Short Review & Key Points on Critical Reading

Critical Reading:

 Involves analyzing a text, not just understanding it.

 It means asking questions like, "What is the author trying to say?" and
"What is their main argument?"

 Critical reading is about engaging with the material and evaluating its
strengths and weaknesses.

Key Concepts:

1. Critical Reading ≠ Being Critical:

o It doesn’t mean dismissing the author’s ideas but evaluating

them.

o It’s about understanding the different viewpoints and forming

your own judgment.

2. Strategies for Critical Reading:

o Annotating: Mark key points and make notes while reading.

o Contextualizing: Understand the historical or cultural

background of the text.

o Reflecting: Consider if the text challenges your beliefs or

values.

o Paraphrasing: Restate the text in your own words for clarity.

o Outlining: Identify the structure and main ideas of the text.

o Summarizing: Create a concise version of the main points.

o Exploring Figurative Language: Understand metaphors,

similes, and symbols used in the text.

o Evaluating Logic: Assess the claim and the supporting

evidence of an argument.

3. Critical Reading Process:

o Go beyond the surface meaning of a text.

o Examine the author’s argument, its limitations, and the broader

context.
 o Think about how the ideas in the text relate to your own
knowledge and beliefs.

Exercise: In the "trolley problem" scenario, critical reading would involve

evaluating not just the surface decision (saving five people versus one), but
also thinking about what this scenario says about decision-making, ethics,
and moral judgment.

Conclusion:

Critical reading is not about agreeing or disagreeing but understanding,

questioning, and analyzing the material to gain deeper insights.

Short Review & Key Points on Critical Reading and Reasoning

Critical Reading:

 Involves active understanding of the author's message, not just

accepting it at face value.

 You should reflect on:

o What the text says: Take notes, paraphrase key points.

o What the text describes: Compare and contrast with other

writings.

o Interpretation: Analyze the text and state its meaning in your

own words.

 Critical reading helps you enter into a dialogue with the author,
evaluating their arguments and strengthening your understanding of
the topic.

Key Concepts:

1. Reasoning & Evidence:

o Critical reading and thinking involve reasoning based on data

and evidence.

o Evidence supports the validity of assertions and includes facts,

statistics, and expert testimony.

2. Fact vs. Opinion:

o Fact: Can be verified or proven true (e.g., “Neil Armstrong

landed on the moon”).
 o Opinion: Subjective and needs supporting facts to be valid (e.g.,
“Boracay has the most beautiful sand”).

o Pay attention to persuasive language (e.g., “ought to,”

“should,” “must”)—these indicate opinions.

3. Types of Reasoning:

o Inference: Drawing a conclusion from known facts (e.g., if

someone excels at surfing, they may also be good at
skateboarding).

o Generalization: Drawing a conclusion based on several facts

(e.g., “There are more girls than boys in every homeroom, so
there must be more girls in the whole school”).

o Analogy: Comparing two things that share similarities (e.g.,

“The cell is like a factory”).

o Cause and Effect: Identifying what causes something to happen

(e.g., “When a warm air mass meets a cool air mass, it rains”).

Example Analysis:

 The subject of a sentence will never be found inside a

prepositional phrase: Factual (This can be verified by grammar
rules).

 Hans Solo and Luke Skywalker are characters in the Star Wars
movies: Factual (This can be verified by watching the movies).

 It is very important to identify the predicate of a sentence:

Opinionated (This is an opinion, though commonly agreed upon by
grammarians).

 The fact is that Boracay has the most beautiful sand in the
world: Opinionated (This is subjective and not universally verifiable).

Conclusion:

Critical reading is essential for analyzing texts, understanding arguments,

and making logical decisions. By distinguishing between facts and opinions,
and using evidence to support reasoning, you can strengthen your critical
thinking and decision-making skills.

Short Review & Key Points on Evaluative Statements and Critical

Thinking
Evaluative Reading & Thinking:

 Evaluation is the process of making value judgments about the text

you read, assessing its strengths and weaknesses.

 It involves critical thinking, which includes looking at the context,

content, language, syntax, and meaning of the text.

Key Concepts:

1. Evaluative Statements:

o These are opinions or judgments about a text based on a set

of criteria.

o They explain why something is good or bad using evidence to

support the claim.

o Objective and fair evaluations are important, avoiding unfair or

cruel criticism.

2. Why Are Evaluative Statements Important?

o They help assess the accuracy and quality of the information.

o They encourage deeper thinking, allowing you to consider

different perspectives and form your own opinion.

o Evaluation strengthens critical thinking, helping you

understand both sides of an argument.

3. How to Form Evaluative Statements:

o Start with positives: Acknowledge strengths before addressing

weaknesses.

o Be concise: Focus on the content without being overly detailed.

o Be fair when pointing out negatives: Critique the situation or

the argument, not the person.

