SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

English for Academic and

Professional Purposes
Quarter 2 – Module 3
Writing a Position Paper

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English for Academic and Professional Purposes

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Quarter 2 – Module 3: Writing a Position Paper
i
Second Edition, 2021

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ii
 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
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Department of Education ● Republic of the Philippines

iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS

iv
 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

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 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 pieces of evidence and consequently pose a 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.
2. Cultivate unbiased judgment through keen evaluation of the pieces of
evidence on issues that affect the community nowadays.
3. Ensure valid expression of stand and opinion through a position paper.
4. Follow the given instructions and ask if there are items that you do not
understand.

1
 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 is 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 a series of statements for or against something

that
involves logic, research evidence, and assertion to make persuasion.

_______2. As a type of paper, a 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 for an essay.
_______5. The body of an essay is where the pieces of evidence 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

2
 adjudicators/judges in a debate to merit the speaker’s claim.

_______9. Gathering of the pieces of evidence need not be done if words are
chosen
properly to express a strong claim.
_______10. A 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 pertain 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 Argument
F T I M M I N L E D
Stand
P L A I N N E D E I
H I N N D R N C K S Evidences
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 Issues
D I S C U S S E S S
L O P I N I O N B R
D D W O R M E D E D
E G R E T T I E N L

How did you find the activity? Keep your focus. You will come across
these words in the next activities. Enjoy learning!

3
WHAT IS IT
 Position paper is an essay that expresses a stand whether one is affirmative
or negative about an issue. It gives arguments that support the opinion of the writer
which are based on the facts collected. Its goal is to convince the audience that the
opinion raised underwent thorough investigation and data collection 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/her position about the issue.
Here, the topic is introduced; the 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, points of
view, pieces of evidence 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 that 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 issues and to generate support on

them. Moreover, gathering factual information to support your argument would be
very essential.

4
Writing A Manifesto

A manifesto is a published document which is usually created by a group

who shares common opinion about an issue. It can be in a form of critiques, views,
ideologies and perspectives about societal concerns or an action plan for change.

The common topics in manifestos are issues about art, literature, and
politics. Thus, writing a manifesto requires thorough understanding of ideas to give a
convincing statement of a position on an issue.

How did you find the new information you have learned? I hope that you
paid attention to the basic elements of a position paper. Prepare to examine one
in the next activity. Enjoy learning!

WHAT'S MORE

ACTIVITY 1. ENUMERATE

Read the essay that follows. Examine its basic elements. Tell whether the
parts are expressed according to the standards that you have learned from the
previous discussion. Write your observations in your notebook and follow the format
given below.

Importance Of Education Essay (400 words)

In such a competitive world, education is the essential requirement of

every individual. Education fulfills one’s life with joy and happiness. An
educated person is more satisfied with his life, or we can say that education
gives the reason to be alive in this world. Education steps simultaneously with
your life till the end.

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 There are lots of reason why is education important in one’s life. The
very first thing that one can get livelihood that is that prior thing in human life
to live. Education is a platform by which one can get success and reach the
top of destination. It is a fact that the more educated you are the much
wealthier you are. Education improves the mentality and behavior of people.
Thus, educated people are more sensible and calmer. They treat animals and
nature politely too. They have an advanced and developed mind. Also, they
desolate the surrounding of superstitious and makes others believe in reality.
A quality education system in the country lessen the corruption and terrorism
and encourage its progress.

Education makes a man be responsible and follow the rules and

regulation of the society. Hence, they have unique fame in the community.
Also, they work thoughtfully and improves their social status. Such qualities
sometimes offer them recognition of good leader or respected profession.

Education is essential for both men and women to understand every

aspect of life. Today, the criteria and the theme of the education is entirely
different than earlier. Many national programs are also promoting education
and making it accessible. Education in the society mitigates all the differences
and giving responsibilities, duties, social and human rights as well.

Today, you live in a technical world just because of educated people.

People invented lots of gadgets, machines, instrument, communication tools,
etc. A country well-equipped with science and technology is known as
strengthening and advanced country. In earlier days, there was lack of
education. But today, education systems are growing day by day and thus,
people enlarge their views all over the world.

Source: "Importance Of Education? Essay On Education". Sure Job, 2020.

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

6
Write your observations on the following:

Observation Observation
(Introduction) (Body)

Observation
(Conclusion)

ACTIVITY 2. ENUMERATE

Consider the following sample manifestos written by students. Read and

analyze their arguments and list them in your notebook.

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

7
 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
Congratulations! Activities 1 and 2 were great. Remember how the essay
is written, 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 is it important to familiarize the basic parts of an essay?

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

8
 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
 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. Identify and list at least 5 issues that
your community is facing right now. Write down the specific information that you
would like to deal with in your paper.

ISSUES WHAT I WANT TO FOCUS ON

Example: Cyberbullying  What are the effects of cyberbullying on
teenagers?
 What should the government do to address
cybercrimes?

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ACTIVITY 4. MY OWN WORDS

From the issues, you have listed in activity 3. Write your own manifesto. A
sample is shown below. For your output, you can use a blank page so that you can
be as creative as you like or 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
facts. several facts. limited. used.
The The
There is logical The ideas are
presentation of presentation
Organizatio presentation of not well-
ideas is of ideas is not
n 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.

