Education Universe Uncategorized

Writing an Op-Ed with Example

While this was primarily written for my classes, I hope that it might help someone else. THE LENGTH OF YOUR ESSAY MAY DIFFER. FOLLOW DIRECTIONS IN YOUR ASSIGNMENT.

Originally published in newspapers on the page opposite the editorial board’s own opinions, op-eds have since expanded into digital formats and appear in everything from national publications to local blogs. While styles vary, a strong op-ed typically includes:

  • A clear, arguable claim – The writer takes a stance on a debatable issue.
  • Engaging voice and tone – Op-eds blend professional insight with personal conviction; they may be formal, conversational, passionate, or even humorous depending on the audience.
  • Evidence and reasoning – The best op-eds use data, research, lived experience, and logic to back up their arguments.
  • Audience awareness – Writers shape their message to resonate with the beliefs, values, and concerns of a specific readership.
  • Brevity and clarity – Most op-eds are under 800 words and are written to be clear and accessible, even to non-experts.

In essence, an op-ed is where persuasion meets the public square. It invites dialogue, challenges assumptions, and aims to shape public opinion or policy.

Elements of an Op-Ed (Example)

Before the example, here is some information that was considered for the example:

Topic chosen: What strategies could be most effective in increasing available and affordable housing in a specific city (Nashville, TN).

Audience / publication: The Tennessean (or a local/state newspaper in Tennessee) addressing policymakers, local citizens, developers

Tone: Slightly formal but accessible. The goal was to make the example below persuasive, grounded, and appealing to both hearts and minds

Approximate Length of the Example: about 3 pages equivalent (in op-ed style)

EXAMPLE ESSAY:

Sample Op‑Ed: “Nashville Can’t Build Its Way Out — But Smart Housing Policy Can Help”

For The Tennessean (the chosen publication)

When I moved to Nashville five years ago, I was excited by the city’s energy, the new restaurants, the thriving arts district, and the growing skyline. However, I was struck early on by how hard it was for many people to find a decent place to live: high rents, long commutes, and housing that felt just out of reach for many service workers, teachers, and young families. Nashville is booming, but for many longtime residents, the cost of that boom is displacement and housing instability.

We often hear that the solution is simple: “build more houses.” But anyone who’s driven past a stalled construction site or watched debates over zoning understands that it’s not that simple. As we debate Nashville’s future, we must combine bold development with smarter policy, so that housing is not just plentiful, but affordable, equitable, and sustainable.

Fix the supply, but make it the right supply

Economists increasingly point to housing supply bottlenecks as a primary force pushing prices upward. A recent Brookings report documented how constraints on new construction, especially in densely populated, walkable neighborhoods, have made housing more expensive everywhere (Brookings). Likewise, an Urban Institute analysis argues that “a massive supply shortage is causing high home prices and rents, and the way to fix it is to build more housing (and rehabilitate existing housing where economical) (Urban Institute).”

Adding housing units isn’t enough. We need diversity in the type of housing. In Nashville, much of the recent growth has been luxury condos and high‑end apartments. That helps investors, but doesn’t help the schoolteacher or grocery clerk whose rent is eating up half her paycheck.

One promising tool is inclusionary zoning, where a developer building a project is required (or strongly incentivized) to include a portion of affordable units. That way, growth includes people of many incomes, not just those who can pay top dollar. In Nashville, policymakers could pair this with density bonuses (allowing taller or denser buildings) to keep projects financially viable while adding affordability (Maldon).

Expand rental assistance and preserve what’s already affordable

Even with supply gains in the housing market, many low‑ and moderate-income households will struggle unless policymakers assist more directly. The Center for Budget and Policy Priorities notes that “closing the housing affordability gap will require a comprehensive housing strategy, including developing new units, preserving existing affordable housing, and expanding rental assistance (CBPP).”

Nashville’s city government could lobby for expansion of Housing Choice Vouchers and partnerships with non‑profits to convert aging buildings into subsidized housing. At the same time, the city should protect existing naturally affordable housing from being torn down and replaced exclusively with luxury developments.

Recognize housing as a health and equity issue

We tend to think of housing purely in economic terms, but public health scholars remind us that where you live profoundly affects your physical, mental, and social health. A review in Public Health argues that “disparities in access to safe, adequate, and affordable housing contribute to health inequities (PMC).” Families forced to move frequently, double up with others, or live in substandard units face stressors that ripple into schools, medical costs, and community cohesion.

