To Expand A Story Idea

Good informative writing often begins by asking questions. “Why” questions often prompt some of the most interesting informative writing. You may wonder why relatives at a family reunion disagree so strongly about whether a particular flag should or should not be removed from state property. To understand the controversy, you could interview relatives on opposing sides of the issue, read articles and opinion pieces in newspapers or internet media outlets, or research the history of the flag at the library. Be prepared to tell where you got your information.

One way to avoid confusion as to whether what you write is opinion or informative is to carefully consider the question you want to answer. Instead of asking, “When will the Confederate battle flag be removed from our statehouse?” or, “Why do people want to erase our history?” ask “What is the controversy on the Confederate battle flag all about?” This gives you a chance to explain issues such as chattel slavery, racism, states rights and American history.

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