Module: Journalism basics

The following training module is designed for universities and colleges teaching journalism basics to adapt for their own requirements.

This module provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles and practices of journalism. It focuses on developing essential skills in news gathering, writing, and reporting, with a strong emphasis on clarity, accuracy, and ethical considerations. Students will learn to identify newsworthy events, construct compelling narratives, and master the use of language for effective communication. The module incorporates practical exercises and real-world examples to equip students with the foundational knowledge needed for a career in journalism.

Module objectives:

• Understand the core elements of a news story.
• Develop a strong news sense and the ability to identify newsworthy events.
• Master the use of clear, concise, and accurate language in journalistic writing.
• Apply grammatical principles to enhance the readability and impact of news stories.
• Understand and avoid common language pitfalls, such as clichés, jargon, and journalese.
• Learn to effectively use the active and passive voice.
• Develop effective questioning techniques for gathering information.

Module content:

Week 1: Introduction to news and newsworthiness

• Topic: What is News? Developing a News Sense.
  • Content:
    • Defining news and its role in society.
    • Identifying the elements of a news story.
    • Developing a “news sense”: recognising newsworthy events and stories.
    • Where news comes from.
  • Resources:
    • Reading: News sense
    • Lesson: Developing a news sense
    • Reading: Essential elements of a news story
    • Lesson: Where does news come from?

• Activity: Students identify and discuss recent news stories, analysing their newsworthiness.

Week 2: The essential questions and information gathering

• Topic: The Journalist’s Toolkit: Questioning and Research.
  • Content:
    • The six essential questions (who, what, when, where, why, how).
    • Developing effective questioning techniques.
    • Gathering and verifying information.
  • Resources:
    • Reading: The questions every journalist should ask
    • Lesson: The six essential questions

• Activity: Mock interviews and question-development exercises.

Week 3: Language and style: Clarity and accuracy

• Topic: The Power of Words: Writing for Impact.
  • Content:
    • Using precise and accurate language.
    • Avoiding jargon, clichés, and journalese.
    • Understanding the importance of clarity and conciseness.
    • Journalism language and style basics.
  • Resources:
    • Reading: Using the right words
    • Lesson: Word power
    • Reading: Cliches, journalese, and jargon
    • Reading: Journalism language and style basics
    • Lesson: Language and style
    • Reading: Language and style – words

• Activity: Editing exercises to identify and correct language errors.

Week 4: Grammar and sentence structure

• Topic: Mastering the tools of the trade: Grammar and voice.
  • Content:
    • The active and passive voice in news writing.
    • Effective use of adjectives and adverbs.
    • Grammar basics.
    • Strengthening sentences for clarity and impact.
  • Resources:
    • Reading: The active and passive voices in news
    • Lesson: The active and passive voices in news
    • Reading: The use of adjectives and adverbs
    • Lesson: Adjectives and adverbs
    • Reading: Language and style – grammar
    • Lesson: Word power

• Activity: Sentence construction and editing exercises.

Course construction:

• Duration: Four weeks (adaptable to a semester-long course with expanded content).
• Format: A combination of lectures, discussions, workshops, and practical exercises.
• Assessment:
  • Participation in discussions and activities.
  • Written assignments (news stories, feature articles).
  • Editing exercises.
  • Final project (e.g., a portfolio of published work).

• Technology: Online learning platform (e.g., Moodle, Canvas) for accessing resources, submitting assignments, and facilitating discussions.

Additional considerations:

• Ethical considerations: Integrate discussions on journalistic ethics throughout the module.
• Media literacy: Include sessions on media literacy and critical thinking.
• Guest speakers: Invite experienced journalists to share their insights and experiences.
• Real-world application: Encourage students to seek out opportunities to contribute to student publications or local news outlets.

By following this structure, students will develop a strong foundation in the core principles and practices of journalism, preparing them for further study or a career in the field.

Summary:

• This foundational journalism course equips students with the essential skills to navigate the modern news landscape.
• Through a blend of theoretical understanding and practical application, participants will learn to identify newsworthy events, master the art of effective information gathering, and construct clear, accurate narratives.
• Emphasis is placed on the ethical considerations of journalism, alongside the critical analysis of language and grammar, ensuring students can produce impactful and responsible reporting.
• The curriculum delves into core journalistic principles, including the use of precise language, the avoidance of common writing pitfalls, and the strategic application of active and passive voice.
• Students will develop a keen “news sense,” learn to ask the crucial six questions, and understand the fundamental elements of a compelling news story.
• By combining instruction from provided resources with hands-on exercises, this course fosters a comprehensive understanding of journalistic basics, preparing students for future endeavours in the field.