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 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 on an issue.
A. critique paper
B. position paper
C. reaction paper
D. journal

2. Which of the following sections of a position paper needs ample time to collect
information?
A. introduction
B. body
C. conclusion
D. thesis statement

3. Which section of a position paper restates the main point and final comment?
A. introduction
B. body
C. conclusion
D. thesis statement

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
B. three
C. four
D. five

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. Find related studies.

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7. How many sources shall you incorporate in your paper?
A. one
B. two
C. three or more
D. no sources needed

8. Which question should be considered when writing a manifesto?

A. What issue should I 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. Both 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. Neither A nor B

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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 checked
the second icon, you need to review the things that you need to relearn. If
you checked the third icon, it would be best if you read more. 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

LESSON 2
15

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;
 write various position papers.

WHAT I KNOW

Pre-Assessment

Test I. IDENTIFICATION

Instructions: Identify the term being described by the statements below. Write T if
the statement is true and F if otherwise. Write your answers in your notebook.
_______1. Persuasion writing appeals to the reader’s emotions.

_______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 pieces of evidence in making a claim.

_______ 5. Science and law use argumentation.
_______ 6. An introduction elaborates on the 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 an extensive gathering of
information from different sources.

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WHAT'S NEW
 What I KNOW About

Identify the terms described in the sentences below. Choose your answers
from the words inside the box, then write them in your notebook. These words are
important in presenting arguments so, be ready for vocabulary work.

factual argument defense persuade opinion

issue reason claims evidence counterclaim

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

2. It is 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. These are actions or words to resist an attack.
6. It is to cause someone to believe about something through the consistent effort of
convincing.
7. These are facts or information as a proof of 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. It is 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 these words in the next activities. Good Luck!

17
WHAT IS IT
There are two basics of writing which specialized at convincing. These are:

1. Persuasion appeals to readers’ emotions to make them believe

something or take a specific action. It also uses logic and
evidence.

Note: Refer to the number-coding of the steps in persuasive writing which

corresponds to the number found at the beginning of the sentences in the
sample persuasive paragraph.
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:

(1) Parents’ love which is illustrated with their sacrifices

is worth recognition. (2) They send their children to
school even if they have not gone to school themselves,
(3) even if their own wants are sacrificed just to fund
students’ needs. (4) 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.

Note: Refer to the number-coding of the steps in argumentative writing

which corresponds to the number found at the beginning of the sentences
in the sample argumentative paragraph.

18
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.

Example:

(1)Many students ignore the significance of doing well in

their studies. (2) They often neglect their parents’
sacrifices by getting low grades or worst yet getting
failing marks. (3) On the other hand, psychologists say
performance in school is influenced by many factors
which include peers. (4) However, to fare well in
school is not only about influence but also about being
exposed to social realities such as difficulties of
getting a decent job. (5)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.

CHARACTERISTIC
PERSUASIVE ARGUMENTATIVE
S

A claim is based on A claim is based on

CLAIM
opinion. factual evidence.

It asks the audience to It proves a point to the

PURPOSE
do something. audience.

19
 It is based on character It is based on stabilized
BASIS
and 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. Enjoy learning.

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. It starts with a strong opinion and researches
reasons to support it.
2. It starts with a topic, researches and
discusses all sides of the issue, and chooses
one side to support.
3. It appeals to readers with logic.
4. It appeals to readers with evidence.
5. It appeals to readers with emotion.

6. It outlines multiple sides of the issue.

7. It calls readers to action.
8. It uses a passionate, urgent writing voice.
9. It uses calm, neutral writing voice.
Source: Check Out This Minilesson: Distinguishing Argumentation From Persuasion". K-12 Thoughtful Learning,
2020. https://k12.thoughtfullearning.com/minilesson/distinguishing-argumentation-persuasion

ACTIVITY 2. MY COMMUNITY

20
 Copy the table below in your notebook. List at least three (3) controversial
issues/situations in the society today and state your opinion or stand about these
issues by providing evidences or reasons. The first issue is given as a sample.

ISSUES IN THE STAND/ OPINION EVIDENCES/REASONS

COMMUNITY
example: NO facemask NO Wearing mask in establishment  Avoid virus contagion
entry in all establishments must be strictly observed.  Discipline is imposed

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
issue. last month. The drug testing in high school and college students is an
important and ultimately one of the best solutions made by the The writer ‘s opinion
government officials to reduce and stop the increasing amount of young is expressed.
drug users in schools, universities, and state colleges. Schools have
made the policy of random drug testing on students to serves as a The writer provides a
warning to not get into peer pressure. Because I believe “a friend in little background.
deed won’t make you smoke that weed.”

