Academy
New York Times Student Editorial Contest
Do you like to share opinions or reflections on the issues you care about? Or, do you want to improve your persuasive essay writing skills? If so, this New York Times' Student Editorial Contest is for you. Choose a topic you care about, then gather evidence from sources both within and outside The New York Times and write a concise editorial (450 words or fewer) to convince readers of your view.
Why Should You Participate?
Writing high quality persuasive essay has long been a staple of high school education, and the Common Core standards have further enhanced the importance of evidence-based argumentative writing. So, this contest will be an excellent opportunity to improve and showcase your persuasive writing skills. For high school students, this contest will also be your opportunity to stand out in your future college application which is becoming more competitive each year!
How Peninsula Academy will help you?
Our 8-week editorial/persuasive writing camp from Jan 29 to April 9 will help you to write a stellar piece for this contest as well as improve your persuasive writing in general. Our star writing coach Luke will guide you how to deliver a convincing argument, including a clear statement of your opinion, compelling evidence from reliable sources, organized analysis with relevant examples, and a strong voice for a call to action to fully engage the reader. Can't think of a topic? We will brainstorm with you, from why schools should (or should not) offer in-person classes during the pandemic, why Affirmative Action should be supported (or abandoned) in college admissions, to why electric cars are the future (or, why they will never work!), and the possibility is limitless!
Born and raised in Palo Alto, California, Luke ventured to the East Coast for two years at Harvard before transferring to Stanford, where he earned his B.A. in English. Since 2003, he has helped hundreds of students achieve academic excellence in English reading and writing, SAT/ACT, and college admissions. He is known to be knowledgeable and articulate, with a contagious enthusiasm for English learning. Every single student loves his teaching, wants to stay with him, and signs up his private tutoring and group classes continuously.
Who can participate?
Any middle and high school students.
When can you submit?
Any time from Mar 2 to April 13.