Editorial Story Writing

Key Terms Editorial A short article that expresses opinions on a topic. By strict definition, an editorial expresses the official opinion of the newspaper and does not have a byline (or attribution). Editorial Page A section of the newspaper reserved for editorials and various other pieces that contain opinion rather than objective reporting

Key Terms Subjective Writing Writing that expresses the writer’s opinion and viewpoint. Subjective writing in a newspaper belongs on the editorial page Masthead A statement printed in all editions of a newspaper, generally on the editorial page, identifying pertinent information about the publication, such as name, publisher, editor, and staff members.

Key Terms Editorial Policy A statement of the position of the paper on various editorial issues, such as whose viewpoint the editorials represent, how the newspaper handles letters to the editor, how monies from ads will be handled, etc. Column A bylined article expressing opinions of the writer, usually signed, and appearing on the editorial page.

Key Terms Point-counterpoint A technique in which the opinions of individuals with opposing viewpoints on a topic are run in side-by-side opinion articles

The Newspaper Editorial The newspaper editorial is often referred to as “the voice of the paper” The Editorial page is the only part of the paper that focuses completely on subjective writing. What does this mean? Editorials have the power to affect changes in out society. Why do you think this is?

The Newspaper Editorial Research is the first essential step in writing a good editorial. Why is this? Some of that research may include direct interviews with people knowledgeable about the issue. Using quotes in your editorial adds depth and credibility.

The Newspaper Editorial Other research information may come from surveys and opinion studies As an editorial writer, the journalist should first become immersed in all available information on the subject.

Functions of Editorials There are editorials that explain, persuade, answer criticism or a question, express a warning or caution, criticize, entertain, praise, or provide leadership on a subject. An editorial can also be a blend of types For example, it can praise the board of education for developing new guidelines for graduation but criticize how they’re being implemented, while offering constructive solutions to the problems.

Editorials that Explain For example A new policy on graduation requirements may have been issued over the summer. The newspaper staff feels the system deserves clarification and an expression of support. Naturally, the paper will cover the policy in a news story. That writer is reporting the news, however, not commenting on it. An editorial is a place for comment.

Editorials that Persuade There are many issues within and outside the student world that require persuasive, responsible voices in order to help readers reach valid resolutions. For example, Maybe the school has just been forced to close the student lounge area because of the mess continually left by students using it. Your editorial might try to persuade the school to reopen the lounge by spelling out guidelines for supervising what goes on there through student service clubs.

Editorials that Answer Suppose that there has been criticism about the conduct of your student delegation at a recent convention. Your job may be to answer that criticism in the form of a defense.

Editorials that Warn An alert staff can anticipate problems that lie ahead. Reporters should know what’s going on around the school or in the community and issue warnings when appropriate. The warning might be a strong one, like a new stop light. Any other examples??

Editorials the Criticize Sometimes editorials that criticize the actions of others are appropriate Writers of critical editorials must remember, however, that the editorial is the voice of the newspaper; therefore, they have a special responsibility to be constructive.

Editorials that Entertain Some issues are just not worth handling with heavy comment or criticism, in these cases, you may be able to write an entertaining editorial. You may find some good topics in fads and fashions, or the mountain of forms needed to change your class schedule

Editorials the Praise When a person or group does something worthy of praise, pass it on. You can write praise and congratulations through editorials. Examples in a school newspaper??

Editorials the Lead Since a newspaper can magnify its voice and opinion greatly, it can become a force for change. Why is this??