVITY 3. SOCIETY IN FOCUS

Copy the table below in your notebook and list at least 5 issues that you can
identify that the society, your community is facing right now. Identify particular
information that you would like to deal with in your paper.

ISSUES WHAT I WANT TO FOCUS ON

Example: Cyberbullying  Effects among young people
 What should the government do to
address cybercrimes?

9
 ACTIVITY 4. MY OWN WORDS

From the issues you have listed in activity 3. Make a manifesto of your own. A
sample is shown below. For your output, you can use a blank page so that you can be
as creative as you like. You can send your output via email (teacher’s email).

Retrieved from https://soasunion.org/pageassets/elections/manifestoegs/MANIFESTO-2014.pdf

10
Refer to this rubric for your guidance.

EVALUATING MANIFESTO
(Rubrics Scoring Guide)
Criteria 5 4 3 2
The manifesto The manifesto The facts There are
contains many, contains used are only few facts
Content
ample facts. several facts. limited. used.
The The
There is logical The ideas are
presentation of presentation
presentation of not well-
Organization ideas is of ideas is not
ideas. presented.
smooth. so logical.
The language The language
The language
The language is informal is very
used is formal.
used is formal and some informal and
Vocabulary is
and there is no words are not several words
Language appropriate for
jargon or slang appropriate are difficult
the target
indicated. for the target for the target
audience.
audience. audience.
There is no
error in terms of
There is no There are few There are
grammar,
error in terms errors in several errors
spelling, and
of grammar, grammar, in grammar,
Mechanics punctuation.
spelling, and spelling, and spelling and
The sentences
punctuation. punctuation. punctuation.
make clear
sense.
Manifesto is Manifesto is
Manifesto is Manifesto is
creatively creatively
creatively creatively
presented presented but
presented but presented but
which makes it important
Presentation some details many details
catchy, details are
are not are not
attractive and not
prominent. presented.
interesting presented.

11
 POST ASSESSMENT

Choose the letter of the correct answer and write it in your notebook.

1. It is an academic paper expressing about a position about an issue

A. Critique paper
B. Position paper
C. Reaction paper
D. All of the above

2. Which of the following sections of a position paper needs ample time to collect
information?
A. Introduction C. Conclusion
B. Body D. All of the above

3. Which sections of a position paper restate the main point and final comment?
A. Introduction
B. body
C. conclusion
D. All of the above

4. The following situations can be used to express a position, except:

A. Social issues
B. Intriguing issues
C. Recurring issues
D. Gossips

5. What is the ideal minimum number of paragraphs in a position paper?

A. two paragraphs
B. three paragraphs
C. four paragraphs
D. five paragraphs

6. How can you make your paper convincing?

A. sources are cited properly
B. support opinions with evidences
C. record findings and post on any social media platform
D. none of the above

12
7. How many sources shall you incorporate in your paper?
A. one source
B. two sources
C. three or more sources
D. no need of any source

8. The following are to be considered in writing a manifesto, except

A. What issue should I want to address?
B. What do I want others do to address the issue?
C. What changes must I see?
D. All of the above

9. Which of the following is employed in writing a manifesto?

A. Be concise and use clear language
B. Avoid using long and complicated words
C. A and B
D. Neither A nor B

10. Which of the following is true in dealing with manifestos?

A. Elaborate on skills if doing manifesto for an election
B. Your manifesto is not about you but about your opponent.
C. Both A and B are correct
D. Only B is correct

13
Self-Check!
Great job! You have completed Lesson 1 successfully! Before going to the
next lesson, check the icon that best shows your learning experience.

I have understood the lesson well and I can even teach what I
learned to others.

I have understood the lesson but there are still other things
that I need to review and relearn.

I need to do additional work to be able to master the lesson. I

need help in some tasks.

If you checked the first icon, you are ready for lesson 2. If you have
checked the second icon, you need to review the things that you need to
relearn. If you have checked the third icon, it would be best if you read more
and ask help from your teacher, parents or peers in clarifying the lessons that
you find difficult. Be honest so that you will truly improve.

