SEM120 - CAMPUS JOURNALISM

Week 7 - PRE-WRITING STRATEGIES IN Levels of Observation

JOURNALISM 1. Direct or firsthand Observation
2. Second - hand Observation
● Listing - a process of producing a lot of 3. Third-hand Observation
information within a short time 4. Fourth - hand Observation
● Clustering - also called as mind mapping or
idea mapping ● Documentary Sources
● Free-writing - process of generating a lot of copies of lawsuits and other court filings, arrest
information by writing non-stop in full reports, budgets, consultants or government reports,
sentences for a predetermined amount of time agendas documentary sources can include clippings or
● Looping - a free-writing technique that allows file tape of previous stories (often accessed online now),
you to focus your ideas continually while trying telephone and city directories, encyclopedias or other
to discover a writing topic reference works, and, increasingly, electronic databases.
● The Journalists' Questions - Who, What,
Where, When, Why, and How? PITCHING A STORY
A pitch is a brief description (usually no longer
Pre-Writing Concerns than 500 words or two paragraphs) of a story intended
● Choosing a Topic to convince an editor, producer or publisher to
● Researching commission the piece. Writers in various industries use
● Pitching a Story pitches to encourage an organization to publish their
● Interviewing and Quoting Sources work.
● The Print Media: From Topic to Article
Strategies on pitching a story
CHOOSING A TOPIC ● Know the story you want to tell
● should match your interest ● Explain why they should publish your story
● exciting and informative ● Introduce your story with an engaging opening
● avoid too broad topics line
● focuses on unique issues ● Thank them for their time
● should support extensive research
Interviewing and Quoting Sources
RESEARCHING Journalists recognize two kinds of interview
Types of Article subjects:
● News Stories - This is the basic article or tv 1. Use open ended questions
segment that reports on an event with just the 2. Use closed ended questions
facts.
● Investigative Journalism - This is a longer Interviewing Techniques
article or news segment that uncovers new Preparation for interview
information on a large topic that affects the ● Call ahead or send e - mail to schedule an
public. interview.
● Human Interest Stories - A longer articl that ● Write down key questions before the interview.
focuses on a person or people as a way of ● It's easier for a source to hang up a telephone
talking about a current event. than slam a door in your face.
● Avoid ambush interviews. Be honest. Don’'t
Types of Sources mislead your source.
● Human Sources
a person who has been deliberately recruited During the interview
and is managed to collect information to satisfy ● Make eye contact. Nod, smile and look
an intelligence requirement. interested. Now is not the time to zone out.
● Use the interviewees name.
 SEM120 - CAMPUS JOURNALISM

● Take good notes discreetly. ● Use quotes often — bring the person to life
● Observe the surroundings. Look for details that ● Do not say “I asked” or “when asked” Q and A
set a mood,reveal personality. Reporter not part of the story; more object

Interviewing Style Using Quotes

Do’s and Don't ● Quotes lend immediacy
1. Interviewing Style Do’s Your audience has a sense of being
● Start by asking easy questions and get there and get that sense that you were there.
tougher as you go. ● Quotes impart emotions
● Ask open - ended questions Reaction of the poeple involved and
2. Interviewing Style Don't affected, in their own words.
● Don't start out by antagonizing your ● Quotes help us show
source. rather than just tell - what's going on
● Don't talk too much ● Quotes help convey the personalities
● Don’t ignore body language Personalities of the people in our stories
● Do not let your opinion of the
interviewee or what he/she represents
influence your questions or demeanor.

After the interview

● check your list of questions to ensure you asked
them.
● Ask: “Is there anything else I should ask?”
● Thank the interviewee.
● Re - read your notes immediately after the
interview.

Taping Devices Steps

1. Qualifies important information (names, 1. Create an Outline -organize content of an
figures, dates etc.) article before its written.
2. Ask the accurate details 2. Draft - the first try at wrting the articles.
3. Copy Editor - person who ensure that an article
Internet Interview is clear, correct, understandable and in as few
1. Email Questions/ use chat rooms words as possible

Off Record Structure of a News Story

1. Reporter and interviewer can agree to the rules. Headline - Title for an article
2. No info off the record unless the reporter Byline - line of text that identifies the author, the author
agrees. ' s position, and sometimes the date and location of the
article.
Pre - Publication Checking Lead - the first paragraph of an article that captures the
● Good PR readers' attention and summarizing the most important
● Eliminates mistakes facts and information
● Avoid libel cases Body - Paragraph containing the details of the article
Conclusion - final sentence of an article caption a small
Writing Interview Story explanation of the image with the photographer ' s
● Specific in description name.
● Use details that tell what the person has done
● Do not use physical characteristics Sections of a Campus Journalism
 SEM120 - CAMPUS JOURNALISM

