Thursday, April 8, 2010
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Editorial
Basic summary:
liberals - No guns!
republicans- I want to protect myself and hunt to feed my family
liberals - Eat vegetables like me, no ones going to shoot you because we took the guns away
republicans- someones breaking into my house and they have a gun
liberals - hug them
republicans- ill have to stab him
liberals- that's mean :( hes poor share what you have
republicans - stab stab stab
liberals- u should go to jail for that and pay his medical bills :(
The second amendment guarantees Americans the right to bare arms, however liberals want to see our rights as Americans infringed upon. Liberals believe there should be more government restrictions on guns and some even go as far as stating that the second amendment only grants state militia the right to bare arms. All Americans should be outraged by this clear threat to our rights that made this great country. The united states was historically forged by the right for citizens to bare arms. We fought off the red coats to gain our freedom and now some people want to infringe upon our rights as Americans.
Some may argue that issuing carry and conceal licenses is dangerous and may provoke many to use their firearms in crimes. However these scare tactics by the liberals simply do not match up to the facts.In Florida 221,443 concealed carry licenses were issued between October of 1987 and April of 1994. During that time, Florida recorded 18 crimes committed by licensees with firearms. so now we know that registered fire arms make up an extremely low percent of crime, but what are these guns being used for? In 1982, a survey of imprisoned criminals found that 34% of them had been "scared off, shot at, wounded or captured by an armed victim." Guns again are here to protect us against threats.
Also some people believe that we would all be better off without guns entirely. However criminals always find ways of obtaining what they want whether it be drugs, money, or guns. So what happens when we ban guns? In Washington D.C. they enacted a virtual ban on handguns in 1976. Between 1976 and 1991, Washington D.C.'s homicide rate rose 200%, while the U.S. rate rose 12%. Why is this? The guns are all gone? But the ugly truth is that guns are here to stay and as long as there are criminals there will be guns. All we can do as Americans is to be prepared. If you put guns in the hands of citizens then criminals think twice before acting. Clearly gun rights are a necessity in a free society so we should all hold these rights dearly and protect them with our lives if necessary as our fore fathers did.
liberals - No guns!
republicans- I want to protect myself and hunt to feed my family
liberals - Eat vegetables like me, no ones going to shoot you because we took the guns away
republicans- someones breaking into my house and they have a gun
liberals - hug them
republicans- ill have to stab him
liberals- that's mean :( hes poor share what you have
republicans - stab stab stab
liberals- u should go to jail for that and pay his medical bills :(
The second amendment guarantees Americans the right to bare arms, however liberals want to see our rights as Americans infringed upon. Liberals believe there should be more government restrictions on guns and some even go as far as stating that the second amendment only grants state militia the right to bare arms. All Americans should be outraged by this clear threat to our rights that made this great country. The united states was historically forged by the right for citizens to bare arms. We fought off the red coats to gain our freedom and now some people want to infringe upon our rights as Americans.
Some may argue that issuing carry and conceal licenses is dangerous and may provoke many to use their firearms in crimes. However these scare tactics by the liberals simply do not match up to the facts.In Florida 221,443 concealed carry licenses were issued between October of 1987 and April of 1994. During that time, Florida recorded 18 crimes committed by licensees with firearms. so now we know that registered fire arms make up an extremely low percent of crime, but what are these guns being used for? In 1982, a survey of imprisoned criminals found that 34% of them had been "scared off, shot at, wounded or captured by an armed victim." Guns again are here to protect us against threats.
Also some people believe that we would all be better off without guns entirely. However criminals always find ways of obtaining what they want whether it be drugs, money, or guns. So what happens when we ban guns? In Washington D.C. they enacted a virtual ban on handguns in 1976. Between 1976 and 1991, Washington D.C.'s homicide rate rose 200%, while the U.S. rate rose 12%. Why is this? The guns are all gone? But the ugly truth is that guns are here to stay and as long as there are criminals there will be guns. All we can do as Americans is to be prepared. If you put guns in the hands of citizens then criminals think twice before acting. Clearly gun rights are a necessity in a free society so we should all hold these rights dearly and protect them with our lives if necessary as our fore fathers did.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Editorial
1. What is a problem/issue that our entire student body (our school, community, country, etc.) faces today? gun control/ ban
2. What is your view/position on the problem or situation?
I believe the 2nd amendment is a RIGHT that is garunteed by the 2nd amendment and the oposition believes this right only applies to state militias when it clearly states "the people"
3. What would you like to achieve with your editorial? (What is the desired result?)
to get people to wake up and realive that the right to bear arms is a necessity in a free society and if we give up these rights we will be well on our way to socialism.
4. How will you persuade your audience to adopt your viewpoint as theirs? List at least 4 persuasive points. 2nd amendment. criminals will always get arms. guns dont kill people, people kill people. peace keepers carry pieces!!!
5. How will you motivate your readership to action in your conclusion? I will give them the facts and let them decide for themselves...after all its still a free socity....for now.
6. How will your editorial serve a public purpose?It will promote freedom and the principles our country was built on.
YOUR ASSIGNMENT:
Choose a topic that interprets news or an issue from your student perspective(remember: this is YOUR opinion!)
1. This should be between 350-500 words long.
2. It should express an opinion about your topic in an intelligent way.
3. It should be spelling and error-free
4. It should be developed like an editorial
5. Use the examples we read in class as a model
TUES - Prewriting
WED - Writing (Prewriting Assignment due before class on Wednesday)
THURS - Peer Edits, Revisions, Final Assignment Due Friday
FRI - Final Assignment posted by end of hour
2. What is your view/position on the problem or situation?
I believe the 2nd amendment is a RIGHT that is garunteed by the 2nd amendment and the oposition believes this right only applies to state militias when it clearly states "the people"
3. What would you like to achieve with your editorial? (What is the desired result?)
to get people to wake up and realive that the right to bear arms is a necessity in a free society and if we give up these rights we will be well on our way to socialism.
