Discussion Text: Structure, Definition, Examples, Characteristics, etc. (Complete)

Definition of Discussion Text

A discussion text is a text that presents several different opinions and points of view on an issue being discussed. This statement is in line with the Ministry of Education and Culture Team (2017, p. 116), which states that the discussion text is a text that presents different opinions, points of view, or perspectives on a problem.

Its daily use can be found in student council meetings, RT, and official company and government meetings. In addition, this type of text is usually found on a controversial issue that raises various opinions from the public.

Definition of Discussion Text According to Experts

In fact, discussion texts are a healthy way to solve problems that cause disagreements when compared to just commenting on them from one point of view. This statement is in accordance with the expert opinion below.

Mulyadi (2015, p. 130) suggests that the discussion text is a text that contains an explanation of a problem, differences of opinion that occur, and solutions that are a way out of differences of opinion in the text.

The discussion text can also provide more enlightenment from other points of view because it could be that our point of view is not quite right or not perfect. A discussion text is a text that discusses or discusses a topic from various aspects to provide a different and wider perspective, insight, horizon (Priyatni et al. 2014:76).

Discussion Text Structure

In general, the structure of the discussion text consists of three aspects that make it up, namely: 1) Introduction, 2) Content, 3) Conclusion (Kemdikbud, 2017, p. 121). However, in practice, the content of the discussion text will consist of at least two different main ideas; pros and cons or agree and disagree.

In addition, the nature of the discussion text is an exposition (opinion) which means it requires evidence or supporting reasons for each idea. Therefore, the discussion text will at least have a structure as described below:

1. Introduction (Issue or problem)
2. Contents, consisting of a) main ideas and reasons and supporting evidence, b) main ideas from other points of view and reasons and supporting evidence. The main idea in the discussion text is usually called the supporting argument and the opposing argument.
3. Conclusion/suggestion

The explanation above is strengthened by the opinion of Mulyadi (2015, p. 131) and Priyatni et al. (2014), which states that the structure of the discussion text consists of 1) issues/problems, 2) arguments (pro-cons), and 3) conclusions.

Based on the opinions of the experts above, it can be concluded that the discussion text is a text that contains a description of the topic of the problem that contains arguments for and against the topic being discussed and ends with drawing a neutral conclusion (in the form of a solution).

To clarify what is meant by the structure of the discussion text below is an explanation of each part that makes up its structure, starting with the introduction.

Introduction (Issue/Problem)

The introduction contains a statement to delimit the topic. The form is the limitation of the problem or issue being discussed. It also describes the background of the topic to different points of view, which will be discussed as well. These three things are the main content of the introduction in the discussion text.

Mulyadi (2015, p. 131) argues that the issues section of the discussion text is the part of the presentation that contains questions or statements to lead the reader to the problem or issue to be discussed.

Contents

The content is in the form of a series of paragraphs composed of at least two paragraphs of main ideas with different points of view (pros and cons). Each paragraph contains the main idea accompanied by reasons (arguments) and supporting evidence.

Complementing the above statement, Priyatni et al. (2014, p. 76) suggest that arguments or opinions are used to support or reject statements or opinions in discussions.

Conclusion

Contains conclusions that can be drawn from two or three ideas from different points of view. Here also can be drawn from solutions that can be drawn from various ideas. In addition, we can also provide suggestions on how to overcome the problems discussed.

The conclusion is the final point of view: problem-solving (Mulyadi 2015, p. 131).

Characteristics of Discussion Text

Wiratno (2014) mentions the characteristics of discussion texts, namely:

1. Arranged with the text structure: issues, arguments against and supporting arguments, and ends with conclusions or recommendations.
2. Contains material, relational, and mental verbs proportionally.
3. Using conjunctions that show contrast, such as: however, but on the other hand, on the other hand, etc., to contrast two opposing ideas.
4. Using modalities to build opinions or recommendations.

In addition, Mulyadi (2014, p. 137) states that the characteristics or characteristics of the discussion text are:

1. The structure of the text is in the form of issues, arguments (pro-cons), and conclusions
2. Having language characteristics contained in the discussion text, namely using general terms, comparison or contrast, and words of support or refusal.

Type of Discussion Text

Several types of discussion texts are as follows:

1.      Seminar

It is a special meeting that is held systematically and upholds academic value, which aims to conduct a thorough study of a particular topic. Various problem solutions were presented by the presenters and presenters but still involved the discussion interaction of the seminar participants, accompanied by scholarly speakers (Professors).

2.      Symposium

A symposium is a series of short speeches or lectures in front of participants (symposium) from a leader to be discussed together and draw the best conclusions from the results of the discussion.

3.      Panel Discussion (Group)

The panel discussion is a forum for exchanging ideas by a group of people facing each other. Each group has prepared opinion materials and evidence on a problem topic that will be brought up for discussion.

4.      Conference

It is a large meeting or meeting held to negotiate or exchange opinions on a problem that will be faced together. Usually involves large institutions such as countries, for example, the Asian-African Conference.

5.      Congress

Congress is a large meeting of representatives of organizations, whether political, social, or professional organizations (doctors, architects, artists, etc.), to discuss and make decisions on a topic of problems that must be resolved.

6.      Conference

The congress is the highest deliberation held by the central leadership in an organization. This meeting will be attended by representatives of the organization to make decisions regarding a problem that is being faced together within the organization itself.

7.      Workshop

A workshop is a meeting held by experts in a particular field to discuss or discuss a problem related to their expertise.

8.      Brainstorming

It is a technical discussion related to creation or creativity. Brainstorming is carried out to find a solution to something that must be created or held by collecting spontaneous ideas from group members.

