Position+Paper

The Position Paper

For this essay, you should pick an issue, controversial ones work best. You should present your opinion on the topic by providing rational support for your argument without disrespecting the rights of others to disagree with your opinion. This essay is formal, so you should avoid personal pronouns in first and second person. This essay will also require that you do research to support your opinion. You will want to find credible information. When Choosing Your Topic: Consider the suggestions on page 169-170 of //Axlerod and Cooper’s Concise Guide to Writing.//

Research for the Topic: You will have to research your topic. The more sources the better – you will want at least five.

Rubric for Position Assignment: Format _________/15 points Comments:
 * Essay follows all guidelines of MLA
 * o 12 point font Times New Roman
 * o One inch Margins
 * o Double spacing throughout essay
 * o Header and Heading with appropriate information in appropriate order and location

Essay Topic _________/50 points Comments:
 * Chosen an issue that is debatable, but not necessarily arguable
 * Topic is researched thoroughly.
 * Citations are in MLA format in text and on your works cited page.

Structure and Organization _________/20 points Comments:
 * Essay displays an organization that helps guide the reader
 * Writer considers the other side of the argument in his or her presentation of opinion
 * Transitions are used to guide the reader from point to point
 * Work Cited page in MLA format has been provided

Voice and Flow _________/15 points Comments:
 * Word choice is appropriate – No Do Not Use List words to create a formal voice
 * Varied sentence structure allows for smooth movement through the text

Total: _________/100 points