Writing Editorials and the Editorial Page - Hi-Lights I

Editorials – the voice of the newspaper Besides reviews, the editorial pages are stories that should contain the author’s opinions! Historically, students told not to editorialize on school or other politics; today, this is no longer the case. Editorials must be responsible in order to maintain the publication’s credibility.

You should know . . . What components are included in an editorial page – staff editorial (we), editorial columns, cartoons, letters to the editor, opinion features

Staff editorial vs. editorial column Staff editorial = voice of the paper (we) Editorial column = voice of the writer (I) Types of editorial columns: Profile – like the personality feature, but writer can draw conclusions – “an outstanding sports record” Entertainment – movie, CD, concert, restaurant reviews In-the-clubs and Names-in-the-news columns – usually offer praise Q and A Satirical, humorous, philosophical – popular, but should make a point

other editorials Opinion features – writer expresses opinions, draws conclusion; “what do you think of new food policy?” Point-Coutnerpoint – different views on same topic Mini-torial – usually 1-2 sentences, gets the point across quickly, often humorous but conveys serious message.

Editorials – the voice of the newspaper Need for research is especially important to present an informed, intelligent viewpoint. Generally, editorials should be about 200-750 words Longer editorials can be guilty of overkill – readership drops! Readership

Functions/Types of Editorials . . . Explain Persuade Answer Warn Briefly comment Regularly comment Praise Criticize Entertain Lead

IMPORTANT! When writing any type of editorial (especially one that criticizes), you must be sure to have researched thoroughly! Address both sides of a situation! Concede points to the opposition “While it’s true that x is the case, . . . ” “X has been helpful in y, but . . .” When necessary, attribute sources (statistics, quotes, opinions of others) If your point is not clear and well supported, people will not take the editorial seriously.

Writing the editorial . . . Research, then write clearly, concisely with simple wording Get the reader’s attention with important issue, then keep them with you so they take your point seriously

The four parts of an editorial Most common, but not present in all editorials: Introduction Reaction Details Conclusion

Parts of an editorial – Introduction Introduction – statement of background that introduces the topic. Don’t assume the reader already knows the basics The introduction should not include opinion!

Parts of an editorial - Reaction Reaction - an opinion stating your position Establish directly after the lead! This is where opinions begin and you may use first person However, it’s stronger to make statements without “I” Instead of: “I believe Wisconsin should adopt the four day school week.” Use “Wisconsin should adopt the four day school week.”

Parts of an editorial - Support facts/details to support the opinions The more verifiable facts and statistics, the more convincing DO NOT use direct quotes as freely as in news/features Instead of: “We have closed campus because of our limited lunch time,” said Mr. Mella. Use: Administration cites limited lunch time to support its closed campus policy. You must cite any sources of statistics or information you needed to look up to support your argument.

Parts of an editorial - Support Attribution is absolutely necessary – to avoid plagiarism and to add credibility Attribution shows that you’ve researched and thoroughly considered the topic. Consider legitimacy of your sources – About.com, wikipedia.org, smokingkills.org, white house press release

Parts of an editorial - Conclusion suggestions for dealing with the topic alternatives (crucial for editorials that criticize), direction, and restatement of writer’s position Don’t start off with “In conclusion” . . . zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

editorial writing guidelines Be brief Be concise Come to the point quickly Be sincere Don’t take yourself too seriously Don’t preach – persuade Avoid gossip Admit errors – don’t be afraid to change positions If you choose controversial topic, RESEARCH, then have several people read your work before publishing – if it comes across as whiny or one-sided, people won’t take it seriously

editorial writing guidelines No one likes weak or unfair editorials – use judgment and don’t neglect opposing viewpoints Letter to the editor section gives public a chance to reply. Be sure your work can withstand arguments without a battle of counter letters and editorials

REMEMBER!!!!! "You" = BAD!!! As in most newspaper writing . . . Avoid at all costs in all other types of stories! Use sparingly (if at all) in editorials! "You" = BAD!!!