4. How will you persuade your audience to adopt your viewpoint as theirs? List at least 4 persuasive points. 2nd amendment. criminals will always get arms. guns dont kill people, people kill people. peace keepers carry pieces!!!
5. How will you motivate your readership to action in your conclusion? I will give them the facts and let them decide for themselves...after all its still a free socity....for now.
6. How will your editorial serve a public purpose?It will promote freedom and the principles our country was built on.
YOUR ASSIGNMENT:
Choose a topic that interprets news or an issue from your student perspective(remember: this is YOUR opinion!)
1. This should be between 350-500 words long.
2. It should express an opinion about your topic in an intelligent way.
3. It should be spelling and error-free
4. It should be developed like an editorial
5. Use the examples we read in class as a model
TUES - Prewriting
WED - Writing (Prewriting Assignment due before class on Wednesday)
THURS - Peer Edits, Revisions, Final Assignment Due Friday
FRI - Final Assignment posted by end of hour
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Feature Story
Joining the military fresh out of high school may be a scary thought for most but many young men and women are willing to serve to protect our freedom. The military has also created new incentives to lure in new recruits. Some join for the great financial benefits such as money for college and the G.I. bill that gives about 330 dollars a month to recruits that attend college. Others may join for a wide array of other reasons such as good citizenship, new skills that transfer into a civilian career, family tradition or just to get away from home.
This strange phenomenon of students turning into soldiers seemingly overnight is even occurring here at Eastview High School. Seniors Augustine Dann, Alicia Neu and myself have all joined the national guard. Augustine signed up as a cavalry scout with 19 Delta. Alicia enlisted with 74 Delta in chemical operations. Lastly I joined with 15 foxtrot to become an aircraft electrician.
However, I’ll be the first to say that the military is not for everyone. It requires sacrifices that many high school age students are not willing or able to make. Those who do join are very mature and have a very good sense of what freedom is and how America is built on those who serve. When I asked Augustine, “why did you join?” he replied “I joined to serve my community state and country.” Then I asked Alicia the same question and she replied with a very similar answer, “for college benefits as well as to serve my country.” Finally I thought of myself and the reason i joined was to jump start my career in aviation and serve my country.
With so many teenagers wanting to make an impact on their country I also wondered what can our country do for our youth in the military. First of all the military can get you started on your career path. I eventually want to become a pilot and with the training I receive in the military i will be well on my way. Alicia also has a similar interest in chemical operations and with the training and job experience she can also accomplish her goals. However not all jobs transfer so well into civilian life. Augustine is a cavalry scout which is a combat position. He also mentioned “My job has no direct correlation with civilian life because it’s a combat job, but the 7 army values I have learned through training will serve me in all aspects of life”. These 7 values that Augustine brought up are loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. These values are instilled in all soldiers and serve them well throughout their life.
The next step after you join is to become a part of the recruit sustainment program. These are one weekend a month drills that prepare you for basic training and keep your skills sharp after basic training. Augustine has been in RSP the longest out of the three of us and had this to say about his experience, “RSP helped me prepare both physically, mentally and helped with the knowledge I would need for basic training and when I got back from basic it has kept my skills sharp”. So what do soldiers do on the weekends exactly? Alicia said “doing pt and sitting in classes learning things we need to know on the field, assembling and learning about weapons ect”.
One major hurdle that stands in most people’s way when deciding whether or not to join is basic training. It is a grueling 9 week training that is required for any position in the military. It consists of running, weapons training, hand to hand combat, obstacle courses, and much more. Again this is not for everyone but those who complete basic look back and remember it as something they will never forget. Augustine completed his basic training last summer and had this to say, “My experience at basic was an awesome and life changing one. I think I’ll have altimeters and still remember my drill sergeant’s names”. I am looking forward to the challenge of basic training and I feel prepared because of my sports back ground and all the lifting i do. Alicia is also excited for basic but has a common fear of the amount of running and marching that takes place at basic.
All of our families have been very supportive throughout our life changing decision making. Augustine’s family was happy that he joined for the right reasons and have supported him in his decision. As for Alicia’s family, everyone was supportive except for her father, who was initially scared but eventually came around. My family was also supportive due to the importance of me getting my college degree and job experience through the military.
Clearly it takes a special breed of student to transform into a soldier. However, for those of us willing and able to make the life changing decision, it is something that we never regret. The military can give us an education, job skills, and experience. The military also shapes young men and women with the 7 army values, which every soldier carries with them for the rest of their lives.
AUGUSTINE...
I joined to serve my community state and country.
My job is 19 delta which is cavalry scout (I get mos q'ed in a few months)
I plan on either being a teacher, cop or business man
My experience at basic was an awesome and life changing one. I think i'll have altimezers and still remember my drill sergeants names
RSP helped me prepare both physically mentally and helped with the knowledge i would need for basic training and when i got back from basic it has kept my skills sharp
Its at first hard waking up as early as you do in basic but within a few days you are use to it and when you get back from basic you'll be able to wake up at any time of day no problem
I am the first person in my generation of family to serve but my uncle was a navy seal and both grandpa's were in WWII
My job has no direct correlation with civilian life because its a combat job but the 7 army values i have learned through training will serve me in all aspects of life
My family at first was surprised but i joined for all the right reasons and they are very proud and supportive
My friends deffinatly look at me in a different way and respect me for serving and more and more of them are standing up to the plate as well!
