How do I write a news editorial?

Question

How do I write a news editorial?

I have to write one for a school project and I'm a little confused on what to put in it.

Is it like a news article with opinions or more opinions than facts?

Answer 1

It is a news article citing both opinions and facts. However, the opinions should be based on facts. Why don't you read a few online ones to get a feel for them.

Answer 2

How To Write an Editorial

General Tips before writing:

Don't always take the easy route: Consider the less popular stand. Remember the axiom which states the role of a newspaper is "to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable." Don't necessarily play Devil's advocate, but don't feel you must represent majority opinion either. Hold your journalistic ideals high when you take your editorial stance.
Take a reasonable approach: Since life has few absolutes or superlatives, remember to consider the degree and circumstance of the truth. Generally avoid inclusive words such as "always" or "never." Be specific and accurate with examples.
Make sure you refine your thesis: As I've said many times, you can't take on the world (or cover some of your topics in the space allowed). Be specific with your thesis and you will argue more effectively.
Here is a common structure for editorials:

The Lead

Attention-getter

_____________


Committal statement

Hook the reader with the opening of the editorial. Perhaps an anecdote will do the trick. Or a shocking statement. The narrative works well. Maybe a direct dialogue directed to the reader will be effective. Whatever your approach, remember to be accurate and specific. Once the reader is firmly with you, indicate your topic and commit to your stance.


The Concession

Strongest argument against your thesis

_____________


but

_____________


You may wish to disarm the opposition by recognizing their viewpoint has some validity. This is a good move because those who disagree with your stand will be thinking it anyway.

The point is not rebutted; it is conceded.

The question might arise as to which point to use as a concession. Concede only the hardest point to argue against.

The Body

Strong argument for your thesis

_____________


Stronger argument for your thesis

_____________


Strongest argument for your thesis

_____________


The psychology of argument dictates saving the strongest argument for last. There are two reasons for this strategy:

1.the reader will tend to remember the final argument longer, and

2.to end with a weak argument would invite rebuttal.



The Conclusion

Thesis

_____________


Something extra

_____________


An effective ending to an editorial is to state or to restate the thesis, then leave the reader with a little something extra: a call to action, a vision of the future, food for thought, etc.

Of course, this basic outline of the editorial has many variations, and many professional different organizations for their editorials.

All the best for you in the editorial.