5 Tips for Writing an Opinion Essay

5 Tips for Writing an Opinion Essay You may be required to  write an essay  that is based on your own personal opinion about a  controversial topic. Depending on your objective, your composition could be any length, from a short  letter to the editor  to a medium-sized  speech, or a long  research paper. But every piece should contain some basic steps and elements. Collect Research to Support Your Opinion Make sure that your supporting statements match the type of composition you are writing. For example, your evidence will vary from observations (for a letter to the editor) to  trustworthy statistics(for a research paper). You should include examples and evidence that demonstrate a real understanding of your topic. This includes any potential counterclaims. In order to truly understand what you are arguing for or against, it is imperative that you understand the opposing arguments of your topic. Acknowledge the Previous Opinions or Arguments That Have Been Made More than likely you are writing about a controversial topic that has been debated before. Look ​at the arguments made in the past and see how they fit in with your opinion in the context in which you are writing. How is your point of view similar or different from those articulated by previous debaters? Has something changed in the time others were writing about it and now? If not, what does the lack of change mean?   â€Å"A common complaint among students is that the dress code restricts their rights to freedom of expression. Or â€Å"While some students feel uniforms restrict their freedom of expression, many feel the pressure to uphold certain standards of appearance by their peers.† Use a  Transition Statement Transition statements show how your opinion adds to the argument or suggests those previous statements and arguments are incomplete or faulty.  Follow up with a statement that expresses your opinion. While I agree that the regulations do hamper my ability to express my individualism, I think the economic burden that the new code brings about is a bigger concern. Or â€Å"The administration has developed a program for students needing assistance in purchasing the newly required uniforms.† Be Careful Not to be Too Sarcastic Many students come from low-income families and they simply dont have the resources to buy new clothing to suit the headmasters fashion whims. This statement contains a bit of a sour note. It would only make your argument less professional-sounding. This statement says enough: Many students come from low-income families and they simply dont have the resources to buy new clothing on short notice. Use Supporting Evidence to Back up Your Position The recent increase in fees has already led to a decrease in enrollment.Some of my friends are struggling to purchase necessities, due to the rising costs. It is important to keep the tone of your essay professional, by avoiding emotional language and any language that expresses an accusation. Use factual statements that are supported by sound evidence. Note:  Any time you develop an argument, you should start by thoroughly researching your oppositions point of view. This will help you to anticipate any potential holes or weaknesses in your own opinion or argument.

Othello Act 2 Summary

'Othello' Act 2 Summary Iagos evil plan begins to take shape in Othello Act 2. Our summary works through Act 2 scene-by-scene to guide you through the complex plot that drives Shakespeare’s Othello. Act 2 Scene 1 Montano the Governor of Cyprus and two gentlemen discuss the tempestuous weather which has defeated most of the Turkish fleet. A Third gentleman enters to decry the end of the war; â€Å"News lads! Our wars are done. The desperate tempest hath so banged the Turks that their designment halts.† He explains that a noble Venetian ship weathered the storm and Michael Cassio, Othello’s Lieutenant has arrived on shore. Cassio is said to be concerned about Othello’s ship which was caught up in the storm. Cassio enters concerned about Othello â€Å"O let the heavens give him defence against the elements, For I have lost him on a dangerous sea†. A sail is spotted at sea, the hope is that it is Othello’s ship; however, Cassio identifies the ship as Iago’s. On the ship are Roderigo, Desdemona and Emilia among others. Cassio explains to Montano about the marriage between Othello and Desdemona and his arrangement for Iago to provide for her shelter and protection. Desdemona enters asking about her husband, Cassio says; â€Å"The great contention of the sea and skies parted our fellowship†. Cassio introduces himself to Emilia, Iago puts his wife down by telling him that she talks too much he then goes on to say of women in general: â€Å"You are pictures at the door, bells in your parlours; wildcats in your kitchens, saints in your injuries; devils being offended, players in your housewifery, and hussies in your beds.† Iago is encouraged by the women to further develop his cutting and satirical use of ‘praise’ for their amusement. Cassio and the ladies go off as Iago ruminates on his plot to make Cassio appear to be having an affair with Desdemona. Othello’s trumpet sounds, he has arrived. Desdemona and Othello have a loving exchange of words and Iago says in an aside that despite their obvious love now, he will ruin their union. Othello confirms that the Turks are defeated. The group leave Iago and Roderigo alone on stage. Iago tells Roderigo that Desdemona is clearly in love with Othello, Roderigo refuses to believe it. Iago believes that Cassio does love Desdemona but that she loves Othello and acknowledges that Othello would prove to be a good husband to her. Iago admits to loving Desdemona too but not out of lust more out of revenge that because Othello ‘slept with his wife’ then he should sleep with his; â€Å"For that I do suspect the lusty Moor hath leapt into my seat, †¦And nothing can or shall content my soul Til I am evened with him, wife for wife.† Failing this, Iago wants to put Othello in to a jealousy so strong that he will not be able to trust his wife again. Iago will use Michael Cassio as Desdemona’s supposed suitor in order to get closer to Othello and to put Cassio’s character in to disrepute. Act 2 Scene 2 Othello’s Herald enters to read a proclamation; he invites the victorious soldiers to come and celebrate his nuptials with him. He encourages them to dance and feast and enjoy themselves. He blesses the isle of Cyprus and Othello. Continue reading by visiting our contents page  of scene guides to Shakespeare’s Othello.