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3 Gangplank Junior Journalism Class #4: Editorials, Opinions & Columns July 30, 2011. Liam O’Mahony. Wrote for student newspaper, The Advocate , at Clarence High School near Buffalo, New York. Wrote sports features for Cornell University Athletic Department game programs.
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3Gangplank Junior Journalism Class #4:Editorials, Opinions & ColumnsJuly 30, 2011
Liam O’Mahony • Wrote for student newspaper, The Advocate, at Clarence High School near Buffalo, New York. • Wrote sports features for Cornell University Athletic Department game programs. • Wrote arts & entertainment reviews for The Cornell Daily Sun, entirely run by students. • Currently public relations and marketing specialist for Chandler Recreation: www.chandleraz.gov/recreation. • Write blogs on Marketing Communications at www.liamomahony.wordpress.com
The Different Types of Editorial Content • Editorial story written by editorial board • Visual editorials (cartoons) • Column by staff writer or columnist • Letters to editor / reader opinions • Guest column or “My Take” by periodic contributors or readers with unique experience or perspective on issue or event.
Visual Editorial Topics • Current Events • Controversial Issues • Elections • Popular Culture • Celebrities • Technology Trends
Editorial Activity #1 • What does the cartoon illustrate or what is the meaning to the readers? • What is the cartoonist or artist trying to say about this particular topic? • Can you draw a cartoon about something in the news that interests you or worries you?
Types of Columns • Business or finance topics • Healthcare issues or trends • Community activism • Sports personalities & events • Arts & Entertainment • Film reviews • Music / Concert reviews • Restaurant / Book reviews
Editorial Topics • Politics • Education • Healthcare • Science • Taxes • Economic Development • Crime • Non-profit endeavors • Community Events
Editorials vs. News Writing • Staff opinion voiced through the writing of the designated editorial writer for the publication’s management. • City leaders and staff fitness editorial: http://www.azcentral.com/community/chandler/articles/2011/07/21/20110721chandler-editorial-0722.html • Picks a side in an issue or declares a position. • Endorses proposed legislation or a candidate. • Stands up for something or encourage community action • Generates debate or discussion among readers.
Letters to the Editor • Reader letters addressing current issue. http://www.azcentral.com/members/Blog/ScottsdaleRepLetters/135099 • Reader responses to recent editorials or columns. http://www.azcentral.com/members/Blog/KathleenIngley/132764 • Blog comments on stories, columns and cartoons now can be considered “short letters to the editor”.
Letters to Editor Types of Words • Use strong persuasive words to convince readers such as: • “Should”, “need to”, “take this for example”, “consider how”, “there is an opportunity”, “this can be fixed”, “could be reviewed or addressed”, “something could be learned here”
Activity #2: Composing Your Letter to the Editor • Use supporting facts of issue • Formulate your position • Express your opinion • Show your stance on the issue. • Be concise and persuasive • Your letter should show that you are informed, have picked a side or recommend a solution and you are able and willing to defend your viewpoint.