ALICIA...
Why did you join?
for college benefits as well as serve my country.
what is your mos (military occupacional specialty)?
74delta chemical operations
what do you plan on doing after the military?
either switching to active duty army and turn the army into a career or furthering in my civilian career.
What has been your experience at basic training?
have not gone yet.
what has been your experience at rsp (recruit sustainment program)?
doing pt and sitting in classes learning things we need to know on the field, assembling and learning about weapons.
what has been the most difficult part of adjusting to in the military so far?
learning and memorizing all the things we need to know. For example, warrior ethos, soldiers creed, how to greet all different ranks of people and things like that.
does your family have a tradition of joining the military?
Most of them. My grandpa was in the Marines, my father was in the Air Force, my uncle and cousin joined the Navy and my other uncle and cousin are in the Army.
what skills will you receive from the military that will help you in civilian life?
the 7 Army values.
how did your family react when you told them you wanted to join the military?
They were all happy except for my father, who was scared for me but finally came around.
how do your friends feel about you joining the military?
They think its crazy, but courageous. They are happy that I am doing it.
This strange phenomenon of students turning into soldiers seemingly overnight is even occurring here at Eastview High School. Seniors Augustine Dann, Alicia Neu and myself have all joined the national guard. Augustine signed up as a cavalry scout with 19 Delta. Alicia enlisted with 74 Delta in chemical operations. Lastly I joined with 15 foxtrot to become an aircraft electrician.
However, I’ll be the first to say that the military is not for everyone. It requires sacrifices that many high school age students are not willing or able to make. Those who do join are very mature and have a very good sense of what freedom is and how America is built on those who serve. When I asked Augustine, “why did you join?” he replied “I joined to serve my community state and country.” Then I asked Alicia the same question and she replied with a very similar answer, “for college benefits as well as to serve my country.” Finally I thought of myself and the reason i joined was to jump start my career in aviation and serve my country.
With so many teenagers wanting to make an impact on their country I also wondered what can our country do for our youth in the military. First of all the military can get you started on your career path. I eventually want to become a pilot and with the training I receive in the military i will be well on my way. Alicia also has a similar interest in chemical operations and with the training and job experience she can also accomplish her goals. However not all jobs transfer so well into civilian life. Augustine is a cavalry scout which is a combat position. He also mentioned “My job has no direct correlation with civilian life because it’s a combat job, but the 7 army values I have learned through training will serve me in all aspects of life”. These 7 values that Augustine brought up are loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. These values are instilled in all soldiers and serve them well throughout their life.
The next step after you join is to become a part of the recruit sustainment program. These are one weekend a month drills that prepare you for basic training and keep your skills sharp after basic training. Augustine has been in RSP the longest out of the three of us and had this to say about his experience, “RSP helped me prepare both physically, mentally and helped with the knowledge I would need for basic training and when I got back from basic it has kept my skills sharp”. So what do soldiers do on the weekends exactly? Alicia said “doing pt and sitting in classes learning things we need to know on the field, assembling and learning about weapons ect”.
One major hurdle that stands in most people’s way when deciding whether or not to join is basic training. It is a grueling 9 week training that is required for any position in the military. It consists of running, weapons training, hand to hand combat, obstacle courses, and much more. Again this is not for everyone but those who complete basic look back and remember it as something they will never forget. Augustine completed his basic training last summer and had this to say, “My experience at basic was an awesome and life changing one. I think I’ll have altimeters and still remember my drill sergeant’s names”. I am looking forward to the challenge of basic training and I feel prepared because of my sports back ground and all the lifting i do. Alicia is also excited for basic but has a common fear of the amount of running and marching that takes place at basic.
All of our families have been very supportive throughout our life changing decision making. Augustine’s family was happy that he joined for the right reasons and have supported him in his decision. As for Alicia’s family, everyone was supportive except for her father, who was initially scared but eventually came around. My family was also supportive due to the importance of me getting my college degree and job experience through the military.
Clearly it takes a special breed of student to transform into a soldier. However, for those of us willing and able to make the life changing decision, it is something that we never regret. The military can give us an education, job skills, and experience. The military also shapes young men and women with the 7 army values, which every soldier carries with them for the rest of their lives.
AUGUSTINE...
I joined to serve my community state and country.
My job is 19 delta which is cavalry scout (I get mos q'ed in a few months)
I plan on either being a teacher, cop or business man
My experience at basic was an awesome and life changing one. I think i'll have altimezers and still remember my drill sergeants names
RSP helped me prepare both physically mentally and helped with the knowledge i would need for basic training and when i got back from basic it has kept my skills sharp
Its at first hard waking up as early as you do in basic but within a few days you are use to it and when you get back from basic you'll be able to wake up at any time of day no problem
I am the first person in my generation of family to serve but my uncle was a navy seal and both grandpa's were in WWII
My job has no direct correlation with civilian life because its a combat job but the 7 army values i have learned through training will serve me in all aspects of life
My family at first was surprised but i joined for all the right reasons and they are very proud and supportive
My friends deffinatly look at me in a different way and respect me for serving and more and more of them are standing up to the plate as well!
ALICIA...
Why did you join?
for college benefits as well as serve my country.
what is your mos (military occupacional specialty)?
74delta chemical operations
what do you plan on doing after the military?
either switching to active duty army and turn the army into a career or furthering in my civilian career.