A. Front Page Week 7

Local news - news that takes place within the country. 1. It is a longer article or news segment that uncovers
Foreign news - news that takes place outside the new information on a large topic that affects the public.
country - Investigative Journalism
Dateline news - an out-of-town news story. 2. It is defined as a thought or plan about what to do. -
Weather news - usually a boxed forecast of the area, idea
sometimes the temperature, wind directions, and 3. A small explanation of the image with the
velocities. photographer's name. - caption
Index - a slug line indicating an important inside page 4. It is the first paragraph of an article that captures the
story and the page where it is found. reader's attention and summarizes the most important
facts and information. - lead
Other things found on the Front Page: 5. A line of text that identifies the author's position, and
a. Nameplate j. Column rule sometimes the date and the location of the article. -
b. Ears k. Fold byline
c. Banner l. Byline 6. A basic article or TV segment that reports on an event
d. Running Head m. Box with just the facts. - News story
e. Headline n. Cut 7. A type of quotation that depicts word-for-word what
f. Deck o. Cutline the speaker said. - Direct quotation
g. Lead p. Kicker 8. The following are the strategies for using effective
h. News story q. Credit line quotes. - Try to convey a speaker’s emotion in your
i. Columns attribution. Don’t show his or her emotion in the
transition to the quote.
B. Editorial Page 9. It is a brief story description intended to convince an
Folio - consists of the page number, date of publication, editor, producer, or publisher to commission the piece. -
and name of the newspaper, Story pitch
Masthead - contains the logo, names and positions of 10.An organized content of an article before it is
the staffs, subscription rate, the written.
Editorial proper - a commentary written by any of the A. outline
editors who comments or gives B. draft
Editorial column - a personal opinion written by the
columnist himself or herself Week 8
Editorial cartoon - usually a caricature emphasizing a Parts of a news article
simple point Headline – tells what the story is about.
Editorial liner - a short statement or quoted saying Byline – shows who wrote the story.
placed at the end of an editorial Lead – tells the most important facts (5 W's)
Letter to the editor - a letter sent in by the reader Body – contains more information and details.
giving his personal views on certain aspects Ending – gives something to think about.

C. Sports Page SOURCES AND THE FLIGHT OF CAMPUS

Sports stories are classified as news stories; therefore, NEWS
what may be found in the news page may also be found Their main source of information is television (60%),
in the sports section. next is social media or the internet (56.7%), then
through print materials such as newspapers, magazines,
D. Special Features and books (46.7%), then through personal interview or
The modern newspaper has taken some special features first- hand information (33.3%).
and eliminated some which have become irrelevant to
the needs of the times. (Society page, Life and Leisure, Essentials of news
and Finance and Business) The foremost value of news is as a utility to empower
the informed. The purpose of journalism is thus to
 SEM120 - CAMPUS JOURNALISM

provide citizens with the information they need to make NATIONAL NEWS - news that takes place within the
the best possible decisions about their lives, their country.
communities, their societies, and their governments. FOREIGN NEWS - news that takes place outside the
country.
What is the importance of news to you as a student?
Newspapers bring ideas and current events to life. Many structure
children are aware of major world events, even if they STRAIGHT NEWS - news that consists of facts given
don't know or understand the details. Newspaper articles straight without embellishment.
about world events can be used as avenues to NEWS-FEATURE - it is also based on facts, but it
discussions about what' s going on in the world. entertains more than it informs.

Elements of news Lead

Timeliness: Is the news current or new? A lead is an opening paragraph that gives the audience
Human interest/Emotions: Is it about other people's the most important information of the news story in a
lives and emotions? concise and clear manner, while still maintaining the
Proximity: Is it happening nearby? readers' interest. It is the most important part of the
Prominence: Is it well known to your readers? news story and it captures the gist of a news story in one
Consequence: Will it affect your readers in an or two sentences.
important way?
Conflict: Does it involve tension, surprise, or suspense SOURCES AND CITATIONS
Unusualness: Is the event uncommon? 1. The source needs to be named.
For example: The jury will announce its decision
Principles of journalism applicable to news tomorrow, the court bailiff stated.
● Journalism's first obligation is to the truth. 2. All quotes must be attributed.
● Its first loyalty is to citizens For example: Former President George Bush said,
● Its essence is a discipline of verification. “Read my lips. No new taxes!”
● Its practitioners must maintain an independence 3. Use multiple sources.
from those they cover. For example: A story on panhandling needs to include
● It must serve as an independent monitor of information from people who ask for money, people
power. who’ve been asked for money, people who’ve given
● It must provide a forum for public criticism and money, and people who refused – not just city officials.
compromise.
● It must strive to make the significant interesting WRITING GOOD news article
and relevant. 1. Cut unnecessary fat. Preserve meaning, but prune
● It must keep the news comprehensive and ruthlessly.
proportional. 2. Use simple, clear language. Bring meaning into focus
● Its practitioners must be allowed to exercise with concrete examples and vivid writing.
their personal conscience. 3. Say what you mean.
4. Choose active over passive voice. Replace “to be”
Inverted pyramid verbs with action verbs.
It suggests that news be told in order of most interesting 5. Craft transitions carefully. The most commonly used
or important to least interesting or least important. The transitions are chronological (now, since, then, a few
who, what, when, where and why appear at the start of a days later, etc).
story, followed by supporting details and background 6. Replace clichés and adjectives with nouns and action
information. verbs focusing on actors and action.
7. Translate jargon by paraphrasing dull, wordy quotes.
scope/origin 8. Use quotes correctly.
LOCAL NEWS - report of events that take place within
the immediate locality. WEEK 8
 SEM120 - CAMPUS JOURNALISM