Steps for Crafting Evaluative Statements:

1. Assertions:

o Form declarative sentences that claim something about the text

(e.g., "The article is insightful" or "The research is
comprehensive").
 o Use evaluative words like important, insightful, detailed, or
practical.

2. Counterclaims:

o Offer a reasonable counterclaim to oppose the text’s main

argument, recognizing its weaknesses.

o Be polite and moderate in tone, using words like "may,"

"probably," or "possibly".

Example Practice:

 Positive Statement: "Human beings are capable of sharing

goodness, especially during calamities."

 Concise Feedback: "The statement acknowledges humans' ability to

do good, particularly in times of crisis."

 Negative Point: "The world could improve if everyone shared

goodness, eliminating hatred and selfishness."

 Counterclaim: "While sharing goodness is ideal, it's unlikely that

everyone would consistently act this way."

Conclusion:

Evaluative reading helps you assess the quality of what you read and
form balanced opinions based on evidence. By carefully analyzing texts
and offering reasoned judgments, you become a more critical and
thoughtful reader.

Short Review & Key Points on Assertions

What are Assertions?

 Assertions are declarative sentences that claim something is true

about a topic.

 They express strong beliefs or opinions without necessarily

providing evidence.

 Assertions can be fact-based or subjective in nature.

Four Common Types of Assertion:

1. Fact:
 o A fact is a statement that can be proven objectively through
evidence, direct experience, or research.

o It is verifiable and generally agreed upon.

o Example: "The Department of Health reported that the

Philippines had 169,213 cases of coronavirus on August 18,
2020."

2. Convention:

o A convention is based on common practices, traditions, or

norms. It reflects widely accepted beliefs or rules.

o Its truth is determined by how it aligns with established

historical precedents or customs.

o Example: "SARS-CoV-2 evolved from a β-coronavirus that

naturally infects bats and pangolins in Southeast Asia."

3. Opinion:

o An opinion is based on facts but cannot be easily verified due

to its subjective nature.

o Opinions are open to disagreement and interpretation.

o Example: "Some doctors believe the virus is a global issue that

won’t be resolved quickly."

4. Preference:

o A preference is a personal choice or point of view that cannot

be proven or logically debated.

o It reflects individual beliefs or desires.

o Example: "I believe stopping societies and economies will

reduce the spread of the virus."

Key Takeaways:

 Facts are objective and verifiable.

 Conventions are based on commonly accepted practices or beliefs.

 Opinions are subjective and based on interpretation.

 Preferences are personal and cannot be proven right or wrong.

Understanding these different types of assertions helps you assess the
validity and evidence behind the statements you encounter.

Short Review & Key Points on Claims and Counterclaims

What are Claims and Counterclaims?

 Claim: The statement or argument put forward by one side, usually

supporting a position or idea.

 Counterclaim: The opposing argument that presents a contrasting

view to the original claim.

Key Concepts:

1. Purpose of Claims and Counterclaims:

o A claim presents the main argument or point of view.

o A counterclaim provides a contrasting perspective or

opposing view.

o Both are used to present different sides of an issue or debate,

such as in essays, discussions, or legal cases.

2. How to Introduce a Counterclaim:

o When introducing a counterclaim, avoid presenting it as "right"

or "wrong" immediately. Instead, explain why others might
believe the opposing view.

o Use phrases like:

 "The opposing view is that..."

 "Some may say that..."

 "While it may be true that..."

 "Critics argue that..."

 "It is often thought that..."

3. Analyzing a Claim and Counterclaim:

o Claim: Identifies the argument or position taken.

o Counterclaim: Highlights the opposite view.

 o Support for Arguments: Both claims and counterclaims are
supported by evidence, reasoning, and examples.

Example Practice:

Situation:
Jenny needs a laptop to attend online classes, while her parents believe a
smartphone and textbooks will suffice.

 Claim: Jenny argues that she needs a laptop with internet access to
complete her assignments and attend online classes.

 Counterclaim: Her parents argue that a smartphone is sufficient, and

she can use textbooks and other available resources for her studies.

Questions to Analyze:

1. What is the major point of disagreement between Jenny and

her parents?

o Jenny wants a laptop for online learning, while her parents

believe a smartphone and textbooks are enough.

2. What defenses do each party have?

o Jenny’s Defense: A laptop with internet access is necessary for

completing assignments and attending online classes.

o Parents' Defense: A smartphone is cheaper and still allows

access to text-based learning and resources.

3. Who has the strongest argument?

o Jenny's argument might be stronger if her classes require

internet access and multimedia resources.

o The parents' argument could be stronger if they are

emphasizing cost-effectiveness and the adequacy of
available resources.

Key Takeaways:

 Claims and counterclaims allow you to examine an argument from

multiple angles.

 Reasoning and evidence are key in supporting both sides of an

argument.
  Introducing a counterclaim shows that you’ve considered different
viewpoints and strengthens critical thinking.