In Nashville, this matters especially in neighborhoods that have historically borne the brunt of racial and economic segregation. If we don’t act intentionally, new housing will further push vulnerable communities to the margins.

Use local voices to guide the policy

This is where you – the citizens of Nashville, TN, community groups, and local leaders matter. A top-down mandate rarely wins trust or long-term success. The best housing policies in cities emerge when they listen to those who live on the margins: renters, neighborhood associations, faith communities, and smaller developers.

I urge Nashville’s mayor and city council to convene participatory planning sessions in East, North, and South Nashville. Ask: What kinds of housing do people need? Where do they want to live? What public investments (parks, transit, schools) would make a new development truly livable?

Why this matters — and now

Seventy-six percent of Americans believe housing affordability is a growing problem, and that sentiment is shared across urban, suburban, and rural communities alike (Center for American Progress). Meanwhile, in 2023, over 31% of U.S. households were considered “housing cost burdened,” which is defined as spending over 30% of income on housing (PRC). In Metro Nashville, median rent and home prices have soared faster than wages, squeezing more people out.

If we don’t act now, we risk becoming a city of two worlds: a gleaming downtown for the affluent, and sprawling suburbs for everyone else. Nashville has the creative spirit, the capital, and the growing demand to lead on inclusive growth. To do so, Nashville needs policies that think beyond “more homes” and into “homes for all.”

Let’s commit to building more and building better!

Works Cited was not included in this example essay. However, students must include them in their essays.

Education Universe Drama, Literature

The American Dream and Social Barriers in Literature

The idea of the American Dream has been around for centuries. It’s the belief that with hard work, determination, and a little bit of luck, anyone can achieve success and prosperity. But is that dream really available to everyone? Literature has long explored this question, often revealing the social and economic barriers that make it difficult—if not impossible—for some people to attain the opportunities they seek.

Through powerful stories and plays like A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry and The Lesson by Toni Cade Bambara, we see how race, class, and economic struggles shape people’s realities. These works challenge the idealistic notion of the American Dream and force us to consider how systemic inequalities limit access to success.

The American Dream: A Promise or a Myth?

The American Dream is often tied to the idea that anyone—regardless of background—can succeed if they just work hard enough. But in literature, we frequently see characters who do everything right and still find themselves blocked by forces outside their control. Whether it’s racial discrimination, gender inequality, or economic hardship, these barriers prove that success isn’t just about effort—it’s also about the circumstances people are born into.

In A Raisin in the Sun, Hansberry explores this through the struggles of the Younger family, a Black family living on the South Side of Chicago in the 1950s. Mama, Walter, and Beneatha all have different views on what success means, but each of them faces roadblocks that make achieving their dreams difficult. Walter wants to be a successful businessman, but because of his race and economic status, he’s denied the same opportunities as white men. Beneatha dreams of becoming a doctor, but financial struggles and gender expectations make it a challenge. Even Mama, who just wants a house for her family, faces racism when trying to move into a better neighborhood.

Their experiences reveal that hard work alone isn’t enough—larger social structures play a huge role in determining who gets access to wealth and stability.

Education as the Great Equalizer—Or Is It?

Another key theme in literature is education as a path to success. Many people believe that getting an education is the best way to overcome economic and social barriers. But even that opportunity isn’t distributed equally.

Toni Cade Bambara’s The Lesson highlights this issue through the character of Miss Moore, a woman determined to teach the neighborhood children about the realities of economic inequality. She takes them on a trip to an expensive toy store in Manhattan, where they see outrageous prices—$1,000 for a toy sailboat—things their families could never afford. For the first time, the children realize just how unfair wealth distribution is in America.

Sylvia, the sharp and observant protagonist, is particularly affected by this experience. She begins to see that society is designed to keep people in their place. Even though she is intelligent and capable, she understands that just knowing about inequality doesn’t automatically change her situation. This realization echoes what many real people experience: education alone doesn’t guarantee upward mobility when the system is rigged against them.

The Role of Race and Class in Opportunity

Both A Raisin in the Sun and The Lesson show that race and class have a major impact on who gets access to the American Dream. Even when characters aspire for something better, they are often met with resistance from society.

In A Raisin in the Sun, when Mama finally puts a down payment on a house in a white neighborhood, the family is immediately met with hostility. A representative from the neighborhood association offers to buy back the house to keep the area segregated, showing how deeply racism is embedded in the housing market.

