Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Editorial
Why ? Why don’t you care?
If there is one thing I cannot stand, it is apathy. That is today's biggest problem, especially among high schoolers: people are too apathetic. Kids have grown up with overprotective parents handing their children their heart’s desire on a silver platter, and the consequences are starting to show.
I'm not saying one should care about every single little detail; if that were the case, nothing would ever be accomplished. However, all too often, people are too quick to say they don't care or they don't have an opinion on politics, history, the deeper meaning of dreams, Hamlet, the melting ice caps and drowning polar bears, genocide in Darfur, haircuts, algebra (though I supose I also am guilty of algebraic apathy), Baz Luhrmann, aerobics, the economy, the Apple-or-Windows great debate.
When the answer is continually "Who cares?" or "so what?" eventually, your brain, and heart, starts to decay. What do you care about, then? One can only think or talk about their own problems for so long. If no one cares, global warming wins. The rich get richer and the poor get poorer. People still are oppressed, and the question still remains unanswered: Pepsi or Coke?
Apathy among young people has been linked to higher rates of depression and crime, something society has enough already. Our generation will have a weighty burden to lift when we’re running the country. How is homelessness, global warming or war going to be solved with apathy? Apathy is the very thing our world cannot afford. Now more than ever, we need committed, engaged leaders.
One does not need to be completely aware of everything, all of the time. That's impossible. One does not have to be zany, imaginative, ostentatious. But one does have to care. Engage yourself in the world, be informed of the big issues, and maybe a few small ones too, and have an opinion on something obscure. Yes, Salvador Dali's caterpillar mustache WAS great, thank you very much.
If there is one thing I cannot stand, it is apathy. That is today's biggest problem, especially among high schoolers: people are too apathetic. Kids have grown up with overprotective parents handing their children their heart’s desire on a silver platter, and the consequences are starting to show.
I'm not saying one should care about every single little detail; if that were the case, nothing would ever be accomplished. However, all too often, people are too quick to say they don't care or they don't have an opinion on politics, history, the deeper meaning of dreams, Hamlet, the melting ice caps and drowning polar bears, genocide in Darfur, haircuts, algebra (though I supose I also am guilty of algebraic apathy), Baz Luhrmann, aerobics, the economy, the Apple-or-Windows great debate.
When the answer is continually "Who cares?" or "so what?" eventually, your brain, and heart, starts to decay. What do you care about, then? One can only think or talk about their own problems for so long. If no one cares, global warming wins. The rich get richer and the poor get poorer. People still are oppressed, and the question still remains unanswered: Pepsi or Coke?
Apathy among young people has been linked to higher rates of depression and crime, something society has enough already. Our generation will have a weighty burden to lift when we’re running the country. How is homelessness, global warming or war going to be solved with apathy? Apathy is the very thing our world cannot afford. Now more than ever, we need committed, engaged leaders.
One does not need to be completely aware of everything, all of the time. That's impossible. One does not have to be zany, imaginative, ostentatious. But one does have to care. Engage yourself in the world, be informed of the big issues, and maybe a few small ones too, and have an opinion on something obscure. Yes, Salvador Dali's caterpillar mustache WAS great, thank you very much.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Opinion Editorial Pre-Writing
1. What is a problem/issue that our entire student body (our school, community, country, etc.) faces today?
Generally speaking, teenagers are too apathetic.
2. What is your view/position on the problem or situation?
Students need to be more aware, more engaged, and more interested in political happenings, history, books and culture ... more than just they're inner circle of friends.
3. What would you like to achieve with your editorial? (What is the desired result?)
Appeal to the reader to care more.
4. How will you persuade your audience to adopt your viewpoint as theirs? List at least 4 persuasive points.
~what does the future hold for such disengaged kids?
~what is in store for the world if those disengaged kids are the ones in charge in 10-20 years?
~the economical benefits of caring
~the social benefits of caring
5. How will you motivate your readership to action in your conclusion?
Maybe humor ... it's really not that hard to care about what we should. No one's asking you to solve cancer.
