2021-2022 Pierce College Catalog 
    
    Apr 24, 2024  
2021-2022 Pierce College Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

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JOURN 102 Introduction to News Writing (5 credits)



Distribution Area Fulfilled Communications; General Transfer Elective
Prerequisite ENGL 098  with a grade of 2.0 or better.

Course Description
A study of the basic forms and styles of various news writing techniques and mechanics. Writing exercises in basic news writing, as well as work in news gathering, interview techniques, copy assimilation, copy editing, headline writing and other roles of the reporter.

Student Outcomes
1. Identify credibility and ethics as the overarching standards of journalism.
2. Recognize and eliminate personal bias, stereotypes and prejudice in reporting news.
3. Define the basic elements of libel and invasion of privacy in news writing.
4. Explain what makes certain types of information news worthy and why.
5. Identify the campus market and brainstorm story ideas for that market.
6. Develop a story plan, including angle, contacts and interview questions.
7. Conduct an interview in a professional and effective manner.
8. Recognize the elements of a story lead.
9. Create story leads appropriate to the assigned story subjects.
10. Develop a news story that utilizes a variety of quotes and paraphrases.
11. Apply “color” to a story through the use of quotes, metaphors, similes, and sensory detail.
12. Recognize and apply appropriate style, structure, and language in news writing.



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