14
 ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES

After doing the activities:

I noticed
_________________________________________________

A question I have is
_________________________________________________

I’m not sure

_________________________________________________

I realized
_________________________________________________
__

Visit these links for more information about position paper and manifesto writing:

Links for Enrichment:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEMD4rEudzI
position paper writing accessed May 24, 2020

https://soasunion.org/elections/manifestoegs/
manifesto accessed May 24, 2020

https://www.slideshare.net/ariandeisecalalang/position-paper-73298714
position paper writing accessed May 24, 2020

https://quizizz.com/admin/quiz/5c6e81f17d7453001a11c7b9/parts-of-
position-paper
position paper writing accessed May 24, 2020

https://www.swarthmore.edu/arts-social-change/sample-manifestos-
swarthmore-students
manifesto accessed May 24, 2020

https://soasunion.org/elections/manifestoegs/
manifesto accessed May 24, 2020
15
 LESSON 2

WRITING A POSITION PAPER

OBJECTIVES:

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to:

 Defend a stand on an issue by presenting reasonable arguments

supported by properly cited factual evidences.
 Writing various position papers

WHAT I KNOW

Pre-Assessment

Test I. IDENTIFICATION

Instructions: Identify the term being described from the statements below. Write T if
the statement is true and write F if otherwise. Write your answers in your notebook.

_______1. Persuasion writing appeals to the reader’s emotion.

_______2. Advertisements use persuasion.

_______3. Using persuasion will ask someone to take action after believing what the
speaker has said.

_______ 4. Argumentation uses logic and evidences in making a claim.

_______ 5. Science and law use argumentation.
_______ 6. An introduction elaborates details of the writers’ position.
_______ 7. The conclusion reiterates the statement in the introduction.
_______ 8. The body of the paper is the largest part.
_______ 9. A thesis is an essential one-sentence part of the essay.
_______ 10. Writers need to exhaust ideas through extensive gathering of
information from different sources.

16
 WHAT'S NEW

What I KNOW About

Identify what are the items being described in the sentences below. These
words are important in presenting arguments. Write your answer on the space
provided for. Choose from the words inside the box. So, be ready for vocabulary work.

Factual Argument Defense Persuade Opinion

Issue Reason Claim Evidence Counterclaim

1. It is a statement of reasons; facts intended to support a point of view.

2. A sufficient ground of explanation or logical defense to explain a fact.
3. It is restricted and is based on facts.
4. It is the point at which an unsettled matter is ready for a decision
5. An action or words to resist an attack.
6. It is to cause someone to believe about something through consistent effort of
convincing.
7. These are facts or information as proof whether a belief or proposition is true or valid.
8. This view or judgment about something is formed not necessarily based on fact or
knowledge.
9. This is purposely made to rebut a previous claim.
10. An assertion of the truth of something, typically one that is disputed or in doubt.

How did you find the activity? Keep your focus because you will come
across those words in the next activities. Good Luck!

17
 WHAT IS IT

There are two basic of writing which specialized at convincing. These are:

1. Persuasion appeals to readers’ emotions to make them believe something or take

specific action. Persuasion can also use logic and evidence.

Note: Refer to the color coding

Steps in Persuasive Writing
1. State your opinion and introduce your argument.
2. Give your reasons for your opinion.
3. Illustrate with examples to support your opinion.
4. Restate your opinion and your suggested solution.

Example:

Parents’ love which is illustrated with their sacrifices is worth recognition.

They send their children to school even if they have not gone to school
themselves, even if their own wants are sacrificed just to fund students’
needs. You, dear students must recognize this immeasurable love of
your parents by being good in your studies.

2. Argumentation relies on logic and evidence to build a case for a specific claim.
Argumentation de-emphasizes appeals to emotion.

Steps in Argumentative Writing

1. Make a claim
2. Support your claim with reasons/evidence
3. Acknowledge the counterclaim
4. Refute the counterclaim
5. Conclude with strong statement

18
 Example:

Many students ignore the significance of doing well in their studies. They
often neglect their parents’ sacrifices by getting low grades or worst yet
getting a failing marks. On the other hand, psychologists say
performance in school is influenced by many factors which include
peers. However, to fair well in school is not only about influence but also
about being exposed to social realities such as difficulties of getting
decent job. Thus, funding students to school becomes a big sacrifice
among parents.

