In the Appendix section (pages 103208) oI the Blackwell text, the author provides valuable

guidance on writing eIIective communication pieces. Critically read each letter and discuss the
statement: "Getting the politician to think is more than halI the battle."
Government oIIicials listen to people in their district who can vote Ior them. Letters are
'powerIul weapons in politics (Blackwell, 2006, p. 203). An e-mail message could get lost in
cyberspace. When sending an electronic message it is best to make the attached document
mirror a letterhead. The appearance oI a document makes a huge diIIerence. Letters should
inIorm the politician that the writer is a constituent. Written documents take time and eIIorts and
are permanent records. Make letters thoughtIul and personal so that they leave a positive
impression on the reader. OIIicials give more attention to organized groups oI constituents. Use
pathos, ethos, and logos in documents to convey the author`s emotional, character, and logical
appeal. Politicians want to know the reason that the issue is important (Blackwell, 2006).

Blackwell (2006) expressed the importance oI getting politicians to listen. Choose the tone and
word choice careIully when writing to government oIIicials. Letters should show empathy Ior
oIIicials and give a speciIic example to illustrate the issue. Demonstrate knowledge oI the
subject matter, identiIy the district, and include details on membership in a proIessional
organization. InIormative letters should not exceed one page. Persuasive letters might be longer
to convey the author`s main points. II the writer receives an undesirable response then the author
should write another letter and request a telephone conversation or a meeting. The Iirst goal is to
get politicians to read a written document or listen to a position. Then the oIIicial will have an
opportunity to consider main points. Once the representative listens, the constituent will get a
response to support an issue or a rationale Ior not supporting the proposal. Organizations oI
educators and administrators want to give politicians a reason to consider the issues that impact
teaching and learning. Government oIIicials will support common interests that will increase
their popularity in a district.
#010703.0
Blackwell, J. (2006). Empowering school leaders. Personal political power for school board
members and administrators. Lanham, MD: Rowman & LittleIield Education.