1. It is an accurate and timely account of an idea, issue,

or event that affects a significant number of people. - SCIENCE FEATURE ARTICLE
News allows the author to discuss research culture, science
2. It is a characteristic of News that refers to the policy, and funding, careers in science, and a variety of
correctness of statements, names, figures, and other other topics related to science and research.
information. - Accuracy
3. An element of News that deals with any disagreement What are the Elements of Feature Writing?
between a man and his fellow man, man and nature, or PERSONALITY PROFILES
man and himself. - Conflict is used to create a connection between the reader or
4. A type of news according to the style of presentation viewer in television news and the person of interest in
in which the data are presented in a direct fashion using an article.it includes an interview and can include clips
the summary lead. It is also called hard news. - and write ups about the person's past endeavors and
Straight News achievements.
5. It is the story’s opening sentence or two that tells the Most commonly profiled:
most important facts of the story - Lead ● celebrities
6. It complements the main lead by answering those of ● Prominent Political Figure
the five Ws and H, which are left unanswered. - ● High Profile Criminals
Secondary Lead ● Scientists and Inventors
7. It is an advantage of the Inverted Pyramid Structure. -
All of the above HUMAN INTEREST STORIES
8. A type of News story according to page makeup that are stories that put people at the heart of the events.
deals with one event only. - Single incident story Doing this brings a two-fold benefit. It gives the reader
9. It is an element of News that refers not only to the someone to relate to and taps into our natural
importance of the event but also to how it will affect curiosity about the lives of others.
the readers.- Significance TREND STORIES
10.It suggests that news should be told from most focuses on contemporary pop culture.It can be anything
important or interesting to least important or from food to fashion to rumors and usually light, quick,
interesting. - Inverted Pyramid easy- to-read pieces that capture the spirit of whatever
trend is being discussed.
Week 9
Feature and Science Writing IN-DEPTH STORIES
when it come to the level of detail, an In-depth story
The FEATURE is one of the newspaper section goes far beyond that of a typical feature story because it
through which mass media functions are performed. In is constructed from extensive research, interviews, and
general, the content of print media can be divided into first hand accounts.
four categories. they include news, commentary,
advertising, and fiction. BACKGROUNDERS
are fairly self explanatory. They give background
FEATURE WRITING information on a developing news topic. This helps to
A colorful account of people, events, locations, and life. catch up with viewers and readers who are just findig
A well-researched and original piece of writing that out about new story.
draws information from eyewitnesses and subject matter
experts. What are the Principles of Journalism applicable for
Feature Writing?
SCIENCE JOURNALISM 1.Truth and Accuracy
render extremely detailed, specific, and frequently Journalism and Feature writing may not be guaranteed
jargon-laden information produced by scientists into a “truth”, but gathering information and investigating the
form that non-scientists can comprehend and appreciate, gathered data is a crucial part in both journalism and
while still accurately communicating the information. feature writing. Results of factual checking will set as
 SEM120 - CAMPUS JOURNALISM

the relevant information. about up front.

2.Independence – providing both interviewer and Personal Connection – seek ways to establish personal
interviewee the freedom to express. connection.
3.Fairness and Impartiality – not siding. Neutral. Control – interviewing for feature writing may give you
4.Humanity – should do no harm. control to ask questions but rather than bombarding the
5.Accountability – taking responsibility. interviewee with list of questions, express and offer to
answer their confusion if there is any.
What is the Structure of a Feature Article? 3.Questions - start with open-ended questions and/or
INTRODUCTION / LEAD with a statement that invites the interviewee to talk.
● established the purpose of the writing Example: “Tell me about...” questions.
● serves as a bridge by giving the background of 4.Listening - gathering information involves great
the topic under discussion and link it with the listening.
present situation 5.Follow – Up – Re-interview if necessary.
CONCLUSION
● closing marks should make an impact and tie Types of Introduction/ Lead
the various strands of the story altogether THE NEWS PEG LEAD
● summarize, repeat, challenge, trigger ● used for writing fast-breaking or running events
● reminds readers of the recent news events and
What are the Types of Feature Article? goes on to supply the background and analysis
NEWS FEATURE QUESTION LEAD
● extension of the news earlier reported ● introducing the article by a question to interest
● giving all details that were hitherto unknown the readers
● news peg QUOTATION LEAD
● written in relaxed and colorful style ● opens the article with a direct quotation which
PROFILE must be significant and gives insight into the
● built around important interesting personalities, theme of the feature
organizations or places
● always have something outstanding to be shared ANECDOTAL LEAD
● the theme must be clearly stated ● begins with a short story
EXPOSE/ ALARMER LITERARY ALLUSION LEAD
● points out something wrong in the society ● involved reference to literary work and holy
● hard to research about books to captivate the attention of the readers.
● writers are obligated to cover the identity of DESCRIPTIVE LEAD
their sources ● gives a detailed description of the scene or
TRAVELOGUE setting of the event that happened
● account of a trip to a place/s of interest EFFECT LEAD
● accompanied with good illustrations ● used to create effect
BODY
What should be considered when interviewing? ● ensure coherence and completeness of the
thought
The following are 5 of the core elements that an ● ensure that the language is appropriate to our
interviewer must considered when conducting an audience so that you will not excommunicate
interview for feature writing. them.
1.Preparation – selecting the right person to be
interviewed. WEEK 9
2. Rapport- help the subject relax by addressing various 1. It is a kind of feature story that involves relevant
elements of comfort: people like award-winning students, athletes, actors,
Setting – making the interviewee comfortable. politician, etc. - Human Interest
Honesty – telling what the subject and the interview all 2. It is a type of interview where the interviewee can
 SEM120 - CAMPUS JOURNALISM

