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Features of an Opinion Column and Op-Ed - Coggle Diagram
Features of an Opinion Column and Op-Ed
The opinions of the columnists are always in tune with the readers of a particular newspaper/magazine.
The opinions of columnists are newsworthy, which means that they comment on recent events and their opinion is worthy of publication.
Questions to consider when writing an opinion column:
Which publication would you be writing for?
Are you imitating the style of a famous columnist?
What makes your opinion newsworthy?
Do I have a clear point to make? What is it?
Who cares about my opinion? (write with a particular audience in mind) Who is it I am targeting? Why?
Is there evidence and explanantion to my argument?
Defining characteristics:
Voice
Aspects of the language used, including word choice, verb tense, tone and imagery.
Emotive voice (passionate, alarmed, outraged, hostile, arrogant, etc.)
Persuasive techniques: anecdotes, emotive language, hyperbole, exclusive language, attacks, appeals to fear.
Moderate voice (amused, apologetic, diplomatic, approving, disappointed, sympathetic, etc.)
Persuasive techniques: rhetorical questions, inclusive language, humour, appeals to values.
Rational voice (calm, controlled, authoritative, formal, modest, educated, etc.)
Persuasive techniques: statistical evidence, expert opinion, logic and reason, appeals to concerns.
Newsworthy
Is the column relevant to the time? What makes it newsworthy?
Call to action
Columnists often call on the readers to become involved or care about an issue.
Humour
Aspect of the voice. This helps the reader see the topic through a fun perspective.
Hard facts
Gives credibility to the opinion column
Logos
Appealing to logic helps persuade the readers
Length
Short, between 750 and 800 words
It contains a clear argument and point of view.
Topic
the person, the place, issue or incident. Usually stated in the first paragraph.
Theme
What is the big idea of the column? What is my point? Why is it important? It may appear early or later in the column
Research
Field research: going to the scene, interviews, observation, primary materials
Library, academic, or internet research: using secondary materials such as graphs, charts and articles
Openings
First line of the column. The "hook" is meant to grab the readers' attention. It can be a metaphor, strong claim, surprising fact, mystery, etc.
Endings
Echoes or answers the introduction
Has been foreshadowed by precedents
Last and often most memorable detail
Calls the reader to action
Open ending: suggests rather than states a conclusion
Closed ending (more common): states the conclusion