11

English for Academic and

Professional Purposes
Quarter 2 – Module 2:
Writing a Position Paper

1
Grade 11 – English for Academic and Professional Purposes
Alternative Delivery Mode
Quarter 2 – Module 2: Writing a Position Paper
First Edition, 2020

Republic Act 8293, section 176 states that: No copyright shall subsist in any work
of the Government of the Philippines. However, prior approval of the government agency or
office wherein the work is created shall be necessary for exploitation of such work for profit.
Such agency or office may, among other things, impose as a condition the payment of
royalties.

Borrowed materials (i.e., songs, stories, poems, pictures, photos, brand names,
trademarks, etc.) included in this module are owned by their respective copyright holders.
Every effort has been exerted to locate and seek permission to use these materials from
their respective copyright owners. The publisher and authors do not represent nor claim
ownership over them.

Published by the Department of Education

Secretary: Leonor Magtolis Briones
Undersecretary: Diosdado M. San Antonio

Development Team of the Module

Writer: Shan Mar S. Ybaňez
Editors: Marilyn C. Braganza, Fatima O. Bringas
Reviewers: Divilyn M. Rodriguez
Illustrator: Laurel K. Roa
Layout Artist: Melanio R. Florino Jr.
Template Developer: Neil Edward D. Diaz
Management Team: Reynaldo M. Guillena
Jinky B. Firman
Marilyn V. Deduyo
Alma C. Cifra
Aris B. Juanillo
May Ann M. Jumuad

Printed in the Philippines by Davao City Division Learning Resources

Management Development System (LRMDS)

Department of Education – Davao City Division, Region XI

Office Address: Elpidio Quirino Ave., Poblacion District, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur
Telefax: (082) 224-3274, (082) 222-1672
E-mail Address: [email protected]

2
 11
English for Academic
and Professional
Purposes
Quarter 2 – Module 2:
Writing a Position Paper

i
Introductory Message
For the facilitator:
Welcome to the English for Academic and Professional Purposes Grade 11
Alternative Delivery Mode (ADM) module on Writing a Position Paper.

The activities in this module are arranged sequentially to help the learners
understand the topic and develop the desired skill or learning competency.

As a facilitator, you are expected to orient the learners on how to use this
module. You also need to keep track of the learners' progress while allowing
them to manage their own learning.

Remind the learner that if there are things he/she doesn‟t understand,
he/she must not hesitate to call for your help and assistance.

For the learner:

Welcome to the English for Academic and Professional Purposes Grade 11

Alternative Delivery Mode (ADM) module on Writing a Position Paper.

The activities in this module are arranged sequentially to help you

understand the topic and develop the desired skill or learning competency.

As a learner, you must learn to become responsible of your own learning.

Take time to read, understand, and perform the different activities in the module.
If there are things you don‟t understand, do not hesitate to call your facilitator / teacher for
assistance.

The following are some reminders in using this module:

1. Use the module with care. Use a separate sheet of paper in answering the
exercises.

2. Do not forget to answer Let us Try before moving on to the other

activities in the module.

3. Read the instructions carefully before doing each task.

4. Observe honesty and integrity in doing the tasks and checking your
answers.

5. Finish the task at hand before proceeding to the next.

6. Return this module to your teacher/facilitator once you are through

with it.

We hope that you will find meaningful learning as you go through the
different activities in this module.

ii
 Let Us Learn

In this module you will learn how to use transition words and how to write
an effective position paper. Learning the usage of transition words would help build
up coherent relationships within the text, while learning how to write a position
paper would help defend your argument in making a stand.

You may be able to use transition words and position paper in written
outputs. May you find significant learning experiences and joy from this module.
Let‟s start the fun and learning now.

After going through this module, you are expected to:

✓
Identify the features of an effective position paper.
✓
Use transitions to connect ideas.
✓
Write an effective position paper.

Let Us Try
Activity 1
Directions: Read the following items carefully. Write the letter of the correct
answer on a separate sheet of paper.
1. Which of the following words show comparison?
a. and c. like
b. but d. because

2. Which of the following words show conclusion?

a. moreover c. such as
b. nevertheless d. thus

3. There are many ways to make tasks more pleasant. For instance, listening
to a lively music while working. What is the function of the highlighted
phrase?
a. to contrast c. to show time
b. to give examples d. to summarize

4. Even though I‟m allergic to fur, my pet is a dog. What is the function of the
highlighted phrase?
a. to contrast c. to show time
b. to give examples d. to summarize

1
 5. Asia created 24.9 million metric tons of e-waste in 2019. Next were the
Americas with 13.1 million metric tons and Europe with 12 million
metric tons. What is the function of the highlighted transitional device?
a. to contrast c. to show time b. to give
examples d. to summarize

Activity 2
Directions: Read and answer the following questions. Choose the best option
provided.