6. How will your editorial serve a public purpose?
Increase awareness ... self improvement, etc.
Generally speaking, teenagers are too apathetic.
2. What is your view/position on the problem or situation?
Students need to be more aware, more engaged, and more interested in political happenings, history, books and culture ... more than just they're inner circle of friends.
3. What would you like to achieve with your editorial? (What is the desired result?)
Appeal to the reader to care more.
4. How will you persuade your audience to adopt your viewpoint as theirs? List at least 4 persuasive points.
~what does the future hold for such disengaged kids?
~what is in store for the world if those disengaged kids are the ones in charge in 10-20 years?
~the economical benefits of caring
~the social benefits of caring
5. How will you motivate your readership to action in your conclusion?
Maybe humor ... it's really not that hard to care about what we should. No one's asking you to solve cancer.
6. How will your editorial serve a public purpose?
Increase awareness ... self improvement, etc.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Feature Peer Edits
Peter Ingle's feature:
1. What are some areas that could use more detail? Why?
I think more details on how Travis endured and overcame his ordeal could add to the story, adding a personal touch instead of focusing so much on the medical aspect.
2. What additional sources might the author use? Does the lead involve you in the story?
More information from Travis himself, maybe his parents or his doctor as well.
3. Does the story contain a well defined scene (a detailed description of someone doing something or something happening)? What is it? If not, make a suggestion for a scene that might work.
No - there's no specific scene described, it's all the general story. Maybe when Travis was diagnosed?
4. What would you like to see or hear more of? Less of? Include, any other suggestions you have for improvement.
Less of the medical aspects, more of Travis' personal experience ... a more human experience.
Siri Ware's feature:
1. What are some areas that could use more detail? Why?
Why kids are reading, overall patterns and preferences, to make it more relevant instead of just listing books.
2. What additional sources might the author use? Does the lead involve you in the story?
More high school kids ... all ages and interests.
3. Does the story contain a well defined scene (a detailed description of someone doing something or something happening)? What is it? If not, make a suggestion for a scene that might work.
No - it's more of an overview. It might be cool to describe a scene from one of the books - i.e. "It was a hot, dusty afternoon in Afghanistan .. blahblahblahblahblah ... and junior Cory Patel was right in the middle of it all."
4. What would you like to see or hear more of? Less of? Include, any other suggestions you have for improvement.
More opinions, more in-depth writing instead of a general overview.
1. What are some areas that could use more detail? Why?
I think more details on how Travis endured and overcame his ordeal could add to the story, adding a personal touch instead of focusing so much on the medical aspect.
2. What additional sources might the author use? Does the lead involve you in the story?
More information from Travis himself, maybe his parents or his doctor as well.
3. Does the story contain a well defined scene (a detailed description of someone doing something or something happening)? What is it? If not, make a suggestion for a scene that might work.
No - there's no specific scene described, it's all the general story. Maybe when Travis was diagnosed?
4. What would you like to see or hear more of? Less of? Include, any other suggestions you have for improvement.
Less of the medical aspects, more of Travis' personal experience ... a more human experience.
Siri Ware's feature:
1. What are some areas that could use more detail? Why?
Why kids are reading, overall patterns and preferences, to make it more relevant instead of just listing books.
2. What additional sources might the author use? Does the lead involve you in the story?
More high school kids ... all ages and interests.
3. Does the story contain a well defined scene (a detailed description of someone doing something or something happening)? What is it? If not, make a suggestion for a scene that might work.
No - it's more of an overview. It might be cool to describe a scene from one of the books - i.e. "It was a hot, dusty afternoon in Afghanistan .. blahblahblahblahblah ... and junior Cory Patel was right in the middle of it all."
