Editorials DASA Digital Journalism 1

The Editorial  The editorial states the opinion of the newspaper. Usually on a single editorial page.  Newspaper opinion writers use the editorial page to advance an argument or discuss important issues of the day.  A high school editorial writer can raise issues that concern students and can sometimes change attitudes and even policies.

Editorial Board  A group of journalists who evaluate the position of editorialists and decide how an issue will be discussed on the editorial page.

Three common types of editorials 1. Interpretation 2. Criticism and Persuasion 3. Entertainment

1. Interpretation Interpretation-Taking a topic, breaking it down, and crafting a coherent editorial, writers provide a valuable service to readers.

2. Criticism and Persuasion Sometimes editorialists express their opinions and criticize people or policies. Often editorials try to persuade readers to agree with them. The writer can expect a vocal response from the opposing camp because not everyone sees the world the same way.

3. Entertainment Some editorials use humor to make a point. Less offensive to opponents. Another effective strategy is the use of lists such as David Letterman’s top ten lists. That can be very compelling if the writer gets the facts straight and organizes them in a logical manner.

The Staff Editorial One of the most controversial pieces on the editorial page is the staff editorial. There is no byline and often contains a plural voice “we”. The names mentioned in the MASTHEAD- box with all the editors assume responsibility for the editorial.

Writing the Editorial In an effective editorial the writer uses documented, credible information to voice an informed opinion. The editorial is written very similar to newswriting. Accuracy cannot be over-emphasized. Editorialists must get the facts straight! Don’t exaggerate, use sarcasm or use “I”. Attack ideas, policies, or actions but not people.

The editorial page also contains Letters to the editor. A good editorial with invite reader response with letters (or s) to the editor. Letters to the editor. A good editorial with invite reader response with letters (or s) to the editor. Editorial Cartoons that are very effective in getting a point across. Editorial Cartoons that are very effective in getting a point across. Statement of Editorial Policy. Statement of Editorial Policy. Masthead with all the names of the editors and publisher. Masthead with all the names of the editors and publisher.

Editorial page wrap up Free Speech is central to a healthy society. Free Speech is central to a healthy society. The mission of the editorial page is to trigger an exchange of thoughtful opinions. The mission of the editorial page is to trigger an exchange of thoughtful opinions.