1. Which of the following parts of the newspaper can be compared to writing a

position paper?
a. News c. Editorial
b. Sports d. Entertainment

2. What part of the position paper contains the most details?

a. Body c. Introduction b. Conclusion d.
Reference

3. What part of the position paper are you going to write your stand on the
issue?
a. Body c. Introduction
b. Conclusion d. Reference
4. What kind of activity can “writing a position paper” be compared to?

a. Debate c. Reporting b. Puzzles d. Role

playing

5. How many percent does the body contain in the position paper?
a. 20% c. 60%
b. 40% d. 80%

6. Which of the following is NOT the purpose of statistics?

a. to provide numerical data
b. to provide alphabetical data
c. to provide accurate numbers
d. to interpret data and analysis

7. Which of the following options DOES NOT provide the main arguments
containing 4 E‟s?
a. evidence c. explanation
b. example d. entertainment

8. Which of the following reasons is NOT the purpose in writing a position

paper?
a. to explain controversial subject
b. to criticize actions, decisions or situations
c. to entertain people during these pandemic
d. to propose a better solution to a problem or issue

2
 9. How are you going to conclude your position paper?
a. Provide a plan of action or a solution
b. Provide reasons to support evidences
c. Present facts and statistics of the issue
d. Explain sensitive and controversial subject

10. Which of the following sentences is an effective statement?

a. Jessica insisted of not stealing the money, even though she is new to
the class as it‟s not her thing to do such act.
b. Smoking is bad for you. Do not smoke or you will get ill, or
worst, you‟ll die.
c. They are optimistic about their new investment to succeed as
businesses have been opened after the pandemic.
d. Research shows that acts of kindness make us feel better and
healthier. And scientists say kindness is key to how we survived as
a species.

Lesson Writing a Position

1 Paper
Asserting your point on a certain issue by giving unsubstantial details won‟t
make an effective argument. Ideally, presenting facts and evidences would highly
support a stand to make a point and influencing a course of action. Thus, learning
how to write a position paper is vital in using your voice as an effective means of
change.

3
Joey: I think limited face-to-face class is effective but following strict health
protocol as live interaction between the teacher and students proved effective in
acquiring new learning.

Grace: I might agree with you; however distance learning like online class is the
best way in protecting the health of the learners. The government will not risk the
lives of the students and teachers. Moreover, constant supervision of parents and
teachers would make the learning continuous and substantial.

Let Us Study
Activity 1: Argument Analysis

Directions: Read the argument and reflect on the following questions below. Take
note of the transitional devices which are highlighted.

The anti-terror measure is crafted to fight terrorists, adding that the bill “is not
meant to be beneficial for anyone else but the Filipino citizenry.”

- Senator Panfilo Lacson the principal author of the bill

Why the Philippines need

an Anti-Terror Bill?
Terrorism is a global
The Anti-Terrorism Bill – if rendered with
predicament, and no country is
fair and objective judgment – will strike a
invulnerable to it. The Philippines has
balance between effectiveness in
responding to the threat of terrorism and experienced terrorism for more or less
protecting basic human rights principles. 44 years.

Until this very day, even in the

midst of a deadly pandemic, the
country is continuously being
tormented by the scourge of terrorist attacks coming from but not limited to the
Maute Group, ASG, BIFF, and even the NPA.

The dangers and threats of terrorism in the Philippines are both, legitimate
and real. Therefore, the government has both the duty and the right to catechize
counter-terrorism legislative measures that will protect the national security and
integrity of the country and to safeguard its citizens from the brutal and ruthless
effects of terrorism. The Anti-Terrorism Bill serves that purpose.

Hence, the fears of those who want the bill junked are mislaid. The concern
probably should not be on the bill per se, but rather on the strict and proper
implementation of the said bill the moment it becomes a law. And this is a
completely different matter altogether.

Moreover, the hostility and antagonism accorded to the Anti-Terrorism Bill

by fragments of Philippine society should not be construed as representing the

4
entire Filipino nation because that is not true. Many, if not the majority of
Filipinos, recognize the importance of enacting the Anti-Terrorism Bill into law.

In the advent of the novel coronavirus pandemic, the threats posed by

COVID-19 and terrorism are both serious and real and need the utmost
consideration of the government. It‟s not either-or, or neither-nor, it‟s both, and both need
to be addressed swiftly. Thus, the COVID-19 pandemic and terrorism are lethal
threats to the country and both deserve attention.

Anna Rosario Malindog-Uy is a researcher, academic and consultant on a wide array

of issues. She has worked with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) a nd other local
and international NGOs as a consultant . She is President of Techperformance Corp, an
IT -based company in the Philippines.

Source: https://theaseanpost.com/article/why-philippines-needs-anti-terror-bill

Reflect on and answer the following questions:

1. Is the issue discussed relevant to the society?

2. Are the evidences sufficient to support the argument?
3. Does the argument reflect higher level of thinking?
4. Are the cohesive devices effectively used?
5. Are you convinced about the arguments?

