scheduling: Each student in English 88 will write FIVE position papers, choosing FIVE of the fifteen occasions when "paper options" are indicated on the English 88 schedule. At least three of the papers must be written before the end of chapter 7. The papers are due before we begin discussing the readings at hand--specifically by noon on that day. (If there are two classes on a topic, the papers are due by noon on the earlier date.)

how to submit your papers: Send your papers by email to Lily Applebaum at an address we will give you in class. Print one copy and bring it with you to class on the one or two class sessions covering the relevant topic.

audio presentation: This audio recording on position papers was prepared for an all-online version of English 88, but the general description of the purpose and format of the papers is still pertinent. Here is a link to the audio.

position papers consist of approximately 450-500 words (the equivalent of a 2-page or 2.5-page typewritten paper)

• sent to Lily Applebaum
• prior to noon on the date due as indicated on the course schedule.

position papers don't fiddle-faddle with general introductions or conclusions,

• but rather get rather quickly to the point, which is
• a contention - or interpretive position - about the reading or topic in question,
• and can be thought of as your position on what you take to be the text's position (your opinion as to what the text's position is).

position papers don't summarize what's in the text (assume your reader knows the text well), and must

• use textual evidence to support your contention or position.

a good rule of thumb

• for knowing if you have a remarkable position: ask yourself, "Might others be capable of disagreeing with me?" If not, then consider that your "position" is truistic or obvious or too agreeable. (In other words, a good position paper is one someone could argue against.)