Language Characteristics of Discussion Text (Rules)

According to the Ministry of Education and Culture Team (2017, p. 131), The linguistic features of the discussion text are as follows:

1. Using The sentences used in the discussion text show the present time. Because usually, the topic of the discussion text is usually an actual problem that is happening.
2. The words are also used to indicate the present time or what is happening, such as: currently, now, need, act, save, stop, fix, etc.
3. Words represent thoughts and feelings that express the emotions of the author, for example: believe, believe, think, feel, admire, happy, surprised, doubt, hope, like.
4. Using emotive words that make the reader seem to see and feel the emotions of the problem as the author or speaker thinks. Example: amazing, ferocious, wild, savage, valuable, special, dirty, unique, etc.
5. Using evaluative language to examine arguments and supporting evidence. For example, narrow-minded, very clear, favorable for the future, unrecognizable, just a choice, easier, simpler.
6. Using the word modality or degree of certainty, which is a word that has the meaning of possibility and reality stated in the sentence. For example: should, should, always, usually, almost, almost, sometimes, unquestionably, etc.
7. Conjunctions and markers of cohesion – coherence. Cohesion is the cohesion achieved through the form of the word, while coherence is the coherence achieved through the meaning of the word. So, conjunctions that signify cohesion – coherence means conjunctions that combine words based on their form and meaning, for example: but also, first, secondly, finally, while, although, the main, because, because of that.

Concluding the Contents of the Discussion Text

Concluding the content of the discussion text is directly related to its constituent structure, namely the introduction and content. Does the content have at least two different main ideas or points of view? If yes, then the text is a discussion text.

After that, compare the two main ideas and see what gaps there are in common. Try to draw each of the advantages and disadvantages of the two main ideas. Take the advantages of each and discard the disadvantages. Combine the two ideas into one coherent idea.

Presenting Discussion Text

Mulyadi (2015) argues that in order for us to be able to present a discussion text well, it is necessary to pay attention to the steps of writing a discussion text as follows:

1.      Determining the Topic

The thing that must be considered is that the topic chosen must cause pros and cons in the community. In addition, the issues to be raised must be factual and contextual in nature so that they are widely discussed by the community (Priyatni et al. 2014, p. 138).

2.      Collecting Supporting Evidence

The data collected is data related to the pros and cons of the issues to be discussed. Various evidence data is also collected from trusted sources such as research centers, interviews with relevant sources, survey institutions, etc. This stage must also collect the reasons for and against the topic discussed.

3.      Looking for Solution

After the two main ideas against and supporters of the topic are collected, the next step is to find a solution from the two opinions. The solution determined must be based on consideration of the data and supporting evidence that has been collected.

4.      Start Writing

This activity can be started by paying attention to the structure of the discussion text. The first thing to write is the main sentence of the issue, followed by the main sentence of the two arguments. Develop the main sentence into paragraphs and end with a conclusion.

Sample Discussion Text

Breakfast Makes Fat?

Introduction (Issue)

There is a tendency for young women to avoid breakfast for fear of being fat. Is it true that breakfast can increase our weight?

Contents

Main Idea (Argument in favor of )

Some people think that skipping breakfast can lose weight or reduce obesity. Not having breakfast can also be said to be short-term fasting. According to Deddy Corbuzier, in the OCD program he initiated, it was stated that the body would begin to increase lipolysis (the process of releasing fat) in a short fast.

It decreases illusions and increases lipolytic hormones (such as glucagon, growth hormone, and catecholamines). Fat cells get a strong order and open their doors to burn.

This means that short-term fasting or skipping breakfast will not lower the body's metabolism.

Main Idea of ​​Another Point of View (Argument against)

Of course, whether or not breakfast is necessary raises pros and cons against some people. However, it would be better if we always get used to breakfast. When you are active on an empty stomach, your metabolism will slow down, which will hinder the burning of calories.

This means, in other words, breakfast after an empty stomach all night will increase the body's metabolism, which means burning calories will be more efficient. However, if we have breakfast, we will be more excited and have the energy to carry out daily activities.

On the other hand, if our stomach is empty, of course, we will feel weak in carrying out activities less than optimal. In addition, the benefits of breakfast are to increase brain capacity and improve our spirit or mood.

Conclusion

Based on these two opinions, it can be concluded that there are two different opinions about the importance of breakfast. We ourselves will choose to have breakfast or not breakfast in the morning

Examples of other discussion texts can be seen on the page below:

Read also: Example of a Discussion Text and its Structure (VariousThemes)

Continue reading Discussion Text: Structure, Definition, Examples, Characteristics, etc. (Complete)

Examples of Anecdotal Texts and Their Structures (Social, Political, Etc.)

Anecdotal text is a funny story punctuated by subtle satire as a form of criticism of a particular problem. The following is a collection of humorous and satirical anecdotal examples written briefly and structured to provide more meaningful context.

Social Anecdotal Text Example

Hotter Than the Sun

Orientation

Today was hotter than usual. Roni's legs were not able to hold her body anymore. He decided to sit at an old bus stop that was no longer in use. Before long, someone in a hat sat next to him.

The middle-aged man did not show a frown of complaint against the hot sun like Roni. He was wearing a thick jacket, though. The profile of his face is covered by a shabby safari hat, and part of his mouth is covered by a batik-patterned scarf.

Complications / Crisis

Surprised to see the mysterious figure, Roni greeted him with a bit of pleasantry.

Roni: "It's really hot today, sir."

Mysterious Man: "Yes," he answered coldly.

Roni: "Aren't you hot wearing that thick scarf and jacket?"

Mysterious Man: "No," he answered simply.

Roni: "It's hot, sir, shouldn't it be hot?"

The Mysterious Man was silent and still didn't turn his face in front of Roni. His face was flat, and he did not show any emotion.