Persuasive versus Argumentative

This table below will help you differentiate Persuasive writing from
Argumentative writing.

CHARACTERISTICS PERSUASIVE ARGUMENTATIVE

Claim is based on Claim is based on
CLAIM
opinion factual evidence
Asks audience to do Proves a point to the
PURPOSE
something. audience.
Based on character and Based on stabilised
BASIS
emotion. position and logic.

How did you find the new information you have learned? I hope it could help you
as you accomplish the exercises that follow. Good Luck!

19
 WHAT'S MORE

ACTIVITY 1. MARK IT!

Copy the table below in your notebook. Read the descriptions below and
identify whether it is a form of persuasion or reason. Put an X on the appropriate box.

PERSUASIVE ARGUMENTATIVE
DESCRIPTION
WRITING WRITING
1. Writer starts with a strong opinion and
researches reasons to support it
2. Writer starts with a topic, researches and
discusses all sides of the issue, and
chooses one side to support
3. Appeals to readers with logic
4. Appeals to readers with evidence

5. Appeals to readers with emotion

6. Outlines multiple sides of the issue

7. Calls readers to action

8. Uses passionate, urgent writing voice
9. Uses calm, neutral writing voice
https://k12.thoughtfullearning.com/minilesson/distinguishing-argumentation-persuasion

ACTIVITY 2. MY COMMUNITY

Copy the table below in your notebook and list at least three (3)
issues/situations in the society and state your opinion, stand about these issues by
providing evidences/reasons.

ISSUES IN THE STAND/ OPINION EVIDENCES/REASONS

COMMUNITY
(e.g.) NO facemask NO Wearing mask in  Avoid virus
entry in all establishment must be contagion
establishments strictly observed.  Discipline is
imposed

20
 Evaluating a Position Paper Sample

A Position Paper of Drug Testing of High School and College

Students

Drug testing is a way to evaluate the type and the possibly the amount
of legal and especially for illegal drugs substances taken by a person.
Drug testing can be performed from small samples taken of your
The writer fingernails, saliva, or more commonly, your blood, urine, or hair. Almost
sets up the 10 percent of the nation’s teens report the use of illicit drugs within the
last month. The drug testing in high school and college students is an The writer
issue his/her opinion
important and ultimately one of the best solutions made by the
government officials to reduce and stop the increasing amount of young
drug users in schools, universities, and state colleges. Schools have The writer
made the policy of random drug testing on students to serves as a
warning to not get into peer pressure. Because I believe “a friend in provides little
deed won’t make you smoke that weed.” background

Drug testing in school has resulted in accurate, powerful and a positive

outcome in attempting to reduce the amount of young drug users in
The writer school. The purpose of drug testing is not to catch whose using an
illegal drug, but to prevent them from using it in the first place. Surely,
presents there should be action taken to punish those criminals. The current The writer gives
opposing method to attack drugs is at the source, by imprisoning dealers and
breaking the supply chain is not so succeeding. Why drug testing is so explanation
points
important and necessary to be implemented, because it is important to about his/ her
protect teenagers at the age were, they’re easily get influenced by the opinion
peers and at the time when their attitude to education greatly affects
their entire lives.

The writer Some sacrifice of human rights is necessary to eliminate the drug The writer ends
presents problem. Drug testing is a simple mechanism for examining the human with an appeal
body because there is a multiple option of detecting it by supplying
suggestion to urine, hair, or simply a breath. These small samples help to detect the by providing its
solve problem common drugs like methamphetamines, cocaine, and heroin. Also, if advantages
on drug you know that you are not breaking the law then there’s nothing to fear
of.
addiction https://www.academia.edu/35946977/A_Position_Paper_of_Drug_Te
among sting_of_High_School_and_College_Students
students

How did you find the sample? I hope this will help you on how to evaluate a
paper and consequently will give you an idea how to make your own position
paper later. So, please do the next activity.

21
 ACTIVITY 3. NOTE DETAILS

Read this essay and identify the stand/ reasons of the writer. Use your learned
skill in annotating a text. Follow the steps given for you. Write your answers in your
notebook.

Step 1. Identify the parts and write your comments of each on the sides of the article.
Step 2. Box in the main points/ claims that you can find.
Step 3. Underline the reasons/ evidences that support the claim.

