LA9 Name:________________________________

Argument: Editorial Project

Overview
The purpose of an editorial is to write about an issue or a topic
that matters to you. In writing an editorial, you hope to influence
public opinion, get people thinking critically, and call your reader
to action. You will combine logos, ethos, and pathos, strong
writing, and support from credible sources to provide a convincing
argument about your chosen topic. So what do you care about?
gun violence? sexism? environmental regulations? internet
privacy? travel restrictions? You decide, and have fun convincing
the world that youre right!

Process
We will write this editorial in steps over the next few weeks. We
will start most class periods with mini-lessons most days then you will have time in class to practice the skill with your
own editorial. Most steps will be assessed to help make your writing process easier! Take advantage of me and let me
know what questions you have. The final editorial will be counted as an essay/project grade. Due dates may change if
necessary, and though we will try to complete much of this in class, there will be some homework--visit the homework
center!!

Skills
Claim: A strong claim is specific, focuses on a single position, makes an assertion, and is original
Reasons: Reasons are general statements that support a claim.
Evidence: Evidence is specific: facts, details, experiences, etc. that support reasons.
For this editorial, you will use at least 2 sources to support your opinion
One source must be from the New York Times
The other source must be from a credible source--book, magazine, newspaper, journal,
interview, etc. Check with Mr. Azinger to ensure source is ok.
Counter/Rebuttal A counter-argument acknowledges an opposing viewpoint and then uses a rebuttal to try and
prove that opposing viewpoint wrong
Call to action:Your editorial will call your classmates to action; most likely this will be in your conclusion.
Persuasion: Use the three appeals to effectively persuade your audience.

Details
Language: I use academic language
I write in 3rd person (he, she, they, etc.)
Format: My editorial is no more that 450 words, or 2 typed double-spaced pages.
I use MLA format for my paper, and I cite my sources.
(over)
Scoring

Above At Approaching Developing

I meet all at My introduction includes a hook and I meet 5 I

level skills and background on my topic. or 6 at meet 4 or

My language uses My editorial has an effective claim. level skills. fewer at
style and tone My claim is supported by 2 or more reasons. level skills.
appropriate to my My reasons are supported with evidence
purpose and from at least 2 sources (1 from NYT, 1 from
topic. outside NYT) and my own experience.
My evidence is My counter-argument and rebuttal appeal to
compelling and my audience.
shows a mature My conclusion has a call to action.
understanding of I use academic language; my editorial is 450
my position. words (2 typed pages) or less; my sources are
cited using MLA format.

Possible Structures for Your Editorial

Academic essays should have three parts: an Introduction, Body Paragraphs, and a Conclusion. Look at a couple of
options for what to include in each part of your editorial.

What do you notice that is the same between both ways? What is different?
What are the advantages of each? How about the disadvantages?
Which would you prefer to read? How come?

One Way Another Way

1: Hook, Background, Claim 1: Hook, Background, Claim

2: First reason supported with evidence/research 2: Counter-argument and rebuttal (with research)

3: Second reason supported with evidence/research 3: Counter-argument 2 and rebuttal (with research)

4: Third reason supported with evidence/research 4: Counter-argument 3 and rebuttal (with research)

5: Counter-argument and rebuttal (with research) 5: Reason supported with evidence/research

6: Conclusion with call to action. 6: Conclusion with call to action.