answer questions conveniently in their own pace so that vote of the editorial board, the governing body of the
they can ponder and give thoughtful answers. However, newspaper made up of editors and business managers. It
through this interview there is no physical interaction is usually unsigned. Much in the same manner of a
between the interviewee and the interviewer. - lawyer, editorial writers build on an argument and try to
Interview by email persuade readers to think the same way they do.
3. This kind of feature writing are usually done in Editorials are meant to influence public opinion,
person where the writer can personally ask questions to promote critical thinking, and sometimes cause people
the personality featured in the paper. - Interviews to take action on an issue. In essence, an editorial is an
4. It is one of the most crucial step in writing a feature opinionated news story.
article where the writer seeks factual yet interesting
information about the interviewee. It is part of planning EDITORIALS MUST HAVE:
the entire article and making sure that everything is 1. Introduction, body and conclusion like other
relevant and factual. - Research and Planning news stories
5. These type of feature articles deal with the 2. An objective explanation of the issue, especially
personalities and events of the past. It is usually written complex issues
to disprove incorrect popular beliefs. - Historical 3. A timely news angle
Feature 4. Opinions from the opposing viewpoint that
6. Read the following statements carefully then choose directly refute the same issues the writer
the best answer. addresses
i. Feature articles also include more of the elements that 5. The opinions of the writer delivered in a
are used in traditional professional manner.
storytelling—description, scene-setting, quotes, and 6. Alternative solutions to the problem or issue
background information. being criticized. Anyone can gripe about a
ii. Both fiction and non-fiction writers often say their problem, but a good editorial should take a pro-
aim is to help readers paint a active approach to making the situation better
visual portrait in their minds of what's happening in a by using constructive criticism and giving
story. solutions.
iii. Whether it's by describing a place or a person, 7. A solid and concise conclusion that powerfully
setting a scene, or using colorful summarizes the writer's opinion. Give it some
quotes, a good feature writer does anything he or she punch.
can in order to get readers
engaged with the story.
All statements are true.
6. These are also called as “mini-features” These articles
are clever, attention getter, and story-tell events in a
chronological order. Featurettes
7. These kinds of interviews are interesting because of
the individual rather than the subject matter. Personal
Interviews
Opinion Writing
8. Develops a total picture of the person. Gets facts from
is a type of writing in which the author
the person himself. Attempts to reveal personality
expresses their thoughts, views, opinions, or feelings on
through anecdotes. Looks at mannerisms, actions, dress,
a specific topic of their choosing. Opinion articles can
experiences. Talks to other people about the subject. -
sometimes be in response to other opinion pieces, but
Personality Sketch
they can also stand alone as their own opinion pieces.
To put simply, opinion writing is a formal piece
Week 10
of writing that requires your opinion on a topic. Usually,
EDITORIAL WRITING
opinion writing comes in the form of an essay, articles,
An editorial is an article that presents the
or informative pieces, but the skills of opinion writing
newspaper's opinion on an issue. It reflects the majority
 SEM120 - CAMPUS JOURNALISM