Roni didn't care about the old figure's attitude and reached for his cellphone in his pocket. It didn't take long for him to be hypnotized, engrossed in scrolling news feeds in his social media applications.

Then, the mysterious figure next to him turned his face away while letting out a long breath. He then turned his gaze to Roni's device while saying, "I think what you are reading is much hotter."

Reaction

Roni was a bit surprised to hear those words and was confused by the old man's words. But after a few seconds later, he smirked and chuckled, punctuated by a gust of air that was more than his laughter. "This man could do it."

Example of a Short Anecdote Text

Greater than Journalists

Orientation

The class will start soon, all students have sat neatly in class, and the teacher has come and stood in front of the class. The subject schedule that afternoon was Indonesian. After praying and carrying out the habituation, Mrs. Farida started learning.

Complications

Teacher: "Today we will study news text material" The students then began to open the notes and textbooks they brought.

Teacher: "Do you know who wrote the news?" asked Mrs. Farida.

Student: "Reporter ma'am," answered one of the students.

Teacher: "That's right, Journalists are great people who will cover news even in dangerous zones such as war zones,"

Teacher: "They also have higher education in Language or Journalism and have high flying hours in writing news texts,"

Teacher: "In fact, it's so great that only a handful of people can get official permission to become a journalist,"

Teacher: "But there is one more profession that is far greater than journalists in writing news," he concluded.

Student: "What profession, ma'am?"

Teacher: "Netizen." The answer is short.

All the students in the class looked surprised to hear this answer. Followed by one of the students who asked, "Why are netizens more powerful, ma'am?"

Teacher: "It's great because events that don't happen can become news."

Reaction

Suddenly the whole class laughed out loud, listening to Mrs. Farida's explanation. Apparently, Mrs. Farida was joking about this greater figure in order to insinuate unscrupulous netizens who are not responsible for writing hoax news or fake news.

Example of anecdotal text satirizing your ex

Study Friends

Orientation

Sunday morning Bimo was jogging in Saparua, his favorite sports field. From a distance, he saw someone who looked familiar. It turned out to be a high school friend he hadn't seen in a long time.

Complications / Crisis

He is also his former crush, Ria. Ria was running with a man whose figure Bimo did not recognize. Before long, Bimo saw the two of them stop running and hold hands.

Bimo: "Well, Ria, how are you?" who is Bimo?

Ria: "Eh, Bimo… well. Ria replied while letting go of the hand of the man who was with her"

Bimo: "With who? Study buddy huh?" Bimo replied.

Ria: "Not really, just friends."

Bimo: "Oh, I thought you were a study friend."

Reaction

Ria then said goodbye and left with a blushing face. Bimo left while giggling, remembering the reason Ria asked him to break up. Ria revealed that the reason was to focus on studying. Even though Bimo already knew the real reason, the man who was with Ria earlier.

Example of Long Anecdote Text

The length in question is that the anecdotal text here is considered quite long in the editorial delivery. Unlike other anecdotal texts, this text prioritizes narrative as its character, not dialogue.

Lebai Malang

Orientation

It begins with the story of a religious teacher who lives on the bank of a river in a village in West Sumatra. Once upon a time, he got a party invitation from two rich people in a neighboring village.

Complications / Crisis

But unfortunately, the party was held on the same day and time. So Mr. Lebai weighed the advantages and disadvantages of the two invitations. However, he was never able to make decisions quickly.

He then thought that if he went to the village upstream, the host would give him two buffalo heads as a gift. However, he did not really know the host. It is said that according to rumors, the food of the upstream people is not as good as the downstream people.

If he goes to the downstream party, he will get only one buffalo head, but it is cooked well. He also knows the host in the downstream village of the river very well. However, the hosts upstream will provide their guests with extra cakes.

Finally, until he started pedaling his boat, Mr. Lebai still couldn't decide which party he was going to attend. First, the canoe is pedaled towards the upper reaches of the river. Only halfway did he change his mind. He turned to row the boat downstream.

As soon as he reached the downstream village, he saw some guests heading up the river. The guest said that the buffalo slaughtered there was very thin. Mr. Lebai also changed the course of his boat towards the upstream of the river. Arriving at the edge of the village upstream of the river, the guests had gone home. The rush there has ended.

Pak Lebai then quickly rowed his boat to the downstream village. Unfortunately, the party there was over.

Reaction

In the end, Mr. Lebai grumbled and regretted his actions. He did not get any of the buffalo head dishes he wanted.

Example of Political Anecdote Text

Disband Street

Orientation

The headmaster looked very confused about the various turbulent problems in this country. The thing that bothers him the most is how his institution is always unable to solve the various problems that exist in this country.

Complications / Reactions

So confused, he finally asked the mentor figure he had long considered as the most meritorious figure in his political career. The figure is none other than Mbah Tedjo, who always gives him wise and wise advice.

Mr. Head: "Mbah Tejo I want to ask for help lately I have been confused with my own institution."

Mbah Tedjo: "How dizzy, sir?"

Mr. Head: "My institution is having a hard time solving various problems in this country; I don't know what else to do."

Mbah Tedjo: "Oh, I see, then I have a suggestion to solve it."

Mr. Head: "What advice, Mbah?"

Mbah Tedjo: "What if the head's institution is dissolved?"

Mr. Head: "Wow… this sis.. is nothing."

Mbah Tedjo: "Well, if it's dissolved, the problem will disappear, right? There's nothing to think about anymore."

Mr. Head: "My head is also missing, Mbah."

Reaction

They both laughed, and Mbah Tedjo continued his conversation to a serious level. Apparently, the joke was started to relax the head's mind. This is why Mr. Head has always trusted Mbah Tedjo as his mentor and even spiritual teacher.

