Topic Reflection Instructions:
Topic Reflections are a chance to review, reflect, and compare one reading from this week’s reading list
and write an opinion editorial. The goal of the assignment is to think critically about the economics topics
capering the textbook and the associated articles. The Op-Ed format of (500 words) offers an opportunity
for a well-thought-out opinion for this week’s reading. For each topic reflection, please submit no more
than a two-page, single-spaced (12-point font, 1-inch margins) critical analysis of a single reading for that
section. The topic reflection should include a summary of the material. For the remainder of the topic
reflection, please analyze the content.
Helpful Resource: Harvard Kennedy School’s Op-Ed Guidelines. Please note we are asking you to write
a 500-word op-ed which is slightly different than what’s articulated on the PFD.
https://projects.iq.harvard.edu/files/hks-communications-program/files/new_seglin_how_to_write_an_ope
d_1_25_17_7.pdf
Helpful Guide to Argumentation and Critical Writing: Please see Johnie H. Scott, Assistant Professor
Pan African Studies Department – California State University, Northridge guide to argumentation writing
as a helpful guide to get started on drafting your persuasive op-ed:
https://www.csun.edu/~hcpas003/argument.html.
Topic Reflection Step-by-Step Instructions
● Step 01: Pick one reading from either the required or supplemental reading lists. Please
thoroughly read and take notes on that reading. Please do not select the textbook.
● Step 02: Reflect and thinking critically about the concepts, models, and ideas in your selected
article. Tip: it may be helpful to create an outline, list, or mind map of the different views
presented in your selected item.
● Step 03: Consider how your article relates to the textbook. Are there inconstancies between the
concepts in the paper and textbook? Please make sure to cite the page in the textbook and
articles.
● Step 04: Write the 500-word Op-Ed on the article. If you find inconsistencies between the
textbook and the articles, how would you address these given your economic knowledge? Make
sure to keep your topic reflection focused on the economic concepts we are discussing in class.
Be critical and analyze the problem as if you were writing an op-ed.
Topic Reflection Format
The topic reflection format is an “opinion editorial” or “Op-Ed” format. We commonly see Op-Ed as a way
of sharing ideas within the economic environment. Many economists also frequently write Op-Ed’s for
different news publications, and being able to write and share ideas in this format is critical to be a
participant in the economic policy conversation. Smith College has an excellent guideline on how to write
an Op-Ed: https://www.smith.edu/about-smith/college-relations/news-office/op-ed-guidelines.
Writing an Op-Ed
● Start with a sentence. Try to sum up your opinion in a single sentence to begin, then think about
facts and anecdotes to support your initial point.
● Forget objectivity. An op-ed is about your opinion and perspective. Think of it as a legal brief; no
need for objectivity. Put your argument forward in a persuasive, authoritative manner. Don’t be
afraid to be passionate about arguing your point.
● Be informal. Write as if you are debating with a friend. Use simple, everyday language that is
easy to understand. Keep in mind you are writing for a general audience that may not be as
familiar with your subject as you are.
● Keep it short and straightforward. State your opinion clearly and quickly, back it up with facts
and examples, then finish up. If your op-ed is longer than 700 (we have a 500-word limit) words,
editors likely will not consider using it. The News Office can help you revise, rewrite, or edit your
manuscript.
Op-Ed Structure
● Lead paragraph: Try to grab readers right away with your first sentence; make them want to
read more. Start with an interesting story or example that encapsulates your point.
● Supporting paragraphs: Now that you’ve stated your point and grabbed readers’ attention,
build on your lead with facts, statistics, and anecdotes.
● Wrap it up: In the concluding paragraph, take your argument a step further and leave
readers with information about what needs to be done next. If you’re trying to move people to
action, be sure to answer the question, “What can I do?” Make the final sentence as
compelling as the first one. If you started with an example, bring the full story circle by
referencing your original point.
If you are uncertain what to reflect on, here is a non-exhaustive list of questions you might address:
● How does this material correspond with the earlier content in the course?
● What types of assumptions are made, and are they reasonable?
● Is there content here that informs your research area? How?
● Are there claims made that are logically inconsistent?
● How do these affect modeling decisions?
● Are the readings inconsistent? Are there gaps?
● Can you synthesize this material with either earlier content or other research to advance a theory
or explanation for a current public affairs issue?
This is intended to be an individual assignment; please do not work with others. To help, below is a few
tips on what makes a “good” topic review:
● Provide a clear and concise summary of the article.
● The reflection connects back to other elements of the course.
● Make sure to discuss this week’s assigned reading in your topic reflection.
● Make sure you use APA style cites and cite your work.
This is the reading to read and cite:
Dudley, S. E., & Xie, Z. (2020). Designing a Choice Architecture for Regulators. Public Administration
Review, 80(1), 151-156