Column Writing Guide for Campus Journalists

Journalism Column Writing

1. THE COLUMNIST’S PEN: WRITING WITH IMPACT AND INSIGHT JAN ADAMS D. MAGTANONG, EdD

2. The heart of journalism may be news reporting, and the soul of journalism the editorial page, but the personality of journalism is the column. -- Sam Riley, Editor, The American Newspaper Columnist (1998) 2

3. What are the most common challenges your students face when writing columns, and how do you guide them through those challenges? 3

4. COLUMN WRITING Columns are the most personal of all newspaper writing. They have a very personal appeal, an authoritative influence, and very useful contribution to make in spreading news and opinions. They are written to inform, influence, or entertain readers. They are high in reader interest for they stimulate public discussion of the day’s affairs. 4

5. 5 PURPOSE Entertaining - Many columns aim to entertain readers with humor, engaging stories, or light-hearted content, drawing readers in through amusement or enjoyment. Informing - Columnists provide updates, news, or facts that keep readers informed about current events, trends, or topics of interest, offering valuable knowledge. Educating - Columns can serve as a platform for educating readers, offering insights, explanations, or practical advice to help them understand complex topics or improve their skills. Providing Commentary - Columnists offer thoughtful commentary on various issues, events, or trends, giving personal insights that help readers interpret or view topics from different perspectives.

6. 6 PURPOSE Entertaining - Many columns aim to entertain readers with humor, engaging stories, or light-hearted content, drawing readers in through amusement or enjoyment. Informing - Columnists provide updates, news, or facts that keep readers informed about current events, trends, or topics of interest, offering valuable knowledge. Educating - Columns can serve as a platform for educating readers, offering insights, explanations, or practical advice to help them understand complex topics or improve their skills. Providing Commentary - Columnists offer thoughtful commentary on various issues, events, or trends, giving personal insights that help readers interpret or view topics from different perspectives.

7. 7 PURPOSE Provoking Thought - Some columns aim to challenge conventional thinking, pushing readers to reconsider their views or think critically about topics, encouraging deeper reflection. Expressing Opinions - Columnists share their personal viewpoints on social, political, or cultural issues, influencing readers' perceptions and contributing to broader conversations on these topics. Influencing or Persuading - Many column articles are written with the goal of persuading readers to adopt specific opinions, support causes, or take action, shaping attitudes or behaviors.

8. 8 WHAT MAKES A GOOD COLUMNIST Proficiency in Language - A good columnist demonstrates strong command of English or Filipino, ensuring clarity and ease of understanding in their writing. Originality and Creativity - A good columnist brings fresh ideas and creative approaches to their writing, presenting topics in a unique and engaging way. Strong Writing Skills - A good columnist writes with a forceful, flexible style, adapting their voice to suit different topics and audiences effectively.

9. 9 WHAT MAKES A GOOD COLUMNIST 4. Keen Observation - A good columnist observes the world around them attentively, noticing details and trends that provide valuable insights for their writing. 5. Clear and Logical Thinking - A good columnist presents their ideas in a structured, coherent manner, ensuring their arguments and narratives are easy to follow. 6. Broad Knowledge Base - A good columnist draws from a wide range of knowledge and experiences, enriching their content with diverse perspectives and information.

10. 10 WHAT MAKES A GOOD COLUMNIST 7. Resourcefulness - A good columnist is resourceful, finding interesting topics, conducting thorough research, and tackling challenges with innovative solutions. 8. Sense of Fairness - A good columnist strives to present balanced views on issues, offering fair and unbiased perspectives, while making it clear when expressing personal opinions. 9. Sense of Humor - A good columnist incorporates humor into their writing, making complex or serious topics more relatable, enjoyable, and memorable for readers.

11. 11 STEPS TO WRITING A COLUMN 1. Choose a Topic Relevance - Select a topic that is relevant to your audience. For a school paper, this might include issues affecting students, faculty, or school life. Interest - Pick something that will engage and interest readers. Choose a topic you are passionate or knowledgeable about. 2. Do Your Research Gather Information - Collect relevant facts, statistics, opinions, or stories that will support your viewpoint. Stay Updated - Make sure your information is current and accurate, especially for topics involving current events or ongoing issues.

