Writing Paper 1

July 8, 2007

Papers 1 and 2 make up a full position paper, so in order to write paper 1, we have to understand the big picture. What is a position paper? Position papers are 1 of four different types of argumentative papers you can write. Many group position papers in with proposal arguments, but I like to think of it as another type of argument. Position papers argue a position on a controversial issue and proposal papers offer solutions to a problem. Most of you have already come up with some good issue questions, so now you must consider what your position will be on the issue. There are always two sides to any good argument. What side will you take?

Let’s use the issue of gay marriage as an example since no one has chosen that topic yet. The issue question is: Should same sex couples be permitted to marry in this country? Good question, but it doesn’t indicate it will tackle the personal freedoms issue, so let’s adjust it a bit. How’s this? Is denying same sex couples the right to marry in this country a violation of personal freedoms? Now that’s a better question that will fit into our course theme.

So in a position paper there are 5 basic features that are required. Listen to the podcast from Assistant Professor Samantha to learn more about the basic features and writing Paper 1. I hope you enjoy listening to Sam; I did not have time to record the lesson myself. Let me know what you think.

I also posted a sample paper 1 in Bb for you to view. It’s incomplete, but it will give you a good idea of what you paper should look like. I eliminated the content on personal freedoms because I didn’t want to take away all your great ideas.

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Direct Link to Podcast: http://www.freshmancomp.com/podcasts/Paper1.mp3

Posted in Papers, Podcast