Op-Ed Essay

Mr. Kaiser Spring 2018

English 101 Essay 1: Op-Ed Introduction The op-ed is a type of article in a newspaper, which states the opinion of an author who has no affiliation with the publisher. The writer introduces a subject, including relevant details and context, and then offers an opinion on the matter supported by clear reasoning. Write your own op-ed essay on one of the following topics.

1. In 2016, the Bureau of Economic Analysis recorded Lake Charles as the fastest growing economy in the United States. A growing population often follows economic growth, and Lake Charles has experienced a steadily rising population for a number of years. This trend will likely continue. Develop an opinion on whether a larger population is desirable for current Lake Charles residents, and provide a strong argument for that position.

2. With an increasing cost in tuition, many people view a college education as primarily a means to a future career. However, through much of history, the purpose of an education was focused on the forming of virtuous, civically engaged citizens. Develop an opinion on what the purpose of a college education should be, and support your argument with clear reasoning.

3. Tourism is one of the top industries in Louisiana, a source of jobs for residents as well as a leading revenue source for the state. The Lt. Governor recently announced the new tourism slogan, “Feed Your Soul,” before which it was “Pick Your Passion.” Develop an opinion on what the tourism slogan should be, and why. Be sure to provide a strong argument for whatever you choose.

Guidelines and Due dates For further information on guidelines, please consult the checklist on page 24 in your Composition and Rhetoric book. Your final draft must:

● Be at least 3 pages in length (double spaced) ● Use at least two quotes, one from each interview, which you will conduct for

this purpose. (No outside sources) ● Conform to MLA style

A printed copy of the Rough Draft is due on ​February 8​th​. ​ Because the evidence for your argument, the interviews, should inform your argument rather than the other way around, you must conduct your interviews before the rough draft.

The Final Draft must be submitted via Moodle on ​February 15​th​ at midnight.