are featured across a range of writing styles. Opinion

writing is defined by the ability to justify the opinion Editorials are written according to a well-established
given with reasons, facts, and resources that can formula.
legitimize the viewpoint. Introduction - state the problem
Body - expresses an opinion
ESSENTIALS OF EDITORIAL WRITING Solution - offers a solution to the problem
● Editorial writing is an important task in Conclusion - emphasizes the main issue
journalism. This is because a newspaper’s
opinion on topical issues should be expressed TECHNIQUES IN CLAIMING OPINIONS AND
meaningfully and persuasively. SUPPORTING CLAIMS
● Newspapers play advocacy role through the 1. Lead with an Objective Explanation of the
editorial. They fight battles for the public, set Issue/Controversy. Include the five W's and
agenda and carve out an image for themselves the H. Pull in facts and quotations from sources
through discourses featured in the editorial. This which are relevant.
is why writing the editorial is serious business. 2. Present Your Opposition First. As the writer
● It requires knowledge of basic approaches and you disagree with these viewpoints. Identify
skills which facilitate presentation of persuasive the people (specifically who oppose you). Use
opinions meaningfully. Poorly written editorial facts and quotations to state objectively their
could negatively affect the corporate image of a opinions. Give a strong position of the
newspaper. opposition. You gain nothing in refuting a weak
position.
EDITORIAL 3. Give other, original reasons/analogies. In
● An editorial, on the other hand, represents the defense of your position, give reasons from
official view of the paper or publication which strong to strongest order. Use a literary or
publishes it. It as an “opinion” piece, being cultural allusion that lends to your credibility
written to representthe organization’s and perceived intelligence.
perspective. 4. Directly Refute the Opposition's Beliefs. You
● The pieces are often titled “our view, ” or are can begin your article with transition. Pull in
attributed to an “editorial board, ” not an other facts and quotations from people who
individual writer. Even without those kinds of support your position. Concede a valid point of
designations, the language used is clearly the opposition which will make you appear
expressing a viewpoint. rational, one who has considered all the options.
5. Conclude With Some Punch. Give solutions to
OPINION the problem or challenge the reader to be
● An opinion or writing an opinion is a chance to informed.
share a view of point about something.
● It is important to include supportive reasons to TYPES OF EDITORIAL
strengthen an opinion. To make the point of Editorials of argument and persuasion take a firm stand
view more credible. Opinion pieces must on a problem or condition. They attempt to persuade the
include facts, quotes, or statistics, from trust reader to think the same way. This editorial often
worthy sources. proposes a solution or advises taking some definite
COLUMN action.
● A column is like an editorial in that it too is Editorials of information and interpretation attempt
expressing an opinion. But a column is the to explain the meaning or significance of a situation or
opinion or the viewpoint of the individual news event. There is a wide variety of editorials in this
writing it. category, ranging from those which provide background
● It does not represent the viewpoint of the information to those which identify issues.
publication itself, just one perspective that the Editorials of tribute, appreciation or commendation
publication believes is worth publishing. praise a person or an activity.
 SEM120 - CAMPUS JOURNALISM

Editorials of entertainment have two categories. One controversial trend, or event. It aims to persuade the
is the short humorous treatment of a light topic. The reader to reconsider their perspective about a particular
second is a slightly satirical treatment of a serious topic. - Editorial Writing
subject. (Satire is the use of sarcasm or keen wit to 10. It is a type of editorial article that focuses on the
denounce abuses or follies. While it ridicules or makes various causes of problem and suggests a solution. -
fun of a subject it has the intent of improving it.) Critical
11. It is a type of editorial article that shows
NEWS PEG/TOPIC CHOICE appreciation for a specific person or organization based
In writing the editorial, select only one specific idea to on an issue. - Critical
develop. Be sure the topic is of interest to the reader. 12. It allows the writer to promote their point while still
Organize your editorial in three parts: seeming fair. - Refutation
1. The introduction 13. It is the statements that supports the arguments
2. The body presented in an editorial article. These statements are
3. The ending. usually based on research, journals, and anecdotes. -
Evidence
Newspeg contains:summary of the news item + stand 14. An effective claim or proposition begins with a
of the writer / publication strong opinion statement. To draft an informative yet
The news peg is found on the introduction part engaging opinion statement the writer needs the
of the article. Also known as the story hook, it is simply following: Debatable Topic and Focus
the reason a reporter chooses to report a news story. The 15. Before submitting an article, one must recheck the
peg makes the story timely, and thus defines the story as spelling, grammar, and overall
news. It builds a sense of urgency too. And, without contents of a piece making sure that it is professionally
timeliness, there cannot be any news. done. One can also have a colleague or adviser check
the article to find mistakes that the writer might miss out
HOW TO WRITE AN EDITORIAL on. Proofread
Your topic should be arguable and have multiple points 16. It is the reasoning or the vindication behind an
of view. article. It presents the writer’s opinion and reasoning
1. Decide on a Topic behind their chosen stance that aims to change the
Your essay will reflect your personal bias or the minds of the readers. - Argument
bias of the group you are representing, so you
should expect some of your readers to disagree Week 11
with your stance. Sports Writing
2. Research your Topic For centuries, sports have been an integral part
Even though an editorial is opinion-based, it is of numerous cultures worldwide. Humans have used
still important to provide your readers with sports to improve their physical fitness, compete for
well- researched evidence to back up your coveted honors, or engage in community recreation
ideas. since the dawn of civilization. Even though sports have
3. Start to write been around for thousands of years, many of the
Once you finish the planning portion of writing organized sports we know, and love today were created
your editorial, start to write by adding details to in the last few hundred years. While the history of sports
your outline. is undeniably extensive, certain key events over time
4. Proofread have had a significant impact on their development.
Before submitting your editorial, proofread your Since its inception and initial implementation,
own work to make sure you have created a the definition of sports itself has undergone significant
professional, quality piece of writing. revision. At first, it was just simple athletic activities
without any contact or competitive intent. Nowadays,
WEEK 10 any kind of physical fitness can be said to be related to
9. It is a short essay that shares one’s opinion about a sports. Running, weightlifting, rowing, skiing, and
particular topic usually the latest social issue, bowling all fall under the category of athletic activities.
 SEM120 - CAMPUS JOURNALISM

