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Essential Question:
Essential Question:
How can I use language to convey my thoughts?
How can I use language to convey my thoughts?
Our second unit will focus on writing with the goal of publication. This unit will stretch over a number of modules during which you will conduct in-depth research into a singular topic. Throughout the unit, and your writing process, we will emulate the steps taken to publish an article as a freelance writer. Freelance writers typically writer articles on their own time and then sell them to a publisher (usually a magazine or newspaper). These are writers who are not contracted with the publisher, and who are free to sell their articles wherever they are accepted.
Key Terms
Key Terms
Pitch
Query
Topic
The First Task: Writing a Query Letter
The first step for many freelance writers is to secure a place of publication. In many cases, you might have already written an article and are now seeking a publisher. However, more established writers may contact a publisher with the simple idea for their article. We will begin in this way.
Your task, as an aspiring writer, is to submit a Query Letter to The Passages Annual Review, a journal of exceptional writing. The editor, Mr. Yours Truly, will review your query and decide whether or not to offer a contract. Your topic should align with the UN Global Goals, as with our previous assignments.
Key Elements of a Query Letter and Important Tips
Fully explain the topic for your article.
Explain the following:
Why is this topic important?
Who will want to read this?
Why are you the one to write this article? Explain the research you are conducting, or will conduct.
Always be formal.
It is very important that your query is entirely formal. Be polite and courteous. The easiest way to get a rejection is by assuming the publication will accept your query.
Look up the editor of the journal and address him/her directly. "Dear Editors" sounds like you didn't take the time to research the publication.
Keep things short and to the point
Editors are busy people. Don't waste their time. Keep your query letter short. It's not the time to show off your ability with a thesaurus or extended metaphors.
Edit, edit, and then edit again.
Because you're keeping your query short and to the point, a single spelling error or grammatical mistake is going to stick out. Edit carefully and proofread repeatedly. Don't give editors a reason to reject you.
Submitting your Query
Submitting your Query
When you are ready, compose your query letter and submit it by e-mailing me (this is exactly how it would work in real life).
The subject of your e-mail should follow the following format:
Query: [Insert Topic] - [Insert Your Name]
FYI: I will be very strict with the formatting of these e-mails. Any errors will likely earn you an immediate "rejection" but don't worry, unlike real publications, I will allow you to resubmit your query.
Click here to open e-mail:
Acceptance
Acceptance
Once your query is accepted, please click the button below to move on to the next module.
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