Were you able to answer most of the reflection questions? If yes, you are now
ready to present your own position or stand through writing on the next activity.

In this part, you are expected to extract the meaning of the given editorial
cartoons to better practice in writing your stand on a certain issue.

Activity 2: Editorial Extraction

Choose among the three recent issues presented. Write your stand about the topic.

Directions: Analyze three recent issues portrayed through the editorial cartoons
below. In three paragraphs, write your stand about the issue presented. Writing a
position paper would be easier if you have background knowledge of the topic.
Choose one editorial cartoon only. Take note of the following tips below.

5
Take note of the following tips:

• present the purpose of the picture

• provide at least a few factual evidence
• use transitional devices
• convince the reader about your stand

Transitional Devices
Functions of
Transitional Devices As used in the sentence
Transitional Devices
They have seen the movie twice, and they
want to see it again.
and, again, also, and
My friend speaks Spanish and Chinese. She
then, further,
To add also speaks Japanese.
furthermore, next,
moreover
Cheating is dishonesty. Moreover, it stops
the students from learning.

6
 Matthew learned from his wrongdoings.
Likewise, others can learn from theirs.

Henry will probably be a late bloomer

also, in the same way,
To compare socially, just like his older brother.
likewise, similarly, like
It takes strategic plan to score a goal. In
the same way, chess demands
concentration and accuracy.
Bees are essential for life on Earth but are
in danger from pollution and human
although, but, despite, activity.
even though, however,
in contrast, in spite of, Even though no one was in the park,
To contrast
nevertheless, on the William still didn‟t feel lonely.
contrary, on the other
hand, yet, while Street dwellers complain not receiving cash
assistance from the government, yet these
people resist paying taxes.
I have been to many countries. For
instance, I have been to Mexico, Singapore
and Canada.

In other cashier-free stores, such as

for example, for Alibaba‟s stores in China, shoppers scan
instance, , specifically, items with their phones as they shop, then
To give examples
that is, to illustrate, use a screen to pay before they leave.
such as
Some schools are inviting stakeholders to
donate ICT related materials for example
laptop, printers, bond papers, ink printer,
flash drives, headset and cameras to be
used to adopt for the new normal.
The new law was proposed after a January
study found that about 12% of pedestrians
after, afterward, as
used smartphones while walking.
long as, at last, before,
during, earlier, finally,
Before the invention of smartphones,
To show time formerly, immediately,
people probably spent more time with
later, meanwhile, next,
friends and family.
since, shortly, then,
thereafter, until
Since my family moved in the countryside,
I do all the household chores now.
Some people built their houses close to the
river. Consequently, they have to spend a
lot of money trying to protect their houses
accordingly, as a
from being worn out.
To indicate logical result, because,
relationship consequently, for this
It was announced that contractual workers‟
(cause and effect) reason, hence, if,
salary will be increased; as a result they
otherwise
ended their strike.

7
 Because Henry‟s car stereo was on full
blast, he could not hear his phone ringing.

Colleges were told the new rules that many,

including Harvard University, announced
that all classes will be offered remotely.
Thus, international students will be forced
to leave the US.
all in all, in
conclusion, in short, Reports confirmed that after 50% of CCTV‟s
To summarize or in summary, on the were installed, theft and robbery cases went
conclude whole, therefore, to down from 20 to 3 cases. Therefore, if
sum up, indeed, CCTV‟s are fully installed, those illegal acts
finally, thus will surely have positive result.

President Duterte warned

telecommunications company to boost their
internet signals by December. In short, the
president wants to make their service
better.

At this point, let us dig deeper into our module, as you are going to read
thoroughly and learn about position paper.
Position Paper
A position paper presents one side of an arguable opinion about an issue.
The goal of a position paper is to convince the audience that your opinion is valid
and defensible. Ideas that you are considering need to be carefully examined in
choosing a topic, developing your argument, and organizing your paper.

It is very important to ensure that you are addressing all sides of the issue
and presenting it in a manner that is easy for your audience to understand. It is
important to support your argument with evidence to ensure the validity of your
claims, as well as to refute the counterclaims to show that you are well informed
about both sides.

What are the purposes in writing a position paper?

1. to explain sensitive or controversial subject,
2. to criticize actions, decisions or situations,
3. to commend people or organizations for doing things right,
4. to persuade people to follow a course of actions, and
5. to propose a better solution to a problem or issue.

Parts of a Position Paper

1. Introduction (1 paragraph – around 20% of the paper)
a. Contains the issue or situation to be discussed.
b. Present facts and may include statistics of the issue.
c. Establish your position on the issue.

