Concept Paper

Concept Paper
it can be purely an explanation of an idea or concept -
an extended definition or an initial outline of a project
proposal.
it is an in-depth analysis of any idea, situation, or
practice. It can be anything that you find significant.
 Concept Paper
A feeling- What is self-esteem?
A cultural belief – What is Filipino time?
A belief – What is transmigration?
A situation – What is Global Warming?

Unless you are assigned to a concept, you can choose

to write on any subject you feel strongly about.
 Concept Paper
It examines the “what-ness” or nature of something.
You need to explain in full a simple definition of the
term. In other words, you have to extend the definition.
 Concept Paper
As an extended definition it is written to inform, if the
audience is unfamiliar to the concept, or to introduce a
new information or a new perspective to the concept.
 Concept Paper
It is fundamentally different from a concept paper
(project proposal) in terms of its objective:
It targets the explanation of an idea, theory, practice,
or principle, for the purpose of informing a target
audience.
 Concept Paper
As a project proposal, it seeks to present an idea for
consideration by others, possibly for funding support;
hence, it also entails a persuasive intent.
 Concept Paper
Definition paper examines the ‘what-ness’ or nature
of something, using rhetorical techniques; in contrast,
a concept paper goes beyond the definition to
convince the reader to implement or support the
proposed concept or project.
 Concept Paper
As a project proposal, it is often asked by an
organization prior to the presentation of a full-blown
project proposal. It serves as an initial outline of the
proposed project.
 Concept Paper
A concept paper is a summary of projects or issues
that reflect the interests, experiences, and expertise of
the writer or organization. It provides in-depth
discussion of a topic that the writer has a strong
position.
 Concept Paper
As EXTENDEND DEFINITION
to ensure that the target audience understand the concept
that is being defined, a combination of several rhetorical strategies is
used to extend a definition. Such as giving examples of the term that
is being defined. For example, to clarify the meaning the integrity, one
can give examples of behaviors and situations that demonstrate it.
 Concept Paper
As EXTENDEND DEFINITION
Comparison and contrast can also be done. This is advisable
when the term is not too familiar or popular with the audience.
One can do is compare and contrast it with something that is
familiar o the audience.
 Concept Paper
As EXTENDEND DEFINITION
For instance, the concept of imperialism may not be known to
many, and therefore, difficult to explain, but if you use a parallel
situation of a landowner being driven out of his land and the
intruder attempting to steal the property from the owner, the it
would be easier to explain.
 Concept Paper
As EXTENDEND DEFINITION
Giving details through description is another strategy; one can
physically describe something by giving its dimensions (shape,
size, color, texture), parts, and functions, as in defining what an
ATM is. Nonphysical description can be done by giving
characteristics to define something.
 Concept Paper
As EXTENDEND DEFINITION
Giving historical background may also enlighten the audience
about the meaning of concept. This strategy is particularly
useful when a concept’s definition has gone through changes in
time.
 Concept Paper
As EXTENDEND DEFINITION
Analysis to extend a definition can be done by discussing the
idea’s components and/or its implications. For example, in
defining ‘globalization’ you can explain its consequence.
 Concept Paper
In terms of style, definition may be formal or informal,
or technical or popular.

In a formal definition, a concept is defined by giving the class to

which the term belongs and then proceeding to a discussion of
the characteristics that make the term different from other
related terms.
 Concept Paper
In terms of style, definition may be formal or informal,
or technical or popular.

In a formal definition, a concept is defined by giving the class to

which the term belongs and then proceeding to a discussion of
the characteristics that make the term different from other
related terms.
 Three Ways in Explaining a Concept
Definition
TERM GENUS (CLASS) DIFFERENTIA
Definition A mode of paragraph That answers the
development questions: what is it,
what does it mean, or
what is sits special
features
 Concept Paper
A technical definition makes use of technical language
or specialized vocabulary of a field, which is not easily
understood by a person who lacks necessary
background or training. A popular definition, makes use
of layman’s language and is thus easy to understand.
 Concept Paper
A formal definition is often what is required in the
academe. It uses research-based information. In
contrast, an informal definition may be just based on a
person’s personal views.
 Several Uses of A Concept
Paper
Serves as the foundation of the full
proposal
 Several Uses of A Concept
Paper
Helps determine whether a certain
project is feasible or not.
 Several Uses of A Concept
Paper
Used to pique the interest of the
potential funding agencies.
 Several Uses of A Concept
Paper
Used to obtain informal feedback on
the ideas prior to preparing the full
proposal.
 Three Ways in Explaining a Concept

Definition
-it is the method of identifying a given
term and making its meaning clearer.
 Three Ways in Explaining a Concept
Definition
-it is a mode of paragraph development that answers
the questions:
What is it?
What does it mean?
What are its special features?
 Three Ways in Explaining a Concept
Definition be presented in three ways:
Formal Informal
Parenthetical or brief Explains a term to be defined
explanation (species), general category of
the term (genus) and the
quality that makes the term
different other terms in the
same category
Extended
Detailed way of defining a
term. Defines abstract
concepts and allows a writer
broaden his/her definition by
using analogy, metaphors,
comparison and contrast,
descriptions, analysis,
functions, etymology, and
semantic origin
 Three Ways in Explaining a Concept
Language cues
As defined as Means
Such as For instance
Is defined as To illustrate
For example to define
 Three Ways in Explaining a Concept
Explication
-method of explanation in which sentences, verses,
quotes, or passages are taken away from a literary
or academic work and then interpreted and
explained in detailed way.
 Three Ways in Explaining a Concept
Clarification
-points are organized (general abstract idea to
specific and concrete examples).
-entails the analysis of the concept by looking at
the examples.
 Three Ways in Explaining a Concept
Clarification
After all As an example
Consider the following For example
For instance In other words
In particular In short
Namely Put another way
Specifically Stated Differently
That is To be specific
To clarify To illustrate
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Establishing the Purpose

Grab your reader’s attention.

