Formulating a statement

Language training: A letter to the editor

A letter to a newspaper editor is a way to give your opinion on a certain topic and belongs to the group of formal letters. People often write to a newspaper when they want to express their views on a controversial problem previously discussed in the media, usually with the intention of having the letter published.
Address the receiver as "Madam or Sir" (not as "Dear...") and conclude with your full name and place of residence. "Yours faithfully" is generally not used to conclude a letter to the editor.

Before writing:

• Note down the important facts and points of the text you want to react to in your letter
• Brainstorm further arguments and ideas you may want to use to make your views clear

While writing:

• In your first sentence mention the article, the general problem, etc. you want to respond to
• Write your letter along your notes
• Backup your arguments with evidence and examples whenever possible
• Keep in mind that a newspaper will not allow you too much space, therefore draft a letter of about 200 words
• Decide how to conclude (Emotive/critical/ironical statement? Call for action? A question to leave the reader thinking?)

After writing:

• Make sure you have covered all important points
• Re-read your letter for factual correctness and clarity
• Check your letter for language errors

Download and read the following BBC-article and write a letter to the editor, displaying your position on the presented topic.