Question

Imagine you are a writer who has been hired to write a newspaper article to persuade readers to protest the demolition of a local treasured landmark. How might you use a combination of different techniques (e.g., layout, images, text, etc.) to convey the message? Write one to two paragraphs explaining your thoughts.

Answer 1

I would write an argumentative piece telling the compelling history of the local landmark and how its evolved through time. I would show pictures of the place through out time and show how many generations of people have valued that place. With this I would appeal to people’s feelings and I would add some words that would evoke nostalgia. Finally, I would add some personal stories or events that people shared on that landmark to remind people of its meaning and value to the community.

Answer 2

The best way to start an article of this kind is by starting with a hook. A hook is a statement or an idea that is likely to attract readers and motivate them to continue reading. For example, if the building that is going to be demolished is a cinema, you could ask them what their first memory of a cinema is. After introducing them in this way, I would outline the details of the demolition, including the arguments of the other side. The next step would be to outline our own arguments, address the arguments of the opposition and make a call to action.

Throughout the text, you will need to use rhetorical devices in order to make your argument more persuasive. You should also make sure that your arguments are not personal, but that they are appealing to a lot of people. Finally, including images can make your argument clearer and your position more persuasive.