Short Review & Key Points on Textual Evidence

What is Textual Evidence?

 Textual evidence is specific information, facts, or examples from a

text that support or prove a claim, assertion, or idea. It strengthens
your argument by backing it up with proof from the text.

Key Points:

1. Purpose of Textual Evidence:

o To validate or support assertions or claims.

o Helps make an argument believable and convincing.

2. Steps to Analyze and Cite Textual Evidence:

o Read the paragraph carefully: Understand the main idea.

o Find the main claim: Usually in the topic sentence.

o Look for supporting evidence: Identify examples that support

the claim.

o Explain how the evidence supports the claim: Make clear

the connection between the evidence and the assertion.

3. Types of Textual Evidence:

o Direct Quotation: Use the exact words from the text, placed
inside quotation marks.

 Example: “The cult of busyness demands that we take on

more than we can properly cope with...” (from the article
Why We All Need Quiet Days).

o Paraphrasing: Rewrite the author's ideas in your own words

while keeping the same meaning.

 Example: The author suggests that the demand for

constant activity harms our mental health.

o Summarizing: Briefly state the main points of the passage.

  Example: The author claims that the pressure of being
constantly busy leads to stress, breakdowns, and poor
health.

4. How to Cite Textual Evidence:

o Introduce the evidence with phrases like:

 "The author stated..."

 "In the text, it says..."

 "According to the text..."

o Where to find evidence:

 "On page ____, it says..."

 "In paragraph ____, it was written..."

 "In the ___ sentence, it said..."

5. Why is Textual Evidence Important?

o It helps support your arguments with facts.

o Without evidence, assertions can seem unfounded or weak.

Example Analysis:

Text:
The author argues that the ideal of being constantly busy is destructive,
leading to physical and mental health problems.

 Assertion: The idea of constant busyness harms people’s health.

 Evidence: The author writes, “Our cult of busyness demands that we

take on more than we can properly cope with; until we have a
breakdown and want to lock ourselves away...”

 Explanation: The quoted evidence shows the negative consequences

of a busy lifestyle, supporting the assertion about its harmful effects.

Conclusion:

 Use direct quotations, paraphrasing, or summarizing to back up

your claims.

 Textual evidence is essential for making your arguments strong and

credible.
Short Review & Key Points on Counterclaims

What is a Counterclaim?

 A counterclaim is an argument or statement that opposes the main

claim. It represents the other side’s perspective on the issue and is
important in presenting a well-rounded argument.

Key Points:

1. Purpose of a Counterclaim:

o It provides balance to the argument by acknowledging opposing

viewpoints.

o Including counterclaims makes your argument stronger because

it shows that you have considered different perspectives.

2. How to Present a Counterclaim:

o Acknowledge the opposing view.

o Support the counterclaim with evidence or reasoning, just like

you would support your main claim.

3. Steps to Use Counterclaims:

1. Read the paragraph carefully and identify the counterclaim.

2. Find textual evidence that supports the counterclaim.

3. Explain how the evidence backs up the counterclaim.

4. Counterclaim Prompts: These phrases signal that a counterclaim is

being introduced:

o "The opposing view is that..."

o "Some people argue that..."

o "It might seem that..."

o "One might object that..."

o "Despite the evidence, some believe that..."

5. Example of Counterclaim:
Claim/Assertion:
"Students should not spend more time in school because children need time
to explore on their own."

Counterclaim:
"Some argue that students remember lessons better when they spend more
time in school."

Evidence for Counterclaim:

"This makes sense because students would have more exposure to the
learning material and formality in their studies."

6. Validating the Counterclaim:

o Use evidence to support the counterclaim, similar to how you

support the original assertion.

o Example:
Textual evidence: "The rapid warming we are experiencing
today can only be explained by increasing amounts of carbon
dioxide."

Explanation:
This shows that, despite natural changes, human activities (carbon
emissions) are the key factor driving today's warming.

7. Importance of Counterclaims:

o Strengthens your argument by acknowledging the other side.

o Helps the audience see that you have thought critically about the
issue.

o Makes your argument more credible and balanced.

Conclusion:

 Presenting a counterclaim is essential for a fair and persuasive

argument.

 It helps show that you understand multiple perspectives and have

strong reasoning for your position.

Short Review & Key Points on Writing a Book Review

A book review is a detailed evaluation and analysis of a book, summarizing
its content and critically examining its strengths and weaknesses. It helps
readers decide if the book is worth their time and suits their interests.

Key Points:

1. What is a Book Review?

o A book review is a descriptive and critical analysis of a book

(fiction or nonfiction).

o It includes the subject, strengths, weaknesses, and context

of the book.

2. Before Writing a Book Review:

o Read actively and analytically, taking notes.

o Focus on key elements: the title, themes, plot, characters, tone,

and author’s style.

o Re-read the book for a deeper understanding.

