Proseminar: The Second Half July 22, 2008

Is That Your Cellphone?

Ninety Seconds, Three Words b25843c5 5c1bf816d35834afadc b25843c5 5c1bf816d35834afadc

A Gentle Reminder Attribution is important. The reader wants to know how you know facts. Let the reader decide. AP Style on numbers: it’s a good thing Put your stories on a phrase diet

The truth is…. It is clear that Ironically Strangely Which is located No one could argue….

Calling All Blogs 1)Use your blog to comment on the journalism you are reading. Once a week you are noticing some trend or example of what we’re talking about in class. 2)THIS WEEK we are looking a features and then turning to photography. READ the coverage of the court decision to reject the penalty imposed by CBS after the “wardrobe malfunction” that briefly exposed Janet Jackson at the Super Bowl. Write a blog post about what images journalists should or shouldn’t print, broadcast or post. Are there rules? Should there be rules? 3)Take a look at each other’s blogs!!! Comment!!! There is some good writing out there – and ask each other for advice!!!

Structure If you build it will they read it?

Write as you report. As you gather information, start writing the story. Consult with your editor. Don’t hold your cards too close to your vest. Consider story elements. Use story elements such as character, plot, setting, theme, conflict and resolution to make your story more engaging, whatever structure you use

Plan your structure. Especially if you’re considering a structure you haven’t used before, write a plan or outline of your story. Find the right structure and avoid formulas.

Some Structure Devices Inverted Pyramid Hour Glass/Circle Back Conflict Resolution Narrative Chronology/ Cast Assembly Repetition Chunking

Or Maybe It is As Simple As The first box is your lead and perhaps the following paragraph or two. This is where you draw people into the story with an image or detail that captures their attention. The second box is the nut graph, summarizing the story. The third box leads into the body of the story with a new image or detail. This may work almost as a second lead. The fourth box is the material that rounds out the story. The final box is your “kicker,” ending with a powerful quote or image.

Some GREAT Feature Stories

Pitch Perfect!

Next Class Review Photo Package Post Blog Start working on that project!