Assignment: You Are a Journalist

Eng. 4, Module 3

Part 1: Written News Report (Due Nov. 28)

You are a reporter for the NOVA Monthly, a student-run newspaper read by our local community. You will pitch a story to your teacher and then write your article. This article could describe the details of a factual event, a new phenomenon, product, or technology. Alternatively, you may write a feature article summarizing the information on an important person/event/situation that affects our community.

• Use concise, neutral language, covering multiple sides of the issue
• Formatted like a standard newspaper article (headline, byline, lead, etc.)
• Formal, professional tone
• 250 - 300 words
• Includes at least two relevant quotes that clearly identify the speaker
• Includes at least one relevant statistic or statistical chart/graph

EXAMPLE: NOVA Monthly Template & Directions

Part 2: Oral Presentation (Nov. 28, 30, and Dec. 1)

Present your findings from Part 1. Make sure that your presentation orients your audience and relays the most pertinent info.

3 minutes for the presentation itself.

• Hooks/captivates audience by introducing the topic in an engaging manner
• Uses neutral/objective language
• Presents the information/facts/main points in an logical and coherent manner
• Concludes the oral presentation with summary of the main points
• Varies tone, speed, volume, and emphasis, paying attention to pronunciation
• Adapts the formality of language to the context and audience (humorous/provocative/appealing)

Presentation Outline

Introduction: Use a captivating hook to get the audience’s attention. Then, define and describe your topic. Be sure to explain why your topic is important to the community or the average person.

Body: Provide the most important details and facts of the article. Organize your writing to fit the topic.

Conclusion: wrap-up your presentation my summarizing your main points.

Part 2: Oral Presentation Rubric