4. What would you like to see or hear more of? Less of? Include, any other suggestions you have for improvement.
More opinions, more in-depth writing instead of a general overview.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Feature Story ~ The Twilight Phenomenon
As I enthusiastically tell people about my favorite book series, all goes well, until the inevitable “What are they about?” is asked. Generally my response is to quickly spit out the words 'vampire' and 'romance', then follow up with a “I know it sounds horrible, but really, they're so so good”, but by then, the damage is done and I've received all sorts of horrified expressions or doubtful smirks. Vampire romance is perhaps the worse, most cringe-inducing cliché out there. At a recent family event, I was asked the dreaded “So, what type of books do you like?”, and I found myself saying, “Oh. Um. I like this book called Twilight. But I can't tell you what it's about. It sounds too stupid.”
But true fans of the Twilight Saga know the story is much more than simply vampires and romance. Twilight tells the tale of seventeen-year-old Bella Swan, who moves from Phoenix to live with her father in Forks, Washington, a sleepy, gray little town located in the perpetually rainy Olympic Peninsula. It is there she encounters the enigmatic, “devastatingly beautiful” Edward Cullen, who is clearly something above and beyond the ordinary. The story is very much a narrative, told in first person from Bella's wry, relatable perspective. The series continues with New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn.
The books are huge. All four in the saga sit in the top four spots for USA Today's fiction bestseller list, and the entire series is ranked at number one for the New York Time's children's bestseller list. There are a combined total of 10.7 million of the books in print, and the series has received attention from major periodicals such as Time and Entertainment Weekly, as well as other publications and news-stations around the country. Two summers ago, the release of Eclipse knocked Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows off the number one spot on the New York Times list, which was no easy feat. The books have been toted as the next Harry Potter, as both series inspire cult like followings, incur supernatural elements, and enjoy enormous popularity. But that's about where the similarities end. Junior Divya Reddy says, “I like Harry Potter because JK Rowling created such an intricate world. But I love Twilight for its well-constructed, detailed characters.”
The widest demographic of fans seems to be teenage girls, though a quick Google search for the books yield results such as www.twilightMOMS.com and www.twilightguy.com. But according to Junior Brad Carstens, “No matter which way you cut it, it's a total chick book. I think that bottom line, it's tough for an author to make a love story that both sexes can enjoy equally, because each respective sex is looking to get different things out of it. I like to throw myself into the persona of a character as I read, but with the main character being a girl and the only important male character seeming so aloof, the task was impossible.”
Gender preferences aside, why are the books so popular? The most common answer seems to be the incredibly animated, if not realistic, characters. The characters are really the novel's greatest asset. Though some of the characters may be as unrealistic as the storyline, they felt believable. As I was reading the books, Edward and Bella were so captivating for me, I felt compelled to see how it all played out. I had to know how their story ended. Junior Barbie Close agrees, adding “The best thing about the Twilight books is the fact that as soon as you read them, you can forget everything stressful in your life. Instead of being nervous over an essay in AP, you're panicked that Bella may choose Jacob over Edward.”
The fourth and final novel in the series, Breaking Dawn, was released to less-than-stellar reviews this past August. While Time magazine gave it an A-, Entertainment Weekly gave it a D, criticizing “outrageous plot twists” and comparing it to a “bad Goth sitcom”. This was a surprising turnabout, as Meyer's books have generally received reluctant praise, citing her genuineness and compelling style. However, maybe the professionals in the publishing world have higher expectations than the average high schooler. Most everyone I talked to immensely enjoyed it. Senior Stephanie Schilz says, “ I loved the last book. I think that people criticized it so much because it wasn't what they were expecting.”
The film adaption of Twilight hit theaters November 21st, starring Robert Pattinson (Vanity Fair, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) and Kristen Stewart (In The Land of Women, Into the Wild) as the star crossed lovers. The movie was a smash success, grossing $70 million in the opening weekend alone, and going on to make over $300 million world wide. Not bad for a film made on a $35 million budget.
