An Op-Ed is a concise opinion piece on a newsworthy topic. For this course your op-eds will focus on two different crimmigration problems of your choice.
Tips
- Everything in your op-ed should clearly and easily connect back to your crimmigration problem.
- Use strong, lively language (but don't rant)
- Keep sentences short and simple
Structure
Opening/Thesis Statement
- Sets the scene and grabs your readers' attention
- Lays the foundation for your argument
- Briefly introduce the crimmigration problem you've chosen and why readers should care about it
Scope of the Problem
- Provide background on your criminal justice problem and put it into context
- Describe why your criminal justice problem is important and why it is necessary to address it
- Incorporate criminal justice theories and concepts from your course readings to describe the scope and importance of the problem
Proposed Solution/Policy
- Provide details about your proposed solution/policy to your crimmigration problem
- Discuss how your proposed solution/policy would solve your crimmigration problem
- Incorporate criminal justice theories and concepts from your course readings into your description and analysis of your proposed solution/policy
Ending/Conclusion
- Echoes or answers your Opening/Thesis Statement
- Briefly summarize your crimmigration problem and your arguments for why its real
- Briefly summarize your proposed solution/policy and your arguments for why it would help
- Include a call to action or final epiphany
References list: a list of the sources you cited
- Cite your sources in American Sociological Association (ASA) Style
- Format your References list in ASA Style
Use the Op-Ed Project's Op-Ed Basics page for more help and instructions on putting together your Op-Eds.
For more writing help, contact the Writing Center and make an online appointment to meet with one of their consultants.