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Johns Hopkins University | AS.491.704

Science Writing for Change

4.0

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Science Writing for Change (SWFC) focuses on science writing as a direct tool for action. We will review the difference between opinion and news, discuss ethics and boundaries as journalists, delve into opinion writing using evidence to support arguments, study rhetorical techniques, and focus on the writing tools of advocacy. Students will use science writing skills to research and write opinion pieces to advocate for something specific and promote a call to action. Students will examine and discuss many samples of opinion pieces. Each student will choose a topic and angle—a local, state, regional, or national issue related to science, medicine, technology, nature, landscape, or the environment; conduct research (including interviews) to understand the issue and gather information; determine all sides of the issue, including the opposition and other stakeholders involved; develop arguments and evidence; determine specific calls to action; and craft persuasive and informative prose using all the techniques of science writing. Students will also research publication outlets for these pieces, such as local, regional, and national newspapers or trade magazines, including studying audiences and contemplating how to reach those who might think differently (e.g., science denial), and pitch and submit one piece for publication. Pre-requisites: Students should have taken a foundational core class (AS.491.658 or AS.491.750) before registering for this class.

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