Global Environmental Challenges

ENV1101: Global Environmental Challenges

Assignment 1 – Op-Ed Value:

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Due Date: Thursday, October 8th @ 23:59, 2020 (submit on Brightspace in PDF format)

This assignment will require you to develop an in-depth knowledge and your own opinion about a current environmental issue, in order to write an opinion editorial (Op-Ed) about it. It is up to you to choose the issue you want to focus on, but it needs to be ‘newsworthy’ and it needs to be relevant to the course. Topics can include any environmental issue that we have covered or will cover in class, something you have read about in the news, or perhaps something that is particularly important to you and your own experience. Topics can be specific and local, or broad and global. The objective of an op-ed is to present a clear opinion and develop a logical and well-supported argument to convince the reader and stimulate debate.

OPINION EDITORIAL (OP-ED)

An op-ed, short for “opposite the editorial page” or “opinion editorial”, is an opinion piece (well-supported by facts/evidence) on a newsworthy topic that can help to inform and stimulate public debate, and shape policy. Although guidelines differ by media outlet, they are usually 700-800 words in length. Op-eds are different from both

editorials

(opinion pieces submitted by editorial board members) and

letters to the editor

(shorter opinion pieces submitted by readers).

What an editor looks for in an op-ed (modified from Ottawa Citizen’s op-ed instructions):

· A clear opinion, backed by a logical argument and strong writing

· Offers solutions to a problem you have identified

· Originality – a recently published op-ed with a similar opinion is less likely to get accepted

· Some level of expertise or knowledge of the subject beyond the average

· Diversity of views, and of writers

· Plain language – lose the jargon and fuzzy, academic vocabulary

· Concrete examples – broad, abstract writing on a topic is not acceptable

Examples of op-eds:

· Globe and Mail:

https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/editorials/

· Toronto Star: Common toxins make big difference in brain development:

https://www.thestar.com/opinion/commentary/2014/11/22/common_toxins_make_big_difference_in_brain_development.html

Additional resources:

· Op-Ed Writing: Tips and Tricks (The Op-Ed Project)

https://www.theopedproject.org/oped-basics/

· Op Ed Tips:

http://canada.citizensclimatelobby.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/converted_files/default/files/files/TTiNcclconf2013%20Oped%20Tips

INSTRUCTIONS

· Write an op-ed that is between
700 – 800
words in length. We are going to be ruthless about the word count!

· Follow the instructions/suggestions about how to write an op-ed (visit resource pages – links above)

· Identify the newspaper that you wish to submit your op-ed to and indicate it at the end of the assignment

· Since you are not experts (yet), research is required – provide references to back up facts and arguments

· Include a bibliography with a minimum of 6 references (4 must be peer reviewed)

· In-text references (citations) will not count towards the final word count

· Use in-text referencing (Harvard – see reference guide in Brightspace)

· 10% per day will be deducted for late assignments

· Avoid plagiarism – learn how by visiting:

http://www.sass.uottawa.ca/writing/kit/plagiarism.php

The evaluation of this assignment will be based on the following criteria:

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Content: · Topic is ‘newsworthy’ and relevant to the course · Clear statement of argument · Argument is logical, supported by evidence (e.g. stats, news, expert quotes, personal experience) · Solutions offered (if appropriate) · Demonstrated grasp of issues and concepts; counter arguments addressed · Terms/concepts defined as needed · General impressions: topic well covered, convincing	60
Organization and mechanics: · Follows op-ed structure (see for example: https://www.theopedproject.org/oped-basics/#gettingstarted) · Logical flow, transitions, structure, focus · Grammar, spelling, punctuation, clarity of writing · Word count respected (700-800 words) · Demonstrated evidence of proofreading · Overall reading appeal		20
Research and referencing: · Evidence of depth to research (literature) · Minimum number of peer-reviewed references included · Literature cited where appropriate; relevant and persuasive · Proper referencing style used

NOTE: There is a bonus 10% (on your final course grade – not just on the assignment mark) if your op-ed is published in a ‘reputable’ on-line or print newspaper. Please discuss with one of the professors before submitting to confirm that the newspaper you are submitting to will qualify.

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