3. Structure of a Book Review:

o Introduction:

 Mention the title, author, and publication year.

 Provide context about the author if helpful.

 Write a thesis statement: your main evaluation (positive,

negative, or mixed).

 Briefly summarize the book’s plot or main points.

o Body (Analysis & Evaluation):

 Discuss literary elements: setting, plot, themes,

characters, and writing style.

 Explain how these elements contribute to the book’s

overall meaning.

 Mention the strengths and weaknesses of the book.

 Relate it to human experiences and other books in the

same genre.
  State if the book is entertaining, informative, or
meaningful, and whether you’d recommend it.

o Conclusion:

 Summarize your overall evaluation without giving away

the ending.

 Mention the strengths and weaknesses you discussed.

 Support your opinions with evidence from the book.

 Avoid simple opinions and always provide reasons.

Example (based on the book Trash by Andy Mulligan):

 Introduction:
Trash by Andy Mulligan (2010) tells the story of three boys who live in
a dumpsite in a poor country. The book explores themes of poverty,
hope, and bravery in the face of corruption.

 Body:
The book's strength is its vivid descriptions of the dumpsite and the
bravery of the characters. The plot is fast-paced and filled with
adventure, but it also shows the harsh realities of life. A weakness is
some unpleasant descriptions, like the scenes in prison. However, the
characters’ courage and loyalty make the story compelling.

 Conclusion:
Trash would appeal to readers aged 11 and up. It’s an adventure filled
with emotional depth. While some parts might be hard to read, the
characters’ determination to fight a corrupt system makes it
worthwhile. It’s a great read for anyone interested in stories about
survival and justice.

Conclusion:

 A good book review should be more than just a summary.

 It should provide insightful analysis and critical evaluation to help

readers decide whether they want to read the book. Always support
your opinions with examples from the text.

Short Review & Key Points on Writing an Article Critique

An article critique is a detailed analysis and evaluation of a scholarly

article, assessing its contributions, strengths, and weaknesses. It is an
academic exercise that helps readers understand the value and limitations of
a published work.

Key Points:

1. Purpose of Writing an Article Critique:

o Target Audience: It addresses a specific academic audience.

o Critical Response: Provides a critical analysis of the article,

rather than just summarizing it.

o Logical Reasoning: Uses evidence and reasoning to support

your evaluation.

2. Structure of an Article Critique: The critique typically has four

parts:

1. Introduction:

o Author's Name(s) and Title of the Article.

o Main Point: What is the author trying to convey in the article?

o Thesis Statement: Preview your analysis of the article.

2. Summary:

o Main Points: A concise discussion of the article’s primary ideas.

o Arguments: The key arguments or claims made by the author.

o Findings: What conclusions or results the author presents in the

article.

3. Critique:

o Strengths: What are the positive aspects of the article?

o Weaknesses: Discuss the limitations or areas for

improvement.

o Clarity, Relevance, and Accuracy: Evaluate how clear,

relevant, and accurate the article is. Provide examples from the
article to support your opinion.

4. Conclusion:

o Summary: Restate the key points of both the article and your
critique.
 o Significance: Comment on the importance of the research or
suggest future research areas in the field.

Example Breakdown:

 Introduction: In an article titled “The Impact of Climate Change on

Biodiversity,” Dr. Smith argues that global warming is significantly
altering species distribution. This critique will evaluate the strengths
and weaknesses of the article's methodology and argument.

 Summary: The article discusses how rising temperatures are forcing

species to migrate, with some species facing extinction. Dr. Smith
supports this by referencing climate models and case studies.

 Critique: Strengths: The article is well-researched and offers clear

evidence from various case studies. Weaknesses: The article overlooks
local factors that may also influence species migration. It could have
included more diverse data sources to improve its accuracy.

 Conclusion: While the article provides valuable insights into climate

change’s effect on biodiversity, future research should focus on
regional variations in species migration to offer a more comprehensive
view of the issue.

Conclusion:

 An article critique should summarize the article, evaluate its

strengths and weaknesses, and provide an insightful analysis.

 The critique should be well-supported with specific examples from

the article to back up your evaluation.

Short Review & Key Points on Writing a Literature Review

A literature review is an academic paper that provides a comprehensive

summary and analysis of existing research on a particular topic. It is not just
a summary of sources but synthesizes the information, helping readers
understand the current state of knowledge and identifying gaps or
contradictions in previous research.

Key Points:

Purposes of a Literature Review:

1. Establishes Importance: It highlights the significance of the topic

and identifies gaps in the existing research.
 2. Provides Information: Introduces readers to relevant studies and
familiarizes them with the topic.

3. Clarifies Contradictions: Identifies conflicts or disagreements among

previous studies.

4. Justifies Research: Helps justify the research approach, questions,

and theoretical framework.