Concept papers are meant to persuade sponsors, convincing
them to fund or adopt your idea. This means it’s critical to “hook”
them right at the beginning.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
It could be:

Starting your paper with attention-grabbing statistic related to your

project:

Every year, 10.5 million pounds of food go to waste due to common

pest: rats
 How to Write a Concept Paper
It could be:

Giving your concept paper a descriptive title:

Lock the Rat Box: Humane, Hands-free Rodent Control

 How to Write a Concept Paper
Explain why you are approaching this sponsor.

After getting your reader’s attention, the introduction to

your concept paper should then describe how your goals and the
sponsor’s mission mesh. This tells the sponsor that you’ve done
your homework and are serious about approaching them.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Try something like:

The Savco Foundation has been long committed to funding projects

that foster healthy communities. We have developed Lock the Rat
Box as an easy, cost-effective means to lower illness rates and
sanitation costs municipalities, and are seeking your support for the
project.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Describe the problem.

The next section of a concept paper will devote a

few sentences or short paragraphs to the specific purpose
of your project. Describe the problem you want to solve,
and illustrate how you know it exists.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Describe the problem.

Rodents expose humans to dangerous pathogens that have

public health significance.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Put the problem in context and explain why it matters.

Show how your project relates to current issues, questions,

or problems. Statistics and other numerical data can help build a
convincing case for why your problem matters. Some readers might
also be moved by narratives or personal stories, so consider
including those as well.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Rats are a nuisance, but also a serious vector of diseases such as
rabies, and the bubonic plague. Municipalities across the United
States spend upwards of twenty million dollars a year combating
these issues.

Include references to verify the detail that you cite.

 How to Write a Concept Paper
Explaining How your Concept Works

Share the basics of your method.

Even if the readers are convinced you have identified an
issue that matters, they’ll still want to know that you have an idea
for how to solve or investigate it. Spend some time in your concept
paper describing the methods you will use.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Methods:

Building a prototype device to humanely trap rats.

Advertising programs to educate communities about rat problems.

Making recommendations about removal of current rats and prevention

of future rat infestations.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Emphasize what makes your methods unique.
Remember that sponsors may be looking at numerous
requests for funding. To ensure yours is successful, you have to
explain what sets your project apart.

What is my project doing that no one has done or tried before?

 How to Write a Concept Paper
While previous governmental services have explained rat
infestation via poster, radio, and television campaigns, they
have not taken advantage of social media as a means of
contacting with community members. Our project fills that
gap.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Include a timeline.
You can’t expect a donor or foundation to be willing
to fund completely open-ended project. Part of your
concept paper should explain the projected timeline for
implementing your project.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
February 2018: sign a lease for workshop space.
Late February 2018: purchase materials for Lock
the Rat Box prototype.
March 2018: conduct preliminary tests of the
prototype
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Give concrete examples of how you will assess your
project.
Sponsors want to fund projects that are likely to succeed,
and part of your job in the concept paper is to explain how to
measure your project’s outcomes. If you are developing a product,
for example, that success can be measured in units produced and/or
sold.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Drop the fliers and business cards in offices, libraries, public
facilities and train stations etc.

Placing a classified advertisement in the paper, about our company

and the services we offered.

Introduce our business by sending introductory letters to corporate

organizations, commercial farms, facility managers and households.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Provide preliminary budget.
Sponsors will be interested to see a general overview of how
much project is expected to cost. This explains the need for funding
and helps the sponsor determine if the project’s scope is appropriate.
A concept paper is a preliminary proposal so it is not necessary to
write it in detail, but give info on the basics of the costs that may
include things like:
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Business incorporating fees - $750

Liability, insurance, permits, and license - $3,500

Office facility to accommodate staff members, equipment and trucks

- $70,000
 How to Write a Concept Paper
End with a project summary.
Wrap things up with a short paragraph at the end of your
paper, reiterating your project’s purpose, basic plan of action, and
needs. Focus on the essential points you want to stick in the
sponsor’s mind.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
We are quite optimistic in our values and quality of service
offering will help us drive our rodent control business to
enviable heights and also help attract the numbers of
clients that will make the business highly profitable.
 How to Write a Concept Paper
Lastly, review your draft.

Keep it short and neat.

Check that the language of your concept paper is action-oriented.
Use vocabulary that the readers will understand.
Include contact information.
Proofread the final draft.
Introduction: Grab your reader’s attention by making your
goals and their mission meet in the middle.
Purpose: Identify the problem and discuss why it matters.
Project Description: Describe the activities that your project
will undertake to address the problem/need. Discuss the
general impact of your proposed project: what will be the
outcome, who will be affected?
Objectives: State the specific, measurable, achievable, realistic,
and time-bound objectives of the project.
Methodology/Project design: Enumerate the steps/procedure
to implement the project.
Project needs: Make a list of materials, personnel, equipment,
and space that will be needed to carry out the project. Include
a cost estimate.
Timetable: Make an estimate of the time it will take for the
completion of the project.