8
 2. Body (1 to 3 paragraphs – around 60% of the paper)
a. Provide main arguments containing 4 E‟s (Evidence, Explanation,
Example, and Extra details).
i. evidence provides facts and statistics to support your stand
ii. explanation provides reasons to support your evidences
iii. example provides a few statement for clearer information
iv. extra details provide quotes or statement of some experts

b. Provide counter arguments or opposing thought of your stand.

c. Follow this pattern when presenting arguments through a paragraph.

i. Stand – Weak point – Stand
ii. Weak point – Stand – Stand
iii. Stand – Stand – Weak point

3. Conclusion (1 paragraph – around 20% of the paper)

a. Restate your position of the issue.
b. Provide a plan of action or a solution.
c. Make your ending statement with views that would
resonate throughout the reader‟s lives.

Additional Tips in Writing a Position Paper

1. Present clearly your stand on the issue.
2. Make your introduction as interesting as possible to arouse interest and gain
support.
3. Use transitional devices to carry a thought from sentence to another.
4. Observe grammar and mechanics (spelling, capitalization, and punctuations)
5. Fact-finding and research the topic to gain more knowledge.
6. Present weak points of your argument but make sure your claims are
more substantial.
7. Credit reliable sources for the credibility of your paper.
8. Cite laws or relevant principle in your main arguments, if possible
provide with statistics.
9. Use ethical, logical, and emotional appeal to evoke readers.
10. Assert values that adhere to as a democratic country.
11. Restate your stand to conclude your paper.
12. Present your conclusion either to call for action or to provide a solution.

Sample Position Paper

(1) The youth is a strong force that could face

insurmountable challenges. There are at least 23,400, 000
Introduction Filipino youth the Philippines has today. These young people
can largely contribute in community building.

9
 (2) According to a 2013 survey conducted by the
University of the Philippines Population Institute (UPPI)
and Demographic Research and Development
Argument
Foundation (DRDF), almost 6,660,000 young Filipinos
(Counter-
aged 15 to 25 are alcoholics, 3,600,000 smokers, and
claims)
720,000 drug users. With these alarming statistics, how
could the youth be agents of community building? The
Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) was not being given much
attention as it should. In fact, SK was already abolished
during the recent barangay elections. All the more the
youth will lack representation in local governments.

(3) Amid the sordid state that the Filipino

youth are in, we are still banking on Republic Act
8044 or better known as the Youth in Nation-
Building Act. This is the same law that established
Argument the National Youth Commission (NYC) in 1994 in
(Stand) order to recognize the state‟s responsibility to enable the
youth to fulfill their vital role in nation-building,
promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual,
intellectual and social well-being, and inculcate in
them patriotism and nationalism, and encourage
their involvement in public and civic affairs.

(4) The government has to mobilize the NYC to

make it known to the young so that they can actively
participate in youth-oriented initiatives. The
government has to also beef up the budget allocation
for youth development and intensify campaigns
against drugs, smoking, alcoholism, and other
unhealthy or illegal vices, which more often than
not, are causes of the country‟s rising crime rate.

(5) With their vulnerable state, the youth‟s stronghold

Conclusion is the support of the family, government, and concerned
sectors of society. Before they can build a nation, the
youth, the youth has to be built on solid grounds first. For
them to become community builders, themselves, the
youth must first build the foundation of discipline.

10
 This editorial paper is written by Marvin Enderes, the School Paper Adviser of
Colegio San Agustin, Makati city. He is a champion in the National School Paper
Conference (NSPC) for many years and a recipient of the most Outstanding School
Paper Adviser.

Let Us Practice

Activity 1. Complete Me
Complete the paragraph below by supplying the appropriate transitional
devices from the given options below.

because thereafter such as after

indeed but despite while
and since

Tears well-up her eyes, excitement trickled all

over her frail body, cold (1) _____ shaking 62-year old
hands proudly received the certificate of completion
for Junior High School. From across the stage,
smiles creased the face of her classmates, (2) ______
her mentors raised their hands clapping, „we‟re-so-proud-
of-you-nanay‟ expression overflowed as this Opsimath
(a person who continues to study or learn later in
life) (3) _______ made it through high school
last 2016.

Rebecca C. Vinoya is a mother of ten. She

stopped elementary education (4)_________ of
financial constraint. She has been a lady guard (5)
______ 2004 at J. V. Ferriols National High School in 3 rd district.

Upon knowing ADM (Alternative Delivery Mode), a flexible curriculum that

provides time frame establishing clear and realistic objectives, her husband
prodded her to continue high school (6) _________. She was monitored and given
self-learning modules (SLMs) (7) __________ learner‟s materials, textbooks, activity
sheets study guides and other study materials.

“Sa akong edad karon, gusto pa nako makabalo ug daghang butang.

Paminaw nako daghan pa kog dapat mahibaw-an. Gusto pud ko mahimo nga
modelo sa akong kawhaag pito (27) ka mga apo ug mga out-of-school youth sa
among lugar. Ang edukasyon, mao kini ang tinuod nga bulawan sa kalibutan na
walay laing maka kuha sa imo niini,” said Nanay Vinoya (8) _________ she received
her certificate on stage.

