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Inspirational writing
How to write to make a difference!
The media can be a powerful way to make people aware of an issue and to build support around a campaign or issue. We have a dedicated Take Action section of SpunOut.ie to promoting the issues that matter to you. If like us you believe that people can make a real difference both locally and in the wider world, then we’re waiting to hear from you!
Do your research
Look at all sides of the argument if there are opposing views on the issue you're covering and gather old and new information together. This will help you develop a bigger picture for readers. Consider doing research such as organising a quick vox-pop (asking the public pre-prepared questions).
Make the issue real for readers
Relate the issue to readers. Try and imagine a young person reading your article and then ask yourself: 'How does this affect them? Why should they care?' You must create a link between the issue and the readers. Think of a good angle to get your point across. Some stories are more powerful when the writer remains neutral and lets the facts speak for themselves. Put your passion for the story into your writing. Asking the right questions can sometimes be enough to get readers thinking about an issue.
Chase the story
Don’t be afraid to approach politicians or other local decision makers with questions that are relevant to your story. As public representatives, their wages are paid out of taxpayer’s money and as a citizen you have a right to their time and answers. Often you may not get clear answers to your questions but this may give more power to the issue when you add in their quotes.
Enjoy the buzz
It’s important that you enjoy the whole experience. Journalists often get a great buzz from chasing and writing up a story to a deadline. Remember that by reporting on a story you are performing a worthy public service and informing readers about important issues. You will also be surprised at the amount of respect you get!
Call your readers to action
When writing about a campaign or issue you feel strongly about, it’s important to let readers know how they can get involved. At the end of your article you might ask readers to phone a particular number, write a letter, sign a petition online or support a public protest. Remember to include information such as contact details, times and dates!
Preparing for print
Check your facts and quotes and don’t libel anyone! Remember we want original writing and constructive criticism however slander, insults or hateful language will not be puband goes against the SpunOut ethos of making a positive difference.
Issues to write about
These are just a few suggestions, you can write about any issue or problem that you think should be highlighted.
Educational issues
This might be high canteen prices, unfair uniform regulations or lack of recycling facilities in your school/ college. Are you concerned with the rising costs of going to college? Do you think the education system is serving your needs and encouraging your talents?
Human rights
Do you feel enough is been done to protect the rights of children worldwide? Do you think young people in Ireland have a real say or choice in important matters that affect them? Is Ireland doing enough to protect human rights? Do you think it’s right that Ireland trades with corporations that use sweatshop labour? Are the rights of vulnerable minorities such as Asylum Seekers, Travellers or homeless people being respected or forgotten?
Environment
Is your passion the environment and protecting it for the future? You might want to highlight pollution in your local river or bay or illegal dumps. How do you feel about global warming? Have you ideas on what young people can do to help protect our natural environment? What are your views on recycling?
Irish heritage
Do you think enough is been done to protect ancient sites and our cultural traditions or should we just move on and forget about them? Do you know of any sites in your area that are under threat from developers or new roads?
Good news reports
We don’t want to make it look like it’s all doom and gloom! We want contributors to write up reports on successful campaigns and examples of positive action that are happening in your school/ college, local area or in the world at large. It might be a local group you are involved in that raised money for a good cause. It could be a cross-border school or youth club link up you are taking part in or know about. It could be a wildlife area or illegal dump you discovered and campaigned your local County Council to protect or clean up. Good news stories can inspire others to take action or highlight an issue.
Irish language writers
The Irish language is making a mini revival at the turn of the 21st Century and we want to support Irish speakers and writers in Ireland and abroad where possible. We're always keen to publish Irish writing so Bí ag Scríobh!
Write an educational piece
Write about an experience that affected you and created positive change in your life.
Real life stories
Real life stories chronicle an event that happened in your own life. It is a personal form of writing that is usually written from the heart. Real life stories often have the benefit of allowing readers to identify and relate to the story been told. They can therefore be inspiring or an important source of comfort for others. Like other pieces of writing, they should include an introduction, main paragraphs and conclusion. We publish real life stories that help demystify the problems that young people deal with and that encourage young people to think positively and ask for support if and when they need it.
