Activity 8: Dear Editor

Focus
This activity provides opportunities for students to use letters to the editor to identify major issues involving World Heritage management.

Background
Various points of view are expressed in the “letter to the editor” genre to expose students to the diversity of issues and views relating to World Heritage management.

Pedagogy/teaching strategies
Groups of 5-6 students receive or select a letter to the editor and then:
• Identify the main issue (one sentence summary)
• Distinguish between opinion and facts and identify emotive language (make a table or list)
• List any key terms
• Construct a possible profile/background of the author based on the way the letter is presented and opinions expressed in it. (eg. age, level of education, profession, vested interest)
• Write 5-10 questions directed at the author of the letter that would help in understanding or developing an argument.

Activity sequence
1. Review the context and style of letters to the editor with students.
2. Select a letter to the editor and work through the group activities outlined above.
3. Each group takes the opposing view to the issue and constructs a reply to the letter. Use the Letters to the Editor Template in Resources.
4. Students draft a letter to the editor, then edit and proof-read it. Each group publishes their letter in the local newspaper.