11
 (9) ___________, her desire for learning is admirable, an indication of her
willingness towards a strong desire for learning. (10) __________ her age, she does
not falter to materialize aspirations!

Activity 2: Ink Your Voice!

Directions: Read the following situations. Write a position paper showing your
arguments about the stand of the issue. Follow the guidelines and tips in
outlining your stand. Choose only ONE among the following situations.

As a student, how would you influence the people to do such action or change?

SITUATION 1:

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has been providing financial

assistance amounting to Php 15,000 to Php 30,000 per semester to qualified
students. One of the qualifications is to have a GWA of at least 85% for partial and
GWA of at least 90% for full scholarship.

You are an incoming freshman in college whose family belongs to low income
earner, however your GWA is only 79% but you believe these group deserves a
financial assistance, as well.

Write a position paper addressed to the Office of the President of the

Philippines to include students who belong to low income earners which
represents the majority of the economy, to be part of the scholarship program.

SITUATION 2:

As of July 21, 2020, DOH reported that only 0.87% or 16 deaths among the
children and teenagers against the total number of 1, 831 deaths in the
Philippines. This is somehow very low compared to global standards which is 1% to
5%.

Due to COVID 19, the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on Emerging

Infectious Diseases set guidelines for any person below twenty-one (21) years old
are required to stay at home at all times.

As a senior high school representative, write a position paper addressed

to the IATF stating your stand to allow teenagers from sixteen
(16) years old to go out. Support your arguments from the very low numbers of
death among your group age.

SITUATION 3:

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is

the executive department of the Philippine government responsible for the planning,
development and promotion of the country‟s information and communications technology
(ICT) agenda in support of national development.

12
 Internet, for educational purposes is widely used to gather information, to do
research or to do queries about problems or doubts. However, most of the
household do not have internet connection to access online learning tools and
materials to be released by DepEd such as online lessons, tutorials and power
point slides and self-learning modules (SLMs). Through the internet, students will
have access to different alternative learning delivery modalities like distance and
blended learning.

As the national president of the Supreme Student Government (SSG)

council, write a position paper to DICT urging internet service providers like
PLDT and GLOBE to provide cheaper and accessible internet connection to
every household mainly used for educational purposes only. State the effects
of learning while using internet and without internet connectivity.

Guide Questions:

✓
Does your paper present a clear statement of the topic?
✓
Does the paper provide background on why it is important?
✓
Does the paper clearly present your point or stand on the first paragraph?
✓
Does your paper support and acknowledge the opposing points?
✓
Does the content contain transitional devices that adds, opposes or
emphasizes a point?
✓
Is the issue being written timely?
✓
Does the paper provide possible counter arguments?
✓
Does the paper contain valid and reasonable arguments to present the
stand?
✓
Are there sufficient evidences to support the stand?

13
 Let Us Practice More

Activity 1: Unlocking of Difficulties

Directions: Here are some words from the excerpt. Write the missing word in each
sentence. Choose the word from the table below.

anarchy (noun) – absence of order; absence of government

obsolete (adjective) – no longer in use or no longer useful; old-
fashioned
clog (verb) – to cause blockage in; to fill beyond capacity reckless
(adjective) – marked by lack of proper caution; careless excess (noun)
– the amount or degree by which one thing or quantity exceeds
another
bribe (verb) – to influence the judgment or conduct of (someone) with
offers of money or favor
accommodate (verb) – to make room for; to allow for
phase out (verb) – a gradual stopping (as in operations or production); a
closing down by phases
blame (verb) – to find fault with; to hold responsible
relic (noun) – a trace of some past or outmoded practice, custom, or belief

Source: https://www.merriam-webster.com/

1. When I had minor accident of my ten-year motorcycle, I could not buy the
same motor parts. They said those were already __________.
2. Cruz family discovered a __________ of paper bills from the time of Marcos
era.
3. Heavy rains __________ drainage in our barangay, in effect flood reached
almost knee-high.
4. When the civil war broke out, the government collapsed and turned into an
__________.
5. OFWs brought an __________ of three luggage since they are still uncertain if
they can go back because of the pandemic.
6. Grandma could not find the same cellphone casing of Samsung galaxy J2
android phone in the market. The saleswoman told this model has
__________.
7. A pick-up truck rammed through the house of local residents claiming the
lives of four people including a three-year old child. The suspect faced
__________driving resulting to multiple homicide.

14
 8. The village chief attempted to __________ the attorney the whistleblower to
withdraw his statement against the alleged corruption.
9. The Apo View Hotel of Davao announced that they are willing to __________
50 rooms for Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) frontliners for
free.
10. His family is __________ of the COVID 19 infection in the barangay as some
members violate quarantine protocols.

Activity 2: In-depth Analysis

Directions: Read carefully the excerpt. As you go along, determine the reasons of
phasing out the old jeepneys by answering the questions provided.