Similarly, in The Lesson, Miss Moore’s lesson isn’t just about money—it’s about how certain people are intentionally kept from opportunities. The expensive toy store represents a world that is off-limits to children like Sylvia and her friends, not just financially, but socially as well.

These stories reflect real-world struggles where access to jobs, housing, and education is often determined by race and class rather than personal effort. They challenge the audience to think critically about the fairness of the American Dream and whether it is truly attainable for all.

So, Can Everyone Achieve the American Dream?

After looking at these stories, it’s hard to say that the American Dream is universally accessible. Yes, some people do break through barriers and achieve success. But literature repeatedly shows us that many are left behind due to circumstances beyond their control.

So what’s the takeaway?

  • The American Dream is not equally available to everyone. Some people face racial, economic, and social barriers that make it far harder to succeed.
  • Education helps, but it isn’t always enough. Knowledge can open doors, but systemic issues still prevent equal access to opportunity.
  • We must recognize and challenge these inequalities. Just as Miss Moore encourages her students to think critically, literature encourages us to question the system and consider how we can work toward a more just society.

As readers, we should not only appreciate these works as stories but also as windows into real struggles. They push us to think about what can be done to close the gap between the ideal and reality of the American Dream. Because in the end, literature is not just about reading—it’s about understanding the world and questioning how it can be better.

Works Cited

  • Bambara, Toni Cade. The Lesson. 1972.
  • Bell, Bernard W. The Contemporary African American Novel: Its Folk Roots and Modern Literary Branches. University of Massachusetts Press, 2004.
  • Bloom, Harold, editor. Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun. Chelsea House, 2009.
  • Gates, Henry Louis, Jr., and Nellie Y. McKay, editors. The Norton Anthology of African American Literature. W.W. Norton & Company, 1997.
  • Hansberry, Lorraine. A Raisin in the Sun. Random House, 1959.
  • Jones, Gavin. American Hungers: The Problem of Poverty in U.S. Literature, 1840-1945. Princeton University Press, 2008.
  • Kamp, David. “Rethinking the American Dream.” Vanity Fair, Apr. 2009, http://www.vanityfair.com/news/2009/04/american-dream200904.
  • Wright, Richard. Black Boy. Harper & Brothers, 1945.
Education Universe Argument Writing, College Courses

Arguing for Change: Ethos, Pathos, Logos, and Kairos

Using different persuasive techniques can make your argument much stronger. This applies when you’re trying to convince someone to make a change in your school or your community. Four of the most effective strategies are ethos, pathos, logos, and kairos. These are tools that help you build a solid argument by focusing on credibility, emotions, logic, and timing. Let’s break them down. I’ll show you how to use each one in a letter to argue for a change.

Ethos (Credibility or Ethics)

Ethos is all about establishing yourself as someone who knows what they’re talking about. When you demonstrate experience or knowledge on a subject, your credibility increases. The person reading your letter is more likely to take you seriously.

Example for a Letter: If you’re writing to your school principal asking for healthier lunch options, you could say:
“As a student who has researched nutrition for our health class project, I understand the importance of balanced meals for students’ performance. I’ve also spoken with several classmates who feel the same way.”
This statement builds your credibility by showing that you’ve done research and have talked to others, making your request more reliable.

Pathos (Emotional Appeal)

Pathos taps into the reader’s emotions. People are often moved to action when they feel connected to an issue on a personal level, so sharing a story or using emotional language can help strengthen your argument.

Example for a Letter: In your letter to the principal, you might include something like:
“Many students skip lunch because they don’t feel there are enough healthy or appetizing options. It’s heartbreaking to see friends go through the afternoon tired and hungry, which affects their ability to focus in class.”
This appeals to the principal’s emotions, helping them understand how the current lunch situation is personally affecting students.

Logos (Logical Appeal)

Logos is the use of facts, statistics, and clear reasoning to make your argument. Logic helps support your case with evidence that can’t be easily dismissed.

Example for a Letter: You could include something like:
“According to a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics, students who eat balanced, nutritious meals are 20% more likely to perform better in school. By offering healthier options, our school could see an improvement in overall student success.”
This shows you’ve done your research and have a logical reason for requesting healthier lunch options, using real data to support your argument.

Kairos (Timeliness)

Kairos is about the timing of your argument. If you can show why now is the right time to make the change, you’ll strengthen your case even further.

Example for a Letter: You might say:
“With the growing emphasis on student well-being and the recent focus on mental health, now is the perfect time for our school to update the lunch menu to support both the physical and mental health of students.”
By showing that this issue fits into the current conversation around student health, you make it more urgent and relevant.