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

outcome in attempting to reduce the amount of young drug users in
school. The purpose of drug testing is not to catch whose using an
The writer illegal drug, but to prevent them from using it in the first place. Surely,
presents the there should be action taken to punish those criminals. The current
method to attack drugs is at the source, by imprisoning dealers and The writer gives
opposing
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
peers and at the time when their attitude to education greatly affects opinion
their entire lives.
The writer
presents a Some sacrifice of human rights is necessary to eliminate the drug
problem. Drug testing is a simple mechanism for examining the human The writer ends
suggestion to
body because there is a multiple option of detecting it by supplying with an appeal by
solve the urine, hair, or simply a breath. These small samples help to detect the
providing the
problem on common drugs like methamphetamines, cocaine, and heroin. Also, if
you know that you are not breaking the law then there’s nothing to fear advantages
drug addiction of.
among
students Source: Cabezas, Kaile. "A Position Paper Of Drug Testing Of High School And College Students". Academia.Edu,
2020.
https://www.academia.edu/35946977/A_Position_Paper_of_Drug_Testing_of_High_School_and_College_Student
s.

21
 How did you find the sample? I hope this will help you with how to evaluate a
paper and give you an idea on how to make your own position paper later. So,
please do the next activity.

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 to you. Write your answers
in your notebook.

Step 1. Identify the parts and write your comments on each at the sides of the article.
Step 2. Box in the main points/ claims that you can find.
Step 3. Underline the reasons or pieces of evidence 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, 22 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
Reflective Questions:

1. Why do you think it is important to learn argumentative essay?

2. Now that you have learned about making a good position paper, what do you
think should you do to improve your skill in writing?

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 the information needed which will then
be used as pieces of evidence.
E. Present an effective argument.

23
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 pieces of evidence

Conclusion - Restatement of main points and summarizes arguments

A 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.

ACTIVITY 4. USE IT

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

24
 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. So, their little one solves 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.

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: "Position Essay Examples To Help You Grasp The Idea". Chiefessays,2020.
https://chiefessays.net/position-essay-exampleto-help-you-grasp-the-
idea/.

WHAT I CAN DO

ACTIVITY 2.3

From the listed issues below, choose an issue to work on to develop into a
position paper. Second, do some research to gather more information. Third, defend
your stand by writing a position paper to convince 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

25
 Community Lockdown
Government Funds Distribution
Cyber Bullying
________________________________ (topic of your choice)

(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, well- Clear Position not No clear position
Development defined position; position clearly stated; taken; reasons
(50%) uses at least three taken and development is underdeveloped; no
appropriate reasons defined; brief, unrelated, supporting facts
with at least two some unsupported used.
supporting details for reasons and general
each reason. some details statements,
Counter arguments present, but reasons, and
effectively not fully details, minimal
addressed, without developed. facts used.
undercutting Counter Counter
position. arguments arguments not
addressed. acknowledged.
x.50
Organization Structure of paper is Structure is Structure of the Organization and
and Structure clear and easy to mostly clear paper is not easy structure detract the
(20%) follow. Paragraph and easy to to follow. message of the
transitions are follow. Paragraph writer. Paragraphs
logical and Paragraph transitions need are disjointed and
maintained the flow transitions improvement. lack transition of
of thought are present. Conclusion is not thoughts.
throughout the Conclusion logical.
paper. Conclusion is is logical.
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 correct
has appropriate guidelines. guidelines. Paper formatting. Paper is
length as described Paper has is over/under inadequate/

27
 for the assignment. appropriate word length. excessive in length.
Format enhances length for the
readability of the assignment.
paper. Format is
good.
x.10
Grammar, Rules of grammar, Rules of Paper contains Paper contains
Punctuation & usage, punctuation grammar, few grammatical, grammatical,
Spelling are followed; spelling usage, punctuation and punctuation and
(20%) is correct. Language punctuation spelling errors. spelling errors.
is clear and precise; are followed Language lacks Language uses
sentences display with minor clarity or includes jargon or
consistently strong, errors. Few/ the use of some conversational tone
varied structure. no spelling jargon or
errors. conversational
tone.
x.20
OVERALL
SCORE
Source:https://eng.ucmerced.edu/people/awesterling/SPR2014.ESS141/Assignments/rubric2.pdf

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 terms in column B with the description in Column A.

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. A part of the essay where you encourage D. Body
readers to act E. Introduction
_______5. A part of the essay which elaborates detail F. Conclusion
_______6. A paper that poses the writer’s 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

28
Self-Check!
Great job! You have completed Lesson 2 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 the next module. If you
checked the second icon, you need to review the things that you need to
relearn. If you checked the third icon, it would be best if you read more. 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

31
 Congratulations! Was Lesson 2 easy or hard? I am sure you were able to
apply your learnings from the previous discussions. This has enabled you to
write your position paper. Continue and persevere! You will learn more as you
accomplish the next lessons. Keep up the good work!

ANSWER KEY
Lesson 1

PRE-TEST POST-TEST ACTIVITY 2.1

1. T 1. B 1. D
2. T 2. B 2. C
3. T 3. C 3. D
4. T 4. D 4. D
5. T 5. D 5. B
6. F 6. B 6. E
7. T 7. C 7. A
8. T 8. D 8. C
9. F 9. C 9. C
10. T 10. A 10. B

Lesson 2

32
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.

33
 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:

For inquiries or feedback, please 34

write or call:

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