A refutation paper argues your point of view.
A refutation paper is also referred to as an argument paper. In other words, it's an opportunity for you to present your argument and refute your critics. When writing a refutation paper, it's important to research not only your side of the issue well but also that of your critics. In order to thoroughly refute their arguments, you must fully understand their point of view. A well laid-out refutation paper walks the reader through the history of the topic, your position on it, your opponent's position, and your refutation of your opponent's position.
Instructions
1. Write an outline of the argument so that readers fully understand the context that the argument takes place in. Include any pieces of information that clarify the topic, such as definitions of unfamiliar terms. Give the history of the topic and mention any key decision makers in the process. For example, "The school board in March of 2010 voted to end the music program. Both the superintendent and two board members pointed to the poor performance of the music teacher as their reason for ending the program. The absence of two members of the board meant the motion passed."
2. Explain your position and support it with any evidence you have available. For example, "I believe the vote in March of 2010 violated the bylaws of the school district which states that all school board members must be present to vote on issues of eminent concern to the district as a whole. Each of the principals from the elementary, middle, and high school have gone on record saying they believe this was an issue of eminent concern to the district."
3. State any counter-arguments that you will need to refute in your argument. For example, "School board members present for voting have pointed out that the missing school board members knew there was an important vote taking place in the March 2010 meeting. Furthermore, the superintendent argues that he sent out a note asking all members to be present at the meeting."
4. Refute the counter-arguments with facts and evidence. For example, "The absent school members have all provided written statements attesting to the fact that they were required to be in two places at once and had made this known to the superintendent and the other school board members prior to the meeting. The superintendent was unwilling to change the meeting date and time, despite the obvious conflict which wouldn't allow the other school board members to be present for such an important meeting."
5. Check your paper to be sure that all the details are correct and that you've followed the correct order in presenting your argument. Ensure that you've fully presented all sides of the argument and that you've thoroughly supported your stance with evidence and facts. Finally, do a spell and grammar check on the document, ensuring it's error free.
Tags: board members, school board, March 2010, members present, refutation paper