What has been your experience at basic training?
have not gone yet.
what has been your experience at rsp (recruit sustainment program)?
doing pt and sitting in classes learning things we need to know on the field, assembling and learning about weapons.
what has been the most difficult part of adjusting to in the military so far?
learning and memorizing all the things we need to know. For example, warrior ethos, soldiers creed, how to greet all different ranks of people and things like that.
does your family have a tradition of joining the military?
Most of them. My grandpa was in the Marines, my father was in the Air Force, my uncle and cousin joined the Navy and my other uncle and cousin are in the Army.
what skills will you receive from the military that will help you in civilian life?
the 7 Army values.
how did your family react when you told them you wanted to join the military?
They were all happy except for my father, who was scared for me but finally came around.
how do your friends feel about you joining the military?
They think its crazy, but courageous. They are happy that I am doing it.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Story topic and interview questions
Joining the military out of highschool.
Why did you join?
what is your mos (military occupacional specialty)?
what do you plan on doing after the military?
What has been your experience at basic training?
what has been your experience at rsp (recruit sustainment program)?
what has been the most difficult part of adjusting to in the military so far?
does your family have a tradition of joining the military?
what skills will you recieve from the military that will help you in civilian life?
how did your family react when you told them you wanted to join the military?
how do your friends feel about you joining the military?
10 GOOD REASONS TO JOIN...
1. Financial reasons
2. To be away from their parents
3. A test of one's courage
4. Good citizenship
5. To fight Al Qaeda and look for Osama Bin Laden
6. A good career
7. Full time employment
8. Family tradition
9. To learn new skills
10. Pride
Why did you join?
what is your mos (military occupacional specialty)?
what do you plan on doing after the military?
What has been your experience at basic training?
what has been your experience at rsp (recruit sustainment program)?
what has been the most difficult part of adjusting to in the military so far?
does your family have a tradition of joining the military?
what skills will you recieve from the military that will help you in civilian life?
how did your family react when you told them you wanted to join the military?
how do your friends feel about you joining the military?
10 GOOD REASONS TO JOIN...
1. Financial reasons
2. To be away from their parents
3. A test of one's courage
4. Good citizenship
5. To fight Al Qaeda and look for Osama Bin Laden
6. A good career
7. Full time employment
8. Family tradition
9. To learn new skills
10. Pride
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Eastview Senior Football Players...now and into the future.
The Eastview lightning football team pulled off another very successful season this year. Many people attribute this to the great senior leadership. But what happens to the senior athletes after their last season of high school football? Many are preparing to make the leap to college level athletics. Bobby Vossen, Jack McDevitt and Eli Golder were all interviewed to get the inside scoop about what they are doing now and what they plan to do to prepare for their college athletic careers.
Eli Golder was a big part of special teams this year and was also a leader on the Junior Varsity team. When asked "what are you doing in your free time?", he answered "working a lot at Westwood Sports. I also try to fit in a workout at least twice a week". He also mentioned that Eastview prepared him in a positive way and helped show him his strengths and weaknesses. When asked what his experience had been working as part of a team, Eli indicated that it helped him learn how to get along with others and become a team player. When asked what he could improve on, Eli said that he could improve his work ethic and nutritional habits in the off season.
Jack McDevitt was the starting Quarterback this year and helped lead the offense to the end zone. In his free time, he is working and preparing for baseball. Jack was asked what he hopes to accomplish in the future and he replied, "I want to contribute to the team and find a good group of guys to hang out with in college." One of Jack's biggest challenges is being busy and stressed, but he manages this by staying organized. Also, when Jack was asked "where do you draw your inspirations from?", he answered "I draw my inspirations from myself". This shows how many seniors have become self motivated. When asked what adjustments he would have to make for next year, Jack replied that he would need to get used to living on his own and making his own decisions.
Bobby Vossen was a starter on the defensive line this year and led the team in many areas, including leading the chant before the game. He is preparing for college level athletics next year by staying in shape, working out and running daily. Bobby also believes that he can improve his performance by getting faster and becoming more physical. Bobby was asked "how often do you lift and what exercises do you focus on?" He responded, "I lift three to four times a week and I focus on the main muscle groups with squat, bench and dead-lifts." Bobby also has a strict diet in the off-season, which consists of three healthy meals a day. He has cut out fast food from his diet and refrains from snacking.
The responses of Eli, Jack and Bobby are fairly consistent with the senior football players in general. Many players are multi-sport athletes, like Bobby and Jack who participate in lacrosse and baseball. For the players who do not participate in a spring sport, they are frequent visitors to the weight room. Also, many seniors have altered their diet to enhance their athletic performance. However, there are a few who indulge more than others. Even though a lot of the players are busy, they are still finding ways to balance academics and athletics. Seniors will have to make major adjustments such as living on their own and making good decisions at college. The class of 2010 is eager to begin the next step in their athletic careers.
Eli Golder was a big part of special teams this year and was also a leader on the Junior Varsity team. When asked "what are you doing in your free time?", he answered "working a lot at Westwood Sports. I also try to fit in a workout at least twice a week". He also mentioned that Eastview prepared him in a positive way and helped show him his strengths and weaknesses. When asked what his experience had been working as part of a team, Eli indicated that it helped him learn how to get along with others and become a team player. When asked what he could improve on, Eli said that he could improve his work ethic and nutritional habits in the off season.
Jack McDevitt was the starting Quarterback this year and helped lead the offense to the end zone. In his free time, he is working and preparing for baseball. Jack was asked what he hopes to accomplish in the future and he replied, "I want to contribute to the team and find a good group of guys to hang out with in college." One of Jack's biggest challenges is being busy and stressed, but he manages this by staying organized. Also, when Jack was asked "where do you draw your inspirations from?", he answered "I draw my inspirations from myself". This shows how many seniors have become self motivated. When asked what adjustments he would have to make for next year, Jack replied that he would need to get used to living on his own and making his own decisions.