As online learning becomes more common and more and more resources are converted to
digital form, some people have suggested that public libraries should be shut down and, in
their place, everyone should be given an iPad with an e-reader subscription.

Proponents of this idea state that it will save local cities and towns money because libraries
are expensive to maintain. They also believe it will encourage more people to read because
they won’t have to travel to a library to get a book; they can simply click on what they want to
read and read it from wherever they are. They could also access more materials because
libraries won’t have to buy physical copies of books; they can simply rent out as many digital
copies as they need.

However, it would be a serious mistake to replace libraries with tablets. First, digital books and
resources are associated with less learning and more problems than print resources. A study
done on tablet vs book reading found that people read 20-30% slower on tablets, retain 20%
less information, and understand 10% less of what they read compared to people who read
the same information in print. Additionally, staring too long at a screen has been shown to
cause numerous health problems, including blurred vision, dizziness, dry eyes, headaches,
and eye strain, at much higher instances than reading print does. People who use tablets and
mobile devices excessively also have a higher incidence of more serious health issues such
as fibromyalgia, shoulder and back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and muscle strain. I know
that whenever I read from my e-reader for too long, my eyes begin to feel tired and my neck
hurts. We should not add to these problems by giving people, especially young people, more
reasons to look at screens.

Second, it is incredibly narrow-minded to assume that the only service libraries offer is book
lending. Libraries have a multitude of benefits, and many are only available if the library has a
physical location. Some of these benefits include acting as a quiet study space, giving people
a way to converse with their neighbors, holding classes on a variety of topics, providing jobs,
answering patron questions, and keeping the community connected. One neighborhood found
that, after a local library instituted community events such as play times for toddlers and
parents, job fairs for teenagers, and meeting spaces for senior citizens, over a third of residents
reported feeling more connected to their community. Similarly, a Pew survey conducted in
2015 found that nearly two-thirds of American adults feel that closing their local library would
have a major impact on their community. People see libraries as a way to connect with others
and get their questions answered, benefits tablets can’t offer nearly as well or as easily.

While replacing libraries with tablets may seem like a simple solution, it would encourage
people to spend even more time looking at digital screens, despite the myriad issues
surrounding them. It would also end access to many of the benefits of libraries that people
have come to rely on. In many areas, libraries are such an important part of the community
network that they could never be replaced by a simple object.

Accessed from :https://blog.prepscholar.com/argumentative-essay-examples

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Reflective Questions:

1. Why do you think it is important to learn the various types of speech context?

2. Now that you have learned about speech context, what do think should a
speaker do to be able to make appropriate speeches in particular situations?

Remember!
The activities that are important to make a convincing stand.

A. Identify the issue

B. Make a stand
C. Formulate your thesis statement about your stand on the issue you have
identified.
D. Do research and readings to gather information that will be used as
evidences.
E. Present an effective argument

The basic parts of a position paper are as follows:

Introduction - Identification of the issue and background and the statement of

the position.

Body - Description of the argument

Presentation of facts and evidences

Conclusion - Restatement of main points and summarizes arguments

Suggestion of the course of action or possible solutions

Taking a stand about an issue will empower someone to change the opinions
and attitudes of others. Thus, in bringing about societal change the challenge is to be
firm in making a stand.

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 ACTIVITY 4. USE IT

Read this sample position paper and identify the stand/ reasons of the writer.
Use the reading guide provided for to facilitate better understanding of the paper. Use
the template below to make your own position paper.

READING GUIDE
Please identify the following:

Position Paper’s Topic/ Issue:

___________________________________________________________

Evidences/ Reasons:
___________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________

Call for action/ Solution:

___________________________________________________________

Sample Position Paper

Should Homework be Mandatory?

I can almost see many students nodding along with me as I ask this question. Younger
generations overloaded with home tasks and numerous assignments have already raised this
issue many times.

Yet, homework remains mandatory.

Is it fair or should it be cancelled?

I believe that homework should not be viewed as a mandatory part of education for
several reasons.

First, children spend seven hours every single work day at school. That is a huge chunk
of life, and with homework added on top of these hours, a child is left with no time to live his
life to the fullest, socialize, or grow in other areas.