Continue reading Examples of Anecdotal Texts and Their Structures (Social, Political, Etc.)

Anecdotal Text: Definition, Structure, Elements, Rules & Examples

Understanding Anecdotal Text

Anecdotal text is a story inspired by facts that are funny (contains humor), along with subtle criticism or other positive implied meanings. This statement is in line with the opinion of Kosasih (2017, p. 2), who argues that anecdotal texts are texts in the form of stories that contain humor as well as criticism. Therefore, anecdotes are often sourced from factual stories with real prominent figures.

Meanwhile, Mayora et al. (2017, p.193) argue that anecdotal text is a funny story text and aims to insinuate someone or a bad habit. So, it can be concluded that anecdotal text is a funny story that aims to entertain and subtly provide constructive criticism so that the text is more meaningful to read.

Anecdotal Text Structure

Kosasih (2017: 5) suggests that Anecdotal text has five text structures, including abstraction, orientation, crisis, reaction, and coda. Here is the explanation.

1.      Abstraction

It is an introduction that tells or reveals the background and general description of the contents of a text.

2.      Orientation

It is the part of the story that leads to the occurrence of a crisis, conflict, or main event. This section is the cause of the crisis or complications in the next section.

3.      Crisis or complications

The main part of the core events of an anecdote. In this section, there is humor or silliness that tickles and invites laughter as well as satire or criticism delivered.

4.      Reaction

Is a response or response to a previously stated crisis. Reactions can be as simple as laughing, being sarcastic, or using it as a form of irony.

5.      Coda

It is a conclusion and a sign of the end of the story. Coda may include comments, approvals, or re-explanations of the intent of the previously described story.

Anecdotal Text Elements

In addition to structure, because the anecdotal text is a story, the anecdotal text has elements of story building. According to Kosasih (2017, p. 19), the elements in anecdotal stories are characters, plot, and setting. Here is the description.

1.      Figure

Characters are participants who are involved in the story in the anecdote text. Characters in anecdotal texts are factual, usually famous people.

2.      Plot

The plot is a storyline in the form of a series of events that actually happened or have received polish or additions from the anecdote maker himself.

3.      Background

The setting in the anecdote's time, place, or atmosphere is expected to be factual. It means to be in real life.

Read also: Prose: Definition, Elements, Types & Complete Explanation

Anecdotal Text Language Rules

According to Kosasih (2017, p. 9), Anecdotes belong to the story genre text. Based on this, linguistically, anecdotes have the following characteristics.

1. Many use direct or indirect sentences.
2. Using the name of a third person singular, either by directly mentioning the name of a factual character or a disguised character.
3. Many use adverbs of time. This is related to the form of anecdotes in the form of stories, presented chronologically or following the order of time.
4. It uses material verbs, which are words that indicate an activity. This is related to the characters' actions and the plot that forms a series of events or an activity related to the story.
5. Many use connecting words or conjunctions that have a chronological meaning (adverb of time), such as: then, finally, then.
6. Many also use explanatory or explanatory conjunctions, such as that, because. This is directly related to the dialogue of the characters, which is changed from direct form to indirect sentence.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education and Culture Team (2017, p. 95) stated that the typical linguistic elements are as follows:

1. Use sentences that express past events.
2. Many use rhetorical-style sentences or sentence questions that do not require an answer.
3. Using conjunctions or connecting words that express time (chronological) relationships such as: finally, then, then.
4. Use action verbs such as: write, read, and walk.
5. Using a command sentence or imperative sentence.
6. Using exclamation points, especially for anecdotes presented in the form of dialogue, the use of direct sentences is very dominant.

Difference between Anecdote and Humor

So what is the difference between an anecdote and ordinary humor? Here is a comparison table of anecdotes and humor.

Aspect	Anecdote	Humor
Story idea:	Real events	design
Contents:	Problems related to public or famous figures who have a big influence on many people	The problems of everyday life experienced by many people
Communication Function:	Delivering criticism in the form of humorous satire but still conveyed in a subtle way	Entertain
Implied Meaning	Usually has an implied meaning in the form of suggestions, hopes or constructive criticism that is objective and does not corner one party (inviting everyone to introspect)	Has no implied meaning

 

Types of Anecdotal Text

Luxemburg et al. (1992: 160) suggest that the types of anecdotal texts are as follows.

1.      Anecdotal Articles

Articles can be in the form of a narrative format in which the story has clear characters, plots, events, and settings.

2.      Anecdotal Short Stories

Anecdotes in the form of short stories usually only tell something straightforward so that the story is not convoluted so that the reader can more easily understand the jokes and satire of the text.

3.      Anecdotal Dialog Text

Dialogue text is the primary means of anecdotal text. Why? Because the dialogue text is the main language situation to convey jokes. So, it is possible to make anecdotal dialogue texts.

Example of a Short Anecdote Text

Make laws

Dodi came to visit his cousin, Allan, who lives in a city.

One quiet morning, Dodi was invited to find breakfast; they took the car, of course, Allan was driving.

Oh, the red light flashed at the crossroads, but Allan kept going, so Dodi reprimanded his cousin.

Dodi: Red light, why do you keep going?!

Allan: Alah... don't worry, in this country I can make laws...!, he answered casually...

Dodi: How is that possible?!

Allan : (Pulls the car over)

Dodi: Why step aside?!

Allan: Want to answer your question !!, he answered curtly.

Dodi: Why should you step aside?!

Allan : (The car was stopped, then reached into his trouser pocket and took his thick wallet and put it in front of Dodi saying): This is the answer!! While hitting the gas…

Dodi: Oh...!!!

