Editorial Writing

Journalism Principles and Practices

Editorial Article
• An opinion piece in a newspaper, magazine, or online
publication
• Expresses the author's viewpoint on a specific issue
• Topic has two or more sides for discussion
Developing Your Opinion
• Clearly define your stance on the issue
• Consider your audience's values and beliefs
• Be aware of any personal biases
Editorial Structure
• Introduction
• Catchy hook (Lead)
• Clear thesis statement
• Body
• Present arguments and evidence
• Address counterarguments
• Conclusion
• Summarize key points
• Restate your opinion
Editorial Structure
• Be concise and clear
• Use persuasive language
• Avoid jargon or complex terminology
• Craft a compelling and concise headline
• Attract readers' attention and curiosity
Arguments
• Arguments are the backbone of the piece. These help
persuade readers to adopt the author's viewpoint on
a particular issue.
• Rest your argument on solid foundations
• Use evidence your readers will believe
• Avoid platitudes and generalizations, and be specific
• Understand the opposing point of view
• Make it easy for your opponent to change their mind
Logical Arguments (Logos)
• Facts and Statistics: Presenting verifiable data and
statistics to support your point.
• Expert Opinions: Citing credible experts or authorities
in the field.
• Cause and Effect: Demonstrating a cause-and-effect
relationship between factors.
• Analogies: Drawing parallels between similar
situations to make a point.
Emotional Arguments (Pathos)
• Anecdotes: Sharing personal stories or experiences
that evoke emotions.
• Vivid Imagery: Using descriptive language to create
mental images.
• Personal Testimonies: Sharing real-life stories or
testimonials.
• Rhetorical Questions: Positing questions that provoke
thought and emotion.
Ethical Arguments (Ethos)

• Credibility: Establishing your own credibility as an author

through expertise or experience.
• Moral and Ethical Values: Appealing to shared values and
principles.
• Fairness and Justice: Arguing for what is fair and just in a
particular situation.
• Consistency: Demonstrating that your argument aligns with
widely accepted ethical standards.
Counterarguments
• Addressing opposing viewpoints and explaining why
they are flawed or less valid.
• Acknowledging the complexity of the issue and
offering rebuttals.
• Strengthening your own argument by showing how it
stands up against opposing views.
Practical Arguments
• Feasibility: Arguing that your proposed solution is
practical and achievable.
• Cost-Benefit Analysis: Demonstrating that the
benefits of your argument outweigh the drawbacks.
• Implementation Plan: Providing a clear plan for how
your proposal can be put into action.
Public Opinion and Social Consensus
• Citing public opinion polls or social consensus as
evidence that your viewpoint is widely accepted.
• Arguing that your position aligns with the values and
beliefs of the majority.
Activity
Divide the class into two groups, with each group
preparing to engage in a debate on a specific topic. One
group will present arguments in favor of the topic,
while the other will argue against it.
Mechanics
• 5 minutes to prepare your argument
• Each group will have their opening speech stating
their stance and why. (5 min)
• Next segment will be a rebuttal for each group. (5
min)
• Closing statement (5 min)