Second, sitting at your desk solving problems does no good to your health. Kids need
time to get outside and have some fun, join a football league, or ride their bikes with friends
around the block. Otherwise, children will be very smart but surprisingly weak physically.

Another argument against this position is that homework is not always the best way to
obtain knowledge quality-wise. Students tend to ask their parents or siblings for help whenever
facing difficulties. Busy parents not always willing to spend extra time explaining school
material to their little one solve the problems themselves aiming to have more time for family,
not lessons. As a result, the child will have the homework done. But that’s really not his work.
So, the whole idea of dedicating time to self-education is lost here.

24
 Finally, knowing that after classes you would still have to work at home makes a kid
less concentrated at school. This results in short attention spans and difficulty to concentrate
on something for too long.

All in all, homework should rather be an option. Students understanding that they are
left behind at some subjects will take their time to go over the material at home. However, in
other cases, they should have time after school for other activities.
Accessed from: (https://chiefessays.net/position-essay-examples-to-help-you-grasp-the-idea/)

WHAT I CAN DO

ACTIVITY 2.3

From the issues listed below, choose one (1) to work on to develop into a
position paper. Second, do some researching/reading to gather information. Third,
defend your stand by writing a position paper with the intention of convincing your
reader to support your stand. Refer to the rubric on page 37. Write your position paper
on a sheet of paper.

List of Issues:

Online Classes Among Public Schools Students

Curfew Among Minors
Community Lockdown
Government Funds Distribution
Cyber Bullying
________________________________ (topic of your choice)

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 (Write your position paper here on the issue of your choice.)

Introduction ____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
 Catchy ____________________________________________________________
Topic
sentence ____________________________________________________________
 Your ____________________________________________________________
Position ____________________________________________________________
about the ____________________________________________________________
issue

____________________________________________________________
Body ____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
 Position
 Evidences ____________________________________________________________
 Personal ____________________________________________________________
experience ____________________________________________________________
s relative
to the ____________________________________________________________
issue ____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
Conclusion ____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________
 Summary,
Conclusion ____________________________________________________________
 Action ____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
________________________

26
RUBRIC IN WRITING A POSITION PAPER:

SCORE
EXCELLENT GOOD FAIR POOR
CRITERION
4 3 2 1

Content and Takes a strong, Clear Position not No clear position

Development well-defined position clearly stated; taken; reasons
(50%) position; uses at taken and development is underdeveloped;
least three defined; brief, unrelated, no supporting facts
appropriate some unsupported used.
reasons with at reasons general
least two and some statements,
supporting details details reasons, and
for each reason. present, but details, minimal
Counter arguments not fully facts used.
effectively developed. Counter
addressed, without Counter arguments not
undercutting arguments acknowledged.
position. addressed.
x.50
Organization Structure of paper Structure is Structure of the Organization and
and Structure is clear and easy to mostly clear paper is not structure detract
(20%) follow. Paragraph and easy to easy to follow. the message of
transitions are follow. Paragraph the writer.
logical and Paragraph transitions need Paragraphs are
maintained the flow transitions improvement. disjointed and lack
of thought are present. Conclusion is transition of
throughout the Conclusion not logical. thoughts.
paper. Conclusion is logical.
is logical and flows
from the body of
the paper.
x.20
Format Paper follows Paper Paper follows Paper lacks more
(10%) guidelines. Paper follows most of the elements of
has appropriate guidelines. guidelines. correct formatting.
length as described Paper has Paper is Paper is
for the assignment. appropriate over/under word inadequate/
Format enhances length for length. excessive in
readability of the the length.
paper. assignment.
Format is
good.
x.10
Grammar, Rules of grammar, Rules of Paper contains Paper contains
Punctuation usage, punctuation grammar, few grammatical,
& Spelling are followed; usage, grammatical, punctuation and
(20%) spelling is correct. punctuation punctuation and spelling errors.
Language is clear are followed spelling errors. Language uses
and precise; with minor Language lacks jargon or
sentences display errors. Few/ clarity or conversational
consistently strong, no spelling includes the use tone
varied structure. errors. of some jargon
or
conversational
tone.
x.20
OVERALL
SCORE
Source:https://eng.ucmerced.edu/people/awesterling/SPR2014.ESS141/Assignments/rubric2.pdf

27
 Congratulations! The weeks you spent to ensure that you can express well
in writing in various situations was worth it! Pat your back! You’ve made It! You
now have a position paper of your own.