12. 12 STEPS TO WRITING A COLUMN 3. Plan Your Structure Introduction : Start with a hook to grab attention. This could be a question, a quote, or an interesting fact related to your topic. Body : Organize the main points logically. Break your argument or narrative into paragraphs, each addressing a different aspect of the topic. Conclusion : Wrap up by summarizing your points or leaving the reader with a thought-provoking statement or call to action. 4. Write Your Column Clear and Concise : Be direct and to the point. Avoid over-complicating your writing. Tone : Use a tone that suits your topic and audience, whether it’s formal, informal, persuasive, or humorous. Voice : Make sure your personality and perspective shine through your writing. Columns are often opinion-based, so don’t be afraid to show your voice.

13. 13 STEPS TO WRITING A COLUMN 5. Edit and Revise Check for Clarity : Ensure that your ideas are clear and that your writing flows logically from one point to the next. Grammar and Punctuation : Edit for grammar, punctuation, and spelling mistakes. Even small errors can undermine your credibility. Cut Unnecessary Words : Remove any redundant or unnecessary phrases to make your writing more concise and impactful. 6. Get Feedback Peer Review : Ask a friend, teacher, or mentor to read your column and provide feedback. They may offer valuable insights or suggest areas for improvement. Revise Based on Feedback : Incorporate useful suggestions into your final draft to enhance the column.

14. 14 COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID 1. Being Too Biased Problem : Columns are often opinion-based, but if you present an overly biased perspective without acknowledging other viewpoints, your writing may alienate readers. Solution : While it’s important to express your views, ensure that you provide a balanced perspective, presenting various sides of an issue where appropriate. 2. Over-Complicating the Language Problem : Using overly complex words, jargon, or convoluted sentences can confuse readers and make your column harder to understand. Solution : Keep your language clear, concise, and accessible. Use simple, straightforward sentences, especially when discussing complex topics.

15. 15 COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID 3. Lack of Structure Problem : A column without a clear introduction, body, and conclusion can feel disorganized and difficult to follow. Solution : Organize your column with a clear structure—begin with an engaging introduction, followed by logically arranged body paragraphs, and end with a strong conclusion. 4. Failing to Hook the Reader Problem : A weak or uninteresting introduction might fail to grab the reader's attention, causing them to lose interest quickly. Solution : Start your column with an attention-grabbing hook, such as a compelling question, a surprising fact, or a bold statement that piques curiosity.

16. 16 COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID 7. Being Too Vague Problem : Writing in generalities or without specific examples can make your argument feel weak or unsupported. Solution : Be specific and provide concrete examples or anecdotes to strengthen your points and make your writing more relatable. 8. Not Editing Enough Problem : Submitting a column without thoroughly reviewing it can lead to grammar, spelling, or factual errors, reducing its professionalism. Solution : Always edit and proofread your work several times before submitting. Check for grammar, punctuation, clarity, and flow. It’s also helpful to get a second pair of eyes for feedback.

17. 17 COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID 9. Repeating the Same Ideas Problem : Repetition of the same points or ideas can make your column feel redundant and boring. Solution : Be concise and avoid restating the same argument. Present new ideas or elaborations to keep the column fresh and engaging. 10. Not Having a Strong Conclusion Problem : A weak or incomplete conclusion can leave the reader with a sense of unfinished business. Solution : End your column with a strong conclusion that either summarizes the key points or provides a call to action, thought-provoking insight, or a memorable statement.

