How do we make our voice heard?

In this module, we will explore writing effective op-ed articles - and then put our knowledge to the test by sending our own articles to the Chaffee County Times!

This Editorializing module can be completed independently with regular check-ins along the way. Please let Morgan know you are working on it before you jump in.

Module summary:

• analyze effective (and published) editorials
• learn the secrets behind writing an effective editorial
• write editorials and submit them for publication

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essential questions

• How do we paraphrase outside sources to back up our claims?
• How do we revise for grammar and punctuation to prepare writing for publication?

goals

• Students will understand that claims must be substantiated by relevant authorities, and that this kind of support can be added to our writing smoothly through paraphrasing
• Students will understand that specific checklists can help look for mechanical errors (grammar, punctuation) in our writing - and that we must look for such errors intentionally

activities

INTRODUCE

• Participate in four corners discussion
  • ​Completing independently? Choose four prompts from this list - one you completely agree with, one you mostly agree with, one you mostly disagree with, and one you completely disagree with. Write a short paragraph on each explaining your perspective.
• Review syllabus and expectations with Morgan

EXPOSE

• Read and annotate a published editorial (choose from links below)
  • What is being said, how does the author say it?
  • Discuss and compare findings with classmates and/or Morgan
  • ​watch NY Times video on writing an effective editorial
    • take notes on Rosenthal's 7 principles
    • discuss with Morgan

PRACTICE

• Write out 2-3 persuasive statements you agree with about different topics
  • choose one statement to focus on for your editorial
    • review your topic with Morgan
• Research your topic (background/context, related problems caused by issue)
  • use the Google Doc template
• Develop notes into a clear outline:
  • introduction; make your stance known right away with a hook or statement of opinion
  • concrete, citable examples (paraphrased) to explain issue/causes and impact of the issue
  • recommendations for what should be done to improve or fix the issue
  • intentional conclusion

CREATE

• Draft your editorial (450-500 words, precisely)
  • rough outline: 
    • your opinion
    • cause of the problem
    • your recommendations for how to fix/improve
    • intentional conclusion

REFLECT

• Self-edit with content and mechanics checklists
• Read draft aloud
• Conference with Morgan

c-tachs

Writing

• Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence

Language

• Demonstrate command of conventions of standard English grammar when speaking and writing
• Demonstrate command of standard capitalization and punctuation

resources

Editorializing syllabus
Content and mechanics checklists

Editorials to choose from:

• Why you should read this article slowly
• Young people are determined to promote change
• American schools don't keep kids active enough
• Both political parties must work to ban mining in the Grand Canyon
• Let's learn to love leftovers and fight food waste
• Video gaming can be harmless and even helpful

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