Editorial Writing Examples

ByMichele Meleen

Editorial writing is a style that can be hard to explain as it is usually a unique

mixture of fact and opinion. Viewing editorial examples is one of the most
helpful ways to learn what the style should look like.

Charter Schools = Choices

At under 450 words, this 'Charter Schools = Choices' piece is an example

of a fairly short editorial written in favor of a particular subject. The
sample uses a serious tone in taking a stance in favor of public charter
schools.

Charter Schools = Choices

Generation after generation the country has changed, yet education remains
stagnant across many states. Things have been done one way and, despite
current research, many school districts remain resistant to change.

The introduction of public charter schools has garnered support from many parents
and educators, while creating hostility for others. As parents, we want what is best
for our children at all times. The ability to choose between tuition-free schools
means parents gain back control over their children’s future. Public charter schools
give students and parents the freedom of choice, a right we’ve all earned.
While public charter schools are still part of the public school system, and therefore
follow the same educational standards, they are held to a higher standard overall.
A public charter school must not only meet the standards issued by each state,
they must also prove their methods successful. Unlike their counterparts, public
charter schools can be closed for underachievement. This pressure to help
students succeed academically means educators can use any appropriate means
necessary to exploit every child’s potential.
Innovation is the secret to charter school success. Administrators and teachers are
offered more flexibility and creativity in what is taught and how it is taught. This
ability to take into account a variety of learning styles and treat each child as an
individual is key in helping all children succeed. In areas where there are many
charter school options, parents are free to choose an educational institution that
best fits the strengths and goals of their child. In contrast, a typical public school’s
constraints make it impossible to truly individualize education.

Studies show that public charter schools are closing the achievement gap by
embracing individuality. The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools reports
that in 15 out of 16 independent studies, charter school students did better
academically than those in a traditional public school.

What makes public charter schools most controversial is the financial aspect.
Public charter schools utilize the same funds as traditional public schools. Some
would say a student moving from the traditional school to the charter school is
taking money away from traditional schools. This is an accurate assessment of
how public charter schools are financed, but why is that a problem? If public funds
are being used to provide education, shouldn’t parents have a choice in where
they are allocated?

In a world where individuality is being applauded and embraced, public charter

schools are the only option in public schooling that does the same. Our children
deserve to see their own potential achieved and for many in the middle and lower
classes, public charter schools are the only logical choice.

Reality T.V. Creates an Alternate Reality

Some editorials, like 'Reality T.V. Creates an Alternate Reality,' use humor
and sarcasm mixed with facts to get a point across. With around 600
words, this example is a bit longer and takes a stand against reality
television.
 Reality T.V. Creates an Alternate Reality

Imagine, you’re cooking dinner with your partner when all of a sudden the clock
starts ticking down. Your children start gasping with anticipation. Will you finish in
time and who will create the most delicious side dish ever tasted?

While this may seem slightly exciting and mildly entertaining, is this reality?
Television shows categorized as ‘reality’ would have us believe so. Reality
television boasts real people tackling challenges or just everyday life, no gimmicks.
But, is that true? Of course it’s not! There are still editors, crews, and production
schedules. The popularity of reality television has given society an image of the
real world that isn’t remotely real.

At this point in time, we’ve all been warned on the dangers of media use especially
pertaining to violence and other unacceptable behaviors. Studies by Dr. Bryan
Gibson of Central Michigan University show excessive viewing of reality shows
with relational aggression can actually cause people to be more aggressive in their
actual lives. While it might seem like mindless entertainment, research repeatedly
shows that watching these ‘real life’ shows where people treat others in horrible
ways for money or fame actually affect brain chemistry.

As if causing real life aggression weren’t bad enough, reality television also
contributes to skewed societal views on what kinds of behavior are acceptable.
The mere fact that our society is so obsessed with reality television as a form of
entertainment proves this point. Why do we find it entertaining to watch people
demean, bully, or physically attack others? Why is watching someone else’s sexual
exploits or narcissism a widely accepted form of entertainment?

