Writing an editorial

Choose an issue from Young Kids, Hard Time it could be: why young offenders should serve their entire sentence...or why they should be released at 18 why 12 year olds should not be tried for a crime...or why they should why 12 year olds should serve time in adult jail...or why they shouldn't why young offenders should be offered therapy and training...or why they should just lock them up and throw away the key basically, choose one topic that arose from the documentary....pick a side...and write an editorial using the guide below and the examples examined in class as models your editorial should look like a newspaper editorial, should be approximately the same length (350-500 words) and should clearly support a position once complete, place in hand in folder with name on......................................................................................................................................................... Research is an important step! Do not share your ignorance! Instead, use primary and secondary sources..................................................................................................................................................... Gather Support Gather as many details as possible to convince others that your position is the right one. Present facts, evidence, written statements from reliable sources or authorities in the subject (experts). Make comparisons to similar situations that support your argument, pictures or images that strengthen your argument. Present the opposing argument along with evidence that it is fallacious (based on faulty reasoning), weak, or simply not as strong, important, realistic, practical etc. as yours. ................................................................................................................................................................ Connect support to purpose Body should have clear and accurate details and examples that you specifically connect to your opinion. Give strong arguments in the beginning and end of the editorial. Show the opposing arguments and their weaknesses. Offer a solution at the end. Be strong – do not waver in your convictions. Stick to your argument or opinion.............................................................................................................................................................. General Information Your editorial should be clear and forceful. Do not preach. Paragraphs should be brief and direct. Give examples and illustrations. Be honest and accurate. Don't be too dramatic. Avoid moralizing editorials. They tend to preach and turn the reader off. Whatever type of editorial you write, it must be built around logical framework.