To be considered a sport and not just a leisure activity, person might be a rookie athlete rising in the
the athletic ability must be applied to the activity itself. ranks, or perhaps an influential coach. It could
be about their battle with depression and
Sports writing is a form of creative nonfiction or suicide, and how he used the same thing that
journalism that covers sports, athletes, or other sports- saved him, text messaging, to help others in the
related issues. A journalist who reports on sports is sports world
called a sportswriter. 4. Season Preview and Wrap-up Stories
Every sportswriter needs season previews and
Sports journalism/writing started in the early 1800s wrap-up stories in their collection. These stories
when it was targeted to the social elite and transitioned are published while the coaches and their teams
into an integral part of the news business with are preparing for the upcoming season, or after
newspapers having dedicated sports sections. The the season has ended— whether in victory or in
increased popularity of sports among-st the middle and defeat.
lower class led to the more coverage of sports content in 5. Columns
publications. A sportswriting column is the place where a
sportswriter shares their opinion. Sometimes
There are many different forms of sports journalism, these columns may include venting when a
ranging from play-by-play and team, player, or coach doesn’t meet
game recaps to analysis and investigative journalism expectations. Other times, they may write about
on important developments in what they admire in a team, player or coach.
the sport.
Essentials of sport writing
Due to its popularity sports only media emerge like
sports illustrations like magazines and sport channels ● Find The Human Interest Angle
seen in television. And due to the continued This is the most important element of writing a creative
advancement of technology and emergence of the piece about sports. Instead of an athlete’s statistics,
internet, sport related news can now be seen not only in readers of short prose or poetry want to know about the
print but also in our own devices through blogs and person: What obstacles did he or she overcome? What
tweets and other platforms of social media. sacrifices had to be made? How does the swimmer feel
5 Types of sport stories when he loses a race? What thoughts are going through
1. Straight-Lead Game Story the runner’s mind as she makes that last push for the
The most basic form of all sportswriting, the finish line? Which emotions does the baseball pitcher
straight-lead (also spelled straight-lede) game experience after throwing that last out?
story is an article using a straight-news format. ● Know Your Sports’ Specs
The article summarizes the main points of a Like any good sports scout, do your research. If you try
game: which team won or lost, the final score, to write about a sport without having any knowledge of
and what a star player did. the rules of play, your piece will seem inauthentic. You
2. Feature game story can’t write about how a corps-à-corps affected the final
The feature game story is a favorite tool for results of a fencing bout if you don’t know what the
professional sports writers because it gives fans term means.
and readers a different angle from the highlights ● Make The Call: Write In Your Voice
they have seen on TV. It gives a different sports writing has a journalistic tone: highlights and
perspective of the the game and the people team standings,maybe a few points of personal opinion,
involved, like their experience during the game, and the expectations for upcoming events. So if you’re
how they feel and sometime even the going to write a sports-centric creative piece, you’ll
background of the coach of the athletes. want to stand out from the competition. By writing in
3. Profiles your own voice, you’ll bring something unique to your
If in feature game story spotlights a game, manuscript.
profile features an individual character. This ● Practice. Practice. Practice.
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To improve, an athlete trains every day—whether he includes working in the field of public relations (PR)
feels like it or not; even when she’d rather give up. It’s and as advisors for a sportsperson, club or federation,
the same for writers who want to succeed and get their and writing for a team or league publication.Editors and
work published. You need to write and rewrite; to edit reporters cannotbe sources who are assigned to
and proofread. Join a writing group, attend a conference, themselves. Behaving professionally entails remaining
maybe even find a writing mentor. loyal to the news organization for which one works.
3.Hospitality from sources and independence:
Sports news -Sports journalists should reject invitations and gifts
Sports journalism is a form of writing that reports on from teams or promoters that could call them into
matters pertaining to sporting topics and competitions. question and instrumentalise them as reporters acting as
Its purpose is to entertain the reader or give advice. For independent eyewitnesses. Likewise, they should not
example, an article about “The Ateneo Blue Eagles use their position as journaliststo obtain free tickets for
Women's Volleyball Team (WVT) is no stranger to any sports event from sources other than those which
winning. Having three major championships to its name customarily make passes or tickets available when a
with UAAP Season 76, 77, and the most recent coming performance has a clear bearing on the journalist’s job.
from Season 81, the team is hard at work making sure 4.News gathering and impartiality:
that its legacy continues.” This would be a hard news -Sports journalists should avoid developing a close
story. relationship with sports sources and maintain a critical
Sport feature distance, by seeking and using a varied and
These are the stories that go beyond scores and statistics representative number of arguments and facts on any
and are more than news and play-by-play. These stories issue, and presenting them appropriately without bias
capture the emotions that flow through sports: passion towards their audiences. They should also avoid
and pain, desire and dedication. For example, “Alyssa misconducts such as boosterism and nationalistic or
Valdez scores three consecutive spikes on the first line.” chauvinistic approaches. Impartiality entails being
Differences: professional, rather than behaving like fans.
The major difference between a news story and a feature 5. Factual reporting:
story is that a news story is time-sensitive. Media outlets -Sports journalists are committed to truthful and factual
want to publish news stories as quickly as possible after reporting. They should establish a clear distinction
an event occurs. Feature stories, however, are not as between facts and their personal opinions about them, as
time-dependent and contain no urgent content. well as between news and advertising or sponsored
content. Reinforcing methods of verification is essential
Principles of Journalism applicable to Sports to the fight against fake news, the pervasiveness of
Writing speculation and rumor in sports content, and to
1.Public functions and right to sports information: discarding sensationalism and trivialization in news
Sports journalists should report on all areas of sport. As reporting.
an essential part of their public-service approach, they 6.Journalistic quality and use of language:
should not only concentrate on mainstream disciplines Sports journalists are committed to journalistic quality
but also give exposure to underrepresented sports that and must therefore rely on a correct use of language as
generate news and have a large number of practitioners. their main working tool by which to enhance their
This can help to broaden the coverage and expand stories. Acquiring a vast vocabulary and developing the
citizens’ sporting culture. Media professionals should ability to use suitable words and phrases in referring to
not report on the private lives of sportspeople unless the any sportsperson are valuable assets towards improving
information is relevant to understanding the athletes’ content quality within the field.
performance. 7.Promotion of positive sports value:
-Sports journalists should contribute to the promotion of
2.Conflict of Interest: positive values, such as fair play, nondiscrimination,
-Sports journalists should avoid taking part in activities and international peace and understanding, through their
that lie outside of their professional realm or in coverage of sports events among citizens, with special
employment that may create conflict of interest. This attention for youth and children.
 SEM120 - CAMPUS JOURNALISM

