We had our last grammar quiz today.
We broadly discussed the format of the midterm. On it, we will be given a story or a page of facts. We will then have to decide what is the best way to organize the information we are given, and from there we will write a news story. The midterm is on March 4th.
This blog is a great way to go back and review for the midterm. It can easily act as a study aid, since it is a summary of what has happened in each class.
After the grammar quiz, we went over how to write a focus piece. Focus pieces should begin with an anecdote about the main character or subject of the story. Then, you want to tell the reader why he or she should care about this person or story. Once you have gotten the reader’s attention, now is the time to add more information (or the meat of the story) to the piece. At the end, you want to circle back to the beginning as best as you can, so it is often a good idea to add a quotation from or about the main character.
Some pieces that we are practicing with do not have their sources cited. However, as a news writer, you should always cite! It is your responsibility to find out where your information came from. Otherwise, the reader will wonder where you got your facts and will not know whether to believe you. Attribution is extremely important!
Lastly, we got back our bakery shop pieces and after going over them, we were told to do a revision. (Try your best to not be passive, i.e. “was killed.”)
On Monday, 22nd, we will be doing in class story writing. We will practice organizing the facts that we are given in the best way possible. The speech that was scheduled for this day is pushed back until later.
On Thursday, 25th, we will work on persuasive writing and we will have a news quiz. From now on, the news quiz will be formed from online news. Be sure to check the Washington Post (online) and the New York Times (online) the morning of the quiz to be as prepared as possible.
On Monday, 1st, we will talk about the 1st Amendment and discuss/review more in depth for the midterm.
David: Excellent summary of the class. I'm glad you emphasized the importance of giving the attribution. It provides a story with credibility. As David said, please rewrite your Francie Franklin stories for homework and read over the various handouts (there have been plenty)! Also, enjoy your weekend.
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