Introduction to Journalism
An 11th-grade ELA worksheet introducing students to the fundamentals of journalism, including ethics, news values, and types of reporting.
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Introduction to Journalism
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Date:
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Read each question carefully and provide your best answer. For writing prompts, ensure your responses are well-structured and demonstrate critical thinking.
The Role of Journalism in a Democratic Society
Journalism plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy democratic society. Often referred to as the 'fourth estate,' it acts as a watchdog, holding those in power accountable and informing the public about important events and issues. Responsible journalism adheres to principles of accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and impartiality. Journalists are expected to verify facts, present multiple perspectives, and avoid conflicts of interest. In the digital age, the landscape of journalism has evolved significantly, with new challenges arising from the rapid spread of information, misinformation, and disinformation. The ability to critically evaluate sources and identify credible news has become more important than ever for citizens.
1. Which of the following is NOT a core principle of responsible journalism?
Accuracy
Fairness
Bias
Impartiality
2. What term is often used to describe journalism's role in holding power accountable?
First Amendment
Fourth Estate
Public Relations
Propaganda
3. In the digital age, the spread of and poses significant challenges to credible journalism.
4. Journalists are expected to verify facts and present perspectives.
5. Objectivity is a principle that journalists should strive for in their reporting.
True
False
6. Journalists should always avoid conflicts of interest.
True
False
7. Explain in your own words why journalism is considered the 'fourth estate'.
Consider the following events:
A) A local high school wins the state championship in basketball. B) A major earthquake strikes a distant country. C) A new law is passed that affects all citizens in your state.
8. Which of these events would likely receive the most media coverage in a local newspaper, and why? Refer to at least two news values (e.g., proximity, impact, prominence, timeliness, human interest) in your explanation.
9. Imagine you are a journalist covering a sensitive story about a public figure. You have obtained information that, if published, could severely damage their reputation but is not directly relevant to their public duties. However, your editor is pressuring you to publish it because it would generate a lot of public interest. Discuss the ethical considerations involved in this situation. What would you do, and why?