Phase Out the Obsolete Jeepney (an exerpt)

Neal H. Cruz

If the jeepney strike pushes

through today, the government should
use it to phase out jeepneys. This World
War II relic should have been phased out
a long time ago but successive
administrations had no balls to go
through with the phaseout. They were
afraid of the jeepney drivers who always
threatened a strike when they were told
to obey the law. And these were not
enough buses to replace the jeepneys to
service commuters.

But the jeepney, although a tourist attraction and a romantic example of folk
art, is the principal source of the daily traffic jams. Its drivers are undisciplined,
reckless and probably don‟t know half of the traffic rules. Because of the huge number of
vehicles in Metro Manila, there is only one way to improve traffic: make each and
every driver, private and public, obey each and every traffic rule.

Jeepney drivers have gotten away for so long with murder by bribing corrupt
politician that it is a shock to them to be made to obey traffic rules and be fined if
they violate them. Anarchy reigns in the streets because of them.

Although they are not in the driver‟s seat, jeepney operators are also to blame for
the anarchy. They make the drivers pay a flat rental (the boundary) for the jeepney.
Whatever the driver earns in excess of the boundary, plus the cost of fuel and oil-
bribes-is his take-home pay. So the driver is forced to break traffic rules so that he
can earn as much as he can. But that is no excuse.

Perhaps if the operator pays his driver a regular salary, plus social security
and medicare premiums, and fixed times for trips, the driver would be less reckless
and we would have more orderly traffic.

As for the jeepney terminals, they really are a source of traffic congestion.
Try this: whenever you come to a traffic jam, trace the source and in many cases it
would be a jeepney terminal. Jeepneys lined up along a narrow street take up

15
space intended for moving vehicles. Some jeepney routes are too short, which
means more terminals-and bigger fares for passengers.

Another reason why the jeepney should be phased out is that it takes up too
much road space and consumes more fuel for the number of passengers it can
accommodate. One bus can take in the passengers of 10 jeepneys but take up only
a fourth of the space occupied by the 10 jeepneys. In short, the jeepney is all right
in the provinces where there is ample road space but not in a crowded metropolis
like Metro Manila. It was great as emergency civilian transportation during the
Liberation days, but not anymore. Alas, it has become obsolete in the city.

The phase out doesn‟t mean throwing the jeepneys into the junk heap and
their drivers into the ranks of the jobless. There is a great need for the jeepney in
many areas of the Philippines where there is a shortage of transportation. Send
them there.

Where will the commuters ride without the jeepneys? Send in more buses
with salaried drivers and conductors and fixed trip schedules sot they don‟t have to clog
loading/ unloading zones waiting for passengers. Organize the bus companies in
Metro Manila into one super-consortium so that the bus ticket of one company can
be used to transfer to another bus of a different company. This is to prevent
passengers and buses clogging bus stops because they are waiting for the bus
going exactly to where they are going. If transfers are allowed, they can board any
bus going in the same direction (and the bus doesn‟t have to wait long for passengers) and
then transfer to another bus at their convenience.

Encourage commuters to use the Metrotren by improving the coaches and

having more trips.

Use the Pasig River. They Metro Ferry failed because there were not enough
passengers mainly because the boats were small. Hong Kong type shallow-drift
ferries will certainly attract more passengers. Use the smaller boats during high
tide to be able to pass under the bridges. Have another ferry service to Cavite City
to relieve traffic on Coastal Road. (There used to be one, why was it discontinued?)

And hurry up the C-5 and the C-6…

Answer the following questions.

1. Which idea in the reading text do you agree the most? Why?
2. Which idea in the reading text do you agree the least? Why?

16
Activity 3: DIY (Disagree, Invoke, and Yearn)
Directions: Disagree from the excerpt and write your position on why jeepney
modernization should not be implemented. Make at least five (5) paragraphs. See
the rubric for you to be guided.

Category 4 – Above 3 – Meet 2 – Approaching 1 – Below Score

Standard Standard Standard Standard
Focus or The statement The statement The statement The statement
Statement names the topic of names the topic outlines some or does not name
the essay and of the essay. all the main the topic and
outlines the main points to be does not
points to be discussed but preview what
discussed. does not name will be
the topic. discussed.
Support for Includes 2 or more Includes 2 or Includes 2 Includes 1 or
Position pieces of evidence more pieces of pieces of fewer pieces of
that support the evidence (facts, evidence (facts, evidence (facts,
position statement. statistics, statistics, statistics,
The writer examples, real- examples, real- examples, real-
anticipates the life experiences) life experiences) life
reader‟s concerns, that support that support the experiences).
biases or the position position
arguments and has statement. statement.
provided at least 1
counter argument.
Transitions A variety of Transitions Some transitions The transitions
thoughtful show how ideas work well, but between ideas
transitions are are connected, some are unclear OR
used. They clearly but there is connections nonexistent.
show how ideas little variety. between ideas
are connected. are fuzzy.
Closing The conclusion is The conclusion The author‟s There is no
paragraph strong and leaves is recognizable. position is conclusion –
the reader solidly The author‟s restated within the paper just
understands the position is the closing ends.
writer‟s position. restated within paragraph, but
Effective the first two not near the
restatement of the sentences of beginning.
position statement the closing
begins the closing paragraph.
paragraph.
Grammar Author makes no Author makes Author makes Author makes
and errors in grammar 1-2 errors in 3-4 errors in more than 4
or spelling that grammar or grammar or errors in
Spelling distracts the spelling that spelling that grammar or
reader from the distract the distract the spelling that
content. reader from the reader from the distract the
content. content. reader from the
content.
Source: https://position-paper.curtsingertrailers.net/position-paper-rubric/html

