Evaluating Your Position
Requirements:
450 word minimum
ESSAY form (multiple paragraphs with an introduction and conclusion)
No use of outside sources
Must be completed in print form for peer review; submitted to Turnitin ONLY for final draft.
Must be submitted electronically to Turnitin in Canvas coming to class on the day it is due. before
Outline is required for all drafts.
You are required to visit the UWC before the final draft is due.-EXTRA CRIET POINTS
Purpose:
The previous discussion post (“The LU Experience”) allowed you to explore how your experience redefines the
general “LU Experience” that is advertised to a broad audience. For this assignment, you will choose
something you perceive as an “issue” on campus, what your position is regarding that issue, and explain what
influenced you to take that position. You may or may not use some of the interests you described in the
previous discussion, but there is no requirement that you do so. KEY NOTE: You are not arguing a point (not an
argument paper). The purpose is for you to evaluate your position.
Choosing and Developing the Topic:
To be clear, you are NOT writing a research paper nor finding or quoting sources. Also, you are NOT arguing
specific points to prove why your stance is the right choice. This is not an argument essay. Think reflectively
here, which is admittedly difficult to do. What two or three factors influenced you to see the topic in that
way? For example, if you feel that Liberty needs additional healthy food options, what experiences and values
do you have that makes you think this? What is different between you and the person who argues they are
unnecessary? It could be your parents focused on healthy eating or you had a family member whose eating
habits led to health issues. It could also be your interpretation and application of I Corinthians 6:19-20. This
essay is open-ended, but the aim is to and understand what has impacted you. Theevaluate your position
essential question you are trying to answer in this essay is why do you take the stance that you do? Constantly
questioning how you arrived at your position and answering those questions will provide the content for this
essay.
You still need a clear thesis statement that is the last sentence of your introduction, and remember the
importance of your introduction and conclusion.
Prewriting Questions to Consider:
1) Do you have personal experiences that make the topic more important to you?
2) Do you have loved ones or friends whose experiences give you a better understanding of this issue?
3) Does your religious beliefs relate the issue and influence your stance?
4) Does your involvement with particular groups/organizations influence your position?
5) Does your hometown or region influence your views?
Do not forget:
Introduction with a Clear thesis (your position and why)
Clear audience (A specific group)
Main points
