Final Assignment ENVS111
position paper
Position Paper Guidelines
Position paper ***Due 10/6/2017***: A position paper differs from a traditional term paper in that it includes your opinions, viewpoints, feelings,
and
the evidence that supports them. The main reason for this activity is to understand an issue better by researching
all
sides of the issue
thoroughly. Choose an environmental topic that interests you. Research the different sides of the issue and think about your position on the issue. Write a position paper based on the guidelines outlined below. There is a
ten-page maximum for the paper. If your paper is longer than ten pages, I will return the pages over the limit. Use at least
ten sources
for the paper and make sure you use the proper format for referencing your sources. The book,
Taking Sides
by T. Goldfarb is a good way to explore different issues if you are having a hard time deciding what issue to analyze. The
pre-approval
is
due 10/1/17 by 5 PM
in my office box (NO CREDIT FOR LATE SUBMISIONS OF THE PRE-APPROVAL).
Evaluation Criteria and Guidelines:
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Page Guidelines
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Point Values
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Pre-approval: Outline of the paper–summarize the issue and include how you plan to approach the analysis.
Due no later than 9/15/17
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1 Page
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20
possible points
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Paper:
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I. Introduction: Statement of the issue to be discussed.
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1/2 Page
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10
possible points
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II. Description of more than one side of the issue supported by relevant and multiple sources of information (use references).
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3-4 Pages
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40
possible points
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III. Clear, concise statements of your position on the issue.
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1/2 Page
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10
possible points
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IV. Discussion of your position supported by relevant and multiple sources of information.
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2-3 Pages
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50
possible points
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V. Questions that have arisen as you researched the issues and information you need to understand the issue better.
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1/2 Page
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20
possible points
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VI. Concise summary statement restating the issue, your position, and the essential evidence that supports your position.
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1/2 Page
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20
possible points
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VII. Literature cited (APA)
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10
possible points
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Appropriate number (minimum of 10)
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Appropriate type (not only opinions)
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Proper format (see below for examples)
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VIII. Overall important communication factors
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20
possible points
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Spelling and grammar
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Neatness
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Clarity and consistency of focus
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Subtitles for each section heading in your paper (required)
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Total Possible Points
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200
possible points
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Example of proper format for references IN TEXT:
Book or Journal Article: The wild boar has caused extensive damage to the wildlife reserve. (Smith, 1993).
Personal Communication: J.W. Jones explained that the Smoky Mountains are used quite extensively during the summer months (personal communication, August 24, 2000).
or
The Smoky Mountains are used quite extensively during the summer months (J.W. Jones, personal communication, August 24, 2000).
Note: Personal communications should be referred only in text. Provide initials and as exact a date as possible. Explain
who
the person is and why their input is important.
Examples of proper APA (American Psychological Association) format for LITERATURE CITED:
Journal Article: Adelgid, B. W. (1999). Killing fraser firs in the Smoky Mountains.
Journal of Exotics and Introduced Species.
1
(15), 13-15.
Book: Boar, E. W. (1993).
Upsetting the balance of the Merritt Island Wildlife Refuge. (3rd
ed.). London: Island Press.
A brief listing of some suggestions that should be implemented in your position paper to ensure the highest quality:
Make sure your “voice” is apparent in the paper – don’t overuse quotes.
Have others proofread your paper for spelling, grammar, and organizational problems. Have at least one literate, logical friend read through your paper carefully to check for “flow of logic” mistakes, ambiguous statements, etc.
Make sure you write a position paper and NOT a traditional term paper. There is a difference! If you are unsure about the difference reread the guidelines and talk with me.
Reread these notes again
before
you turn in the paper.