Structure of a Literature Review:

1. Introduction:

o Clearly defines the thesis of the paper.

o Explains the rationale for conducting the review.

o Organizes the data logically and transitions into the main topic of
the review.

2. Body:

o Organizes sources either by topic or chronologically.

o Discusses the relevance of each source and how they contribute

to the main research topic.

3. Conclusion:

o Summarizes the key points from the review.

o Critiques the current state of the field, highlighting knowledge

gaps.

o Suggests areas for future research and explains how the review
addresses these gaps.

Writing a Literature Review:

1. Scan Articles: Get an overview of each article before diving deeper

into specifics.

2. Group Articles: Organize sources into categories (e.g., themes,

methodologies).

3. Organize Notes: Keep consistent, clear notes while reviewing articles.

4. Key Definitions & Stats: Look for key terms, definitions, and
statistics that could be useful early on in your review.
 5. Methodology: Pay attention to both the strengths and weaknesses in
the methodologies of the studies.

6. Identify Trends: Look for major patterns, trends, or relationships

across studies.

7. Spot Gaps: Identify missing elements or areas where research is

lacking.

8. Evaluate Sources: Check if the sources are up-to-date and

comprehensive.

Conclusion:

A literature review synthesizes existing research on a topic, identifies

gaps, and suggests future areas for exploration. It helps provide context for
new research by summarizing, analyzing, and critiquing previous studies.

Short Review & Key Points on Writing a Research Report

A research report is an academic paper that presents the findings from a

research study. It involves gathering data through various methods like
observations, surveys, or interviews, and reporting the results in a structured
format. Writing a research report is often a challenging but essential task for
students.

Key Points:

Characteristics of an Effective Research Report:

1. Specific: The research topic should address a specific problem or

relationship between variables.

2. Measurable: Use appropriate research tools (e.g., surveys, SPSS) for

data analysis.

3. Attainable: Ensure that the required data is accessible and feasible.

4. Realistic: Results should be based on real, unmanipulated data.

5. Proper Formatting: Follow a specific format (e.g., APA, MLA) for

consistency and clarity.

Parts of a Research Report:

1. Title Page:

o Includes a descriptive title reflecting the content of the paper.

 2. Abstract:

o A concise summary of the research, including background,

results, and implications.

Abstract Writing Tips:

o Briefly introduce your research area.

o State the main result and its significance.

o Contextualize your result within current literature.

o Conclude with the broader implications of your findings.

3. Introduction:

o Introduce the topic and why it’s important.

o Outline the existing research and identify gaps.

o State the main research objective and how the study addresses
the gap.

o Preview the key results and structure of the paper.

4. Literature Review:

o Summarize and analyze existing research on the topic.

o Identify major trends, gaps, and how your research contributes to

the field.

5. Methodology:

o Detail the research design, tools, and procedures used.

o Include information on subjects, sampling, data collection, and

analysis methods.

o Discuss limitations and justify your choices.

6. Results:

o Present the collected data, using tables and graphs.

o Highlight key findings and any unexpected results.

o Offer brief explanations for any anomalies.

7. Discussion:
 o Interpret the results in light of previous research.

o Discuss strengths, weaknesses, and implications.

o Suggest areas for future research.

8. Conclusion:

o Recap the main findings and their significance.

o Address the limitations and offer recommendations for future

research.

9. References/Bibliography:

o List all sources cited in the report.

10. Appendices:

 Include supplementary information that’s not crucial for the main text
but adds value.

Basic Steps in Writing a Research Report:

1. Develop the topic and refine your research question.

2. Search for relevant information to support your research.

3. Evaluate sources for reliability and relevance.

4. Organize your findings and take notes effectively.

5. Write the report following the correct structure.

6. Properly cite sources to avoid plagiarism.

7. Proofread your report to ensure clarity and accuracy.

Conclusion:

Writing a research report involves careful planning, data collection, and

analysis. It requires following a structured format to present your findings
clearly and concisely, with each section building upon the previous one. By
adhering to these key points and steps, students can effectively write a
comprehensive and well-organized research report.

Short Review & Key Points on Writing a Project Proposal

A project proposal is a detailed plan that describes a project, its goals, and
how it will be executed, often to secure funding or approval from potential
sponsors. It should be carefully organized and provide all necessary details to
help stakeholders make an informed decision about supporting the project.

Key Points:

1. Project Description:

 Project Title: Clearly define the name of the project.

 Type of Project: State the type (e.g., education, health, arts).

 Project Proponent: Name the organization or individuals proposing

the project.

 Beneficiaries: List the number and location of the beneficiaries.

 Budget Requirement: Provide the total budget needed and specify

how much is being requested.

2. Project Background/Situation Analysis:

 Discuss the problem or opportunity that the project addresses. Explain

the current situation and why the project is needed.

3. Project Objectives:

 Define the short- and long-term goals of the project.

 Ensure the objectives are specific, measurable, attainable,

realistic, and time-bound (SMART).

