We live in the age of information, 24-hour cable television news stations, news-talk radio, Internet news, news magazines and the old reliable daily newspaper. This project will explore the gathering and processing of news – both print and broadcast – for public consumption. It is a great opportunity for youth to explore "behind the scenes" to see what journalism is all about. More likely, this project will attract, and hold, youth who are bitten by the news bug. Those who work with this project will develop writing skills and take the first step toward a career in journalism.
Instructional Materials:
The curriculum includes one youth activity guide, which also serves as a Helper's guide. The curriculum is divided into three parts – in part 1, Exploring Journalism, youth will be introduced to different types of news, learn how news is packaged for print and broadcast, learn how newspapers and news programs pay the bills, and explore careers in journalism. In part 2, Writing the News, youth will apply what they have learned while developing and practicing skills needed to gather news and write news stories. Part 3, Advanced Journalism Topics, lets youth apply their journalism skills further as they study opinion pieces, photojournalism, and writing broadcast news. There are 69 learning activities to choose from.
Illinois State Goals & Learning Standards:
1A: Apply word analysis and vocabulary skills to comprehend selections
1B: Apply reading strategies to improve understanding and fluency
1C: Comprehend a broad range of reading materials
3A: Use correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, capitalization and structure
3B: Compose well-organized and coherent writing for specific purposes and audiences
3C: Communicate ideas in writing to accomplish a variety of purposes
4A: Listen effectively in formal and informal situations
4B: Speak effectively using language appropriate to the situation and audience
5A: Locate, organize, and use information from various sources to answer questions, solve problems and communicate ideas
5B: Analyze and evaluate information acquired from various sources
5C: Apply acquired information, concepts and ideas to communicate in a variety of formats
15D: Understand trade as an exchange of goods or services
18B: Understand the roles and interactions of individuals and groups in society
