Dolphin Deaths: Writing an Op-Ed on Environmental Toxicology

In this assignment, you will be writing an Op-Ed letter to the editor of a local newspaper regarding the recent dolphin strandings. You will need to consider various scientific perspectives and societal actions related to the issue. Use the outline constructed in your jigsaw groups to guide your writing. Remember, Op-Ed pieces are opinion-based and should be supported by scientific concepts.

Consider the factors contributing to dolphin strandings and the societal actions needed. Use the outline from your jigsaw groups to write your own Op-Ed letter.

Write an Op-Ed letter to the editor about the factors contributing to dolphin strandings and the actions society should take. Your letter should be approximately 350 words and cover the four expert topics discussed in your group. Ensure your argument is supported by scientific concepts and clearly presents your opinion on the issue.

As a citizen who was up-to-date on this event and had heard all of the different scientist perspectives at the public hearing, Channel 9 reporter Amy decided to write an Op-Ed letter to the local newspaper about the many factors that could be contributing to the dolphin strandings. Some questions she considered were: What are the factors involved in the dolphin die-of s? What actions does society need to take on this issue, if any? Why or why not? In your jigsaw groups, construct an outline of Amy’s opening paragraph. You will use the outline to help you write your own independent Op-Ed letter to the editor. Op-Ed pieces are typically around 750 words so your goal is to cover the four “expert” topics presented in your argument fully in a succinct letter. Op-Ed articles are opinion pieces, so be sure to back up your argument with science concepts.