4. Desired Impact and Outcome:

 Describe the expected effects of the project, including social, cultural,

and economic impacts.

 Outline how the project will be sustained.

5. Risk Management Plan:

 Identify potential risks and external factors that could affect the
project.

 Present strategies to manage and mitigate those risks.

6. Project Organization and Staffing:

 Explain the roles and responsibilities of the project team members.

 Provide contact details for the key staff involved.

7. Project Work Plan:

 Outline the steps and activities required to complete the project.

 Include a timeline with key milestones and responsible persons for

each task.

8. Detailed Budget Requirement:

 Break down the budget, listing all necessary expenses (materials,

travel, etc.).

 Specify sources for the required funding.

9. Other Relevant Information:

 Include details about complementary projects, pledges from sponsors,

or partnerships.

10. Attachments:

 Attach any supporting documents like the organization's profile,

endorsements, and recommendations.

Sample Project Proposal (Summary):

 Project Title: ACT4KIDS: Activities for Kids

 Type of Project: Health

 Project Proponent: Youth for the Nation

 Beneficiaries: 40 street children in Mariveles, Bataan

 Objective: Teach children their rights, help them socialize, and

develop their talents.

 Budget: Php 10,500.00 (no funding requested)

Conclusion:

A project proposal is crucial for planning, funding, and implementing a

successful initiative. It should be clear, well-structured, and provide all
necessary information about the project, from its goals and budget to
potential risks and desired outcomes.

Short Review & Key Points on Writing a Position Paper

A position paper is an essay where the writer takes a stance on a specific
issue and supports their argument with well-researched evidence. It aims to
persuade readers through clear reasoning, facts, and logical argumentation.

Key Points:

1. Well-Defined Issue:

 The writer must clearly identify the specific issue being addressed.

 Example: Focus on a specific topic like a school program on bullying,

rather than a broad topic like "bullying" in general.

2. Clear Position:

 The writer must take a clear stance on the issue and argue in favor of
that position.

 Example: Decide whether positive discipline or reinforcement is more

effective in preventing bullying and defend this position.

3. Convincing Argument:

 Present supporting evidence to strengthen the argument. This could

include statistics, research studies, or expert opinions.

 Example: Use data showing that positive discipline hasn't reduced

bullying to support the argument for a new solution.

4. Appropriate Tone:

 The writer should use language that is suitable for the topic and helps
convey the argument effectively.

 The tone should match the seriousness of the issue being discussed.

Structure of a Position Paper:

Introduction:

 Introduce the issue and state your position.

 Example: "The school has been using positive discipline to address

bullying, but reports of bullying have increased."

Body:

 Present the evidence that supports your position.

  Example: "Despite implementing positive discipline, the Guidance
Office has seen a 2% increase in bullying cases."

 State the current situation and propose a solution.

 Example: "Given the failure of positive discipline, reinforcement could

be a more effective solution to reduce bullying."

Conclusion:

 Summarize the argument and restate your position with conviction.

 End with a strong statement reinforcing your stance.

 Example: "Given the ongoing rise in bullying, it’s clear that a shift to a
reinforcement-based program is necessary to address this issue."

Conclusion:

A position paper is a structured essay where the writer argues for a specific
solution to an issue. It should clearly state the problem, take a firm stance,
present compelling evidence, and conclude with a strong, persuasive
message.

Short Review & Key Points on Writing a Resume

A resume is a document that summarizes your qualifications, education,

and work experience to help you secure a job. It serves as a marketing tool
to "sell" yourself to potential employers, highlighting your skills, experiences,
and potential.

Key Points:

Parts of a Resume:

1. Heading:

o Includes your name, address, phone number, and email address.

o Your name should be in a larger font to stand out.

2. Objective:

o A brief statement about your goals for the job and how the
position will help you grow professionally.

3. Education:
 o Lists your school name, location, academic awards, and relevant
recognitions.

4. Skills:

o Highlights your skills relevant to the job, such as communication

or computer skills.

o Avoid including irrelevant skills.

5. Work Experience (If applicable):

o Includes previous job titles, company names, dates, and key

accomplishments.

o Can include internships, on-the-job training, and volunteer

experiences.

6. Trainings (If applicable):

o Mentions any relevant training or seminars, including dates and

sponsors.

7. References:

o List 2-3 professional references (people who know you well but
are not family members), including their names, positions, and
contact details.

Writing Tips:

 Avoid Lying: Never include false information, like pretending to have a

degree or past job experience you don’t have.

 Proofread Carefully: Typos or errors can make a poor impression, so

always have someone review your resume.

 Keep It Relevant: Only include information relevant to the job you're

applying for. Skip unnecessary details like hobbies or personal
information.

 Choose Readable Fonts: Stick to professional fonts like Arial, Calibri,

or Times New Roman. Avoid hard-to-read or distracting fonts.

