Letter to a Legislator

Criteria Letter to a Legislator

Criteria

1. Issue Statement: The letter contains a clear issue statement—i.e., let the reader know exactly what issue the author is trying to communicate.

2. Necessity and Importance Analysis: It provides compelling and accurate evidence that convinces the legislator to accept the main issue. The importance/relevance of all pieces of evidence is clearly stated. As you explain why this issue is important to you and the community, be sure to use simple words and avoid abbreviations and acronyms that may make it difficult for the legislator to understand your message. Should provide some specific examples of how the issue affects you or other people in their districts.

3. Proposed Solution: The letter contains a clear solution statement—i.e., lets readers know exactly what you want your legislator to do about the issue. Provide sufficient reasons of why it is the best solution.

4. Writing Clarity and Style: All sentences are grammatically correct and clearly written. No words are misused or unnecessarily fancy. Technical terms, words from other languages, and words from other historical periods are always explained. All information is accurate and up to date. Paper has been spell-checked AND proofread (ideally by you and somebody else) and contains no errors.

5. Letter Format: The letter contains mailing addresses, proper greetings, main paragraphs, close remarks.