Introduction to Journalism
This worksheet introduces 7th-grade students to key concepts in journalism, including its purpose, ethical considerations, and different types of journalistic writing.
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Introduction to Journalism
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Read each question carefully and provide your best answer. Some questions will require you to write short responses, while others will ask you to choose the correct option.
What is Journalism?
Journalism is the activity of gathering, assessing, creating, and presenting news and information. It is a vital part of a democratic society, providing citizens with the information they need to make informed decisions. Journalists work in various forms of media, including newspapers, magazines, television, radio, and online platforms. They report on current events, investigate stories, conduct interviews, and present facts to the public.
Key Principles of Journalism:
1. Accuracy: Journalists must strive for factual accuracy. All information should be verified before publication. 2. Objectivity: While complete objectivity can be challenging, journalists aim to present information in a fair and unbiased manner, avoiding personal opinions. 3. Fairness: Journalists should treat all subjects of a story fairly and provide an opportunity for all sides to be heard. 4. Impartiality: News should be reported without favoring one side over another. 5. Public Accountability: Journalists are responsible for holding those in power accountable and informing the public about important issues.
1. What is the primary purpose of journalism?
To entertain the public with fictional stories.
To provide citizens with information to make informed decisions.
To sell products through advertising.
To spread personal opinions and biases.
2. Which of the following is NOT a key principle of journalism?
Accuracy
Bias
Fairness
Objectivity
1. Journalists work in various forms of media, including newspapers, magazines, television, radio, and platforms.
2. All information should be before publication to ensure accuracy.
3. Journalists are responsible for holding those in power .
1. A journalist's personal opinions should always be included in a news report.
True
False
2. Journalism plays a crucial role in a democratic society.
True
False
1. In your own words, explain why accuracy is an important principle in journalism.
2. Describe one way a journalist can demonstrate fairness in their reporting.
Imagine you are a journalist for your school newspaper. Write a short news report (1-2 paragraphs) about a recent event that happened at your school. Remember to include the key facts (who, what, when, where, why, how) and try to be as objective as possible.