18. Lead Thesis Statement Supporting Arguments Counterarguments Personal Anecdotes or Experiences Expert Opinions or Quotes Call to Action or Implications Closing Statement 18 BASIC STRUCTURE OF A COLUMN

19. REVITALIZING TRANSPORTATION As urban centers continue to grapple with congestion and pollution, the need for sustainable transportation solutions has never been more pressing. In the Philippines, where jeepneys have long been a symbol of public transit, the implementation of the Jeepney Modernization Act represents a crucial step towards creating a more efficient, environmentally friendly, and safer transportation system. (LEAD) The Jeepney Modernization Act is not just about upgrading vehicles; it's about transforming an entire industry to meet the demands of the 21st century while ensuring the welfare of drivers, passengers, and the environment. (THESIS STATEMENT) 19 POSITION – AGREE

20. Modernizing jeepneys holds the promise of enhancing safety and comfort for passengers through the incorporation of features like seatbelts, improved suspension systems, and ergonomic designs. Data from the Department of Transportation indicates that implementing such safety features could reduce accident-related injuries by up to 40% within the first year of modernization. Moreover, by replacing outdated, polluting engines with Euro 4-compliant or electric ones, the modernization effort not only reduces air pollution but also contributes to combating climate change. According to a study by the Environmental Protection Agency, transitioning to Euro 4-compliant engines could decrease harmful emissions by as much as 70%, significantly improving air quality in urban areas. (SUPPORTING ARGUMENTS) Some critics argue that the modernization effort threatens the livelihoods of traditional jeepney drivers and operators. However, with proper support, including financial assistance and training programs, the transition can be made smoother, ensuring that no one is left behind. (COUNTERARGUMENTS) 20

21. Growing up in Bataan, I have fond memories of riding jeepneys, but I also recall the discomfort and pollution they often brought. Embracing the modernization initiative is not just a matter of progress; it's about creating a better future for generations to come. (PERSONAL ANECDOTES OR EXPERIENCES) According to transportation experts like Dr. Juan Miguel Santos, "The Jeepney Modernization Act is a crucial step towards improving the overall quality of public transportation in the Philippines, aligning with global standards of efficiency, safety, and sustainability." (EXPERT OPINIONS OR QUOTES) 21

22. As consumers, policymakers, and stakeholders, we must support the implementation of the Jeepney Modernization Act by advocating for sustainable transportation policies, investing in clean energy technologies, and embracing innovation in the transportation sector. (CALL TO ACTION OR IMPLICATIONS) In embracing the Jeepney Modernization Act, we are not just upgrading vehicles; we are reimagining the future of transportation in the Philippines—one that is safer, greener, and more inclusive for all. Let us seize this opportunity to revitalize our cities and pave the way for a brighter tomorrow. (CLOSING STATEMENT) 22

23. PRIORITIZING PEOPLE In the pursuit of modernizing public transportation in the Philippines, the government's Jeepney Modernization Act holds immense potential. However, to ensure a fair and just transition, it is imperative that sufficient assistance be provided to jeepney drivers and operators who may struggle to afford modern vehicles. (LEAD) The successful implementation of the Jeepney Modernization Act hinges on the government's commitment to providing ample support to those most impacted by the transition, safeguarding the livelihoods of jeepney drivers and operators while advancing the goals of safety, sustainability, and efficiency. (Thesis Statement) 23 POSITION – DISAGREE

24. According to a survey conducted by the Department of Transportation, over 70% of jeepney drivers and operators cited financial constraints as the primary obstacle to modernizing their vehicles. Additionally, research from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) indicates that offering subsidies, low-interest loans, or tax incentives could potentially reduce the financial burden by up to 50%, significantly accelerating the transition to modernized fleets. Simultaneously, a study conducted by a transportation research institute found that 60% of jeepney drivers expressed a willingness to embrace modernization but lacked the necessary skills and knowledge. (SUPPORTING ARGUMENTS) Opponents of extensive government assistance may argue that it places an undue burden on taxpayers or undermines market principles. However, the societal benefits of a modernized transportation system, including improved air quality, reduced congestion, and enhanced road safety, justify the investment in supporting vulnerable individuals during the transition period. (COUNTERARGUMENTS) 24

25. Having witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by jeepney drivers in my community, I understand the importance of ensuring that no one is left behind in the modernization process. Providing adequate assistance is not only a matter of policy but also a moral imperative to uphold the dignity and well-being of all citizens. (PERSONAL ANECDOTES OR EXPERIENCES) According to transportation policy expert Dr. Maria Santos, "A successful transition to modernized jeepneys requires a holistic approach that prioritizes the needs of drivers and operators. Government assistance plays a crucial role in facilitating this transition while promoting equity and social justice." (EXPERT OPINIONS OR QUOTES) 25

