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!
 Functions/Types of
Editorials
Explain Regularly
Persuade comment
Praise
Answer
Criticize
Warn
Entertain
Briefly
Lead
comment
 IMPORTANT!
When writing any type of editorial (especially one tha
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!
As in most newspaper writing . . .

Avoid at all costs in all other types of stories!

Use sparingly (if at all) in editorials!