NW-10. Pro-Con Opinion Columns

Each entry must:

have two (2) columns that express opposing viewpoints on one topic
the columns should be written by two people and should be packaged together on the same date in the opinion/editorial section
have both columns submitted together in the same entry form
have a standing head that indicates the pro/con nature of the package
carry bylines or other writer identification to indicate the personal opinion nature of the content

FOR ONLINE ENTRIES, submit the URL to one column in the URL field and the other in the Additional Information field.

A school may submit a second entry in this category, and the pieces may be written by the same columnists or combination including one of the same columnists. Submit a PDF of the print page(s) on which the entry was published or the URL to the entry on an online news site.

JUDGING CRITERIA

Topics relevant to interests and/or welfare of school or students
Two pieces, while offering opposing views, are consistent in style and tone
Both pieces win reader interest with compelling leads
Present evidence/interpretation in logical sequence
State issue; uses effective examples, facts and comparisons to clarify
Deal with specific issue; avoids preaching, rhetoric and clichés
Show sufficient thought and knowledge of subject, developed with personal style
Sentences, paragraphs of varied length; written clearly, concisely and vividly
Proper diction/grammar

NW-10. Pro-Con Opinion Columns

JUDGING CRITERIA

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