Bobby Vossen was a starter on the defensive line this year and led the team in many areas, including leading the chant before the game. He is preparing for college level athletics next year by staying in shape, working out and running daily. Bobby also believes that he can improve his performance by getting faster and becoming more physical. Bobby was asked "how often do you lift and what exercises do you focus on?" He responded, "I lift three to four times a week and I focus on the main muscle groups with squat, bench and dead-lifts." Bobby also has a strict diet in the off-season, which consists of three healthy meals a day. He has cut out fast food from his diet and refrains from snacking.
The responses of Eli, Jack and Bobby are fairly consistent with the senior football players in general. Many players are multi-sport athletes, like Bobby and Jack who participate in lacrosse and baseball. For the players who do not participate in a spring sport, they are frequent visitors to the weight room. Also, many seniors have altered their diet to enhance their athletic performance. However, there are a few who indulge more than others. Even though a lot of the players are busy, they are still finding ways to balance academics and athletics. Seniors will have to make major adjustments such as living on their own and making good decisions at college. The class of 2010 is eager to begin the next step in their athletic careers.
Monday, March 1, 2010
story topic and angle
High school football players off season. What are athletes doing in their free time? How many are 2 or 3 sport athletes? What are seniors doing to prepare for college level athletics?
Friday, February 26, 2010
Steps in writing a news story
Writing a News Story
1. What can I write about? What is news?
On the surface, defining news is a simple task. News is an account of what is happening around us. It may involve current events, new initiatives or ongoing projects or issues. But a newspaper does not only print news of the day. It also prints background analysis, opinions, and human interest stories.
Choosing what's news can be harder.
The reporter chooses stories from the flood of information and events happening in the world and in their community. Stories are normally selected because of their importance, emotion, impact, timeliness and interest. Note: all these factors do NOT have to coincide in each and every story!
2. Identify what kind of a story it is
Hard news (+/- 600 words): This is how journalists refer to news of the day. It is a chronicle of current events/incidents and is the most common news style on the front page of your typical newspaper.
It starts with a summary lead. What happened? Where? When? To/by whom? Why? (The journalist's 5 W's). It must be kept brief and simple, because the purpose of the rest of the story will be to elaborate on this lead.
Keep the writing clean and uncluttered. Most important, give the readers the information they need. If the federal government announced a new major youth initiative yesterday, that's today's hard news.
Soft news (+/-600 words): This is a term for all the news that isn't time-sensitive. Soft news includes profiles of people, programs or organizations. As we discussed earlier, the "lead" is more literary. Most of YPP's news content is soft news.
Feature (+/-1500 words): A news feature takes one step back from the headlines. It explores an issue. News features are less time-sensitive than hard news but no less newsworthy. They can be an effective way to write about complex issues too large for the terse style of a hard news item. Street kids are a perfect example. The stories of their individual lives are full of complexities which can be reflected in a longer piece.
Features are journalism's shopping center. They're full of interesting people, ideas, color, lights, action and energy. Storytelling at its height! A good feature is about the people in your community and their struggles, victories and defeats. A feature takes a certain angle (i.e. Black youth returning to church) and explores it by interviewing the people involved and drawing conclusions from that information. The writer takes an important issue of the day and explains it to the reader through comments from people involved in the story.
Hint: Remember to "balance" your story. Present the opinions of people on both sides of an issue and let the readers make their own decision on who to believe. No personal opinions are allowed. The quotes from the people you interview make up the story. You are the narrator.
Editorial: The editorial expresses an opinion. The editorial page of the newspaper lets the writer comment on issues in the news. All editorials are personal but the topics must still be relevant to the reader.
Young People's Press publishes two types of editorials:
Youthbeat (+/- 700 words): Youthbeat's are YPP's editorial bread and butter. It's your story, from your point of view. Tell it like it is. Youthbeats usually (but not always) combine personal experience(s) with opinion/analysis. Essentially, you establish your credibility by speaking from experience.
My Word! (+/-600 words): An opinion piece. Short, sweet and to the point. Not as likely to be a personal narrative. Christmas "spirit" bugs you? Say why. Had an encounter with a cop that left you sour? Same deal. Be strong. If you don't like something, don't beat around the bush. This is a space for you to rant and roll with as much emotive power as possible.
3. Structure for your article
The structure of a news story (hard & soft news & features) is simple: a lead and the body.
The lead
One of the most important elements of news writing is the opening paragraph or two of the story. Journalists refer to this as the "lead," and its function is to summarize the story and/or to draw the reader in (depending on whether it is a "hard" or "soft" news story - See below for the difference between these two genres of news stories).
In a hard news story, the lead should be a full summary of what is to follow. It should incorporate as many of the 5 "W's" of journalism (who, what, where, when and why) as possible. (e.g. "Homeless youth marched down Yonge St. in downtown Toronto Wednesday afternoon demanding the municipal government provide emergency shelter during the winter months." - Can you identify the 5 W's in this lead?)
In a soft news story, the lead should present the subject of the story by allusion. This type of opening is somewhat literary. Like a novelist, the role of the writer is to grab the attention of the reader. (e.g. "Until four years ago, Jason W. slept in alleyways...") Once the reader is drawn in, the 5 "W's" should be incorporated into the body of the story, but not necessarily at the very top.
The body
The body of the story involves combining the opinions of the people you interview, some factual data, and a narrative which helps the story flow. A word of caution, however. In this style of writing, you are not allowed to "editorialize" (state your own opinion) in any way.
