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MAC322

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.

About this course

Difficulty
Intermediate
Study hours
40 hours
Maths
None
Content
Theoretical, practical, case study
Practical work
Yes
How it is assessed
  • Assignments
  • Tutor Marked Assignments
  • Final Examination

One paragraph, so you can see how it reads

MAC322 · UNIT 1: MEANING OF EDITORIAL

The main body of the unit guides you through the required reading from other sources. This will usually be either from your set books or from other materials.

What you should be able to do

  1. Define and explain the key concepts of editorial writing.
  2. Identify and apply the qualities of a good editorial.
  3. Understand the relationship between public opinion and editorials.
  4. Distinguish between different types of editorials and their purposes.
  5. Apply effective techniques for editorial writing, including persuasion and propaganda.
  6. Adhere to ethical standards in editorial writing.
  7. Analyze and critique editorials from various sources.

What it prepares you for

Careers
  • Editorial Writer
  • Columnist
  • Journalist
  • Content Creator
  • Public Relations Specialist
Where it is applied
  • Newspapers
  • Magazines
  • Online Media
  • Broadcasting
  • Public Relations
  • Government Communication

Where it gets hard

The units students slow down on, and what makes each one heavy.

  • Module 2: Editorial Writing Techniques

    Unit 2: Editorial Audience

    Understanding the nuances of tailoring content to skeptical, selective, and obstinate audiences requires careful consideration of their unique perspectives and biases.

  • Module 5: Techniques in Editorial Writing

    Unit 5: Techniques in Editorial Writing

    Mastering the art of persuasion and propaganda requires a deep understanding of human psychology and the ability to craft compelling arguments that resonate with the target audience.

A suggested way through it

Suggested

13 weeks, about 30 hours in total. Yours will differ.

  1. Week 1Module 1: Introduction
    • Unit 1: Meaning of Editorial · 2 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..

  2. Week 2Module 1: Introduction
    • Unit 2: Qualities of a Good Editorial · 2 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..

  3. Week 3Module 1: Introduction
    • Unit 3: Public Opinion and Editorials · 2 hours

      Explore the relationship between public opinion and editorials.. Understand how editorials can shape public discourse.. Discuss the ethical considerations of influencing public opinion..

  4. Week 4Module 1: Introduction
    • Unit 4: Editorials and Other Forms of Writing · 2 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..

  5. Week 5Module 1: Introduction
    • Unit 5: Types of Editorial · 2 hours

      Learn about the different types of editorials.. Understand the purpose and structure of each type.. Analyze examples of interpretative, controversial, and explanatory editorials..

  6. Week 6Module 2: Editorial Writing Techniques
    • Unit 1: Sourcing the Editorial Materials · 2 hours

      Identify sources of editorial materials.. Learn how to conduct research for editorial writing.. Understand the importance of accuracy and credibility..

  7. Week 7Module 2: Editorial Writing Techniques
    • Unit 2: Editorial Audience · 2 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..

  8. Week 8Module 2: Editorial Writing Techniques
    • Unit 3: Qualities of Good Editorial Writers · 2 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..

  9. Week 9Module 2: Editorial Writing Techniques
    • Unit 4: The Editorial Board · 2 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..

  10. Week 10Module 2: Editorial Writing Techniques
    • Unit 5: Techniques in Editorial Writing · 2 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..

  11. Week 11Module 3: Editorial Structure and Ethics
    • Unit 1: Determinants of Editorial Subjects · 2 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 hours

      Learn about the different classifications of editorials.. Understand the reasons for classifying editorials.. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each classification method..

  12. Week 12Module 3: Editorial Structure and Ethics
    • Unit 3: Structure of an Editorial · 2 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 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..

  13. Week 13Module 3: Editorial Structure and Ethics
    • Unit 5: Ethics of Editorial Writing · 2 hours

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

Preparing for the exam

What to do
  • Review all unit objectives and ensure you can address each one.
  • Create a glossary of key terms and concepts from each module.
  • Practice writing editorials on current events, applying different techniques.
  • Analyze sample editorials, identifying their strengths and weaknesses.
  • Focus on understanding the ethical considerations of editorial writing.
  • Prepare outlines for potential exam questions, covering major topics.
  • Allocate specific time slots for reviewing each module in the weeks leading up to the exam.

Questions students ask about this course

What is MAC322 about?

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.

How many units does MAC322 have?

MAC322, Editorial Writing, has 20 units across 4 modules, over 136 pages of course material. You can read it one unit at a time.

How many credit units is MAC322?

MAC322 carries 3 credit units, at 300 level in Social Sciences.

Is MAC322 hard?

MAC322 is rated intermediate level, with no mathematical content. It is mostly theoretical, practical and case study work, and it has a practical component.

How long does MAC322 take to study?

About 40 hours of study, spread across its 20 units.

How is MAC322 assessed?

MAC322 is assessed by Assignments, Tutor Marked Assignments and Final Examination.

What can I do with MAC322?

Editorial Writer, Columnist, Journalist, Content Creator and Public Relations Specialist.

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