Letter To The Editor of a Newspaper

a. Look at example letters here.

b. Note how the first part of the letter usually gives some background to the topic as a means of introduction. This allows us to understand the letters even though we may have not read the original article. In addition, the newspaper often gives a title to individual letters or groups letters according to topic.

c.Try to find the sentence or sentences in each letter which tell you its purpose.

d. Notice how each sentence is related to the writer's theme as stated in the topic sentence/s.

Assignment:

a. Decide on a topic and prepare a composition that would be suitable as a letter to the editor of a newspaper.

b. It should be something currently in the news and should be controversial enough that you can state an opinion.

c. Be sure to focus on one part of the topic and show your attitude clearly.

Audience:

Who reads English newspapers in Japan? Mostly Japanese, but the rest are a very international audience. Not just Americans, Britons, Australians and Canadians, but many Europeans, Africans, Indians as well as other Asians. Think of the world living in Japan as your audience when you write.

Topics:

1. Introducing English Classes at Elementary School.
2. The Place of Cram Schools in Japanese Education.
3. The Ageing of Japan.
4. Medical accidents in hospitals and clinics.
5. Sexual Harassment.
6. The Increase in Young People Smoking/Using Stimulant Drugs.
7. The five-day school week.
8. Youth Violence.
9. The Korea-Japan World Cup.
10. The Prime Minister's visit to Yasukuni Shrine.
11. Or any other topic you think would be of interest to a wide audience in Japan.