Welcome to our comprehensive guide on mastering the art of opinion writing. Whether you are a student looking to improve your persuasive writing skills or an educator seeking effective teaching strategies, this article will provide valuable insights and techniques for crafting compelling opinion essays.
In the world of academic writing, opinion essays, also known as opinion pieces or opinion writing, are a key component. These essays allow writers to express their point of view on a particular topic, backed by strong arguments and supporting evidence.
Writing persuasive opinion essays requires careful consideration of various factors, including the selection of an engaging writing prompt and the development of a structured essay that effectively conveys your thoughts and opinions.
To help you become a skilled opinion writer, we will explore essential strategies, helpful resources, and practical tips for both students and educators. From understanding the basics of opinion writing to enhancing your writing skills, this article covers every aspect of mastering the art of opinion writing.
Key Takeaways:
- Opinion writing, also known as opinion essays or opinion pieces, allows writers to express their point of view on a particular topic.
- Crafting a persuasive opinion essay requires selecting an engaging writing prompt and supporting your opinion with strong arguments and evidence.
- Whether you are a student or an educator, understanding the basics of opinion writing and employing effective techniques can improve your writing skills.
- There are various resources and educational materials available to support the teaching and learning of opinion writing.
- Opinion writing holds the power to give individuals a voice and influence others through their words.
The Basics of Opinion Writing
Before diving into the writing process, it is important to understand the basics of opinion writing. Developing strong foundational skills will lay the groundwork for crafting compelling and persuasive opinion essays. Let’s explore the essential elements that form the building blocks of opinion writing.
Selecting a Prompt
Every opinion essay starts with a prompt, a statement or question that serves as the foundation for your argument. Whether it’s a thought-provoking question or a controversial topic, the prompt sets the stage for expressing your point of view. Choose a prompt that you feel passionate about and that provides ample room for discussion.
Organizing Your Thoughts with a Graphic Organizer or Worksheet
A well-structured opinion essay requires careful organization of your thoughts. Graphic organizers or worksheets can help you visually map out your ideas and arguments before putting pen to paper. By categorizing your supporting points and evidence, you can ensure a logical flow and coherence in your writing. Here’s an example of a graphic organizer:
Constructing Well-Developed Paragraphs with Sentence Starters
Each paragraph in your opinion essay should focus on a single main idea and be supported by relevant evidence. Sentence starters can help you construct well-developed paragraphs by providing a framework for presenting your arguments. Use these prompts to kickstart your sentences:
- One reason I believe…
- Another important point is…
- Additionally,…
- In contrast to this viewpoint…
- It is evident that…
- Furthermore,…
By utilizing sentence starters, you can ensure that your paragraphs are cohesive, persuasive, and effectively convey your opinion.
Now that you understand the basics of opinion writing, you’re ready to dive into the writing process. Armed with a carefully selected prompt, a well-organized structure, and the use of sentence starters, you can confidently express your opinions and craft powerful opinion essays.
Teaching Opinion Writing
As an educator, one of the valuable skills you can impart to your students is the ability to express their opinions effectively through writing. Teaching opinion writing not only enhances their communication skills but also encourages critical thinking and self-expression. To support your instruction, there are various educational resources available, including mentor texts and anchor charts, that can provide guidance and inspiration.
When teaching opinion writing to students in different grade levels, such as 4th grade and 2nd grade, it is important to provide them with mentor texts. These texts serve as models for showcasing well-crafted opinion pieces, helping students understand the structure, language, and persuasive techniques utilized in opinion writing. By analyzing mentor texts and discussing their strengths, students can gain a deeper understanding of how to develop their own opinions and arguments.
Anchor charts are another valuable resource in teaching opinion writing. These visual aids help students visualize the key components of opinion writing, such as identifying the topic, stating their opinion, providing supporting reasons, and concluding their piece. Anchor charts serve as a reference point during the writing process and can be displayed in the classroom for easy access and reinforcement.
To further enhance the teaching of opinion writing, consider incorporating hands-on activities and engaging prompts. This can involve creating opportunities for lively class discussions where students can express their opinions and practice defending their viewpoints. Additionally, providing writing prompts that are relatable and relevant to their lives fosters student enthusiasm and encourages them to develop persuasive arguments.
