Express Yourself: Writing a Powerful Letter to the Editor

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• vwo
• Leerjaar 6

Express Yourself: Writing a Powerful Letter to the Editor

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to write a persuasive letter to the editor in English.

What is a letter to the editor?

It is a written piece where readers express their opinions on a specific topic in a newspaper or magazine. So, it is intended for publication. 

WHY SHOULD YOU WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR?

Letters to the editor are among the most widely read features in any newspaper or magazine. They allow you to reach a large audience. You can probably think of many more specific reasons why you might want to write to the editor, but here are a few general ones:

• You are angry about something, and want others to know it
  
• You think that an issue is so important that you have to speak out
• Part of your group's strategy is to persuade others to take a specific action
  

Or you want to:

• Suggest an idea to others
  
• Influence public opinion
  
• Educate the general public on a specific matter
  
• Influence policy-makers or elected officials directly or indirectly

WHEN SHOULD YOU WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR?

• to shape public opinion, 
• tell others how you feel about people, programs, or ideas, or just inform the public on a certain issue. They are a great way to increase awareness of the issues that you or your organization are working for, as well as to advocate for your cause.
  

 

Letters to the editor can also be used to start a community conversation about an issue important to you. A planned series of letters to the editor can stimulate public interest and media coverage. It's up to you to determine when is the best time to start writing the letters, allowing time for them to be published.

HOW DO YOU WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR?

OPEN THE LETTER WITH A SIMPLE SALUTATION.

Don't worry if you don't know the editor's name. A simple "To the Editor of the Daily Sun," or just “To the Editor:” is sufficient. If you have the editor's name, however, you should use it to increase the possibilities of your letter being read.

GRAB THE READER'S ATTENTION.

Your opening sentence is very important. It should tell readers what you’re writing about, and make them want to read more.

EXPLAIN WHAT THE LETTER IS ABOUT AT THE START.

Throughout your letter, remember the rule:

Be quick,

Be concise, and then

Be quiet.

Don't make the editor or the general public wait to find out what you want to say. Tell them your key point at the beginning.

HOW DO YOU WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR?

EXPLAIN WHY THE ISSUE IS IMPORTANT.

If you are motivated enough to write a letter to a newspaper or magazine, the importance of your topic may seem clear to you. Remember, though, that the general public probably doesn't share your background or the interest. Explain the issue and its importance simply. Use plain language that most people will understand

GIVE EVIDENCE FOR ANY PRAISE OR CRITICISM.

If you are writing a letter discussing a past or pending action, be clear in showing why this will have good or bad results.

STATE YOUR OPINION ABOUT WHAT SHOULD BE DONE.

You can write a letter just to ''vent," or to support or criticize a certain action or policy, but you may also have suggestions about what could be done to improve the situation. If so, be sure to add these as well. Be specific. And the more good reasons you can give to back up your suggestions, the better.

HOW DO YOU WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR?

KEEP IT BRIEF.

Generally, shorter letters have a better chance of being published. So go back over your letter and see if anything can be cut or condensed. If you have a lot to say and it can't be easily made short, you may want to check with the editor to see if you could write a longer opinion feature or guest column.

SIGN THE LETTER.

Be sure to write your full name (and title, if relevant) and to include your address, phone number, and e-mail address. Newspapers won't print anonymous letters, though in some cases they may withhold your name on request. They may also call you to confirm that you wrote the letter before they publish it.

CHECK YOUR LETTER TO MAKE SURE IT'S CLEAR AND TO THE POINT.

A newspaper may not print every letter it receives, but clear, well-written letters are likely to be given more serious consideration.

Language and Tone

Use formal language and a respectful tone. 

1. Be concise and clear. 

2. Use persuasive language. 

3. Avoid personal attacks. 

4. Back up your points with facts and examples.

Assignment

Step 1: Choosing a Relevant Topic

Select a current and relevant topic that you feel strongly about.
Consider local issues, social concerns, or global events.

Step 2: Organizing Your Thoughts

1. Brainstorm ideas and arguments. 

2. Create an outline with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. 

3. Arrange your arguments in a logical and persuasive order.

Step 3: Writing the Letter

1. Start with a captivating opening sentence. 

2. Develop your arguments with supporting evidence. 

3. Use persuasive language and rhetorical devices. 

4. Maintain a consistent tone throughout. 

5. Conclude with a compelling call to action.

Step 4: Proofreading and Editing

1. Review for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. 

2. Check the overall structure and flow of your letter. 

3. Ensure your arguments are coherent and well-supported. 

4. Seek feedback from a peer or teacher.