Spider web

When the lecturer gave a lecture on the Sociology of Law, he asked a student named Elisa.

Lecturer: Sister Elisa, please describe as briefly as possible the condition of law enforcement in our beloved country…! he asked;

Elisa: Like a cobweb, sir!!" he answered firmly;

Lecturer: What do you mean...?!

Elisa: If the mosquito class will be caught and can't move, sir! while for the beetle class, well…, it's broken, sir…!!;

Lecturer: What about crow class?!

Elisa: I don't know, sir...!!

Other students: Hahaha

(Source: Tamao Feryzawa's blog)

KUHP

A lecturer at the Faculty of Law is giving a lecture on Criminal Law

Ali asked the lecturer, what does the Criminal Coda stand for, sir...?

The lecturer did not answer himself but threw it at Ahmad. "Brother Ahmad, please help me to answer brother Ali's question," asked the lecturer.

Ahmad replied, "Give money after the case, sir...!!!" he said.

The other students, of course, laughed, while the lecturer shook his head, adding a question to Ahmad, "Brother Ahmad, how did you know the answer?!!

"Basically, Ahmad," the lecturer's question was answered firmly, "the English proverb says experience is the best teacher, sir...!!!"

Cigarette smoke

In the morning, Andi walks to the bus stop, where people want to wait for the bus to go to work. After arriving at the bus stop, he asked a factory worker who was waiting for the Kopaja bus while smoking. Then Andi started a conversation, "Ouch, the smoke from the Mayasari bakti bus is thick and gross." Then the factory worker responded to Andi's statement, "Yes.. Kopaja smoke is also thick." Then Andi replied, "How do you react if you see people who cause more pollution than the bus smoke?" The factory worker replied, "Just beat it up, man." Then Andi beat the factory workers. After beating the man, Andi gave a brochure to the worker.

Then Andi walked not far from the bus stop and found a private employee who was smoking and waiting for the bus. So Andi started a conversation with the person, "Oh, the smoke from vehicles in Jakarta is thick, even though vehicles in Jakarta are required to carry out emission tests." Then the private employee responded, "Yes.. No wonder Global Warming happened." Andi again asked the person, "How do you respond to people who cause more pollution than vehicle fumes?" The private employee replied, "If the cause is the factory, just bake it. If the cause is human, just tamper so that he realizes." Then Andi slapped the person and gave the person a brochure.

 

Read also : Examples of Anecdotal Texts and Their Structures (Social, Political, Etc.)

Continue reading Anecdotal Text: Definition, Structure, Elements, Rules & Examples

Examples of Editorial Texts and Their Structures (Various Themes)

Example editorial text this article is taken from newspapers and carries various themes such as health, education, politics, and the environment. Some of the editorials were left as they were in the original articles in the newspaper. However, some others are adapted for more effective and efficient learning purposes.

Example of Editorial Text in Newspaper

The following is an editorial from Koran Tempo on the 27 August 2020 edition regarding the plan to reopen cinemas in Jakarta in the midst of the ongoing pandemic.

Dangers of Cinema Opening

Introduction to Issues (Thesis)

The granting of permits to open cinemas by the DKI Jakarta government is truly beyond reason. There is no urgency to provide such leeway when the Covid-19 outbreak is not under control.

Submission of Opinion (Argument)

In the last two weeks, the average number of new Covid-19 patients in the capital was nearly 600 people every day. That number increased dramatically compared to the data at the end of last July, when the addition of the number of new patients was still in the 400s. In the last two weeks, the positive ratio in Jakarta is also more than 10 percent. That is, there are ten positive people out of every hundred people tested for a swab. This situation is worse than last month when the positive ratio in Jakarta was at the World Health Organization (WHO) safe threshold of 5 percent.

Therefore, it is difficult to understand the reason why DKI Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan has allowed cinemas to reopen immediately. Indeed, since it was closed in March, thousands of cinema employees have been laid off. There are 343 theaters with 1,756 screens in Indonesia—more than 50 percent of which are in Jakarta and its surroundings. The closing of these cinemas caused the film industry to come to a halt. The shopping center is also empty of visitors. However, economic reasons should not be used as a justification for ignoring considerations of public health and safety.

Governor Anies reasoned that it was possible to open cinemas as long as health protocols were adhered to. In addition to the limited number of viewers entering the cinema, the seating position of moviegoers can be adjusted, just like passengers on an airplane. This is an easy excuse to break because opening a cinema is like inviting a new crowd. The risk of transmitting the coronavirus can soar when the gathering points for residents are reopened.

The statement from the Head of the Expert Team for the Task Force for the Acceleration of Handling Covid-19, Wiku Adisasmito, to support the opening of cinemas is even more absurd. According to him, letting people watch cinemas can increase their immunity. This kind of explanation sounds more like the government's desperation in controlling the transmission of Covid-19. It is as if the Task Force has run out of ideas to suppress the pace of this pandemic in Indonesia.

Reaffirmation

Governor Anies and his staff must not give up in the face of the coronavirus attack. One of Indonesia's main weaknesses in the Covid-19 transmission control program is contact tracing of positive patients. Currently, the government's capacity in tracing patient contact networks is still below WHO standards. The Ministry of Health protocol requires 80 percent of all patient contacts to be traced and isolated within three days after confirmation of the patient's status. If this is not done, it is impossible for the spread of this virus to be suppressed to a minimum.

Instead of being busy opening cinemas, the DKI Jakarta government should spend a budget to assist the Health Service and the Task Force to increase tracking capacity. Without it, any strict social restrictions would be useless. If the outbreak is under control, the economy will surely recover.

Sample Editorial Text on Health

The following is Koran Tempo's editorial on the 10 September 2020 edition with adjustments.

