The Writer's Reader : Understanding Journalism and Non-Fiction
Willa McDonald
(editor),
Susie Eisenhuth
(editor),
Cambridge
Port Melbourne
:
Cambridge University Press
,
2007
Z1410344
2007
selected work
interview
essay
prose
(taught in 8 units)
Combines selected non-fiction articles with interviews with authors reflecting on the process of writing.
Subject objectives/outcomes
On completion of this subject, students should be able to:
a. Demonstrate the ability to write feature articles whose standard is equal to those of professional writers.
b. Have developed insights into the breadth of style and genre of feature writing, including essays, columns, profiles, 'new journalism', and more complex in-depth features.
c. Understand the links between journalism and broader styles of writing such as non-fiction and fiction.
Objective(s): Prepare a follow-up feature story based on recent events.
Weighting: 25%
Task: To source, research and write a feature story of potentially publishable quality. This story should be based on some aspect of a recent news event or demonstrate currency in its terms of reference and narrative.
Assessment criteria: Includes:
* quality of the idea
* quality of the introduction and the degree to which it demands attention, demonstrates newsworthiness and narrative value
* the breadth of source material
* a demonstrated understanding of the subject matter and the issues involved
* the imaginative shaping of the content
* the quality of structure, clear writing and correct English expression.
Assessment item 2: A short profile of 800-1,000 words
Objective(s): Demonstrate an imaginative and discerning eye for the details, quotes, anecdotes that make for a strong profile. Demonstrate interviewing skills.
Weighting: 20%
Task: The aim of this task is to develop an imaginative and discerning eye for a potential story; to be aware of people, their lives, their ideas, their feelings; to learn to engage in conversation with a person with the intention of seeking out his or her story.
Assessment criteria: Includes:
* imaginative projection
* narrative value
* use of colour and quotes.
Assessment item 3: A 1,500 word feature
Objective(s): Develop a potentially publishable feature story.
Weighting: 35%
Task: To identify a strong feature story with a currency that recommends it for publication.
Assessment criteria: Includes:
* quality of the idea
* quality of the introduction and the degree to which it demands attention, demonstrates newsworthiness and narrative value
* the breadth of contacts
* a demonstrated understanding of the subject matter and the issues involved
* the imaginative shaping of the content
* the quality of structure, clear writing and correct English expression.
Assessment item 4: Class presentation
Objective(s): Demonstrate an imaginative and discerning eye for a potential story. Engage in critical discussion of the quality of feature articles in magazines and newspapers.
Weighting: 20%
Task: Students will evaluate a major feature in a magazine or newspaper.
Assessment criteria: Includes:
* regular class attendance
* lively participation in discussion and exercises
* evidence of wide reading and thorough research
* demonstrated awareness of feature content in local newspapers and magazines
* quality of presentation.
Minimum requirements
Students are expected to read the subject outline to ensure they are familiar with the subject requirements. Since class discussion and participation in activities form an integral part of this subject, you are expected to attend, arrive punctually and actively participate in classes. If you experience difficulties meeting this requirement, please contact your lecturer. Students who have a reason for extended absence (e.g., illness) may be required to complete additional work to ensure they achieve the subject objectives.
