1. Editorials

2. The editorial page of a newspaper is where fact and opinion mix. Editorials are written about current issues affecting many people. They are written to influence readers. Editorials often include suggestions on how to solve or correct a perceived problem. An editorial is the official view of the paper and therefore must be well thought out. Editorial writers may consult with politicians, business leaders and members of the community before presenting an informed opinion. Daily newspapers run more than one editorial on the page. Editorials are usually not signed or by-lined. Editorials try to convince by presenting evident to support a point of view. www.newspapersineducation.ca

3. Purpose of Editorials 1.Inform: the writer gives careful explanations about a complicated issue. 2.Promote: Writer tries to promote a worthy activity. Get the reader involved. 3.Praises: the writer praises a person or an event. 4.Entertain: the writer encourages or entertains the reader about an important issue.

4. Four cardinal rules Journalists must be concise and at the same time persuasive. Follow these four rules: Choose the words (diction) carefully Organize the facts and ideas in logical sequence Follow a set plan of logic and persuasion Include the reader in what is being written

5. Editorials As you read an editorial you may notice that the writer is giving his or her opinion without making an “I” statement such as, I think or I believe. The writer’s opinion is cleverly blended into statements that sometimes read like facts. Remember, the purpose of the editorial is to persuade you to support the writer’s view on the topic. Now read the “Heed Lake Safety Rules.” This editorial appeared in a daily newspaper after several adults drowned in Lake Simcoe, a popular place to swim and boat. www.newspapersineducation.ca

6. Editorials The editorial writer wants people to follow safety rules and use common sense when they go swimming or boating on a lake. That means wearing a life jacket, following boating rules, avoiding the use of alcohol and checking weather conditions before heading out on the water. It’s a message people expect to hear every summer. Many readers will tune it out, except for the fact that the editorial writer points out that there have been four, possibly five people who have drowned on the lake over the course of a few days. Statistics show that normally only two people die on the lake each summer. With this information the warning becomes more newsworthy.

7. Editorials After reading the editorials, choose one and discuss it in class. Ask: What is the writer’s opinion? Are there facts to back up the opinion?” Make a list of the facts versus opinion. Ask: Has the writer done a good job of presenting a point of view? Ask students to argue a different point of view. If you have practiced debating in class, this is a good opportunity to stage a debate on a current issue in the news. Students will need research time to prepare for a debate. End the lesson here and provide a second period for student research before holding a debate. www.newspapersineducation.ca

8. Five paragraph editorial Sample of what could go into the five paragraph editorial: A personal experience, the thesis statement (problem) Explanation of the other side of the issue Examples to support your point of view Reasons for your point of view Restate your thesis statement and end on a positive note

9. Assignment Selecting: – Begin with a list on the board. Write, “It bugs me when…” – From the list of topics, choose one and ask students to give their opinions. School rules are a good source of editorial ideas. Expect a lively discussion when the topic touches the lives of adolescents. – Think, pair and share with a partner bugs and beefs. Instruct each pair to find common ground in their likes and dislikes. – Don’t always take the easy route. Consider the less popular stand. Collecting – When each pair finds a suitable topic, have them research the issue. Editorials contain opinion, but they also contain facts to back up the opinion. Provide time in class, or assign the research for homework.

10. Assignment cont. Connecting – With the research completed, have students write an editorial using a mix of opinion and facts. Remind students to remove all references to “I” or “we” in their editorial (I think, we believe). Tell students this assignment will be marked. – Give strong arguments – show the opposing arguments and their weaknesses – offer a solution at the end – Do not be wishy washy – Stick to your argument or opinion Correcting – Your editorial should be clear and forceful. – Avoid attacking others, do not preach – Paragraphs should be brief and direct. – Generally avoid the words “always” and “never” – Be specific and accurate with examples.