Elements of Language: Fifth Course, Chapter 7

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Writer's Model

Editorial

An editorial is a brief essay that presents one writer's opinion about an important issue and attempts to persuade other people to agree. A good editorial uses evidence and arguments (logical, emotional, and ethical appeals) to convince its audience.

Many editorials use the structure illustrated in the framework below. Print this framework and use it as a guide when you write your own editorial.

Introduction
• Grab readers' attention.
• Give necessary background information.
• State your opinion clearly.

Attract attention Begin with a mysterious statement, a description of a serious event, or a thought-provoking question.
Describe your issue Identify your issue and give readers the information they need to understand your argument.
State your position State your opinion on the issue clearly and directly.

Body
• Support your position.
• Rebut the opposition.

Present your appeals Provide reasons that support your opinion. Use evidence, including facts, examples, statistics, stories, and analogies. Make sure you include logical, emotional, and ethical appeals.
Organize your case Organize your reasons in chronological order, logical order, or order of importance.
Look at both sides Be fair. Always present the opposing points of view and provide your arguments against them.

Conclusion
• Restate your thesis.
• Call readers to action, if possible.

End with a strong impression Wrap up your argument by restating your thesis in a new way.
Involve your readers If the issue demands immediate attention, urge your readers to take action. Tell them what they can do to help, or leave them with an interesting idea.