Lesson 6A: Position Paper

I. OBJECTIVES

The learners are able to:

1. understand and define what a position paper is.
2. Identify the different elements and forms of a position paper.
3. appreciate the importance of a position paper
4. know how to write a position paper

Concepts:

Definition of "position paper", its elements, importance and how to write it

A position paper is a document that outlines a person's or an organization's stance on a particular issue or
topic. It's typically used in various contexts such as diplomacy, advocacy, or academic debate to present a
clear and coherent viewpoint. Here are its elements, importance, and how to write one:

Elements of a Position Paper:

1. Introduction: Introduce the topic and provide background information. State your position clearly
and succinctly.
2. Context and Problem Statement: Explain why the issue is important and provide context. Define
any key terms or concepts necessary for understanding your position.
3. Position Statement: Clearly articulate your stance on the issue. This should be a concise statement
that summarizes your main argument or viewpoint.
4. Supporting Arguments: Present the reasons and evidence that support your position. Use logical
reasoning, data, statistics, expert opinions, and examples to strengthen your arguments.
5. Counterarguments and Refutations: Acknowledge opposing viewpoints and anticipate potential
objections. Address these counterarguments and explain why your position is stronger or more
valid.
6. Recommendations or Solutions: Offer suggestions for addressing the issue or solving the problem
based on your position.
7. Conclusion: Summarize your main points and reiterate your position. End with a strong closing
statement that reinforces the importance of your position.

Importance of Position Papers:

1. Clarity of Position: Position papers help to clarify and articulate your stance on an issue, making
it easier for others to understand where you stand.
2. Influence and Persuasion: By presenting well-reasoned arguments and supporting evidence,
position papers can influence decision-makers, stakeholders, or the public to adopt your
viewpoint.
3. Preparation for Debate or Negotiation: In settings such as conferences, negotiations, or debates,
position papers serve as a preparation tool, helping participants organize their thoughts and
arguments beforehand.
 4. Advocacy and Lobbying: Position papers are often used by advocacy groups and lobbyists to
advocate for specific policies, legislation, or causes.

How to Write a Position Paper:

1. Research the Issue: Gather relevant information, data, and evidence related to the topic.
Understand different perspectives and arguments surrounding the issue.
2. Identify Your Position: Based on your research, determine your stance on the issue. Consider the
strengths and weaknesses of various positions before finalizing your own.
3. Outline Your Paper: Create a clear outline that includes the elements mentioned above. Organize
your arguments logically and ensure a coherent flow from introduction to conclusion.
4. Write the Paper: Draft each section of the position paper, following your outline. Use clear and
concise language, and provide ample evidence to support your arguments.
5. Revise and Edit: Review your draft for clarity, coherence, and persuasiveness. Make revisions as
needed to strengthen your arguments and refine your writing.
6. Seek Feedback: Before finalizing your position paper, seek feedback from peers, colleagues, or
experts in the field. Incorporate constructive criticism to improve the quality of your paper.
7. Finalize and Distribute: Make any final revisions and edits, then finalize your position paper.
Distribute it to relevant stakeholders, decision-makers, or the intended audience.

By following these steps, you can effectively write a compelling position paper that presents your
viewpoint on an issue and contributes to meaningful discourse or action.

Forms of Position Papers

Position papers can take various forms depending on the context and purpose of their creation. Here are
some common forms of position papers:

1. Advocacy Position Papers: These position papers are typically used by advocacy groups, non-
profit organizations, or grassroots movements to advocate for specific policies, legislation, or
social causes. They often present a clear stance on an issue and provide supporting arguments,
evidence, and recommendations for action.
2. Policy Position Papers: Policy position papers are written to influence decision-making
processes within government bodies, legislative bodies, or international organizations. They
address specific policy proposals or legislative initiatives, offering analysis, recommendations,
and potential impacts of proposed policies.
3. Academic Position Papers: In academic settings, position papers are often used in debates,
seminars, or conferences to present scholarly viewpoints on controversial or complex topics.
These papers typically involve thorough research, critical analysis, and the presentation of
original arguments or perspectives within a specific academic discipline.
4. Corporate Position Papers: Companies and business organizations may draft position papers to
articulate their stance on industry-related issues, regulatory matters, or corporate social
responsibility initiatives. These papers may be used for internal decision-making, public relations,
or engagement with stakeholders such as investors, customers, or government agencies.
5. Diplomatic Position Papers: In international relations and diplomacy, governments and
diplomatic missions may produce position papers to communicate their country's stance on
 diplomatic, political, or security issues. These papers are often used in diplomatic negotiations,
multilateral forums, or bilateral meetings to clarify positions, address concerns, and seek common
ground with other countries.
6. Legal Position Papers: Legal professionals, such as lawyers, law firms, or legal advocacy
organizations, may write position papers to present legal arguments, interpretations, or analyses
on specific legal issues or cases. These papers may be submitted to courts, regulatory agencies, or
other legal bodies as part of legal proceedings or advocacy efforts.

Regardless of the form, effective position papers share common characteristics, including clarity of
purpose, well-supported arguments, logical structure, and consideration of opposing viewpoints. They
aim to persuade, inform, or influence their intended audience while contributing to informed discourse
and decision-making on important issues.

ASSESSMENT: Students to identify 3 present controversial issues. Write it down and let the students
choose their sides and state supporting statements.

APPLICATION
Directions: Identify 1 present controversial issue nearest to your heart. Write it down and state your
position. Elaborate as much as possible.

II. ASSIGNMENT
The Assignment is the Application