POST ASSESSMENT

Directions: Match the descriptions in Column A with the terms in column B.

Write your answers in your notebook.

Column A Column B

_______1. A one- sentence statement about the topic. A. Argument

_______2. A statement that relies on logic and evidence. B. Persuasion
_______3. A statement that appeals to emotion to convince. C. Thesis
_______4. It is a part of the essay where you encourage D. Body
readers to take action. E. Introduction
_______5. It is a part of the essay which elaborates detail. F. Conclusion
_______6. A paper that poses the writers position of an G. Position Paper
issue.
_______7. A type of writing which uses examples to
defend a claim.
_______8. An academic writing that shows how your stance
relates to other positions.
_______9. A written form that de-emphasizes appeal to emotion
_______10. An element of position paper which includes
personal experiences to illustrate a position.

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Self-Check!
Great job! You have completed Lesson 1 successfully! Before going to the
next lesson, check the icon that best shows your learning experience.

I have understood the lesson well and I can even teach what I
learned to others.

I have understood the lesson but there are still other things that
I need to review and relearn.

I need to do additional work to be able to master the lesson. I

need help in some tasks.

If you checked the first icon, you are ready for lesson 2. If you have
checked the second icon, you need to review the things that you need to relearn.
If you have checked the third icon, it would be best if you read more and ask
help from your teacher, parents or peers in clarifying the lessons that you find
difficult. Be honest so that you will truly improve

29
 ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES

Use the FOUR-SQUARE Writing Template below to draft your learning about
writing a position paper. Write your answer in your notebook.

Information Significant Learning/s

Topic

Realizations Conclusion
(Short Description)

30
 Links for Enrichment:

https://soasunion.org/elections/manifestoegs/
manifesto accessed May 24, 2020

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEMD4rEudzI
position paper accessed May 24, 2020

https://www.slideshare.net/ariandeisecalalang/position-paper-73298714
position paper accessed May 24, 2020

https://www.swarthmore.edu/arts-social-change/sample-manifestos-swarthmore-
students
manifesto accessed May 24, 2020

https://quizizz.com/admin/quiz/5c6e81f17d7453001a11c7b9/parts-of-position-paper
position paper accessed May 24, 2020

https://study.com/academy/lesson/how-to-write-a-great-argument.html
argumentative writing accessed May 24, 2020

https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/argument/
argumentative writing accessed May 24, 2020

https://k12.thoughtfullearning.com/minilesson/distinguishing-argumentation-
persuasion
persuasive versus argumentative writing accessed May 24, 2020

https://bid4papers.com/blog/persuasive-essay/persuasive-article
persuasive accessed May 24, 2020

Congratulations! Lesson 2 was a bit hard right? But I am sure you were able to
apply your learning from the discussions which enable you to write your paper.
Continue and persevere to learn more as we accomplish the next lesson. Keep
up the good work!

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ANSWER KEY
Lesson 1

10. B 10. A 10. T

9. C 9. C 9. F
8. C 8. D 8. T
7. A 7. C 7. T
6. E 6. B 6. F
5. B 5. D 5. T
4. D 4. D 4. T
3. D 3. C 3. T
2. C 2. B 2. T
1. D 1. B 1. T

ACTIVITY 2.1 POST-TEST PRE-TEST

Lesson 2

REFERENCES
Saqueton G, Uychoco M .2016. English for Academic and Professional Purposes.
1977 CM Recto Avenue, Manila: Rex Bookstore.

Wyson, John Daryl B. 2016. English for Academic and Professional Purposes,
Quezon City:Vibal Group Inc.

English for Academic Purposes Learner’s Material and Teacher’s Guide. Department
of Education, First Edition, 2016.

32
For inquiries or feedback, please write or call:

Department of Education – Alternative Delivery Mode (DepEd-ADM)

Office Address: Masterson Avenue, Upper Balulang, Zone 1, Cagayan de

Oro City, Cagayan de Oro, Lalawigan ng Misamis Oriental
Telefax:

Email Address:

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