But not everyone was happy with the movie. “I hated it!” exclaims junior Abby Frawley. “The special effects were so cheesy ... and Kristen Stewart is a horrible actress!” While Ms. Stewart's acting abilities are subjective, it was universally agreed that the vampire supernatural speed and strength wasn't done very realistically. The average review of the film was around 2 out of 4 stars. However, most fans were able to keep things in perspective. “You have to take it for what it is. I went in not expecting much, and I was pleasantly surprised,” says sophomore Mel Mataya. “It was obviously low-budget, but the atmosphere of the movie felt right, and that's all that matters.”
Love it or hate it, it is undeniable that for now, Twilight is a steady fixture in pop culture, and with three movie sequels coming in the next few years, it'll be a while before Edward and Bella go anywhere. So embrace it for what it is, as sophomore Tim Jurney has done. “They're horribly unrealistic books,” he says. “Great, but pure escapist literature.” We all need to escape from time to time.
But true fans of the Twilight Saga know the story is much more than simply vampires and romance. Twilight tells the tale of seventeen-year-old Bella Swan, who moves from Phoenix to live with her father in Forks, Washington, a sleepy, gray little town located in the perpetually rainy Olympic Peninsula. It is there she encounters the enigmatic, “devastatingly beautiful” Edward Cullen, who is clearly something above and beyond the ordinary. The story is very much a narrative, told in first person from Bella's wry, relatable perspective. The series continues with New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn.
The books are huge. All four in the saga sit in the top four spots for USA Today's fiction bestseller list, and the entire series is ranked at number one for the New York Time's children's bestseller list. There are a combined total of 10.7 million of the books in print, and the series has received attention from major periodicals such as Time and Entertainment Weekly, as well as other publications and news-stations around the country. Two summers ago, the release of Eclipse knocked Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows off the number one spot on the New York Times list, which was no easy feat. The books have been toted as the next Harry Potter, as both series inspire cult like followings, incur supernatural elements, and enjoy enormous popularity. But that's about where the similarities end. Junior Divya Reddy says, “I like Harry Potter because JK Rowling created such an intricate world. But I love Twilight for its well-constructed, detailed characters.”
The widest demographic of fans seems to be teenage girls, though a quick Google search for the books yield results such as www.twilightMOMS.com and www.twilightguy.com. But according to Junior Brad Carstens, “No matter which way you cut it, it's a total chick book. I think that bottom line, it's tough for an author to make a love story that both sexes can enjoy equally, because each respective sex is looking to get different things out of it. I like to throw myself into the persona of a character as I read, but with the main character being a girl and the only important male character seeming so aloof, the task was impossible.”
Gender preferences aside, why are the books so popular? The most common answer seems to be the incredibly animated, if not realistic, characters. The characters are really the novel's greatest asset. Though some of the characters may be as unrealistic as the storyline, they felt believable. As I was reading the books, Edward and Bella were so captivating for me, I felt compelled to see how it all played out. I had to know how their story ended. Junior Barbie Close agrees, adding “The best thing about the Twilight books is the fact that as soon as you read them, you can forget everything stressful in your life. Instead of being nervous over an essay in AP, you're panicked that Bella may choose Jacob over Edward.”
The fourth and final novel in the series, Breaking Dawn, was released to less-than-stellar reviews this past August. While Time magazine gave it an A-, Entertainment Weekly gave it a D, criticizing “outrageous plot twists” and comparing it to a “bad Goth sitcom”. This was a surprising turnabout, as Meyer's books have generally received reluctant praise, citing her genuineness and compelling style. However, maybe the professionals in the publishing world have higher expectations than the average high schooler. Most everyone I talked to immensely enjoyed it. Senior Stephanie Schilz says, “ I loved the last book. I think that people criticized it so much because it wasn't what they were expecting.”
The film adaption of Twilight hit theaters November 21st, starring Robert Pattinson (Vanity Fair, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) and Kristen Stewart (In The Land of Women, Into the Wild) as the star crossed lovers. The movie was a smash success, grossing $70 million in the opening weekend alone, and going on to make over $300 million world wide. Not bad for a film made on a $35 million budget.
