Introduction to Journalism

Introduction to Journalism Ms. Schwinn, Blocks 5 & 6, Room 200

Introduction 

Schedule: Block  Block  Block  Block  Block  Block  Block  Block 

1 – Yearbook 2 – Newspaper 3 – Yearbook 4 – PhoJo 5 – Introduction to Journalism (J1) 6 – Introduction to Journalism (J1) 7/8 – Plan 9/10 – I & E

Class Objectives 

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Study the history of American journalism. Study and understand the legal issues that face both student and professional journalists. (Law and Ethics) Use interviewing skills, organize notes, and gather news for writing. Demonstrate the ability to write in a variety of journalistic forms—including straight news, features, sports, captions, headlines, etc.

Class Objectives 

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Learn and experiment with current trends in scholastic journalism in terms of writing style and design. Identify and use Associated Press news style in writing and editing articles. Understand the steps in production of both a yearbook and newspaper. Demonstrate the ability to take well proportioned and clear pictures to be used in publications.

Supplies Needed You will need a 3-ring notebook with dividers (by Friday/Monday)  Other supplies needed throughout the year for special projects include: 

Access to a camera for the photo unit  Posterboard, magazines for projects  Access to a computer for completing final drafts (you may use the journalism computers or the writing center). 

Why take J1? You want to be a member of the Emporia High Newspaper (the Echo), the Emporia High Yearbook (the ReEcho), or a member of the photography/ad staff.  You are interested in a career in journalism and want the basics. Online Poll 

Will I automatically be on a staff next year? 

Yes, if you: Turn in all homework on time and show that you are responsible  Fill out an application and get references  Be willing to go above and beyond the basic requirements. 

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No, if you: Treat this class as an “easy” class  Make a habit of not turning in assignments on time or are absent on a regular basis. 

Textbooks 

Journalism Today 

We will use this textbook in class only.

The Radical Write  The Newspaper Designer’s Handbook  The Associated Press Stylebook and the E-High Publications Stylebook  Other supplemental materials, computer sites, movies. 

Grading Scale 

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100-90 A 89-80 B 79-70 C 69-60 D 59 i F You will be evaluated through quizzes, questions from the book, worksheets, projects, tests, interviews, story assignments, design assignments, and semester finals.

Make-Up Work No late daily work will be accepted. Assignments are due at the beginning of class.  With an excused absence (for sporting events, illness, etc.) you will have the opportunity for make up.  If the absence is unexcused, the grade is recorded as a zero. 