Quick Recap for Your Letter:

  • Ethos = Show that you’re credible (I’ve researched this, and here’s what I’ve found).
  • Pathos = Appeal to emotions (It’s difficult to see students struggling because of this).
  • Logos = Use facts and logic (Here’s the data to back up my argument).
  • Kairos = Highlight why this is the right time (Given what’s happening now, this change is necessary).

Using a mix of ethos, pathos, logos, and kairos in your letter will help you create a well-rounded argument. This argument will be both convincing and compelling to your reader. Whether you’re arguing for a healthier school lunch menu or more environmentally-friendly policies, these strategies will help you. They will ensure you get your point across effectively!

Education Universe Uncategorized

Key Players in the Film Industry

The film industry is a collaborative endeavor that involves a diverse range of professionals, each playing a crucial role in bringing stories to life on screen. Understanding the key players in this dynamic industry is essential for anyone interested in exploring the multifaceted world of filmmaking.

1. Filmmakers and Directors

At the forefront of the film industry are filmmakers and directors, the visionary storytellers who conceive, develop, and execute cinematic narratives. Filmmakers are responsible for shaping the overall creative vision of a film, from its initial concept to its final execution. They work closely with screenwriters, producers, and other creative professionals to translate ideas into compelling visual stories.

Directors, on the other hand, are the driving force behind the artistic direction of a film. They collaborate with actors to elicit authentic performances, make creative decisions regarding camera angles and shots, and oversee the overall production process. Directors bring their unique artistic sensibilities and vision to each project, shaping the film’s tone, style, and emotional impact.

2. Actors and Actresses

Actors and actresses are the heart and soul of any film, breathing life into characters and bringing them to life on screen. They use their acting skills to portray emotions, convey messages, and engage audiences with authentic performances. From lead roles to supporting characters, actors play a vital role in storytelling, creating memorable moments that resonate with viewers.

Actors collaborate closely with directors, fellow cast members, and production teams to understand characters, deliver convincing performances, and contribute to the overall artistic vision of the film. Their ability to embody diverse roles, adapt to different genres, and connect with audiences makes them indispensable contributors to the success of a film.

3. Producers

Producers are the masterminds behind the scenes, responsible for overseeing every aspect of a film’s production, from concept to completion. They play a pivotal role in securing funding, managing budgets, hiring talent, and ensuring that the production stays on schedule and within budget. Producers work closely with directors, writers, and production teams to bring projects to fruition, making strategic decisions to ensure a smooth and successful production process.

4. Cinematographers

Cinematographers, also known as directors of photography (DPs), are the visual architects of a film, responsible for capturing stunning visuals that enhance the storytelling experience. They collaborate with directors to create captivating compositions, design lighting setups, and execute camera movements that convey mood, atmosphere, and emotion. Cinematographers use their technical expertise and artistic flair to craft visually compelling sequences that elevate the overall quality of a film.

5. Editors

Editors are the unsung heroes of post-production, responsible for shaping raw footage into cohesive and engaging narratives. They work closely with directors to assemble scenes, trim footage, add visual effects, and refine the pacing and rhythm of a film. Editors play a critical role in enhancing storytelling, creating seamless transitions, and ensuring continuity throughout the editing process. Their mastery of editing techniques, sound design, and visual effects contributes significantly to the final polish and impact of a film.

6. Distributors and Exhibitors

Distributors and exhibitors are essential players in the film industry’s ecosystem, responsible for bringing films to audiences worldwide. Distributors acquire rights to films and oversee their distribution to theaters, streaming platforms, and home entertainment channels. They work with filmmakers, producers, and marketing teams to promote and release films to targeted audiences, maximizing their reach and impact.

Exhibitors, such as cinemas, film festivals, and digital platforms, provide platforms for showcasing films to audiences. They curate screenings, organize events, and create opportunities for filmmakers to connect with viewers and industry professionals. Exhibitors play a crucial role in promoting film culture, fostering audience engagement, and supporting diverse cinematic experiences.

Conclusion

The key players in the film industry work collaboratively to create captivating stories, memorable performances, and immersive cinematic experiences. From filmmakers and actors to producers, cinematographers, editors, and distributors, each professional contributes unique skills, expertise, and creativity to the art and craft of filmmaking. Understanding the roles and responsibilities of these key players is essential for appreciating the collaborative nature of the film industry and the collective effort required to bring stories to life on the silver screen.

