YEAR 12 COMPOSING

You will be expected to write an opinion piece of writing that replicates the
style of the Drum website.

Before you begin, choose a topic of interest and do some research. You need
to have information for any opinion style writing. Look back at feature
articles or opinion pieces we have read.

Topics to research You cant be serious

1. The role of language in shaping our values and attitudes.

One area you might to research is the recent controversy over the
language used Eddie McGuire in reference to Caroline Wilson.

You could explore the connection to domestic violence, the general

misogynistic attitude that exists, the rape culture and the way in which
figures of authority have dismissed or questioned this language.

2. Equality is still a dream for many people within our world/society.

One area to research is the difference in wealth, status, opportunities

for many people in the global world or even in Australia.

This could be focused on a particular area of equality pay, sport, social

attitude.
Recent controversy over the College rape case in America might be
worth consideration.
3. Fear of our neighbour or of the other endangers our world.
Consider the rise of the rejection of refugees here, America and
Europe.

Think about the connection to the past.

Think about the consequences for our society.

4. The role of the ABC or the place of the public broadcaster.
Consider the role of news/current affair programs in challenging
politicians and the dominant political viewpoints.
Consider its role in presenting the voice of the disempowered.
 Consider its role in broadening horizons or providing discussion
forums.

The Headline use alliteration, a pun

or emotive language to capture
attention.
Byline
The lead paragraph- introduce the
topic
Paragraph two connect through
example. Consider a reference to the
past or a previous event.
You could think that past
history represents the ideal of
the Aussie battler, the stoic
bush woman. Celebrates our
independence.

Paragraph three use an anecdote

include the reader in the discussion.
Use inclusive language or the
rhetorical device.
You could mention how much
you have inherited of this
tradition, and that as a woman
you have more freedom and
opportunities than the bush
women.
Paragraph four This might be the
paragraph where you change the
approach or turn the argument.
try including a case study, another
specific example to support your
case. A famous person, a figure of
authority who shares your view or
whose view you are challenging.

But this is where you introduce

what hasnt changed and
mention the rape case in
 America, Eddie McGuire, Julia
Gillard etc.
Note that you should have
evidence and examples to
support discussion and not
waffle.
Paragraph Five state your opinion,
use strong emotive language,
figurative language, exaggeration to
state how you feel and why you react
as you do. It should connect back to
previous examples.
Paragraph six Make sure you leave
the reader in no doubt about your
position. Weigh up the past with
present. Use a direct comparison.
Reference suffragette movement,
the horrified reaction of government
to the Rosie Batty case and then
consider whether the reaction is only
every temporary.
Conclusion leave with a definite
view of the subject and even suggest
a way forward or what you hope will
be achieved.

An opinion piece is a highly structured response that has content. You can
prepare by being aware of what is happening in your world.