Instructions for writing a position paper
In a position paper, the student demonstrates his or her familiarity with the required,
recommended and/or related literature as well as critical thinking. A position paper typically
consists of the following three sections:
(1) Summary briefly outlining the main ideas of the reading(s) or introducing the situation;
(2) Critical analysis of the given issue, including the author’s own position and developing
arguments;
(3) Conclusion (or, if appropriate, recommendation).
The second section should comprise the majority of the position paper. For a 2-page PP, for
example, section 1 should be approximately ½ of a page, section 2 at least 1 page, and section
3 approximately ½ of a page.
It is also common for students to be asked to provide up to 3 questions for further discussion
with classmates in a future lecture. I kindly ask that you also do so.