Analysis & Reflection: Op-Ed

Assignment Goal

This assignment challenges you to engage with contemporary public discourse by selecting and analyzing a published opinion editorial (op-ed). You will apply your rhetorical analysis skills (SOAPStone, appeals, shifts, organizational structure) by crafting a formal rhetorical precis, followed by a persuasive response that evaluates the effectiveness and relevance of the author's argument.

Part 1: The Op-Ed Hunt (Finding Your Text)

Task: Locate and read an op-ed published within the last six months (post-dating [Insert Date: e.g., April 1, 2025]) from a reputable, national news source. Many of the sources are beind a paywall, so try searching “free op-ed”. Or check some of the articles I have posted here.

Guidelines for Selection:

Source: Choose from major, established publications (e.g., The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, The New Yorker, The Guardian).
Focus: The piece must be explicitly labeled as an "Opinion," "Op-Ed," or "Commentary."
Substance: The argument must be clear, well-supported, and address a topic of significant public interest (politics, technology, education, social issues, culture, etc.). Avoid simple news reports or “listicles”.
Length: The op-ed should be substantial enough for a detailed analysis (typically 750-1200 words).

Submission Requirement: You must submit a link or clean copy (PDF) of the chosen op-ed along with your assignment. TO create a PDF, fit fn+prt scr”, then change the drop down menu to “save as pdf”.

Part 2: The Rhetorical Precis (Analysis)

See Chapter 4 of your textbook for a Rhetorical Precis template.

Part 3: Reflection and Argument Evaluation (Response)

Word Count: 400-500 words

Task: Write a formal response that addresses the following three points in well-developed paragraphs. Do not use bullet points or headings in this section.

A. Evaluation of Effectiveness (Rhetoric)

Analyze the author's most dominant rhetorical appeal (Logos, Pathos, or Ethos) and evaluate its effectiveness.

Question to answer: Did the author effectively use evidence, emotional appeal, or credibility to sway a reasonable reader? Specifically cite one rhetorical strategy (e.g., use of analogy, a shift in tone, loaded diction) and explain its impact on the argument.

B. Evaluation of Argument (Content)

Assess the validity and soundness of the argument itself.

Question to answer: Where does the argument succeed or fail? Analyze the anatomy of the argument (see chapter 5), is it a sound argument? Identify the strongest piece of supporting evidence and any potential logical fallacies that are used.

C. Personal Stance (Response)

State your personal position on the issue the op-ed discusses.

Question to answer: Do you agree or disagree with the author's claim? Use specific examples from your own knowledge or experience (or recent news) to justify your stance, extending the conversation beyond the scope of the original op-ed.