Help your students learn how to effectively write a persuasive paper on a topic of their choice (or yours) with this versatile packet. The guidance is specific enough to support success, and generic enough to be used with any topic to support engagement. The packet includes an assignment description, scoring rubric, research notes worksheet, outline worksheet, and revision checklist to help students avoid common mistakes.
This assignment was born out of my experience as a teaching assistant for a freshman honors level course where I was tasked with scoring and mentoring students to write effective position papers. I have used it with my students at both the middle and high school levels to prepare them for future rigorous writing. The packet includes enough scaffolding for writers new to this type of assignment, and additional insights to help polish more experienced writers.
If you think your students need more preparation before tackling a position paper, try the Distinguishing Between Types of Facts lesson.

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