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Appendix 5a: Media: Writing to a Newspaper<br />
When writing to a newspaper, there are a few simple guidelines to stick to in order to create a<br />
successful and well received op-ed.<br />
Guidelines:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Contact the local paper and ask what length/word count is allowed for an op-ed: typically<br />
no more than 750 words<br />
Ask for the name and email of the person/Editor the op-ed should be sent to.<br />
Op-eds and letters to the editor need to be timely and address issues that are currently<br />
in the news.<br />
Opinion editors look for articles that are provocative and succinctly argue particular<br />
points of view on issues that are dominating the headlines<br />
Op-eds in general-circulation publications should be comprehensible to all readers.<br />
Avoid acronyms and academic or legalistic language, use active voice and a moderate<br />
tone.<br />
Double-check all the facts, the spelling of names and places, and make certain to have<br />
no grammatical errors<br />
Additional Resources:<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
DePaul University List of Best Practices:<br />
http://newsroom.depaul.edu/facultyresources/OPEDTips/index.html<br />
“The Verdict on Climate Change: http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/laoe-oreskes-judging-climate-change-20120122,0,6437230.story<br />
Sample Clean Air Op-Ed I: http://www.explorebigsky.com/newspost/op-ed-clean-air-actkey-to-a-healthy-future<br />
Sample Clean Air Op-Ed II:<br />
http://www.pennlive.com/editorials/index.ssf/2011/12/clean_air_act_must_be_kept_str.ht<br />
ml<br />
Clean Air Op Ed Template: http://www.usclimatenetwork.org/resourcedatabase/template-op-ed-promise-campaign/<br />
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