” a term used by acrobats right before leaping.

8.Violence in sports: -The phrase "alley-oop" seems somewhat arbitrary,
-Sports journalists must avoid using warlike language, right? It turns out that the phrase "Allez hop!" is where
as well as disseminating expressions and images that it came from. from French, which is what an acrobat in
emphasize or legitimate any form of violence towards a circus would yell before trying to leap in order to get
individuals or groups of people within outside sports everyone else out of the way. After the wine from
venues. Sport is not a substitute for war. Thus, Bordeaux, this is now the second good thing that France
journalists must minimize confrontational narratives and has brought to modern life. Players like Bill Russell and
warlike imagery. Wilt Chamberlain, who believed that a teammate's shot
9.Gender perspective: trajectory would miss the hoop, would jump in the air,
-To counteract the long-standing underrepresentation of catch their errant shot, and slam it down in practice in
sportswomen, sports journalists should work with the 1950s. It was worth it, even though teammates were
greater dedication to promote equality in their reporting furious.
by giving female athletes more exposure when their Hail Mary (football/Basketball): Football players at
results deserve it. More women should be incorporated Notre Dame (a Catholic university) used it to
as expert sources into the news agenda. Sexist describe a long pass made in a last-minute, desperate
comments and stereotypes should be avoided when attempt to score.
referring to them. -Roger Staubach threw one of the most well-known Hail
10.Sports beyond sports: Mary passes against the Vikings in the 1975 playoffs.
-Sports journalists should go beyond the dramatic action However, this kind of desperate ploy at the end of the
on the field and raise public awareness about relevant game had no name at the time. Staubach closed his eyes,
contexts that exist behind the play. Sports should be prayed the Hail Mary, and called on his fervent Catholic
thoroughly explained from their social, financial, upbringing as his pass flew downfield. The Cowboys
cultural and political dimensions won the game 17–14 at the last minute thanks to a 50-
yard touchdown pass that sailed through the air and
Jargons in Different Sports Events somehow found Drew Pearson in his waiting arms. The
Jargons are specialized language of a commentary for that touchdown is hilarious because,
professional or occupational group is referred to as given that passes of that length were uncommon at the
jargon. Even though members of the group frequently time and there was no well-known term for them, the
require or use this language, outsiders typically find it commentators simply asked, "Whaaaat was that?"
meaningless. There are professions where the jargon is Nutmeg (football): The nutmeg, which is like
so extensive that it has its own name; For instance, posterizing someone or breaking their ankles with a
academics use academese, while lawyers use legalese. crossover in basketball, is one of the most
Lingo and argot are other names for jargon. Like other embarrassing things an offensive player can do to a
occupations and profession, sports also have their very defender in soccer.
own wonderful yet funky vocabulary that is being used -It occurs when the player who has the ball uses his
by most of the sports nowadays. In fact, in every 1 out technical prowess to pass the ball past the defender and
of 10 games, another vocabulary is being through his legs. It frequently concludes with the
discover.People use sport lingo and terminology to refer defender in a puddle, either metaphorically or literally,
to sports concepts. There is lingo specific to each sport on the ground, and it is amazing to watch. The term
as well as general sports terms that are applicable to all originates from the 1870s, when nutmeg exports
sports. Prepare yourself for the use of sports lingo by between England and America skyrocketed. Because the
coaches, players, fans, and announcers alike when you spice was such a valuable commodity, exporters would
watch a game. The best way to learn lingo and constantly attempt to scam unsuspecting importers. The
terminology is to watch sports and listen to what the exporter would try to sneak some hollow, wooden
sports world has to say. replicas into a sack of nutmegs that were being sold to
an importer, saving the good stuff for later, similar to
Examples of Jargons in Different Sport Events: Michael Scott and the Caprese salad. The term "getting
Alley oop (basketball): From the French “allez hop, nutmegged," which was Victorian slang for a foolish
 SEM120 - CAMPUS JOURNALISM