Remember:
The role of a reporter is to find out what people are thinking of an issue and to report the opinions of different stakeholders of an issue. These comments make up the bulk of the story. The narrative helps to weave the comments into a coherent whole. Hint: Stick to one particular theme throughout the story. You can put in different details but they all have to relate to the original idea of the piece. (e.g. If your story is about black youth and their relationship with the police you DO NOT want to go into details about the life of any one particular youth).
As a reporter, you are the eyes and ears for the readers. You should try to provide some visual details to bring the story to life (this is difficult if you have conducted only phone interviews, which is why face-to-face is best). You should also try to get a feel for the story. Having a feel means getting some understanding of the emotional background of the piece and the people involved in it. Try to get a sense of the characters involved and why they feel the way they do.
Okay, got it? Let's look at two examples as a way of summarizing the essentials:
Youth are banding together to start an organization. You want to show why are they doing that and the changes are they trying to make in the world. You want to say who they are and the strategies they are using.
An artist is having her first show. Why? What is it that she believes about her art? Is her artistic process rational or from the soul? What does the work look like?
4. Further tips for news writing
Finding story ideas
Keep your eyes and ears open; listen to what your friends are talking about.
Read everything you can get your hands on; get story ideas from other newspapers and magazines.
Think of a youth angle to a current news story.
Research a subject that interests you ask yourself what you would like to know more about.
Talk to people in a specific field to find out what is important to them.
Newsgathering
Begin collecting articles on your subject.
Talk to friends and associates about the subject.
Contact any agencies or associations with interest or professional knowledge in the area.
Create a list of people you want to interview; cover both sides of the story by interviewing people on both sides of the issue.
Collect government statistics and reports on the subject get old press releases or reports to use as background.
Interviewing do's and don'ts
Be polite.
Explain the ground rules of the interview to people unfamiliar with how the media works - this means that you tell them the information they give you can and will be published. If they do not want any part of what they say published, they need to tell you it is "off the record."
Tape the interview (so if anyone comes back at you, you have the proof of what was said).
Build a relationship with the person being interviewed.
Start with easy questions; end with difficult questions.
Read the body language of the person you're interviewing and if they get defensive, back away from the question you are asking and return later.
Don't attack the source.
Keep control of the interview; don't let the subject ramble or stray from the subject.
On the other hand, don't let your "opinion" of what the story should be colour the interview. Always remember that the person you are talking with knows more about the subject than you do.
Organizing the information
Gather your notes, interviews and research into a file.
Review your notes.
Look for a common theme.
Search your notes for good quotes or interesting facts.
Develop a focus.
Write the focus of the article down in two or three sentences.
Writing and editing
Remember you are the narrator, the story teller.
Don't be afraid to rewrite.
Be as clear and concise in the writing as possible.
Avoid run-on sentences.
Be direct.
Tell a good story.
Tell the reader what you think they want to know.
Always ask yourself what the story is about.
Read the story out loud; listen carefully.
1. find topic
2. find an angle
3. collect data/information
4. gather interviews
5. write the story
6. edit
1. What can I write about? What is news?
On the surface, defining news is a simple task. News is an account of what is happening around us. It may involve current events, new initiatives or ongoing projects or issues. But a newspaper does not only print news of the day. It also prints background analysis, opinions, and human interest stories.
Choosing what's news can be harder.
The reporter chooses stories from the flood of information and events happening in the world and in their community. Stories are normally selected because of their importance, emotion, impact, timeliness and interest. Note: all these factors do NOT have to coincide in each and every story!
2. Identify what kind of a story it is
Hard news (+/- 600 words): This is how journalists refer to news of the day. It is a chronicle of current events/incidents and is the most common news style on the front page of your typical newspaper.
It starts with a summary lead. What happened? Where? When? To/by whom? Why? (The journalist's 5 W's). It must be kept brief and simple, because the purpose of the rest of the story will be to elaborate on this lead.
Keep the writing clean and uncluttered. Most important, give the readers the information they need. If the federal government announced a new major youth initiative yesterday, that's today's hard news.
Soft news (+/-600 words): This is a term for all the news that isn't time-sensitive. Soft news includes profiles of people, programs or organizations. As we discussed earlier, the "lead" is more literary. Most of YPP's news content is soft news.
Feature (+/-1500 words): A news feature takes one step back from the headlines. It explores an issue. News features are less time-sensitive than hard news but no less newsworthy. They can be an effective way to write about complex issues too large for the terse style of a hard news item. Street kids are a perfect example. The stories of their individual lives are full of complexities which can be reflected in a longer piece.
Features are journalism's shopping center. They're full of interesting people, ideas, color, lights, action and energy. Storytelling at its height! A good feature is about the people in your community and their struggles, victories and defeats. A feature takes a certain angle (i.e. Black youth returning to church) and explores it by interviewing the people involved and drawing conclusions from that information. The writer takes an important issue of the day and explains it to the reader through comments from people involved in the story.
Hint: Remember to "balance" your story. Present the opinions of people on both sides of an issue and let the readers make their own decision on who to believe. No personal opinions are allowed. The quotes from the people you interview make up the story. You are the narrator.
Editorial: The editorial expresses an opinion. The editorial page of the newspaper lets the writer comment on issues in the news. All editorials are personal but the topics must still be relevant to the reader.
Young People's Press publishes two types of editorials:
Youthbeat (+/- 700 words): Youthbeat's are YPP's editorial bread and butter. It's your story, from your point of view. Tell it like it is. Youthbeats usually (but not always) combine personal experience(s) with opinion/analysis. Essentially, you establish your credibility by speaking from experience.