“Opinion writing allows students to voice their thoughts, beliefs, and concerns, empowering them to engage in conversations about real-world issues.”
The ultimate goal of teaching opinion writing is to equip students with the skills to express their thoughts confidently and persuasively. By providing them with educational resources, mentor texts, and anchor charts, you can create a supportive learning environment where students can develop their opinion writing abilities and effectively communicate their ideas.
| Grade Level | Educational Resources |
|---|---|
| 4th Grade |
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| 2nd Grade |
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Elements of an Opinion Essay
A well-structured opinion essay consists of several key elements. By understanding and incorporating these components into your writing, you can effectively convey your point of view and engage readers. Let’s explore the essential elements that make up a compelling opinion essay.
The Introduction
The introduction sets the stage for your opinion essay and captures the reader’s attention. It should provide a concise overview of the issue or topic you will be discussing and present your thesis statement—the main argument or position you will be advocating throughout your essay.
Body Paragraphs with Strong Topic Sentences
The body paragraphs of your essay serve as the supporting pillars for your opinion. Each paragraph should focus on a specific idea or argument that supports your thesis statement. To create cohesive and well-structured body paragraphs, it’s essential to start each paragraph with a strong topic sentence that clearly states the main point of the paragraph.
For example:
Topic Sentence: The increased use of technology in classrooms can enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.
Following the topic sentence, you should provide evidence, examples, and explanations to support your argument and provide credibility to your opinion.
The Conclusion
The conclusion of your opinion essay should summarize your main arguments and restate your thesis statement. It allows you to leave a lasting impression on your readers by reinforcing the significance of your opinion and compelling them to consider your viewpoint. Make sure to end your essay with a strong closing statement, encouraging readers to reflect on the ideas presented.
Examples of Opinion Writing
To provide a better understanding of the elements discussed, here are some examples of well-structured opinion essays:
| Title | Description |
|---|---|
| The Importance of Physical Education in Schools | An essay discussing the benefits of physical education and arguing for its inclusion in the curriculum to promote students’ overall well-being and academic success. |
| The Impact of Social Media on Society | An essay exploring the positive and negative effects of social media on individuals and society, offering a balanced perspective on its influence. |
| The Necessity of Protecting Endangered Species | An essay advocating for the preservation of endangered species and highlighting the importance of biodiversity for the ecosystem and future generations. |
These examples showcase how opinion essays can be structured and the diverse topics they can cover. Remember to use them as references while crafting your own opinion essay, tailoring each element to suit your specific argument and writing style.
Persuasive Techniques in Opinion Writing
Persuasive writing is a powerful tool that allows you to express your point of view and convince others to share your opinion. In opinion writing, mastering persuasive techniques is crucial for effectively communicating your ideas and influencing your readers. By employing various writing techniques, you can enhance the persuasiveness of your opinion essays and make a compelling case for your viewpoint.
Here are some persuasive techniques to consider:
- Emotional Appeals: Triggering emotions in your readers can evoke empathy, sympathy, or even anger, compelling them to align with your perspective.
- Logical Reasoning: Using solid evidence, facts, and logical arguments can help you build a credible case and persuade readers based on facts and rationality.
- Anecdotes and Personal Stories: Sharing personal experiences or anecdotes can create a connection and make your argument more relatable and memorable.
- Rhetorical Questions: Asking thought-provoking questions can engage readers and prompt them to consider your viewpoint.
- Appeals to Authority: Quoting experts, citing reputable sources, or referencing influential figures can add credibility to your argument and persuade readers to trust your perspective.
By utilizing these persuasive techniques, you can effectively communicate your opinions and convince your audience to share your point of view. Remember, writing with a point of view and using persuasive writing techniques can make your opinion essay more compelling and impactful.
Example:
“Imagine a world where every person has access to quality education. By supporting educational reforms and initiatives, we can create a society that empowers individuals and fosters innovation. Let us join hands and advocate for educational equity, ensuring a brighter future for all.”
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Emotional Appeals | Elicits emotions in readers to create a sense of empathy or connection. |
| Logical Reasoning | Uses facts, evidence, and logical arguments to support the author’s viewpoint. |
| Anecdotes and Personal Stories | Shares personal experiences or stories to make the argument relatable and memorable. |
| Rhetorical Questions | Poses thought-provoking questions to engage readers and encourage critical thinking. |
| Appeals to Authority | Utilizes quotes from experts or references credible sources to add credibility to the argument. |
By incorporating these persuasive techniques into your opinion writing, you can effectively communicate your ideas and convince others to embrace your point of view.
