The editorial is a opinion piece of a pre-set length on a campus issue, representing the majority opinion of the Editorial Board.
In general, the organizational should follow the following structure:
- Begin with a short introduction of the topic.
- Present the Ed Board's opinion, in forceful, persuasive language, either in the lead or by the end of the second graph.
- Summarize the issue in enough detail that readers will understand all the pro- and con- arguments to come. Ideally, you'll keep this objective summary to one graph.
- Include opposing arguments. All strong rhetorical writing includes the opposite point of view; this is particularly true for editorials, based on issues with merit on both sides. But again, keep your opposition summary short.
- The rest of the editorial builds a case for your position and further refutes the opposition. Use facts, data, statistics, and anecdotes if possible. Address only one point per paragraph.
- Wrap up by restating your position, using different, even stronger language than in your introduction. Don't repeat what you said before. Take that idea and give it a twist with language that will stay on readers' minds—and move them to your position