Editorial Writing: Using the IPOROSAC
Formula
• Persuading Minds, Inspiring Change
• By: [Your Name]
• Seminar Workshop – [Date]
What is an Editorial?
• An article expressing the newspaper’s opinion on a current issue
• Aims to inform, persuade, and propose solutions
• Usually written by the editorial board or designated writer
Purpose of Editorials
• Influence public opinion
• Promote critical thinking
• Suggest action or solutions
Types of Editorials
• Editorial of Information – explains an issue
• Editorial of Interpretation – analyzes events
• Editorial of Persuasion – convinces readers
• Editorial of Praise or Criticism – commends or critiques
• Editorial of Argumentation – presents pros and cons
The IPOROSAC Pattern
• I – Introduction
• PO – Point of Opposition
• RO – Reject the Point of Opposition
• S – Strong Argument / Weigh In
• A – Address Counterarguments
• C – Conclusion
Step 1: Introduction
• Purpose: Grab attention & set context
• Guiding Questions: What is the issue? Why is it important now? Who is affected?
• Tip: Use a hook – startling fact, question, or recent news
• Sample Topics: Ban on single-use plastics in schools, Shortened class hours, Ban on
TikTok in school
Step 2: Point of Opposition
• Purpose: Show you understand the other side
• Guiding Questions: What do people who disagree believe? Why? What are their
reasons?
• Tip: Be fair and accurate
Step 3: Reject the Point of Opposition
• Purpose: Disprove or weaken opposing view with facts
• Guiding Questions: What evidence shows flaws? Are there examples where it fails?
How is your solution better?
Step 4: Strong Argument / Weigh In
• Purpose: Present your most convincing point
• Guiding Questions: What is your strongest reason? Do you have data, examples, or
expert opinions?
• How does your argument benefit readers or community?
Step 5: Address Counterarguments
• Purpose: Show you’ve considered objections
• Guiding Questions: What criticisms might you face? How can you respond
logically?
• Does your solution still hold?
Step 6: Conclusion
• Purpose: End with a powerful message & call to action
• Guiding Questions: What do you want the reader to believe or do? How to inspire
action?
• What lasting thought should they remember?
Sample Editorial Outline
• Topic: Ban on Single-Use Plastics in School
• I: Schools can lead the fight against plastic waste
• PO: Some say it’s inconvenient
• RO: Inconvenience is temporary; damage is permanent
• S: Eco-friendly habits start early
• A: Alternatives are affordable
• C: Plastic-free school = cleaner future
Activity: Practice Writing an Editorial
• Choose 1 topic and write a one-paragraph editorial using IPOROSAC
• Topics: Ban on cellphones in class, Wearing complete uniform daily, Installing CCTV
in schools, No homework on weekends
• Share in small groups and discuss