Position Paper

Steps to writing a Position Paper -

1) Select a topic

Your position paper reflects a topic/subject which you will support with research. In a Position Paper, your are essentially defending your chosen subjec. The most important point in a Position Paper is that you support your position, and articulate it with logic.

2) Conduct your research

Ensure that you can support your choice with evidence, resources. Students must use reputable resources (not Wikipedia, etc) to support their position.

3) Challenge your own topic

To prepare your position to the fullest extent, consider the opposing view. In other words, look at your position from different angles. In order to have a strong position, you need to anticipate opposing views. To help in this exercise, draw a vertical line down the middle of a piece of paper. On one side, write 'pros', and in the other column, write 'cons'. Now list your points on one side, and opposing points on the other side. This assists in confirming that you have a strong position, or, if the opposing or 'con' list is longer, you may want to reconsider your subject.

4) Collect More Resources/Supporting Evidence

Now that you have determined your position is strong, and can be supported, it is time to do more research. Use the Senca LIbrary or ask the reference librarian to help you find more sources. You can, of course, own online research, but be sure to use valid sources.

5) Create an Outline

- Introduce your subject with basic information

- Introduce and acknowledge opposing positions.

- Explain why your position is the best, or why your issue is the most compelling.

- Conclude by summarizing your position. The reader should finish your paper believing that your issue is the most imporant subject.

Remember, when you are writing your position, you are doing so to convince the reader to agree with your position.

In this paper, once you have identified and introduced the issue, you will provide your rational (supported by referenced material) as to the impacts upon law enforcement. In framing your position - ask yourself the following:

• Why is your chosen subject an issue? What makes it an issue?
• What is the position law enforcement regarding this issue?
• Support your position with evidence, not opinion. In order to support your position, you must research the topic, examining it from various perspectives, and provide a critical analysis in support of your stance.
• Who is impacted by this issue: government, society, specific groups/community?
• What are or will be the impacts upon those affected?

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