17
 Let Us Remember

Option 1: Unlocking of Difficulties

Directions: Read the following sentences and find the meaning of the word from the
given options.
1. The doctors from the hospital were discriminated in the community after
working at COVID-19 facilities. To discriminate is to _________.

a. treat fairly c. treat differently b. treat well d. evict

2. After failing the board exam, he faced the mirror and meditated as to why it
happened. To meditate is to ___________.

a. study c. accept b. comfort d. reflect

3. In the US, young activists marched on the sidewalk, shouting their

animosity against the government‟s respond to COVID-19. What does
animosity mean?

a. favor c. opposition b. support d. admiration

4. The mother almost got insane looking at their house go with the flashflood.
The local government gave her family assistance. What does insane mean?

a. moved on c. mentally ill b. accept d. sick

5. The undercover agent who killed the drug lord did not reveal his identity to
the public. What does undercover mean?

a. secret c. corrupt b. known d. public

6. The CIA agent collected intelligence report through sources from intel to
protect the United States against terrorists. What does CIA mean?

a. Criminal Inter-Agency c. Central Inter-taskforce Agency

b. Central Intelligence Agency d. Commission on Interpol Agency

7. The company has not granted their salary increase so the irate labor group
kept on shouting for their request. What does irate mean?

a. angry c. satisfied b. relaxed d. pleased

8. Content, organization of ideas, and coherence are one of the criteria in

writing an effective argument. What does criteria mean?

a. hint c. topic
b. main idea d. basis

18
 9. He is really a selfish friend. He just always thinks of himself. What does
selfish mean?
a. self-centered c. merciful
b. pathetic d. positive
10. The pastor preaches the word of God on the busy street of Roxas Night
market. To preach is to ___________________.

a. criticize c. attack b. sermon d. accept

Option 2: Song Dissection

Directions: Read the song “Where is the Love?” by Black Eyed Peas. Answer the
following questions that follow.

Where is the Love?

What's going on with the world, Mama?
People living like they ain't got no mama‟s
I think the whole world's addicted to the drama
Only attracted to things that'll bring you trauma
Overseas, yeah, we try to stop terrorism
But we still got terrorists here living

In the USA, the big CIA

The Bloods and the Crips and the KKK
But if you only have love for your own race
Then you only leave space to discriminate
And to discriminate only generates hate
And when you hate, then you're bound to get irate, yeah

Madness is what you demonstrate

And that's exactly how anger works and operates
Man, you got to have love just to set it straight
Take control of your mind and meditate
Let your soul gravitate to the love, y'all, y'all

[Chorus]
People killing, people dying
Children hurting, hear them crying
Can you practice what you preach?
And would you turn the other cheek?
Father, father, father, help us
Send some guidance from above
'Cause people got me, got me questioning
Where is the love?
It just ain't the same, old ways have changed
New days are strange, is the world insane?
If love and peace is so strong
Why are there pieces of love that don't belong?
Nations dropping bombs
Chemical gases filling lungs of little ones
19
 With ongoing suffering as the youth die young

So ask yourself, is the loving really gone? So I can ask

myself, really, what is going wrong With this world that
we living in? People keep on giving in Makin' wrong
decisions, only visions of them dividends

Not respecting each other, deny thy brother

A war is going on, but the reason's undercover
The truth is kept secret, and swept under the rug
If you never know truth, then you never know love
Where's the love, y'all? Come on (I don't know)
And where's the truth, y'all? Come on (I don't know)
And where's the love y'all?

[Repeat Chorus]

I feel the weight of the world on my shoulder

As I'm getting older, y'all people gets colder
Most of us only care about money-making
Selfishness got us following the wrong direction
Wrong information always shown by the media
Negative images is the main criteria
Infecting the young minds faster than bacteria
Kids want to act like what they see in the cinema

Yo, whatever happened to the values of humanity? (Yeah)

Whatever happened to the fairness and equality? (Yeah)
Instead of spreading love, we spreading animosity (Yeah)
Lack of understanding leading us away from unity

That's the reason why sometimes I'm feeling under

That's the reason why sometimes I'm feeling down It's no
wonder why sometimes I'm feeling under Got to keep my
faith alive 'til love is found Now ask yourself

[Post-Chorus: will.i.am]
Where is the love?
Where is the love?
Where is the love?
Where is the love?

