5.2.5

Writing an Opinion Article

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Writing an Opinion Article

The style of a newspaper article changes if it is an informational article or an opinion article. An opinion article is written to give the writer’s perspective and views on a particular topic.

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Choosing a topic

  • When writing an opinion article, plan out the topic of the article.
    • The topic of the article is something that you are interested in or passionate about.
  • Decide what your perspective (point of view) on the topic is.
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Topic examples

  • For example, you could write an opinion article about news in your local community, such as a particular community service like the local library closing.
    • Or you could write an opinion article about national or world news in response to an event that has just happened.
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Features

  • The features of an informational article and an opinion article are similar.
    • An opinion article aims to persuade the reader of a particular viewpoint more than an informational article.
  • Facts and statistics are important in an opinion article so that your article provides information on the topic.
    • Expert opinions and direct quotations of people involved in an event or topic are also important.
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Rhetorical methods

  • Opinion pieces will include more rhetorical (persuasive) methods such as: rhetorical questions, direct address, and emotive language.
  • Rhetorical methods can be used to help the reader persuade with your point of view.
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Anecdotes

  • Anecdotes are a short story detailing a person’s experiences.
    • Anecdotes of either the writer or others relevant to the topic can be helpful to present the more ‘human’ side of a story.
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Clear point of view & conclusion

  • Avoid ‘sitting on the fence’, which means providing all sides of the argument.
    • Make sure that your point of view is clear.
  • Write a powerful conclusion.
    • A conclusion helps the reader to understand why they should agree with you or to take action if needed.

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1Spelling

2Punctuation

3Grammar

4Decoding Words

5Reading & Writing

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