Enhancing Writing Skills for Opinion Writing
Improving writing skills is essential for becoming a proficient opinion writer. Practicing writing regularly and engaging in various writing activities can help students enhance their opinion writing abilities. These strategies are particularly beneficial for students in third and fifth grade, but they can also be adapted for other grade levels.
One effective way to enhance writing skills is through consistent practice. By dedicating regular time to writing, students can develop their creativity, critical thinking, and communication abilities. They can also become more confident in expressing their opinions and supporting them with logical reasoning and evidence.
Here are some engaging writing activities that can help students strengthen their opinion writing skills:
- Journaling: Encourage students to keep a journal where they can freely express their thoughts and opinions on various topics. Journaling helps students develop the habit of writing consistently and builds their ability to articulate their ideas.
- Debates: Organize class debates where students can practice defending their opinions and respectfully challenging others’ viewpoints. Debates promote critical thinking, research skills, and persuasive communication.
- Writing Prompts: Provide students with opinion writing prompts that require them to take a stance on a particular issue. This helps students practice constructing well-structured opinion essays with clear arguments and supporting evidence.
- Peer Editing: Pair students up and have them exchange their written work for peer editing. By reviewing and providing constructive feedback on each other’s writing, students can improve their writing skills and learn from their peers.
- Class Discussions: Engage students in thoughtful class discussions where they can express their opinions on various topics. Encourage active listening, respectful dialogue, and the ability to support opinions with evidence.
Through these activities, students can develop their writing skills by practicing organizing their thoughts, refining their arguments, and effectively voicing their opinions. As they progress, students can apply these skills to write compelling opinion essays that inspire and persuade their readers.
Caption: Practicing writing activities can enhance students’ opinion writing skills.
Resources for Opinion Writing
When it comes to opinion writing, having access to the right resources can greatly support and enhance the learning experience. Whether you are a student looking for additional practice or a teacher seeking materials to engage your students, there are various opinion writing resources available. In this section, we will explore both free and paid resources that can assist you in developing your opinion writing skills.
Free Opinion Writing Prompts
A great way to get started with opinion writing is by using writing prompts. Free opinion writing prompts provide stimulus and direction for expressing your thoughts and opinions on a given topic. These prompts cover a wide range of subjects, allowing you to explore different themes and perspectives. By practicing with various prompts, you can strengthen your writing abilities and develop a diverse range of opinions.
Resources on Teachers Pay Teachers
Teachers Pay Teachers is an online marketplace that offers a vast selection of opinion writing resources created by educators for educators. These resources include lesson plans, worksheets, graphic organizers, and more. The platform allows you to search for specific grade levels, such as second grade or fourth grade, ensuring that the materials are tailored to the appropriate age group. While some resources on Teachers Pay Teachers are available at a cost, many others are offered for free or at a minimal price, making them accessible to a wide range of teachers and students.
One key benefit of using Teachers Pay Teachers is the ability to access materials created by experienced educators. These resources have been used and tested in real classroom settings, ensuring their effectiveness and alignment with educational standards. Additionally, the platform allows you to read reviews and ratings from other users, providing valuable insights into the quality and usefulness of each resource.
Whether you are looking for opinion writing prompts, graphic organizers, or complete lesson plans, utilizing available resources can amplify your learning journey. The combination of free opinion writing prompts and resources on Teachers Pay Teachers will equip you with the tools necessary to develop and refine your opinion writing skills.
Comparison of Free and Paid Opinion Writing Resources
| Resource Type | Free Resources | Paid Resources |
|---|---|---|
| Prompts | Available | Available |
| Lesson Plans | Limited | Extensive |
| Worksheets | Basic | Comprehensive |
| Graphic Organizers | Minimal | Diverse |
Note: While free resources can provide a solid foundation for developing opinion writing skills, paid resources often offer more comprehensive materials and a wider range of options to cater to individual needs.
