- Begin by researching the person whose identity you are assuming for this assignment. You need to learn about the person’s life to understand the person’s views, but you are not writing a biography.
- Identify the newspaper in which this newspaper would have appeared. Use this ; be sure to choose one that would have actually considered this editorial (for example, a paper in the Deep South would not have published an abolitionist editorial).
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In writing the editorial, develop effective arguments for or against slavery from the perspective of this person. Remember: you are writing as a 19th century figure, not from the perspective of a a 21st century student.
- Be sure to support your arguments with evidence.
- Effective editorials also address opinions from opposing viewpoints, and they refute directly those issues opponents raise.
- Editorial opinions should be delivered in a professional manner. Effective editorials engage issues, and they avoid name-calling or other petty tactics of persuasion.
- Develop a forceful and concise conclusion that powerfully summarizes the writer’s opinion.
- Refer to the linked guide for assistance