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A LETTER TO THE EDITOR What is a letter to the editor? A letter to the editor is a letter in which the reader expresses his or her opinion about a recent publication or about an issue of concern. You can probably think of many more specific reasons why you might want to write to the editor. Perhaps you are angry or shocked about something and want other readers to know it. Or you think that an issue is so important that you have to write about it. Maybe you want to suggest a new idea, persuade others to take action or educate the general public on a specific topic. Letters to the editor are found in the first section of newspapers or in the editorial page. What is the format? You must write your full name, address, daytime

A letter to the editor

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Page 1: A letter to the editor

A LETTER TO THE EDITOR

What is a letter to the editor?

A letter to the editor is a letter in which the reader expresses his or her opinion about a recent publication or about an issue of concern. You can probably think of many more specific reasons why you might want to write to the editor. Perhaps you are angry or shocked about something and want other readers to know it. Or you think that an issue is so important that you have to write about it. Maybe you want to suggest a new idea, persuade others to take action or educate the general public on a specific topic.

Letters to the editor are found in the first section of newspapers or in the editorial page.

What is the format?

You must write your full name, address, daytime telephone number, an email address and the date at the top of the letter in the right hand corner.

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How shall I write my letter?

There are a few golden rules you should follow: write clearly, be concise and get to the point.

a) Follow the word length established (ex. 100 words minimum). Write three-four paragraphs.

b) Avoid the following: Do not use slang, contractions or phrasal verbs. Colloquialisms are best avoided. Do not repeat yourself. Stick to the facts.

c) Begin your letter with Dear Editor or To the Editor. If you know the editor’s name, however, use it in your letter.

d) Paragraph 1. Explain what you are writing about. State the problem or issue that concerns you.

e) Paragraph 2. Explain why the issue is important. Tell how the problem or issue affects you or others, or tell what will happen if something isn’t done.

f) Paragraph 3. Tell why this is good or bad. Explain your view about why the particular action or comment is good or bad.

g) Paragraph 4. Say what should be done, by who and when.

h) Sign the letter.

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Look at the example:

[email protected]

,

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BEGINNING YOUR LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Marc Stwart

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(ex. Managing Director)

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Yours faithfully

Include a closing phrase. At the very end of your letter, include a simple “Yours sincerely” (if you know the person’s name you are writing to)” or “Yours faithfully” (if you don’t know the person’s name you are writing to)”, followed by a comma (,).