Tips for Teaching Opinion Writing
Teaching opinion writing requires specific strategies and techniques to help students develop and articulate their viewpoints effectively. Here are some valuable tips and insights for educators:
1. Integrate Narrative Writing
When teaching opinion writing, it can be beneficial to integrate elements of narrative writing. This allows students to connect their personal experiences and emotions to their opinions, creating a more compelling and relatable piece. Encourage students to incorporate anecdotes and stories that support their viewpoint.
2. Provide Writing Prompts
Offering thought-provoking writing prompts is essential for engaging students in opinion writing. Use prompts that are relevant to their lives and encourage critical thinking. Consider topics that relate to current events, social issues, or personal experiences. This will help students to develop strong arguments and opinions.
3. Remind Students to Support their Opinions
It’s important to remind students that opinions must be supported by evidence and logical reasoning. Teach them how to use facts, statistics, and examples to justify their viewpoints. This will enhance the persuasiveness of their writing and strengthen their arguments.
4. Encourage Active Discussion
Engage students in discussions about various topics to stimulate critical thinking and develop their ability to express their opinions confidently. Encourage them to listen and respond respectfully to their peers’ viewpoints, fostering a culture of open-mindedness and debate.
“Opinion writing offers a platform for students to express their thoughts and engage in meaningful dialogue with their peers.”
5. Provide Structured Outlines
Help students organize their thoughts by providing structured outlines or graphic organizers. These tools can assist them in planning their essays, ensuring a clear and logical flow of ideas. Teach students to include an introduction, body paragraphs with supporting evidence, and a conclusion that restates their opinion.
6. Model Opinion Writing
Modeling opinion writing is a powerful teaching technique. Share examples of well-written opinion pieces to provide students with a clear understanding of the expectations and standards. Analyze these examples together and discuss the effective use of persuasive language and supporting evidence.
7. Foster Creativity
Encourage students to think outside the box and express their opinions creatively. Allow them to explore different writing styles, such as using metaphors, descriptive language, or creative storytelling techniques to make their arguments more engaging and memorable.
Teaching opinion writing empowers students to express their thoughts and develop critical thinking skills. By implementing these tips, educators can create a supportive environment that nurtures confident opinion writers.
Crafting Compelling Opinion Pieces
Crafting compelling opinion pieces requires honing specific writing techniques. When it comes to crafting opinions, it’s crucial to adopt a persuasive and argumentative approach. By leveraging effective writing strategies, you can engage readers and sway them to see things from your perspective. Opinion articles serve as powerful platforms to express your thoughts and beliefs, fostering critical thinking among your audience.
Opinion writing is not just about conveying your point of view; it’s about presenting well-reasoned arguments that resonate with others. It requires careful consideration of facts, logical reasoning, and thoughtful analysis. The ability to express opinions clearly and eloquently is a valuable skill in critical thinking.
When crafting opinion pieces, it’s essential to consider the following techniques:
- Research: Thoroughly investigate and gather relevant information about your topic. This will strengthen your arguments and support your opinions with credible evidence.
- Structure: Organize your thoughts in a clear and logical manner. A well-structured piece helps readers follow your line of reasoning effortlessly.
- Evoke Emotions: Use language and storytelling techniques to evoke emotions and connect with your audience on a personal level.
- Address Counterarguments: Acknowledge opposing viewpoints and address them honestly. This shows that you have considered different perspectives, making your argument more robust.
- Empathy: Demonstrate empathy and understanding towards your readers’ viewpoints. This fosters a sense of respect and encourages open-mindedness.
Opinion writing allows you to engage in argumentative writing and unleash your creativity. Through compelling arguments, you can shape public discourse and influence others’ opinions. It is a powerful medium for expressing your opinion and effecting change.
Sample Opinion Piece: The Importance of Art Education
In a world that often prioritizes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, the significance of art education is often overlooked. However, it is crucial to recognize the immense value that art brings to the holistic development of individuals.
| Benefits of Art Education | Evidence |
|---|---|
| Enhanced Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills | Studies have shown that participating in artistic activities nurtures innovative thinking and enhances problem-solving abilities[1]. |
| Improved Emotional Well-being | Engaging in art provides a creative outlet for emotions, fostering emotional well-being and resilience[2]. |
| Enhanced Cultural Appreciation | Art education exposes students to diverse cultural expressions, promoting tolerance, understanding, and appreciation[3]. |
| Strengthened Critical Thinking Skills | Art education encourages students to think critically, analyze visual elements, and interpret meaning[4]. |
As we recognize the importance of STEM education, it is equally important to champion the inclusion and support of art education. By nurturing artistic skills and fostering creativity, we create well-rounded individuals capable of thinking critically, expressing their opinions, and thriving in an ever-changing world.
