1. + OP-ED (Opinion Pieces)

2. + What is an “op-ed”? “Op-ed” stands for “opposing editorial,” which refers to the placement of these pieces across from the editorials. Editorials are articles that express the opinion of the publication’s editor or publishers. Op-eds are articles that express the opinion of columnists or well-known people. Both types of articles reflect current, controversial issues.

3. + Answer the following: Why do you think people write opinion articles? What qualifies a person to write an op-ed piece? Why would you write an opinion piece? On what topics do you consider yourself an expert? (Examples may include television shows, music, dog breeds, fashion, skateboarding, etc.) What are some things in this school or community that make you angry or that you would like to see change?

4. + OP-ED Formula Much like essays, op-eds tend to be formulaic. Op-eds begin with a lead (sometimes called “lede paragraph”) connected to a news hook. Because op-eds are attempting to persuade the reader to agree with their opinion, they will include an argument. That means there will be a thesis statement and evidence. They will also include a “to be sure” paragraph, which serves the same purpose as a counter claim.

5. + See if you can spot the parts: With a partner, read the example article. Find the lead/news hook and underline it. Find the thesis statement and box it in. Find 3 pieces of evidence and put a * next to each. Lastly, circle the “to be sure” paragraph.