26. As citizens, we must urge policymakers to prioritize the provision of sufficient assistance to jeepney drivers and operators as part of the implementation of the Jeepney Modernization Act. By advocating for equitable policies and supporting those most impacted by the transition, we can ensure a smooth and inclusive modernization process. (CALL TO ACTION OR IMPLICATIONS) In embracing the Jeepney Modernization Act, let us not forget the individuals whose livelihoods depend on this iconic mode of transportation. By providing adequate assistance, we can uphold principles of social justice and ensure that the benefits of modernization are shared by all. (CLOSING STATEMENT) 26

27. IISANG APELYIDO, WALANG PAGBABAGO Sa bawat eleksyon sa Pilipinas , hindi maiiwasang mapansin ang paulit-ulit na mga pangalan sa mga balota . Ito ay mga pamilya na matagal nang namumuno sa ating bansa at tila ba hindi natitinag sa puwesto , anuman ang mga isyu at pagsubok na kinakaharap ng bayan. Ang political dynasty, o ang pamumuno ng isang pamilya sa politika , ay isang sistema na patuloy na umiiral sa Pilipinas . Ngunit , sa kabila ng mga benepisyo na maaaring idulot nito , ang ganitong sistema ay may mga negatibong epekto na hindi natin dapat ipagsawalang-bahala . (Lead) Ang political dynasty sa Pilipinas ay isang malupit na balakid sa tunay na pagbabago at pag-unlad , sapagkat ito ay nagiging sanhi ng hindi pantay-pantay na pagkakataon , pagkakawatak-watak ng kapangyarihan , at pagtaas ng mga isyu ng korapsyon at hindi pagkakapantay-pantay . (Thesis Statement) 27 POSISYON – HINDI SANG-AYON

28. Ayon sa isang pag-aaral ng Asian Institute of Management, ang mga political dynasties ay nagiging sanhi ng mababang antas ng pamamahagi ng yaman at oportunidad sa bansa . Nagtataglay ng 70% ng mga nakaupo sa mga posisyon sa gobyerno ang mga miyembro ng mga pamilyang may political dynasty. Sa kabila ng mga pagbabago sa mga liderato at pamahalaan , patuloy na nagiging dominante ang mga ito sa halalan at politika ng bansa . (Supporting Argument) Marami sa mga tagasuporta ng political dynasty ang nagsasabing ang ganitong sistema ay nagbibigay ng "stability" sa mga komunidad , lalo na sa mga lugar na may mga matatag na pamilyang may kasaysayan sa pamumuno . Ayon sa kanila , ang mga pamilyang ito ay may sapat na karanasan at kaalaman sa pamamahala , kaya't nakikita nilang mas magaan ang kanilang pamumuno . Ngunit , sa kabila ng kanilang karanasan , hindi ba’t dapat isaalang-alang ang pagbabago at mga bagong pananaw mula sa iba't ibang tao at hindi lamang ang mga pangalan na paulit-ulit na lumalabas sa balota ? (Counterargument) 28 POSISYON – HINDI SANG-AYON

29. Bilang isang kabataan na lumaki sa isang lalawigan na may malalim na kasaysayan ng mga political dynasty, naranasan ko ang mga epekto nito . Sa mga halalan , madalas ang naririnig kong mga pangalan ng mga miyembro ng isang pamilya , kahit na walang makulay na record ng serbisyo publiko . Nakikita ko sa aking mga kababayan ang kawalan ng interes sa mga halalan , sapagkat para sa kanila , “ walang bago ” at “pare- pareho lang ”. Madalas ko ring marinig na ang mga pamilya sa politika ay may kanya-kanyang interes , kaya't mahirap para sa mga ordinaryong tao na makapasok sa pamahalaan o magkaroon ng boses sa mga usapin ng bayan. (Personal Anecdotes or Experiences) Ayon kay Professor Francisco Nemenzo , isang eksperto sa politika sa bansa , "Ang political dynasty ay nagpapalakas sa mga tradisyon ng kapangyarihan na nagiging sanhi ng pagka-kontento sa lumang sistema . Dapat natin alisin ang mga pamilyang dominado sa pamahalaan upang magbigay daan sa mas bukas at demokratikong lipunan ." (Expert Opinions or Quotes) 29 POSISYON – HINDI SANG-AYON

