Course Objectives
By the end of this short course, students will be able to:
1. Recognize the role of op-eds in shaping public opinion and policy debates.
2. Understand the structure and stylistic features of op-ed writing.
3. Develop compelling thesis statements and persuasive arguments.
4. Practice clear, concise, and accessible writing for a broad audience.
5. Edit and refine drafts to meet professional publication standards.
6. Identify publication opportunities and learn the process of pitching op-eds.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
 Differentiate between academic writing and op-ed writing.
 Identify and analyze the structure of published op-eds.
 Produce original op-eds of 600–800 words on relevant topics.
 Demonstrate skills in editing and peer-review.
 Prepare a submission-ready op-ed draft for newspapers or digital platforms.

Key Themes of the Course

Significance of Op-ed Writing
 Ice-Breaker Activity: Introductions and sharing issues of concern.
 Discussion: Importance of op-ed writing in public discourse.
 Exercise: Compare an op-ed excerpt with an academic excerpt.
 Outcome: Students sensitized to the value of op-ed writing and prepared for the course.

Understanding the Op-Ed Form

 Topics: Purpose and audience; structure of an op-ed; choosing timely and relevant topics.
 Activities:
o Analyze 2 published op-eds (Pakistani + international).
o Brainstorm 3 potential topics for student op-eds.
o Mini writing drill: drafting opening lines.
 Outcome: Students can identify key elements of op-eds and generate topic ideas.

Crafting the Argument
 Topics: Building a thesis statement; using evidence persuasively; clarity of argument.
 Activities:
o Workshop on identifying thesis statements.
o Drafting thesis statements for chosen topics.
o Peer feedback session.
 Outcome: Students develop clear and persuasive arguments.

Writing Style and Structure
 Topics: Style, voice, clarity, conciseness; writing engaging openings and strong
conclusions.
 Activities:
o Rewrite an academic paragraph into op-ed style (250 words).
o Group critique of sample drafts.
o Develop full outline for op-ed (intro, body, conclusion).

 Outcome: Students produce structured outlines and grasp stylistic expectations.

Drafting, Editing, and Publication Pathways
 Topics: Self-editing and revision techniques; pitching op-eds; ethical considerations.
 Activities:
o Draft a complete op-ed (600–800 words).
o Peer-review workshop (exchange and feedback).
o Discussion on publication opportunities (local & international outlets).
 Outcome: Students submit a polished draft and understand how to publish.