Criteria for Evaluating Position Papers

A.     Content

Introduction

• Does the author state purpose, problem or questions to be considered?
• How does the author convince the reader that the paper is worth reading?

Body

• How are the statements made warranted?  (Is there evidence that data or opinions have been analyzed and the literature reviewed?  Are the assumptions logical?
• Presentation of evidence

1. Is contradictory evidence dealt with adequately?
2. Are multiple sources considered if available?
3. Is the evidence discussed relevant to the purposes stated?
4. Is the argument internally consistent?  In other words, does one point follow from another?
5. Is the argument plausible?

• Is the presentation easy to follow and well organized?
• Does the author deal with the problem(s) set up in the introduction?

Conclusion

• Does the author summarize findings adequately?
• Is the conclusion directly related to the questions asked in the introduction?
• Does the author suggest areas where further work is needed or pose solutions?

B.     Connections to class

1. Evidence that class materials have been read and understood and cited where possible.
2. Application of lecture materials, articles and assigned readings to paper

C.     Form

1. Spelling
2. Grammar
3. Appropriate use of words
4. Paragraph form: Are ideas presented in coherent order?
5. Footnotes and bibliography: Are borrowed ideas and statements given credit?  Is the form of the footnotes and bibliography understandable and consistent?
6. Paper typed