The Power of Opinion Writing
Opinion writing has the remarkable ability to empower individuals to independently express their thoughts and perspectives. It serves as a platform for sharing opinions, persuasively communicating ideas, and initiating meaningful discussions. Through the art of opinionated writing, individuals can advocate for change, influence readers’ perspectives, and shape public discourse.
Writing pieces that reflect personal opinions allow individuals to assert their voice and exercise their freedom of expression. It provides a means to convey unique viewpoints and contribute to a diverse range of discussions. By writing independently, individuals can explore their thoughts, refine their arguments, and have a lasting impact on readers.
Opinionated writing is a powerful tool that enables individuals to passionately express their beliefs and engage in critical conversations.
Opinion writing also plays a crucial role in fostering persuasive communication skills. Crafting compelling arguments and articulating opinions persuasively requires careful thought and effective writing techniques. By mastering the art of opinion writing, individuals can refine their ability to present evidence, appeal to emotions, and persuade others to see their point of view.
Furthermore, opinionated writing can serve as a catalyst for change. By sharing opinions on social, political, and cultural issues, individuals can spark discussions, challenge prevailing narratives, and inspire action. It encourages critical thinking, promotes diverse perspectives, and encourages societal progress.
The Role of Opinionated Writing in Influencing Readers’ Perspectives
Opinion writing possesses the unique ability to influence readers’ perspectives and perceptions. Through well-structured arguments, compelling evidence, and thoughtful analysis, opinion pieces can sway readers to reconsider their beliefs and viewpoints. It encourages readers to engage in introspection, question their assumptions, and broaden their understanding of complex topics.
- Opinion writing challenges readers to think critically, examine different angles, and form their own opinions.
- Opinionated writing encourages readers to explore alternative viewpoints and engage in meaningful dialogue.
- Opinion pieces provide a valuable platform for diverse voices to be heard and respected.
Whether through personal essays, persuasive articles, or thought-provoking blog posts, opinion writing can inspire empathy, encourage open-mindedness, and foster a more inclusive society. By sharing opinions in a respectful and well-reasoned manner, writers can contribute to a more informed and compassionate discourse.
Expressing opinions through writing is a powerful tool that enables individuals to make their voices heard, influence public opinion, and effect positive change. It encourages the free exchange of ideas, fosters intellectual growth, and empowers individuals to contribute to the world of ideas. As opinionated writers, we have the responsibility to use our voices effectively, ethically, and persuasively, shaping a brighter future through the power of our words.
To illustrate the impact of opinion writing, let’s take a look at the following examples:
| Example | Effect |
|---|---|
| A compelling opinion article on climate change | Inspires readers to take action, raise awareness, and support policies that combat climate change. |
| An opinion piece exploring the benefits of alternative education | Encourages parents, educators, and policymakers to consider alternative approaches to education and rethink traditional learning models. |
| A persuasive essay advocating for animal rights | Prompts readers to reevaluate their treatment of animals, support animal welfare organizations, and make compassionate choices. |
Also Read : Public Opinion Obituaries – Celebrate Lives Lived
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the art of opinion writing is a valuable skill that can be honed through practice and the application of effective strategies. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you will be equipped to craft compelling opinion essays that effectively express and support your point of view. Remember, opinion writing is an art form that empowers individuals to have a voice and influence others through their words.
Through opinion writing, you have the power to share your thoughts, beliefs, and perspectives with the world. By learning how to articulate your opinions in a clear, concise, and persuasive manner, you can have a meaningful impact on your readers. Whether you are writing a persuasive essay, an opinion piece, or simply expressing your point of view, opinion writing allows you to engage in critical thinking, analyze complex issues, and communicate your ideas effectively.