Imagine following your best friend around a bar from first flirtation with a stranger
all the way to her actual bedroom, only to have her dive under blankets after killing
the lights. Sound creepy? Sounds like many reality T.V. scenes. This kind of
‘peeping Tom’ behavior wouldn’t be tolerated in the real world, so why should it be
tolerated on reality television?
Perhaps the most disturbing impact of these shows is the notion that anyone can
and should become a celebrity for any reason. While we can all agree people
should be applauded for worthy accomplishments, has society’s standard of a
worthy accomplishment been dumbed down? Thanks to reality T.V. the answer is a
resounding ‘yes!’ Society’s obsession with fame has spiraled out of control thanks
to today’s media outlets. There are people famous for literally just being rich
alongside those garnering fame for injuring themselves. Are these people
deserving of our collective attention and praise?

There is an argument that not all reality shows are bad. Some of the
profession-based competition shows actually focus on real skills and acknowledge
talent. However, even these shows rely on extreme behaviors to attain the highest
level of ratings. Some might also say that reality television simply holds a mirror up
to the viewer. The problem with this argument is that much of what we see on T.V.
is edited for time or theme. Reality stars are often filmed for hours at a time, but we
only see about a half an hour of footage.

In a world where anyone and everyone can film themselves or be filmed for the
world to watch, it’s time society takes a stand on whether or not we want to watch
it. Despite the catchy name, reality television is far from real. You have to ask
yourself, do these shows really sum up what I believe about my fellow man or
woman? Hopefully, the collective response is a quick ‘no.’ If you agree with these
statements, it’s time to take action. If there is no one to watch this alternate reality
television, it will eventually die.

Editorial Writing Tips

Writing an editorial can be challenging and intimidating. Editorials can have

tremendous impacts on local issues and political campaigns. They can be
written in a serious tone, filled with sarcasm, or infused with humor.
Understanding the basics of editorial writing can help you create a smart,
purposeful piece.
Definition of an Editorial
The subject matter of an editorial commonly concerns a current issue. Unlike
other parts of a news publication an editorial is meant to be biased, somewhat
insightful, and often includes persuasive writing techniques. Publishers utilize
the editorial section of their publications as a forum to express their views and
try to influence the opinions of the readership.

Editorial Structure

Regardless of the point of view or length of the editorial, there is a preferred

structure for writing one.

1. Introduction: State your topic up front, explain its history, and

affirm why it is relevant and who is affected by it. Clearly word your
opinion and the main reason you have embraced it.

2. Body: Support your position with another reason. Acknowledge

counter-arguments and opinions. Present relevant facts and
statistics and include ethical or moral reasons for your stand. Give
an example of what you think would be the best approach to or
outcome of the situation.

3. Conclusion: Make an emotional or passionate statement

regarding why your opinion or proposed solution is better than
others. Tie up the piece by clearly restating your stance.

Helpful Hints
To ensure the piece stays professional and powerful, keep some guidelines in
mind while writing.
 ● Cite positions and quotes from community, business, or political
leaders to present informed arguments.
● Avoid using first person syntax. Using the word 'I' can weaken the
impact of your statements.
● Keep on topic and avoid rambling.
● Make sure the views expressed are yours and not 'borrowed' from
examples used for inspiration.
● Check the guidelines for content and word count limitations to be
sure a submission is not rejected for technical reasons.

More Editorial Writing Examples

Editorials generally appear in newspapers and other media publications. In

several instances, such pieces have won Pulitzer Prizes for their excellence in
writing and outstanding presentations of varying opinions, views, and outlooks.

● Additional editorial examples can be found on websites for most

major publications including The New York Times, The Washington
Post and The Boston Globe.
● See TheOpEdProject.org for a list of additional publications that
include editorial sections, along with their submission guidelines.

Opinions Matter

Everyone has an opinion and a right to express it. Even those who are not
publication editors can still state views in most 'Letters to the Editor' sections.
Sharing opinions with a factual basis can inspire others to take action on issues
of greater societal concern.

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