Skip to main content
MAC322Social Sciences3 Unitsintermediate

Editorial Writing

This course is designed to drill Journalism or Mass Communication students on the theory and practice of editorial writing. It highlights the opinion functions of editorials and columns in modern newspapers, using examples from the Nigerian environment. The course covers the meaning, structure, types, and functions of editorials, as well as the creative essentials of editorial writing. It also explores the agenda-setting functions of the press and the power of public opinion.

Transform this course into personalized study materials with AI

40h
Study Time
13
Weeks
3h
Per Week
none
Math Level
Course Keywords
Editorial WritingPublic OpinionJournalismMass CommunicationOpinion Writing

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
📚
Math Level
No Math
🔬
Learning Type
Hands-on Practice

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Meaning of Editorial

2

Qualities of Editorials

3

Public Opinion and Editorials

4

Types of Editorials

5

Editorial Writing Techniques

6

Ethics of Editorial Writing

7

Editorial Structure

8

Editorial Page

9

Editorial and the Economy

10

Editorial, Politics and Governance

Total Topics10 topics

Ready to Start

No specific requirements needed

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. You can start immediately without any prior knowledge or specific preparation.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

Assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Tutor-Marked Assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Final Examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Editorial Writer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Columnist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Journalist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Content Creator

Apply your skills in this growing field

Public Relations Specialist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

NewspapersMagazinesOnline MediaBroadcastingPublic RelationsGovernment Communication

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1: Introduction

2h

Unit 1: Meaning of Editorial

2 study hours
  • Read the definition of editorial and its characteristics.
  • Understand the role of editorials in journalism.
  • Identify the different elements that make up an editorial.
Week
2

Module 1: Introduction

2h

Unit 2: Qualities of a Good Editorial

2 study hours
  • Examine the qualities that make an editorial effective.
  • Learn how to write editorials that are clear, concise, and persuasive.
  • Analyze examples of well-written editorials.
Week
3

Module 1: Introduction

2h

Unit 3: Public Opinion and Editorials

2 study hours
  • Explore the relationship between public opinion and editorials.
  • Understand how editorials can shape public discourse.
  • Discuss the ethical considerations of influencing public opinion.
Week
4

Module 1: Introduction

2h

Unit 4: Editorials and Other Forms of Writing

2 study hours
  • Compare and contrast editorials with other forms of writing.
  • Understand the unique characteristics of editorials.
  • Identify the key differences between editorials and news articles, features, and columns.
Week
5

Module 1: Introduction

2h

Unit 5: Types of Editorial

2 study hours
  • Learn about the different types of editorials.
  • Understand the purpose and structure of each type.
  • Analyze examples of interpretative, controversial, and explanatory editorials.
Week
6

Module 2: Editorial Writing Techniques

2h

Unit 1: Sourcing the Editorial Materials

2 study hours
  • Identify sources of editorial materials.
  • Learn how to conduct research for editorial writing.
  • Understand the importance of accuracy and credibility.
Week
7

Module 2: Editorial Writing Techniques

2h

Unit 2: Editorial Audience

2 study hours
  • Understand the importance of knowing your audience.
  • Learn how to tailor your writing to different audiences.
  • Analyze the characteristics of skeptical, selective, and obstinate audiences.
Week
8

Module 2: Editorial Writing Techniques

2h

Unit 3: Qualities of Good Editorial Writers

2 study hours
  • Explore the qualities of good editorial writers.
  • Understand the skills and knowledge required for effective editorial writing.
  • Discuss the importance of intellectual curiosity, analytical mind, and mastery of language.
Week
9

Module 2: Editorial Writing Techniques

2h

Unit 4: The Editorial Board

2 study hours
  • Learn about the role of the editorial board.
  • Understand the functions and responsibilities of editorial board members.
  • Discuss the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
Week
10

Module 2: Editorial Writing Techniques

2h

Unit 5: Techniques in Editorial Writing

2 study hours
  • Explore different techniques for effective editorial writing.
  • Learn how to use persuasion, propaganda, and literary devices.
  • Analyze examples of well-written editorials that use these techniques.
Week
11

Module 3: Editorial Structure and Ethics

4h

Unit 1: Determinants of Editorial Subjects

2 study hours
  • Identify the factors that determine editorial subjects.
  • Learn how to choose relevant and timely topics.
  • Understand the importance of considering socio-political and economic issues.

Unit 2: Classification of Editorials

2 study hours
  • Learn about the different classifications of editorials.
  • Understand the reasons for classifying editorials.
  • Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each classification method.
Week
12

Module 3: Editorial Structure and Ethics

4h

Unit 3: Structure of an Editorial

2 study hours
  • Explore the structure of an editorial.
  • Understand the purpose and function of each part.
  • Learn how to write effective titles, leads, bodies, and conclusions.

Unit 4: Pitfalls in Editorial Writing

2 study hours
  • Identify common pitfalls in editorial writing.
  • Learn how to avoid Afghanistanism, being seduced by public relations men, and making predictions about pending court cases.
  • Understand the importance of accuracy and fairness.
Week
13

Module 3: Editorial Structure and Ethics

2h

Unit 5: Ethics of Editorial Writing

2 study hours
  • Understand the ethical considerations of editorial writing.
  • Learn about the codes of conduct for journalists.
  • Discuss the importance of integrity, honesty, and decency.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

Access PDF Material

Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review all unit objectives and ensure you can address each one.

2

Create a glossary of key terms and concepts from each module.

3

Practice writing editorials on current events, applying different techniques.

4

Analyze sample editorials, identifying their strengths and weaknesses.

5

Focus on understanding the ethical considerations of editorial writing.

6

Prepare outlines for potential exam questions, covering major topics.

7

Allocate specific time slots for reviewing each module in the weeks leading up to the exam.

Related Courses

Other courses in Social Sciences that complement your learning