My Word! (+/-600 words): An opinion piece. Short, sweet and to the point. Not as likely to be a personal narrative. Christmas "spirit" bugs you? Say why. Had an encounter with a cop that left you sour? Same deal. Be strong. If you don't like something, don't beat around the bush. This is a space for you to rant and roll with as much emotive power as possible.
3. Structure for your article
The structure of a news story (hard & soft news & features) is simple: a lead and the body.
The lead
One of the most important elements of news writing is the opening paragraph or two of the story. Journalists refer to this as the "lead," and its function is to summarize the story and/or to draw the reader in (depending on whether it is a "hard" or "soft" news story - See below for the difference between these two genres of news stories).
In a hard news story, the lead should be a full summary of what is to follow. It should incorporate as many of the 5 "W's" of journalism (who, what, where, when and why) as possible. (e.g. "Homeless youth marched down Yonge St. in downtown Toronto Wednesday afternoon demanding the municipal government provide emergency shelter during the winter months." - Can you identify the 5 W's in this lead?)
In a soft news story, the lead should present the subject of the story by allusion. This type of opening is somewhat literary. Like a novelist, the role of the writer is to grab the attention of the reader. (e.g. "Until four years ago, Jason W. slept in alleyways...") Once the reader is drawn in, the 5 "W's" should be incorporated into the body of the story, but not necessarily at the very top.
The body
The body of the story involves combining the opinions of the people you interview, some factual data, and a narrative which helps the story flow. A word of caution, however. In this style of writing, you are not allowed to "editorialize" (state your own opinion) in any way.
Remember:
The role of a reporter is to find out what people are thinking of an issue and to report the opinions of different stakeholders of an issue. These comments make up the bulk of the story. The narrative helps to weave the comments into a coherent whole. Hint: Stick to one particular theme throughout the story. You can put in different details but they all have to relate to the original idea of the piece. (e.g. If your story is about black youth and their relationship with the police you DO NOT want to go into details about the life of any one particular youth).
As a reporter, you are the eyes and ears for the readers. You should try to provide some visual details to bring the story to life (this is difficult if you have conducted only phone interviews, which is why face-to-face is best). You should also try to get a feel for the story. Having a feel means getting some understanding of the emotional background of the piece and the people involved in it. Try to get a sense of the characters involved and why they feel the way they do.
Okay, got it? Let's look at two examples as a way of summarizing the essentials:
Youth are banding together to start an organization. You want to show why are they doing that and the changes are they trying to make in the world. You want to say who they are and the strategies they are using.
An artist is having her first show. Why? What is it that she believes about her art? Is her artistic process rational or from the soul? What does the work look like?
4. Further tips for news writing
Finding story ideas
Keep your eyes and ears open; listen to what your friends are talking about.
Read everything you can get your hands on; get story ideas from other newspapers and magazines.
Think of a youth angle to a current news story.
Research a subject that interests you ask yourself what you would like to know more about.
Talk to people in a specific field to find out what is important to them.
Newsgathering
Begin collecting articles on your subject.
Talk to friends and associates about the subject.
Contact any agencies or associations with interest or professional knowledge in the area.
Create a list of people you want to interview; cover both sides of the story by interviewing people on both sides of the issue.
Collect government statistics and reports on the subject get old press releases or reports to use as background.
Interviewing do's and don'ts
Be polite.
Explain the ground rules of the interview to people unfamiliar with how the media works - this means that you tell them the information they give you can and will be published. If they do not want any part of what they say published, they need to tell you it is "off the record."
Tape the interview (so if anyone comes back at you, you have the proof of what was said).
Build a relationship with the person being interviewed.
Start with easy questions; end with difficult questions.
Read the body language of the person you're interviewing and if they get defensive, back away from the question you are asking and return later.
Don't attack the source.
Keep control of the interview; don't let the subject ramble or stray from the subject.
On the other hand, don't let your "opinion" of what the story should be colour the interview. Always remember that the person you are talking with knows more about the subject than you do.
Organizing the information
Gather your notes, interviews and research into a file.
Review your notes.
Look for a common theme.
Search your notes for good quotes or interesting facts.
Develop a focus.
Write the focus of the article down in two or three sentences.
Writing and editing
Remember you are the narrator, the story teller.
Don't be afraid to rewrite.
Be as clear and concise in the writing as possible.
Avoid run-on sentences.
Be direct.
Tell a good story.
Tell the reader what you think they want to know.
Always ask yourself what the story is about.
Read the story out loud; listen carefully.
1. find topic
2. find an angle
3. collect data/information
4. gather interviews
5. write the story
6. edit
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Monday, February 8, 2010
Super Bowl Comercials
What is the company?PlayStation
Who is the target audience:Video gamers
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor, action
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? Different angles of the tackle.
What is the slogan/message for the company? live in your world, play in ours
Was the message effective? Why or why not? yes because the comercial was funny and it made me want to play the game.
What is the company? budweiser
Who is the target audience:people who watch football
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? use replay
What is the slogan/message for the company?none
Was the message effective? Why or why not? yes because it is very funny and it draws the audience in.
What is the company? chrysler
Who is the target audience: female car drivers
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? celebrity
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? different sleek shots used.
What is the slogan/message for the company?drive and love
Was the message effective? Why or why not? no because im not a part of the target audience
What is the company? pepsi
Who is the target audience: soda drinkers
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? shots of people zipping into other people.