victim being tricked by a clever trickster, was created

because of this.
Slam dunk (basketball):
-Midway through the 1970s, the NBA popularized slam
dunk as an exciting way to score points. It is possible
that it has matured into the most adored play in sports.
Slam dunks can refer to almost any guaranteed success
in the workplace: new hire, execution, or ideas.
More Examples:
Cover the bases (baseball)
Hit it out of the park (baseball)
Run interference (American football)
Call an audible (American football)
Beat someone to the punch (boxing)
Down for the count (boxing)
Come out swinging (boxing)
Roll with the punches (boxing)
Saved by the bell (boxing)
No holds barred (wrestling)
Go to the mat (wrestling)
Par for the course (golf)
Slam dunk (basketball)
Down to the wire (horse racing)
Win by a nose (horse racing)
Drop the ball (ballgames)
Get the ball rolling (ballgames)
Keep your eye on the ball (ballgames)

The general term "sports coverage" refers to

the reporting of any sporting event or physical feat that
takes place during the event. It can be as simple as a
competition or as complicated as a marathon. On the
other hand, most of the time, the term "sports" is used to
refer to any kind of athletic activity that people
participate in. Track and field, skiing, baseball, softball,
football, basketball, wrestling, swimming, and even
swimming sprints are all examples of this. It is like a
type of movie that usually has sports as the main plot
point. It is a fictitious production in which an athlete, a
sporting event, a team, or people who follow sports are
heavily involved, and sports play a significant role in
the story's inspiration or resolution.A sports movie will
typically focus on a single sport or a group of sports.
This is so that the movie will get more attention, keep
people interested, and make sure the audience will like
it
 SEM120 - CAMPUS JOURNALISM

WEEK 11 technical skills

17. This type of news or article focuses on sports. Its 25. If you want your sports story to reach the most
purpose is to understand the transcendent value of possible viewers or readers, you need to understand
sports in society. - Sports Writing how the algorithms. - Understand algorithms
18. They research, write, edit, proofread and file news
stories, features and articles.- Journalists
19. This kind of sports writing focuses on the events
after the game. The writer must be knowledgeable
about the rules, officials, players, and past records of the
game in order to give an effective summary lead about
the particular sport assigned to the writer. - Play-by-
Play Account
20. Read the following statements carefully then choose
the best answer.
i. The writer must be accurate not only in the score but
in all the other highlights.
ii. If the writer is not sure of an episode in the game,
they must check personally with
the players involved or to their coaches.
iii. The writer does not need to know the technicalities
about the game he/she is
assigned to because all they have to do is watch and
summarize the game.
Statement 1 and 2 is True
21. Read the following statements carefully then choose
the best answer.
i. Sports Editorial interprets problems or issues
regarding our environment.
ii. Sports Column is the personal interpretation of
analysis about sports issues and concerns.
Statement 1 is False but Statement 2 is True
22. It gives backgrounders, some unusual and exciting
games the team have played before and how they fared
in such games. - Advance Story
23. Read the following statements carefully then choose
the best answer.
i. Sports journalism requires effort and stamina because
good sports event do not stop.
ii. Sports journalists does not take extra care with
accuracy in each news piece they
produce as well as being on the constant look out for
angles.
iii. During the 1998 World Cup held in France, the
French police stood prepared for the possibility of riots
ahead of the match between US and Iran.
The first and third statement is true.
24. Journalism is constantly changing, so you need to
keep up with new approaches and technical skills –
such as interactive storytelling. - Develop your