30. Ito ay isang hamon sa ating mga kababayan at mga mambabatas . Ang pagpapalaganap ng mas malawak na edukasyon ukol sa mga epekto ng political dynasty at ang pagtataguyod ng mga polisiya na maglilimita o magbabawal sa ganitong sistema ay hakbang na kailangang isulong . Ang pagtutok sa mga patakaran na magsusulong ng tunay na demokratikong pamumuno at ang pagbibigay ng pagkakataon sa mga bagong lider na may malasakit sa bayan ay isang mahalagang hakbang patungo sa pagbabago . (Call to Action or Implications) Ang political dynasty sa Pilipinas ay hindi lamang isang simpleng isyu ng mga pamilya sa pamahalaan , ito ay may mas malalim na epekto sa ating demokrasya at sa pag-unlad ng bansa . Habang patuloy na namamayani ang mga pamilya sa kapangyarihan , nagiging sagabal ito sa tunay na pagbabago at pagkakapantay-pantay sa pamamahala . Nasa ating mga kamay ang pagbabago . Huwag nating hayaang maging balakid ang mga political dynasty at ang isang apelyido , walang pagbabago sa ating pag-unlad bilang isang bansa . (Closing Statement) 30 POSISYON – HINDI SANG-AYON

31. PUNO NG KAPANGYARIHAN, BUNGA NG KAUNLARAN Sa Pilipinas , ang political dynasty ay isang bahagi na ng ating kasaysayan at kultura . Madalas ay nakikita ang mga pamilya na matagal nang namumuno sa mga posisyon sa gobyerno , mula sa mga lokal na liderato hanggang sa pambansang antas . Sa kabila ng mga kritisismo at mga isyu ukol sa political dynasty, may mga aspeto itong maaaring magdulot ng mga benepisyo sa ating lipunan at pamahalaan . Kung titingnan ito sa mas malalim na perspektibo , makikita natin na ang political dynasty, sa tamang kondisyon , ay maaaring magbigay ng katatagan at pag-unlad sa bansa . (Lead) Ang political dynasty sa Pilipinas ay isang mahalagang bahagi ng ating demokratikong sistema , at sa ilalim ng tamang pamamahala , ito ay may potensyal na magdulot ng mga positibong pagbabago sa ating bansa , tulad ng katatagan sa politika at mas pinahusay na serbisyo publiko . (Thesis Statement) 31 POSISYON – SANG-AYON

32. Ayon sa isang pag-aaral ng Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism, may mga pamilya sa politika sa Pilipinas na , dahil sa kanilang matagal na karanasan at kaalaman sa pamamahala , ay nakapagbigay ng mga proyektong nakikinabang ang kanilang mga nasasakupan . Halimbawa , ang pamilya Aquino, na matagal nang nakaupo sa pamahalaan , ay nagtaguyod ng mga proyektong pang- imprastruktura na nagbigay ng benepisyo sa malalayong lugar sa bansa . Ang kanilang pangalan ay naging simbolo ng tiwala at pag-asa para sa kanilang mga nasasakupan . (Supporting Argument) Marami ang nagsasabing ang political dynasty ay nagiging sanhi ng hindi pagkakapantay-pantay sa pagkakataon at nagiging hadlang sa makatarungang pag-unlad . May mga nagsasabi rin na nagiging sanhi ito ng hindi pagkakaroon ng alternatibong liderato . Ngunit , sa kabila ng mga argumento , kung maayos ang pamamahala at may mga sistema ng transparency at accountability, maaaring magbago ang pananaw na ito . (Counterargument) 32 POSISYON – SANG-AYON