Don't Just Rely on Vaccines

Introduction to Issues (Thesis)

The government's move in forming the National Team for Acceleration of Covid-19 Vaccine Development last week showed that the government relied on the availability of vaccines as a way out of this pandemic. The team consisting of several ministers, research institutes, universities, and the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) will serve until 31 December next year.

Submission of Opinion (Argument)

However, there are several fundamental problems with this government policy. First, its duties and functions may overlap with the Covid-19 Handling and National Economic Recovery Committee, which the President has established. Although they are still jointly led by the Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto, the existence of this team has the potential to hamper the bureaucracy. Moreover, the community has not seen the real results of the committee's work in the field.

Second, the existence of the team also has the potential to clash with the tasks of the Covid-19 Research and Innovation Consortium led by the Ministry of Research and Technology or the National Research and Innovation Agency. In addition to producing rapid tests (covid rapid tests) and ventilators, the consortium is also developing a Red and White vaccine with the Eijkman Institute for Molecular Biology. In fact, the government could simply assign this consortium to carry out its instructions regarding the acceleration of vaccine development.

In addition, the scope of this team is not very clear. Making a qualified vaccine certainly requires a lot of time and should not be rushed. For example, people certainly don't want to accelerate the development of the Merah Putih vaccine; instead, it triggers questions from the global research world about its credibility, which even the government doesn't seem to believe in, and forms another team to do it.

Then, the government should be very aware that the third phase of clinical trials is the most important stage of vaccine or drug design. This last phase of clinical trials cannot be rushed. AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford were even forced to stop their clinical trial when they found that participants in a clinical trial in the UK were experiencing serious side effects. So, I don't think there will be much that the national team formed by the President can do.

Reaffirmation

Instead of relying solely on vaccines, the government should improve the capacity to test and track suspect patients. Through various health service centers, the government can actually improve the quality of patient treatment and the readiness of medical personnel so that the death rate for COVID-19 patients does not continue to increase.

Without a concerted effort involving all elements of society, the hope of only one solution could lead to new problems, especially if the vaccine development time is much longer than what was promised by the government. The government cannot store all eggs in one basket; holistic and strict outbreak control efforts must continue to be carried out from various angles.

Example of an Editorial Text about Politics

The example below is an editorial on politics taken from the 09 September 2020 edition of Media Indonesia newspaper.

Pilkada without Identity Politics

Introduction to Issues (Thesis)

The election of regional heads (pilkada) has never been separated from the practice of money politics, identity politics, spreading hoaxes, hate speech, and black campaigning. Even if the five of them do not appear at the same time, at least two democratic parties will be held, namely money politics and identity politics.

Submission of Opinion (Argument)

From the practice of identity politics, hoaxes, hate speech, and black campaigns as their derivatives can also be realized. Identity politics relies on SARA (ethnicity, religion, race, and intergroup). These attributes are actually not related to the quality of potential leaders. However, it is easy to use to obscure the selector from objectivity.

The most extreme impact of identity politics is the division in society that causes social conflicts. The cohesion built by the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika falls down, so it takes a long time to recover.

Money politics and identity politics are like a corrupt mentality in a democracy that is so deeply rooted that it is difficult to eradicate them. However, that doesn't mean we should give up and let it go.

Law Number 10 of 2016 concerning Regional Elections has regulated the prohibition on the practice of identity politics. Article 69 letter (b) states that campaigns are prohibited from insulting a person, religion, ethnicity, race, group of candidates for governor and or political parties.

Article 69 letter (c) also regulates the prohibition to conduct campaigns in the form of inciting, slandering, pitting political parties, individuals, and or community groups.

Strict sanctions are also regulated in Article 187 paragraph (2). Any person who intentionally violates the provisions on the prohibition of the implementation of the campaign as referred to in Article 69 and so on shall be punished with imprisonment for a minimum of three months or a maximum of 18 months and or a fine of at least Rp. 600,000 or a maximum of Rp. 6,000,000.

Then why is identity politics still rife and even brutal, like in the 2017 DKI Jakarta Pilkada and 2019 Election? Of course, just making rules is not enough. Law enforcement is needed to be able to suppress practices that tarnish democracy. Sanctions should not only decorate the rule sheet until it is economical to drop.

These are all ongoing work of election administrators and law enforcement officials. It also requires the participation of the community to participate in monitoring and self-awareness.

The 2020 Pilkada with a vote that falls on 09 December is not only about money politics and identity politics. The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed into the top position of election vulnerability. This means that the work of organizing and supervising the elections is getting tougher.

On the other hand, voters are gaining momentum in choosing candidates for regional leaders who are most qualified to deal with crises such as disease outbreaks. Candidates must come up with innovative ideas, especially to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is the voter's job to study the track records of the pairs of candidates and listen to their ideas. Instead of busying themselves with SARA-based incitement, and what's even worse: spreading the word.

Reaffirmation

The 2020 Pilkada must be free from identity politics that can endanger unity and integrity. Therefore, the use of language, narratives, and symbols that endanger the unity and integrity of the community must not be allowed.

Sample Editorial Text about Education

The following is an example of an editorial text about education taken from an editorial in the 10 August 2020 edition of the Tempo newspaper with adjustments.

Don't Bet the Fate of Students

Introduction to Issues (Thesis)

Even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government is still obliged to fulfill the rights of the nation's children to obtain an education. Even so, the government should not arbitrarily open schools based on the epidemic status of an area.

Submission of Opinion (Argument)

Last Friday, Minister of Education and Culture Nadiem Makarim allowed schools in the yellow zone to hold offline (face-to-face) learning. The Ministry of Education and Culture previously allowed schools in the green zone to be opened in stages with strict health protocols.