 Avoid Photocopies: Always submit an original resume to maintain a

professional appearance.

Conclusion:
A well-written resume is essential for getting a job interview. Ensure it is
clear, concise, and tailored to the position you are applying for. Use the
proper format, double-check for errors, and make sure all information is
accurate. Your resume is a reflection of you, so make it count!

Short Review & Key Points on College Admission Application

When you're about to graduate from senior high school, you need to decide
on a college course and understand the application process. This includes
knowing your interests, assessing your qualifications, and submitting an
application letter or application essay as part of the college admission
process. Here's a simplified guide to help you understand both types of
documents.

1. Knowing Your Interests:

 Ask yourself:

o What are you good at?

o What do you enjoy doing or learning about?

o What frustrates you?

o What subjects or activities do you find interesting at school?

These questions help guide your decision-making when choosing a college

course.

2. Assessing Your Qualifications:

 Consider your skills and experiences by asking:

o What technology or computer skills do I have?

o What leadership or team experiences can I highlight?

o What problems have I solved, and how?

o How are my speaking and writing skills?

These answers help you understand what qualifications to highlight in your

application.
3. Selecting Your College Course:

 Choose a course that matches your interests and skills.

 Consider subjects you like, your family’s job advice, and current job
market trends.

 Research career options that are in demand.

4. College Admission Application Letter:

A college admission application letter is a formal request to gain

admission to a university. It should:

 Explain why you want to attend the school (research the school first).

 Mention your skills or extra-curricular activities that make you stand

out.

 Be written in a polite and formal tone.

Tips for Writing:

 Do research on the school.

 Mention why you chose the school and what makes you a good fit.

 Proofread your letter carefully.

Sample Structure:

 Heading: Your name, address, and date.

 Introduction: Why you chose the school and program.

 Body: Your skills, extra-curricular activities, and relevant experiences.

 Conclusion: Reaffirm your interest and thank the reader.

5. Application Essay:

An application essay is another way for universities to learn about you. It

lets you showcase your personality, skills, and experiences. Tips for writing
an essay:

 Be honest: Write about your true experiences.

  Be original: Make sure your essay stands out from others.

 Highlight your personal story: Share how you’ve contributed to

change or solved problems.

Sample Essay Question: How have you contributed to solving a challenge

and implementing change or reform?

 Example Answer: Discuss how you led or helped solve a school issue,
showing leadership, critical thinking, and communication skills.

Conclusion:

 For a successful college application, be sure to research the

school, express your genuine interest, highlight your qualifications, and
proofread your documents.

 Whether writing a letter or essay, be honest, clear, and confident in

showcasing your skills and experiences to increase your chances of
admission.

Short Review & Key Points on Cover Letter (Application Letter)

A cover letter is an essential document submitted with your resume when

applying for a job. Its purpose is to introduce yourself, highlight your
qualifications, and explain why you're a good fit for the position. It serves as
a preview of your resume, encouraging the employer to review it and invite
you for an interview.

1. What is a Cover Letter?

 A cover letter is a document that accompanies your resume. It

introduces you to the employer, explains why you’re applying, and
highlights your skills and qualifications relevant to the job.

 Its main goal is to persuade the employer to read your resume and
invite you for an interview.

2. Parts & Format of a Cover Letter:

Header:
  Your name, address, phone number, and email address.

Date:

 The date you’re writing the letter.

Inside Address:

 The recipient's name, title, company name, and address.

Salutation:

 Address the recipient by name (e.g., "Dear Mr. Smith:").

Opening Paragraph:

 Express your interest in the job, mention where you found the job
opening, and briefly state why you’re applying.

Body Paragraph(s):

 Highlight your skills, qualifications, and experiences that make you a

strong candidate. Mention relevant details from your resume and
show that you researched the company.

Closing Paragraph:

 Reaffirm your interest and enthusiasm, and suggest an interview.

Provide your contact details and thank the reader for considering your
application.

Complimentary Close:

 End with phrases like "Sincerely," "Respectfully yours," etc., followed

by your signature and printed name.

3. Key Content of a Cover Letter:

 Opening:

o Mention where you found the job ad and briefly state why you’re
applying.

 Middle:

o Highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications.

Demonstrate that you understand the company’s mission and
how you can contribute.
  Closing:

o Summarize your interest and express your desire for an

interview. Provide your contact info.

4. Tips for Writing a Cover Letter:

 Use Original Documents: Submit only the original cover letter and
resume.

 Font Style: Use professional fonts (e.g., Arial, Times New Roman)
consistent with your resume.

 Professional Email: Make sure your email address is professional.

 Avoid Overusing "I": Focus on how your skills help the company, not
just on yourself.

 Proofread: Double-check your letter for any spelling or grammatical

errors before submitting.

5. Sample Cover Letter Opening and Closing:

 Opening:
"Your advertisement in the Philippine Daily Inquirer for a Computer
Technician position interests me. I believe my ICT skills qualify me for
the position."

