The Letter to the Editor

What is a LETTER TO AN EDITOR?

The Letter to the Editor is a regular argumentative essay placed in formal letter format.

What is the PURPOSE this letter?

In the LTE, you make comments on different kinds of situations which are of general interest. For example,

      ·         Performance of members of parliament

      ·         Indiscipline in schools

      ·         High crime rate

      ·         Inadequate roads, et cetera

NB.

The difference between the academic letter and those usually written in the local papers is that the writers do not just speak their minds or vent. They present their arguments in a formal, organized way and wherever necessary, suggest ways of making a bad situation better.

Also, after the writers have considered the evidence, they come to a conclusion on the matter; thus, making it fit the category of a persuasive piece. 

What is the FORMAT/OUTLINE then?

NB: While not the only approach to the discussion in the body paragraphs, this is one that you are familiar with and should be considered.

What does a SAMPLE look like?

This sample was taken from

the textbook: 

CXC Let's Work with English 

Recommended Videos:

The following videos are recommended for the clarity and reinforcement they can bring to your understanding of the concept. Please disregard information that seemingly contradicts the outline presented above.


# 1

Courstesy of: Television Jamaica

Television Jamaica

This video reinforces most of the points mentioned above. Despite the few differences, apply the concepts discussed above.

#2


                                       

Courtesy of: CSEC English Made Easy 

This video shows an alternative approach to discussion in body paragraphs and sample questions.