33. Bilang isang kabataan na lumaki sa isang munisipyo kung saan ang isang pamilya ay matagal nang namumuno , nakita ko ang epekto ng political dynasty sa aming komunidad . Ang pamilya na ito ay nagtaguyod ng mga proyekto na nakatulong sa pagpapabuti ng edukasyon , kalusugan , at imprastruktura . Sa kabila ng mga negatibong pananaw ukol sa kanila , hindi maikakaila na ang mga proyektong isinagawa nila ay nakatulong sa amin , at mas mabilis na naipasa ang mga mahahalagang batas at polisiya sa pamamagitan ng kanilang pagkakaisa . (Personal Anecdotes or Experiences) Ayon kay Dr. Francisco Magno , isang eksperto sa politika sa Pilipinas , "Ang political dynasty, sa tamang pamamahala , ay may kakayahang magbigay ng stability at continuity sa gobyerno . Hindi ito dapat tingnan bilang isang hadlang , kundi bilang isang mekanismo na maaari pang mapabuti at gawing mas demokratiko ." (Expert Opinions or Quotes) 33 POSISYON – SANG-AYON

34. Dahil ang political dynasty ay isang bahagi na ng ating sistema , mahalaga na pagtibayin ang mga mekanismo ng transparency at accountability upang matiyak na ang mga pamilya sa politika ay nagsisilbi sa interes ng nakararami , hindi lamang ng kanilang sariling pamilya . Ang mga mamamayan ay dapat maging mas aktibo sa pag-obserba at pagtutok sa mga gawain ng kanilang mga lider , upang matiyak na ang kapangyarihan ay ginagamit nang wasto at hindi para lamang sa pansariling kapakinabangan . (Call to Action or Implications) Ang political dynasty sa Pilipinas ay hindi perpekto , ngunit sa tamang pamamahala at masusing pagtingin sa mga benepisyo at hamon nito , maaari itong magdulot ng katatagan at tunay na pagbabago sa ating bansa . Ang mga pamilya sa politika , kung pinamumunuan ng may malasakit at dedikasyon , ay may kakayahang maghatid ng tuloy-tuloy na pagbabago at pagpapabuti sa serbisyong publiko . Sa huli , ang tunay na layunin ay ang mas pinabuting serbisyo at ang patuloy na pag-unlad ng ating bayan, tulad ng isang puno ng kapangyarihan na may bunga ng kaunlaran . (Closing Statement) 34 POSISYON – SANG-AYON

35. Current news Observations Interviews Commendable projects People research Investigations 35 SOURCES OF MATERIAL

36. The columnist is free to use any form of writing. He may use the essay or the story form; on certain occasions, he may even use verse. 36 FORMS OF WRITING USED IN COLUMN

37. According to purpose: 1.Editorial column - any personal column founded on the editorial page. - makes use of humor as a vehicle in driving the column’s message. - considered as the highest expression of press freedom in the Philippines. 37 KINDS AND TYPES OF COLUMN

38. 2. Readers Column - comments sent in by the readers are placed. - some newspapers call it “Letters to the Editor” or “Dear Sir”. 3. Business Column - contains materials about the economy, trade commerce, and industry 4. Sports Column - deals exclusively with sports. 38 KINDS AND TYPES OF COLUMN

39. 5. Art Column - deals mostly on painting, architecture, flower arrangement, paper mache , ikebana, and the like. 6. Women’s Column - concerns itself with the latest fashion, beauty tips, and anything about homemaking. 7. Entertainment Column - all about music, theater, cinema, and the people involved in them. 39 KINDS AND TYPES OF COLUMN

40. 8. New products and inventions - a science paper usually has a column about the latest products and inventions, and the research being conducted by some prominent scientists 9. Personality - play up a famous person, their significant achievements, their activities, dreams, and ambitions. 10. Reviews -review of an article, a book, a movie, a drama, or a painting. 40 KINDS AND TYPES OF COLUMN

41. What are some key takeaways from today’s session that you believe will have the greatest impact on your students' column writing? 41

42. THANKS! Any questions? You can find me at @ [email protected] 42