Education Universe Uncategorized

Exploring the Dynamic World of Film Industry: An Introduction

Welcome to the captivating realm of the film industry, where creativity meets technology, storytelling comes to life, and dreams are turned into moving images on the silver screen. As you embark on your journey into the fascinating world of cinema, this introductory guide will provide you with a glimpse into the diverse and dynamic landscape of the film industry.

Understanding the Film Industry

The film industry encompasses a vast array of roles, processes, and technologies involved in the creation, production, distribution, and exhibition of films. From blockbuster Hollywood movies to independent films, documentaries, and experimental cinema, the industry offers a rich tapestry of genres, styles, and narratives that cater to diverse audiences worldwide.

Key Players in the Film Industry

  1. Filmmakers and Directors: Filmmakers are the visionary storytellers behind the camera, responsible for conceptualizing ideas, writing scripts, directing actors, and overseeing the artistic and technical aspects of film production.
  2. Actors and Actresses: Actors bring characters to life on screen through their performances, portraying emotions, personalities, and experiences that resonate with audiences and drive the narrative forward.
  3. Producers: Producers play a crucial role in financing, planning, and managing film projects. They coordinate various aspects of production, secure funding, hire talent, and ensure that the film stays on schedule and within budget.
  4. Cinematographers: Cinematographers, also known as directors of photography (DPs), are responsible for capturing the visual aesthetic of the film. They work closely with directors to create compelling compositions, lighting setups, and camera movements that enhance the storytelling.
  5. Editors: Editors assemble raw footage into coherent sequences, adding visual effects, sound, and music to create the final cinematic experience. They play a vital role in shaping the pace, rhythm, and emotional impact of the film.
  6. Distributors and Exhibitors: Distributors acquire rights to films and manage their distribution to theaters, streaming platforms, and home entertainment channels. Exhibitors, such as cinemas and film festivals, showcase films to audiences, providing platforms for screenings and public engagement.

Film Production Process

The film production process involves several stages, including:

  1. Development: This stage involves idea generation, scriptwriting, storyboarding, and initial planning. Producers, directors, and writers collaborate to refine concepts and prepare for pre-production.
  2. Pre-production: During pre-production, the film’s creative and logistical elements are finalized. This includes casting actors, scouting locations, designing sets and costumes, creating budgets, and scheduling production timelines.
  3. Production: The production phase involves filming scenes according to the script. Cinematographers capture footage, directors work with actors to achieve performances, and the production crew manages technical aspects such as lighting, sound, and camera operations.
  4. Post-production: Post-production encompasses editing, visual effects, sound design, and music composition. Editors collaborate with directors to assemble the final cut of the film, adding visual enhancements and refining the audiovisual experience.

Diverse Genres and Filmmaking Styles

The film industry embraces a wide range of genres and filmmaking styles, including:

  • Drama: Emphasizes character development, emotional depth, and human experiences.
  • Comedy: Focuses on humor, wit, and satire to entertain and provoke laughter.
  • Action: Showcases thrilling sequences, stunts, and visual effects, often with intense pacing.
  • Horror: Explores fear, suspense, and supernatural elements to evoke a sense of terror.
  • Documentary: Presents real-life stories, events, and subjects through non-fiction storytelling.
  • Experimental: Pushes boundaries of cinematic form, narrative structure, and visual expression.

Career Opportunities in the Film Industry

The film industry offers a diverse range of career opportunities, including:

  • Filmmaker/Director
  • Actor/Actress
  • Producer
  • Cinematographer
  • Editor
  • Screenwriter
  • Production Designer
  • Sound Designer
  • Visual Effects Artist
  • Film Critic/Reviewer
  • Film Festival Programmer
  • Distribution Executive
  • Film Marketing/Publicity Specialist

Conclusion: Embracing Creativity and Innovation

As you delve deeper into your studies and exploration of the film industry, remember that creativity, innovation, and collaboration are at the heart of cinematic storytelling. Whether you aspire to create compelling narratives, craft immersive visual experiences, or analyze and critique cinematic artistry, the film industry offers a platform for endless possibilities and lifelong learning.

Prepare to embark on a transformative journey filled with cinematic adventures, artistic discoveries, and meaningful contributions to the ever-evolving tapestry of global cinema. Welcome to the world of filmmaking, where imagination knows no bounds, and every frame is a canvas for storytelling magic.

Lights, camera, action!