[Chorus: Justin Timberlake]

Father, father, father, help us
Send some guidance from above
'Cause people got me, got me questioning
Where is the love?

Now sing with me, y'all (One world, one world)

We only got (One world, one world)
That's all we got (One world, one world)
And something's wrong with it (Yeah)
Something's wrong with it (Yeah)
20
 Something's wrong with the w-world, world, yeah

We only got (One world, one world)

That's all we got (One world, one world)

These questions are based on the song. Express your thoughts and personal
views through writing.

1. What does it mean by “People living like they ain't got no mama’s”? How
important is the mother‟s love in rearing a child?
2. What does it mean by “But if you only have love for your own race”? How can
you possibly avoid discrimination?
3. What does it mean by “Can you practice what you preach?” In what way can
a religion help in maintaining peaceful life?
4. What does it mean by “A war is going on, but the reason’s undercover”? Do
you think a World War III is along the way? Why? Why not?
5. What does it mean by “Wrong information always shown by the media”? Do
you think the media is being biased in choosing newsworthy topics? Why?
Why not?

Let Us Assess

Test I
Directions: Read the following statements. Choose the correct transitional devices
from the given options. Write your answers on a separate sheet of paper.
1. Thousands of hikers try to walk the entire trail each year, ______ only about
one in four finish it.
a. despite c. thus
b. after d. but

2. COVID 19 infection has ended in Thailand. ________, they opened their

flights internationally.
a. Moreover c. Finally
b. After d. Although

3. Language is a tool that builds a community and society as a whole.

_________, language and society co-exist.
a. In short c. Furthermore
b. Meanwhile d. On the other hand

4. The Math teacher will accept late homework; ___________, points will
be deducted.
a. and c. thus
b. however d. then

21
 5. The city of Yamato, in Japan is no longer allowed to look at their smartphones
while walking outside in public places, ___________ streets and
parks.
a. as a result c. such as
b. and d. consequently

Test II
Directions: Read and answer the following questions. Choose the best
option provided.
1. Which part of a position paper provides the general statement of the stand?
a. Title c. Body
b. Introduction d. Conclusion

2. How many percent of the content should be written in the main arguments?
a. 80% c. 60%
b. 70% d. 50%

3. How many paragraphs are recommended in writing a position paper?

a. 1 to 2 paragraphs c. 3 to 4 paragraphs
b. 2 to 3 paragraphs d. 4 to 5 paragraphs

4. Writing a position paper is almost similar to writing a/an _____________?

a. Editorial c. Entertainment
b. News d. Business

5. What part of the paper restates the position/ stand of the writer?
a. Title c. Body
b. Introduction d. Conclusion

6. Which of the following is found in the introduction of a position paper?

a. statement of your stand c. suggestion
b. main arguments d. counterarguments

7. Which among the statements provide an effective argument?

a. Skin injuries may lead to neurological problems in the future.
b. Using electronic gadgets like cellphones during a flight is a dangerous
idea.
c. His neighbor accused him as COVID-19 positive because he was a
Locally Stranded Individual or LSI.
d. According to WHO, people who has history of pneumonia and
tuberculosis should stay at home as they are prone to viral infection.

8. How can you make your arguments strong and effective?

a. Provide interviews and thoughts of the people in your community.
b. Provide facts, evidences, and statistics related to the topic
c. Provide personal opinion based on your experiences.
d. Provide quotes and expressions from famous movies locally
or internationally.

22
 9. Which of the following is NOT included in the conclusion of the
position paper?
a. restatement of the position c. positive side of your stand
b. course of action d. main arguments

10. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a position paper?

a. It corrects old principles that lead to equality.
b. It can help solve a problem by following certain approach.
c. It can bend research statements and statistical data to make it invalid.
d. It can make sensitive societal issues be accepted by the many.

Let Us Enhance

Now that you have already learned the skill of writing a position paper,
you are now ready to do the writing activity below.

Directions: Write a three-paragraph essay expressing your stand on the provision

of Social Amelioration Program (SAP) to the “hardest-hit” sector during this COVID
19 pandemic.

Let Us Reflect

The skills that you have learned from this module would be very relevant in
writing effective arguments to prove your position on timely issues. Consequently,
presenting your gathered facts and evidences would help you support your stand
and influence a course of action. Thus, learning how to write a position paper is
vital in using your voice as an effective means of change.

23
Answer key to Activities

24
25
For inquiries or feedback, please write or call:

Department of Education – Davao City Division

Elpidio Quirino Ave., Poblacion District, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur

Telefax: (082) 224-3274, (082) 222-1672

E-mail Address: [email protected]

26