argue for a course of action or a better understanding of the topic you have chosen that relates to systems or organizations that either contribute to less conflict or exacerbate / escalate existing conflicts.

CRIM 290 S22N01 OP-ED ASSIGNMENT 1 CRIM 290 S22N01 OP-ED ASSIGNMENT (Worth 25%)

Objective: To demonstrate knowledge and critical thinking about Canadian systems and organizations that are engaged in some capacity with conflict either by helping to resolve conflicts or by contributing to additional conflict. What do I have to do?

You will write an Op-Ed style essay related to some specific aspect of conflict in Canada. What is an Op-Ed? An op-ed is a newspaper article that is brief and expresses the opinions of a named writer who is unaffiliated with the newspaper. Such articles are typically written by an expert, often in response to a specific article or broadly circulated news item. The objectives of op-eds are to persuade readers toward a solution or action; to stimulate community discussion and public debate; and to educate the public about an issue the author views as important. This Assignment For this assignment, your op-ed should be between 750-1000 words. In your op-ed, you will argue for a course of action or a better understanding of the topic you have chosen that relates to systems or organizations that either contribute to less conflict or exacerbate / escalate existing conflicts. You should propose a solution or charge of action for your reader so that they understand what you are proposing. The basic layout is like this: Introduction: Tell the reader what the topic is that you are going to address and include a clear and compelling claim. Body: Demonstrate that you understand the issue by explaining it thoroughly along with any underlying causes or dimensions. Make a case for a course of action or potential path that offers to improve the situation. Be sure to balance facts with opinion. You may wish to reference concepts from your textbook or course readings here along with other sources. However, do NOT use in-text citations for the op-ed. Instead, you can refer to them in your writing (as is done in a newspaper) and use a separate Reference section at the end of your op-ed for your sources. Conclusion: Make the conclusion powerful or provocative with a compelling charge to the reader. Tips for Good Op-Eds: To nail this assignment, the following tips are offered: • Try to offer a fresh perspective (do not mimic or copy actual existing op-eds) • Write clearly and succinctly as words are limited so you do not have the luxury of including a lot of background information. • Strive to be persuasive. CRIM 290 S22N01 OP-ED ASSIGNMENT 2 • Use a lively writing style and insert provocative words to make your point. o Take responsibility for your statements about what should be done: “I believe that…” (because for this assignment, you are the “expert”) • Identify what you believe the underlying cause of the problem is, if possible. • Try to find a hook to draw readers in early. Ideally, the title or first section will grab the reader’s attention. • Chose words carefully to ensure you are not alienating people who might disagree with you. Ask yourself “would someone who disagrees with me keep reading this?” • Read other op-ed articles to see how they vary. • Edit your piece carefully to ensure that it is free of mistakes. Read it out loud to yourself before submitting, and, if possible, have a friend review it for readability and understanding. • Use statistics and relevant research to buoy your claims and give yourself credibility (remember you are an “expert”!) • Count your words – this essay has a maximum limit of 1000 words. • Finish strongly by summarizing your argument(s) and including a memorable closing statement. • Do not be afraid to reiterate what you believe could/should be done next. • Use language that is accessible to the public (for this assignment). • Do not use in-text citation. Instead, use a separate reference page if you rely on sources for information. • Once you know the specific about your topic, you can monitor news related to it by setting up a Google alert.