Now that you have completed the “They Say” section of your textbook and have completed Essay 1, the Documentary Review, it is time to transition to putting to use the “I Say” templates that help you enter a larger conversation and offer your take on things. Essay 2 is built to help you develop skills at research, persuasion, and concision. A traditional editorial has a three-part structure. The first section of the editorial should demonstrate the facts of the news event you are covering, with the main point coming at the top. The facts need to be well-researched and clearly articulated, as there is no room in an editorial for obfuscation. The second section offers what McDougall calls “clear cut for or against” the topic you have outlined above. In this section, you let your reader know your stance, your orientation to the facts that began the piece. Finally, in the third section, you provide the reasons you have for believing your claim. This section should balance facts and opinions, should weave them in a persuasive way toward a compelling—and memorable—conclusion. Note: Also, consider where you might consider sharing this editorial to join the conversation in a larger community. A group you’re involved in? For publication to Weber State’s Weber Writes? With your friends and family who are interested in this topic? As an emerging writer, it’s exciting to be able to share your work where appropriate. Can you make a positive difference in the world by sharing this? After I provide feedback with grading, you can make updates and consider sharing. DIRECTIONS Essay 2 should be 750 words Citations from at least three peer-reviewed books or articles and at least two primary sources (census data, interviews, etc.); minimum of 5 sources. Select a topic you’re passionate about and can argue clearly for or against Formatted in MLA style and should come with a Works Cited page which does not factor into the word count. Citations can be summarized, paraphrased, or quoted directly (but not at length).
