Session 6 Opinion Writing

1. Session 6 Opinion Writing • I. Introduction • Unlike news and feature stories, they do not simply try to inform or entertain; they also try to convince.

2. Opinion writing includes review, column, editorial and letter to the editor.

3. II. Review • Review is descriptions of books and articles, dramatic performances, concerts and other musical performances, films, radio and television programs, lectures and art.

4. The review is intended to give the reader information, help the reader understand and appreciate what is reviewed, and also to stimulate and promote cultural activities.

5. III. Column • Writers of columns are sometimes famous and influential, so their columns are often headed by their own pictures.

6. Each columnist has his own style. Some try to be funny; others are very serious. • Columns involve sports, humor, advice, social issues.

7. IV. Editorial • The ultimate purpose of most editorials is to convince, whether or not the writer hopes to stir his readers to immediate actions. • The writer is free to use any dramatic devices.

8. There are three principal types of editorials. • 1. The writer may merely interpret an event, offering no specific action. • 2. He may suggest one or more satisfactory courses of action. • 3. He may demand action on the part of the public or exhort his readers to take immediate action.

9. V. Letter to the editor • While other parts are written by professional contributors, letters are written by people from all walks of life, and from a variety of social and educational backgrounds.

10. content: • The letters involve requests, application, complaints and suggestions. • style: • The letters come in a variety of different styles.