What is the slogan/message for the company?its a twist o a great thing
Was the message effective? Why or why not? yes
What is the company? fed ex
Who is the target audience: people who saw cast away and use fed ex
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? different shots of the fed ex guy and woman
What is the slogan/message for the company?none
Was the message effective? yes because it was funny
What is the company? dodge
Who is the target audience:men who want cars
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor, action
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? action shots of the truck, quick cuts, close ups,ect
What is the slogan/message for the company?grab life
Was the message effective? yes because im part of the target audience.
What is the company? gatorade
Who is the target audience: athelets
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? Action, Celebrity
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? action shots
What is the slogan/message for the company? is it in you
Was the message effective? because it draws in athelets with the action
What is the company? sports center
Who is the target audience: sports fans
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor, celebrity
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? different shots of people looking for the ring
What is the slogan/message for the company?none
Was the message effective? no because a lot of people wouldent relate to this comercial
What is the company? h and r block
Who is the target audience: tax payers
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? celebrity, humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? different cuts ect
What is the slogan/message for the company? dont get bad advise double check
Was the message effective? no because i was not in the target audience
What is the company? bud light
Who is the target audience: bud light consumers
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? different shots of the parade and bar
What is the slogan/message for the company? make it a bud light
Was the message effective? yes because of the humor
What is the company? visa check card
Who is the target audience: people who use checks
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor,celebrity
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? cuts, close ups, ect
What is the slogan/message for the company? its everywhere you want to be
Was the message effective? yes because of the recognizable celebritys and humor
Who is the target audience:Video gamers
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor, action
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? Different angles of the tackle.
What is the slogan/message for the company? live in your world, play in ours
Was the message effective? Why or why not? yes because the comercial was funny and it made me want to play the game.
What is the company? budweiser
Who is the target audience:people who watch football
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? use replay
What is the slogan/message for the company?none
Was the message effective? Why or why not? yes because it is very funny and it draws the audience in.
What is the company? chrysler
Who is the target audience: female car drivers
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? celebrity
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? different sleek shots used.
What is the slogan/message for the company?drive and love
Was the message effective? Why or why not? no because im not a part of the target audience
What is the company? pepsi
Who is the target audience: soda drinkers
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? shots of people zipping into other people.
What is the slogan/message for the company?its a twist o a great thing
Was the message effective? Why or why not? yes
What is the company? fed ex
Who is the target audience: people who saw cast away and use fed ex
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? different shots of the fed ex guy and woman
What is the slogan/message for the company?none
Was the message effective? yes because it was funny
What is the company? dodge
Who is the target audience:men who want cars
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor, action
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? action shots of the truck, quick cuts, close ups,ect
What is the slogan/message for the company?grab life
Was the message effective? yes because im part of the target audience.
What is the company? gatorade
Who is the target audience: athelets
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? Action, Celebrity
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? action shots
What is the slogan/message for the company? is it in you
Was the message effective? because it draws in athelets with the action
What is the company? sports center
Who is the target audience: sports fans
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor, celebrity
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? different shots of people looking for the ring
What is the slogan/message for the company?none
Was the message effective? no because a lot of people wouldent relate to this comercial
What is the company? h and r block
Who is the target audience: tax payers
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? celebrity, humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? different cuts ect
What is the slogan/message for the company? dont get bad advise double check
Was the message effective? no because i was not in the target audience
What is the company? bud light
Who is the target audience: bud light consumers
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? different shots of the parade and bar
What is the slogan/message for the company? make it a bud light
Was the message effective? yes because of the humor
What is the company? visa check card
Who is the target audience: people who use checks
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)? humor,celebrity
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message? cuts, close ups, ect
What is the slogan/message for the company? its everywhere you want to be
Was the message effective? yes because of the recognizable celebritys and humor
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
journalism notes
Journalism-telling of current events that are news worthy via Newspapers, Television, Radio, Internet, Magazines.
List and describe the six criteria of newsworthiness.
TITLE DESCRIPTION EXAMPLE
1.Timeliness (happening now) ex.Haiti disaster, weather, traffic, sports scores
2.Significance (big events)ex. Obama election, 9/11 attacks
3.Unusualness (out of the ordinary) ex. hurricane, Family with 19 kids
4.Prominence (famous people) ex. Brittney spears shaving her head, Obama gets a dog
5.Proximity (events that occur close to us) ex.local sports team, traffic, weather
6.human interest story (feel good story) ex. someone saves someone, animal born in zoo, ect
What are the advantages of print journalism?
1.You can choose when you get your news
2.You have control of what you read
3.More in depth information
What are the advantages of broadcast journalism?
1.Have video and Audio
2.Up to date information (live)
3.More accessible
Why has online journalism (convergent media) become so popular? It is the best of both worlds. It combines the advantages of broadcast journalism and print journalism. You can obtain video, text, pictures and up to date information online.
List and describe the six criteria of newsworthiness.
TITLE DESCRIPTION EXAMPLE
1.Timeliness (happening now) ex.Haiti disaster, weather, traffic, sports scores
2.Significance (big events)ex. Obama election, 9/11 attacks
3.Unusualness (out of the ordinary) ex. hurricane, Family with 19 kids
4.Prominence (famous people) ex. Brittney spears shaving her head, Obama gets a dog
5.Proximity (events that occur close to us) ex.local sports team, traffic, weather
6.human interest story (feel good story) ex. someone saves someone, animal born in zoo, ect
What are the advantages of print journalism?
1.You can choose when you get your news
2.You have control of what you read
3.More in depth information
What are the advantages of broadcast journalism?
1.Have video and Audio
2.Up to date information (live)
3.More accessible
Why has online journalism (convergent media) become so popular? It is the best of both worlds. It combines the advantages of broadcast journalism and print journalism. You can obtain video, text, pictures and up to date information online.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
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