If not implemented carefully, permits based on the area's status can be disastrous. This is because the red, orange, yellow, or green zones are not strict partitions. As long as population movement between regional zones is still free, all zones remain vulnerable to contracting COVID-19.

Permission for face-to-face learning should be given based on the readiness of each school to carry out health protocols properly. The benchmark is not only the availability of transmission prevention facilities. Schools must also ensure that all teachers, staff, students, and parents of students do not have a history of interaction with suspects who have been exposed to the virus. This is not an easy thing.

Minister Nadiem's ​​confession that PJJ or distance learning during the pandemic is not effective is not something that is made up. Many students do not have smartphones and internet access in various areas, especially in remote areas. Not a few teachers are not ready to teach remotely.

The COVID-19 pandemic has indeed shown again how lame Indonesia's infrastructure is. Previously, the OECD or Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development had released data that only 34 percent of Indonesia's population was connected to the internet. The Indonesian Internet Service Provider Association survey in 2018 also revealed similar results. In Java, more than 55.7% of the population can access the internet. Meanwhile, in Kalimantan, only 6.6% are connected to the internet. But all these facts are not a reason to loosen the permit to open schools.

During the pandemic, which is still raging, the government should not make a bet by expanding the area where face-to-face learning is allowed. The policy of opening schools in the yellow zone without guaranteeing their safety will only give the impression that the government has given up hope.

Reaffirmation

The government should try harder to find a way out in overcoming barriers to online learning, for example, by providing adequate allowances and facilities for underprivileged teachers and students. During this pandemic, the role of teachers in saving children's future is as important as the role of medical personnel in saving patients' lives.

While optimizing distance learning, the government should also encourage the family as one of the main places of education. The pandemic has forced parents to stay at home with their children longer. This is an opportunity that can be used by the government to invite parents to intensively guide their own children.

After the epidemic has passed, the government must also be more serious in building equitable education infrastructure. Because only through equal access to education can all the nation's children maintain hope for a better future.

Example of Editorial Text about Environment

The following is an example of an editorial text about the environment that can be disturbed due to sea reclamation (backfilling the sea to make it land). An example of this is an editorial published in the Koran Kompas edition of 13 July 2020 with the author's adjustment.

Ancol Sea Reclamation Hot Ball

Introduction to Issues (Thesis)

Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan should have given a proper argument before issuing a reclamation permit for the Ancol recreation area. The decision, which was released at the end of February, reneged on his political promises during the campaign. This decision also threatens the environment around the reclamation area and violates the regional and spatial planning regulations.

Anies issued a decree granting permission to expand Dufan and the Eastern Ancol Dreamland to 35 and 120 hectares, respectively. Recently, after the pros and cons emerged, Anies stated that the decision was a legal requirement to utilize the land due to the accumulation of mud from dredging rivers and reservoirs in Jakarta, which became shallow due to sedimentation.

Submission of Opinion (Argument)

The reason for utilizing the results of the accumulation of mud is understandable and quite reasonable. The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government cannot allow the 3.4 million cubic meters of mud which has now turned into a 20-hectare land in East Ancol. Abandoning semi-finished land due to mud compaction will only worsen the environment around the north coast of Jakarta.

It's just that the use of the land should still refer to the spatial and regional planning of DKI Jakarta. The plan is that the expansion of the Ancol area, which is 72 percent owned by the DKI government, will not be included in the existing Spatial Regulation. As a rule, the land that has been formed cannot be used as an excuse to expand the Ancol area.

Anies argued that the purpose of the Ancol expansion was different from the reclamation project in Jakarta Bay. In addition to providing free beach access to the public, he also stated that his party would build a Museum of the Prophet and Islamic civilization in the area to be reclaimed. However, the governor still has to provide arguments regarding the impact of reclamation on the environment.

In fact, one of Anies' political promises to win votes that can then defeat Basuki is to refuse reclamation. This political promise has now been abandoned on the grounds that "it has already been built."

Reaffirmation

So that the Ancol reclamation will not cause problems in the future, Anies should revoke the governor's decision that he has published. After that, first, submit a draft regional regulation regarding detailed spatial and regional plans governing the expansion of Ancol, complete with efforts to avoid the impact of environmental damage. Discussion of the regulation must be transparent so as not to trigger new turmoil.

Continue reading Examples of Editorial Texts and Their Structures (Various Themes)

Editorial Text – Definition, Structure, Characteristics, Rules & Writing Method

Understanding Editorial Text

Editorial text is writing written by the main editor of the media that contains opinions, general views, or reactions regarding an event or incident (actual news) that is currently in the public spotlight.

Meanwhile, Kosasih (2017, p. 282) revealed that the editorial text is a particular column for Alma newspaper that contains the media editors' comments, whether they are just opinions, criticisms, praise, or satire on a factual event that is happening on the broader community.

Editorial text is also often referred to as an editorial, which means the main article of a newspaper that contains the editors' views (team of writers and newspaper compilers) on an issue at the time the newspaper was published.

Sumadiria (2011, p. 82) states that editorial can be interpreted as an editorial opinion that contains the media's aspirations, opinions, and official attitudes towards various controversial actual issues, events, or phenomena that are happening in the community.

In essence, this column is a special column in the form of opinions to respond to news that is being hotly discussed among the wider community. Because the thing he responded to was news text, then it also contains facts mixed with subjective opinions (not facts).

Therefore, being able to distinguish between facts and opinions is a must in responding to it. A good editorial text will open a wider horizon and not impose a certain ideology on the reader.

Distinguishing Facts and Opinions in Editorial Texts

However, if our response to the writing is also not good, we could misinterpret its true meaning. In the end, we as readers must also distinguish between facts and opinions to make sure. Here's how to distinguish fact and opinion in an editorial text.