As you continue on your journey to master opinion writing, remember that practice makes perfect. Take advantage of the resources, strategies, and techniques discussed in this article to refine your skills and become a confident opinion writer. With dedication and persistence, you will be able to create well-crafted opinion pieces that leave a lasting impression on your audience. So, go forth and unleash the power of your words through opinion writing!
FAQs
What is opinion writing?
Opinion writing is a type of writing where the writer expresses their personal point of view or opinion on a particular topic or issue.
How do I start writing an opinion essay?
To start writing an opinion essay, you need to choose a prompt or topic that you have a strong opinion about. Then, you can organize your thoughts using a graphic organizer or worksheet to plan your essay.
What are some strategies for teaching opinion writing?
Some strategies for teaching opinion writing include using mentor texts, creating anchor charts, and providing educational resources that support students’ understanding of opinion writing.
What should be included in an opinion essay?
An opinion essay should have an introduction that presents the topic and the writer’s opinion, body paragraphs that support the opinion with evidence and examples, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points and restates the opinion.
How can I make my opinion writing more persuasive?
To make your opinion writing more persuasive, you can use techniques such as emotional appeals, logical reasoning, and strong language to convince readers to share your point of view.
How can I improve my opinion writing skills?
You can improve your opinion writing skills by practicing writing opinion pieces, participating in writing activities that focus on opinion writing, and seeking feedback from peers or teachers to further develop your skills.
Where can I find resources for opinion writing?
There are various resources available for opinion writing, including free opinion writing prompts and paid resources on platforms like Teachers Pay Teachers that provide materials and tools to support students’ opinion writing development.
What are some tips for teaching opinion writing to students?
Some tips for teaching opinion writing to students include integrating narrative writing to help students express their opinions confidently, reminding students to provide evidence to support their opinions, and creating a supportive classroom environment for students to share their opinions.
How can I craft compelling opinion pieces?
To craft compelling opinion pieces, you can use techniques such as crafting strong arguments, using persuasive language, and providing evidence to support your opinions. It’s also important to consider your target audience and their perspectives.
Why is opinion writing powerful?
Opinion writing is powerful because it allows individuals to independently express their thoughts and perspectives on various topics. It also fosters critical thinking skills and can influence readers’ perspectives and behaviors.
What is opinion writing?
Opinion writing is a form of writing where the author expresses their viewpoint on a particular topic and supports it with reasons and evidence.
How can I teach opinion writing to first-grade students?
You can introduce opinion writing to first-grade students by using simple prompts and guiding them to express their preferences through drawing and writing simple sentences.
What are some mentor texts for opinion writing?
Mentor texts for opinion writing are exemplary pieces of writing that serve as models for students. They can include books, articles, or essays that demonstrate persuasive language and structure.
How can I support 3rd-grade students in forming their opinions for writing?
You can support 3rd-grade students in forming their opinions by providing them with prompts, engaging in discussions, and encouraging them to draw from their personal experiences and knowledge.
What are some effective writing activities for teaching opinion writing?
Effective writing activities for teaching opinion writing include brainstorming sessions, debate-style discussions, creating opinion anchor charts, and engaging in peer review and feedback sessions.
How can I structure opinion writing for 5th-grade students?
You can structure opinion writing for 5th-grade students by teaching them to craft clear thesis statements, use persuasive language, support their opinion with relevant evidence, and effectively conclude their writing.
What are opinion writing mentor texts for 4th and 5th grade?
Some opinion writing mentor texts for 4th and 5th grade include famous speeches, persuasive essays, and opinion-based articles from reputable sources.
How can I help students support their opinions in writing?
You can help students support their opinions in writing by teaching them to provide logical reasons, relevant examples, and persuasive language that backs their viewpoint.
What are the key elements of grade opinion writing?
The key elements of grade opinion writing include introducing a topic, stating a clear opinion, providing reasons and evidence to support the opinion, and concluding by restating the opinion and summarizing the supporting points.
How can I incorporate opinion writing into literacy instruction for 2nd-grade students?
You can incorporate opinion writing into literacy instruction for 2nd-grade students by integrating opinion writing units into the curriculum, providing engaging prompts, and utilizing age-appropriate mentor texts.
Source Links
- https://alison.com/course/mastering-the-art-of-persuasive-writing
- https://www.dailylawyertips.com/opinion-essay
- https://coachingfederation.org/blog/writing-and-pitching-an-opinion-piece
