During the first half of class, we shared our takeaways from
chapters 1-4 in the textbook with each other. Then, we looked at our articles
from the Riss Mattress and discussed what to do and what not to do in our leads
and the rest of the story. Here are some things to remember:
·
Use The
five-minute stylebook to remember the stylistic elements of the Associated
Press (it’s your bible).
·
When writing your lead:
o
Get to the point right away.
o
Prioritize the 5 W’s.
o
Stress the unusual.
·
Do not put yourself (your opinions) in the
story, let the story speak for itself.
·
Use “said” when attributing information, it’s
simple and neutral.
·
Always use the past tense for print.
·
Do not repeat information in your stories, once
it’s stated, there’s no need to restate it.
·
Do not explain quotes to readers.
·
You don’t have to sum up the end of a story.
When it’s over, it’s over.
·
Do not make up information.
·
Remember to use the Inverted Pyramid- the most
important information comes first.
·
Avoid using a passive voice.
·
And finally: the reader must always be your main
concern.
Homework for 2/1:
a.
Read Ch. 5-7, 9, Do: P. 12, 1.13 (brevity),
1.14, 1-5; P. 63, 4.1 (AP Style/ do in workbooks) Plus, top three takeaways.
b.
Read three articles by T. Rees Shapiro,
Washington Post
i.
Write and be prepared to ask two questions that
you cannot find the answers to online (Like, where did that story idea come
from?)
Have a wonderful weekend!
Posted by Savannah Miller
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