Final Writing Assignment: Creating an Op-ed Piece
Directions: For your final writing assignment, you will be creating your own op-ed writing piece. Below are directions as to what exactly an op-ed piece is and how to write one.
You will need to pick a topic of news worthy information that interests you. You can pick any news topic that we have covered in this course or come up with your own original idea (i.e. the 10 year anniversary of 9/11 if this September). Once you have chosen a topic what interests you, you will need to use the Internet to search for related news articles, news radio recordings, or news broadcast recordings to gain background and information regarding the topic (in your op-ed piece you will need to include evidence to support your position).
Your op-ed piece should be between 600 and 900 words and express your own opinion on a particular matter of news interest. Make sure that you support your position or claim with evidence and details! You will be working on this writing project for the last week of class - this should indicate to you that my expectations for this project are high and you should be conducting thorough research on your topic of choice. Once you have completed the writing piece, please submit it via Kmail.
What is an op-ed?
An op-ed, or opinion piece, is a written expression of an individual's or group's opinion on a matter of public interest.
Op-eds bring local, national and world events into perspective for readers and commonly offer a recommendation or solution to a controversy or problem. Op-eds appear opposite the editorial page in most newspapers and can be serious, satirical or light-hearted.
Generally about 600-900 words, op-eds present a single, clear point of view, not objective discussion of both sides of an issue. Op-eds are written to grab the attention of various groups-such as legislators, opinion leaders, business owners, or the community-at-large-and urge them to consider or take action on an issue. Newspaper editors select opinion pieces for publication based on interest to readers, quality of writing, originality of thought, timeliness, and freshness of viewpoint.
Why Write an Op-ed?
The primary purpose of writing an op-ed is to draw the public's attention to an important issue that requires action. It is designed for individuals to express their opinions or ideas related to current issues in society.
Choosing a topic
Op-ed writers seeking placement in general-circulation newspapers need to answer two questions "Why should readers care?" and, more importantly, "Why should they care right now?" Editors at major newspapers and magazines receive hundreds of op-ed submissions each week. Because it typically takes 24 hours for an op-ed editor to review a piece, and another two to four days for editing and publication, the topic must have staying power.
Many op-eds accepted for publication offer an opinion in advance of a major event, legal or political decision, anniversary or news topic that will likely interest a large audience or create a national debate. Identifying and taking advantage of these opportunities increases the chances for placement.
Examples of op-ed pieces
Visit the following websites to read examples of op-ed pieces. This may help you in constructing you own writing piece.
http://www.nytimes.com/pages/opinion/index.html
http://www.bostonherald.com/news/opinion/?type=opi
Keys to a strong op-ed
• The subject is timely and newsworthy.
• The first paragraph grabs readers, draws them in, and clearly states an opinion.
• The piece is focused on one idea and expresses an opinion supported by facts. Statistics and facts presented are accurate and from a reputable source.
• The writer offers a provocative perspective-perhaps one that is contrary to prevailing opinion.
• The writing is powerful and appeals to a general audience with short words and verbs. It avoids jargon, clichés, textbook language, and overused adjectives and adverbs.
• The last paragraph has "punch" and leaves a lasting impression.
• Focus tightly on one issue or idea --- in your first paragraph. Be brief.
• Be timely, controversial, but not outrageous. Be the voice of reason.
• Be personal and conversational; it can help you make your point. No one likes a stuffed shirt.
• Be humorous, provided that your topic lends itself to humor.
• Have a clear editorial viewpoint - come down hard on one side of the issue. Don't equivocate.
• Provide insight, understanding: educate your reader without being preachy.
• Near the end, clearly re-state your position and issue a call to action. Don't philosophize.
• Have verve, and "fire in the gut" indignation to accompany your logical analysis.
• Don't ramble or let your op-ed unfold slowly, as in an essay.
• Use clear, powerful, direct language.
• Emphasize active verbs; forget the adjectives and adverbs, which only weaken writing.
• Appeal to the average reader. Clarity is paramount.
(source: http://www.peterwirth.net/media_guide/resources/op-ed_pieces.html)
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