Position Essay Topic: What side are you taking regarding a debate in a field that you are interested in [career/job/field) Example: In the field of composition/writing, there is a debate as to the type of writing that should happen in the first-year classroom. 5o, to take a side, one would argue the following: First-year composition courses should focus on genre studies because it will prepare students for the workforce, teach them different writing styles, and promote engogement in the classroom. Purpose: The position essay will help you to organize and outline your viewpoint on an issue. You will infarm others of your educated opinion on an issue. This assignment will help you hone your vocabulary, strengthen your writing, and enhance your argumentative abilities. This means that vou will research and develop your argument and present your position on your chosen topic. You will use: Logos = facts and evidence, statistics, quotes and paraphrases from credible sources # Pathos = your passion for the topic and ability to provoke an emotional responze # Ethaos = preparation of your argument; acknowledging those who will argue against you Acknowledging the Opposition: Because the whole purpose of your position essay is to persuade others to share your opinion, pay close attention to counterarguments and those who oppose your viewpoint. It is not enough to say that your opponents are wrong; you must understand the opposing arguments so that you can find and point out the flaws in those arguments. Audience: ou are writing to an audience of fellow students with comparable knowledge regarding the topic. However, you will need to anticipate those who are unfamiliar with both sides of the topic and your position, which means that you will need to define unfamiliar terms and concepts, the background/history of a topic, etc. Suggested Organization of Position Essay For an argument essay, you are not analyzing an argument, you are making an argument. The following parts should be included: Introduction: Start with an attention-grabber - pose a question, set up a scenario, use a famous quote, etc. Then, set the context for the topic; meaning, get the reader excited to read the essay. The introduction should end with a thesis statement. The thesis for this essay will include: "should\" or "should not.\" Background: Provide some background on your topic. Are there definitions that need to be shared with the audience to educate them about the topic before you argue your side? Body: This is where you will make an argument faor your side of the topic. You will want to give at least 3-4 reasons [possibly more] for your views and, using source material, provide evidence to support your claims. Acknowledge the Opposition and Rebuttal: Include at least one paragraph that acknowledges the opposing view (the side opposite of your own). In this same paragraph, you should refute their claims. Example: Some argue that . Hawewer, this is incorrect because . Conclusion: Wrap up your argument, and remind the reader of your position on the topic. Length: 4-6 pages, not induding the Title page and Reference page, double-spaced, using an APA- approved font and size. A Reference page should be included and citations should be created for 5-7 outside sources: books, newspaper articles, scholarly journal articles, magazine articles, websites, ete