 Closing:
"Thank you for considering my application. I would appreciate the
opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview. You can
contact me at 0922 143 4455 or via email at
jhonnadcruz@yahoo.com."

Conclusion:

 A cover letter is your chance to personalize your job application and

highlight your strengths.

 Be sure to structure it properly, emphasize your qualifications, and

tailor it to the job and company you're applying to.
  Proofread and submit it with your resume to improve your chances
of landing an interview.

Short Review & Key Points on Memorandum (Memo) and Circular

Memorandum (Memo)

A memo is a brief message or record used for internal communication within

an organization. It is designed to be concise and focused on a single topic,
typically addressing internal matters, such as giving instructions, making
requests, or sharing information.

Parts of a Memo:

1. Heading Segment:

o Date: The date the memo is written.

o To: Recipient’s name and designation.

o From: Sender’s name and designation.

o Subject: The topic or purpose of the memo.

2. Opening Segment:

o Introduces the purpose of the memo, its context, and why the
recipient should read it.

3. Task Segment:

o Describes the actions required to solve the problem or address

the situation mentioned in the memo.

4. Discussion Segment:

o The main body of the memo. It provides details, explanations,

and discussions about the topic.

5. Necessary Attachments (Optional):

o Additional documents like reference memos, reports, tables,

diagrams, etc.

o A distribution list showing who else will receive the memo.

Circular

A circular is a written announcement shared with a large group of people,

often used to communicate important information or instructions in a
concise and persuasive way. Unlike a memo, a circular can cover multiple
topics and is meant to reach a wide audience quickly and effectively.

Parts of a Circular:

1. Head of the Letter:

o Logo of the company.

o Company name and address.

o Title: CIRCULAR LETTER.

o Date and letter number.

o Subject of the circular.

2. Content of the Letter:

o Provides the main information or announcement to be

communicated to the large group.

3. Leg of the Letter:

o Complimentary close.

o Signature of the sender.

o Carbon copies (cc): List of people receiving copies of the

circular.

Key Differences Between Memo and Circular:

 Memo:

o Internal communication for a specific topic.

o Sent to a limited group of people within the organization.

o Focuses on one issue or request.

  Circular:

o Sent to a large audience to communicate general information

or multiple topics.

o Used for announcements or public messages.

Tips for Writing Memos and Circulars:

 Memo: Keep it clear and concise; focus on a single topic.

 Circular: Ensure it is persuasive and easy to understand,

especially since it reaches a broad audience.

 Always ensure the content matches the purpose and audience for
both types of communication.

Conclusion:

 Memos are brief internal communications, while circulars are used to

announce or disseminate information to larger groups. Both should be
written clearly and effectively to fulfill their purpose efficiently.

Short Review & Key Points on Professional E-mails

What is a Professional E-mail?

A professional e-mail is a formal message sent through the internet for

work-related communication. Unlike regular emails, professional e-mails are
concise, direct, and maintain a formal tone.

Key Features of a Professional E-mail:

1. Concise Subject Line:

o It should be brief but descriptive, giving the recipient a clear

idea of the message.

o Helps in organizing and easily locating the message.

o Example: "Reading and Writing: Self-Learning Modules."

 2. Proper Greeting:

o Address the recipient using their name and proper titles (e.g.,
"Dear Mr. Smith").

o Ensures respect and clarity.

o Example: "Dear students," or "Dear Sir Managuelod."

3. Comprehensive and Direct Body/Text:

o The content should be clear and straight to the point,

explaining the purpose of the message.

o Be grammatically correct and free of errors.

o Introduce yourself if needed and include any requests or

instructions.

o Example: "I am Jayson D. Managuelod, your teacher for Reading

and Writing. Attached are the self-learning modules."

4. Polite and Formal Closing:

o End with a formal sign-off, like "Sincerely," or "Best regards,"

followed by your full name and contact information.

o Leaves a positive and professional impression.

o Example:

 "Sincerely,
JAYSON D. MANAGUELOD
123456789112"

 "Best regards,
JAYSON D. MANAGUELOD
123456789112"

Guided Practice: Identifying a Professional E-mail

Which e-mail is more professional, A or B?

 Option A:

o Has a clear and complete subject line: "Follow-up for Self-

Learning Modules SLMs."
 o Uses a formal closing: "Best regards."

 Option B:

o Has a less clear subject line.

o Uses an informal closing: "Thanks."

Answer: Option A is the more professional e-mail because of its clear

subject line and formal closing.

Summary of Key Points:

 Subject line: Be brief, clear, and descriptive.

 Greeting: Use the recipient’s name and title.

 Body: Be direct, clear, and error-free.

 Closing: Use polite, formal sign-offs like "Sincerely" or "Best regards."

Always keep the tone formal and professional when writing work-related e-
mails.