English 10: The Concept Paper I. Goals A. To clarify the meaning or whatness of an object B.

To explain the objects value of existence

II. Basic Content (any or a combination of the following) A. Definition of term B. Analytic description of aspects of a principle, worldview, policy or project proposal C. Delineation of parts of a structure, levels of a system, stages of a method or process, or elements in a pattern of behaviour D. Uncovering the basic assertion or assertions underlying a given statement III. Suggested Ordering A. Excluding what the concept is not B. Including what the concept is C. Adding to the basic definition through various techniques 1. Formal 6. Analysis 2. Synonym 7. Likeness or Similarity 3. Origin/Semantic History/Etymology 8. Analogy/Metaphor 4. Illustration 9. Contrast 5. Function 10. Negation D. Breaking down the concept into parts (aspects, elements, stages, levels, kinds) E. Stating the value or applications of the idea, dangers it might pose, benefits it could have, future developments or evolution IV. Checklist of Basic Qualities A. Definition is sufficiently inclusive and exclusive B. Emphasizes only relevant aspects, classes, applications, etc. C. The concept is defined, described, and analyzed in clear language and syntax. D. The topic no longer seems complex due to its being broken down into parts E. The concept is discussed clearly and specifically, such that the reader should be able to relate the concept to his/her own experience.

Adapted from: Dadufalza, Concepcion. The Concept Paper. From Reading into Writing 2: A Handbook-WorkbookReader for Critical Reading and Writing in Expository Discourse. Makati City: Bookmark, Inc., 1996. 183-186.