1. Sort the various sentences containing: criticism, assessment, prediction, hope, and suggestion. Such sentences are opinions and not facts.
2. Separate various sentences that contain factual data, such as sentences that state a statistical figure from a trusted institution or direct sentences from the results of interviews with sources.
3. Identify the events, characters, events, and everything related to the news that is commented on in the editorial text.
4. Verify the correctness of various data, events, and all other contexts used in the editorial text. The trick can be as simple as comparing it with news from other media or accessing the official website of the data provider.

Editorial Text Structure

Because the editorial text is an opinion or opinion, then this text is included in the exposition text. Thus, the general structure of this text also includes thesis, argumentation, and affirmation. The following is a complete explanation based on what was disclosed by the Ministry of Education and Culture Team (2017, p. 98).

1.      Thesis (Introduction to Issues)

It is an introduction to the editorial text in the form of opinions and general images regarding the issue being commented on.

2.      Argument (expression of opinion)

A detailed discussion of events was commented on to strengthen opinions in the form of logical arguments and factual data.

3.      Affirmation (repeat)

Are suggestions, recommendations, conclusions, hopes related to solutions, or just future predictions regarding the news being commented on.

Meanwhile, according to Kosasih (2017, p. 285), the following is the structure of the editorial text.

1.      Issue introduction

This section is the opening of an actual problem that is written. Thus, the introduction of the issue in the paragraph is needed to provide initial context to the reader. This section can contain an introduction to the main issues of concern, figures, public opinion (pro-cons), and other general things that help.

2.      Submission of arguments

It is the response of the concerned media compilers (editors) regarding actual events, events, or issues that are being highlighted in the editorial text. In this section, the editor can show his position (his side) with the issues discussed, agree? Do you not agree? Or just appreciate and give praise only.

3.      Conclusion, suggestion, or recommendation

This third part is closing and can be said to be the final attitude, suggestions, conclusions, and recommendations from the commented information.

Good Suggestions/Recommendations

It should be underlined that good advice will not only discuss an overview of the solution. Suggestions must be complete with specific descriptions so that those who are criticized do not feel underestimated. Good advice or recommendations are:

1. It really can be a solution for the recipient of the suggestion to solve the problem.
2. It is practical or practicable, not just theoretical.
3. It is shown a specific description (how to step or how), not just a general description.

Editorial Text Language Rules

Meanwhile, from the linguistic rules, although this text is included in the exposition text, its linguistic characteristics are actually closer to journalistic language. This is because, basically, the purpose of writing an editorial text is to convey an opinion about a news item.

Therefore, it is only natural that the linguistic rules are still closely related to the news text. The following are the language features or linguistic rules of editorial texts.

1. Many use rhetorical sentences. The main rhetorical sentence often used is a question sentence that is not intended to be answered but to stimulate the reader to reflect on a problem more deeply.
2. The use of popular words makes it easier for the public to digest, such as: predicting, imaging, ballads, surprised, etc. Popular words are also intended to keep the reader relaxed even though the writing is filled with critical responses.
3. Many use demonstrative pronouns that refer to places, events, times, such as: this, that, here, that.
4. Many use conjunctions or causal conjunctions (cause and effect) such as: so, because, because, because of that (Kemdikbud, 2017, p. 100).

Editorial Text Characteristics (Editorial Text Contents)

Based on the various explanations that have been presented, it can be concluded that the characteristics of editorial texts are as follows:

1. Contains actual facts or events, currently being discussed, to controversial.
2. In the form of opinions or opinions of the mass media editors on the events reported
3. Have criticism, assessment, appreciation, prediction, suggestions, and expectations for the issues discussed.
4. Some suggestions or recommendations can be a solution, shown by how to do it concretely.

Stages of Writing Editorial Text

To put it simply, Sumadiria (2011, p. 90) reveals that the process of working on an editorial text (the editorial) is divided into four stages, namely:

1. Idea and topic search
2. Selection and topic determination
3. Weighting the substance of the material and determining the thesis
4. Writing implementation process

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education and Culture Team (2017, p. 106), the steps for writing an editorial text are as follows.

1. Read two or three editorial texts/editorials from different news sources (mass media) as references for various writing styles.
2. Arrange the data on the main issues to be formulated into a general statement.
3. Search for supporting data for previously written general statements from various trusted sources such as books, trusted mass media, research institutions, statistical centers, scientific journals both online and offline.
4. Arrange the details of the data, then analyze and make arguments based on the results of the analysis.
5. Interpret the various arguments that have been made into opinions in the form of criticism, appreciation, hope, or general assessment.
6. Put forward suggestions or recommendations and show how to provide solutions, not just criticizing or detailing the goodness, not just praising.
7. Pack the entire framework that has been prepared into an editorial text with effective sentences and paragraphs so that it is not too long and remains light to read; 8-10 paragraphs, each paragraph consists of 2-3 sentences.

Then, Kosasih (2017, p. 293) said the steps that must be taken are as follows:

1.      choose (select)

It is a step that selects the hot issues to be raised in his writing.

2.      collect (collect)

The purpose of collecting is to collect various data that can strengthen the arguments and opinions that will be conveyed so that the editorial is more than just an opinion.

3.      Connect (connect)

This means linking or connecting data and arguments to discussing them with all editorial members because editorials represent the media as a whole, not personal opinions.

4.      Correcting

Reread the writing thoroughly and ensure there is no accuracy in content, structure, and linguistic rules.

Editorial Text Example

A collection of examples of editorial texts and their structure can be seen in the article below.

Examples of Editorial Texts and TheirStructures (Various Themes)

Continue reading Editorial Text – Definition, Structure, Characteristics, Rules & Writing Method