But not everyone was happy with the movie. “I hated it!” exclaims junior Abby Frawley. “The special effects were so cheesy ... and Kristen Stewart is a horrible actress!” While Ms. Stewart's acting abilities are subjective, it was universally agreed that the vampire supernatural speed and strength wasn't done very realistically. The average review of the film was around 2 out of 4 stars. However, most fans were able to keep things in perspective. “You have to take it for what it is. I went in not expecting much, and I was pleasantly surprised,” says sophomore Mel Mataya. “It was obviously low-budget, but the atmosphere of the movie felt right, and that's all that matters.”
Love it or hate it, it is undeniable that for now, Twilight is a steady fixture in pop culture, and with three movie sequels coming in the next few years, it'll be a while before Edward and Bella go anywhere. So embrace it for what it is, as sophomore Tim Jurney has done. “They're horribly unrealistic books,” he says. “Great, but pure escapist literature.” We all need to escape from time to time.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Feature Story Preview
1. Theme Statement: The Twilight Saga, a young adult series chronicling the trials and tribulations of a high school girl and her supernatural love, have exploded in popularity, dominating the bestseller lists and spawning a movie.
Sources:
1. Divya Reddy
2. Brad Carstens
3. Abby Frawley
4. Mel Mataya
5. Barbie Close
Questions:
1. What are the books about?
2. Why are they so popular? What is it that's so appealing?
3. Who reads them?
4. How does the movie compare?
5. Just how widespread is this?
Sources:
1. Divya Reddy
2. Brad Carstens
3. Abby Frawley
4. Mel Mataya
5. Barbie Close
Questions:
1. What are the books about?
2. Why are they so popular? What is it that's so appealing?
3. Who reads them?
4. How does the movie compare?
5. Just how widespread is this?
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Eastview Language Students Prepare to Travel Abroad
APPLE VALLEY, MN -- Eastview students are starting to prepare for their trips abroad this summer with the school's language departments. Students taking Spanish and German, two of the languages offered at Eastview in addition to French and Japanese, will be traveling to Spain and Germany, respectively. The trips are separately organized and on different dates.
Both groups are small, with six students on the German trip, and twelve traveling to Spain. The visits are a few weeks in length, and include a home stay with a native family, in addition to a week or so touring with the group. Multiple cities will be visited, giving students a thorough feel for the country.
The Spanish students depart on June 18, 2009 and will be gone for three weeks, two of which are spent with a host family. Host families receive minimal compensation, but it is a hospitable effort on their behalf to host American students and show them around the cities.
“I'm a bit nervous about staying with complete strangers for two weeks. It'll be awkward for a few days, but I think it will be worth it,” confides junior Laura Jorgenson, who will be traveling to Sevilla, Spain this summer with the school.
Host families and students both fill out forms with information such as likes and dislikes and meal preferences, and students indicate if they're comfortable staying with a family who smokes or has pets.
German student Colleen Lesch, who is also a junior with plans to travel abroad this summer, isn't too nervous about the host family. “Mrs. Sonnenberg told us that we have a high rate for good matches and the students are happy with their families,” she notes. “Also, the teachers who organize our trips usually know their own students well enough that they can match the exchange students with a compatible family.”
The trip to Germany, which leaves June 16, and is also for three weeks, will introduce students to the cities of Berlin and Inglostadt. There will also be day trips to visit prominent castles and neighboring cities such as Salzburg, Austria.
In addition to sight-seeing, students will be able to improve their language skills. Junior Sarah Brunsvold, who stayed with a German host family last year for a month through the Rosemount High School program, says her family spoke almost perfect English, so she did not use as much German as she thought she would.
Colleen agrees. “I think the basic idea is immersion, but I have no doubt that we will attempt to use English when possible.”
However, Sarah claims just being around German speakers for a month vastly improved her control of the language, adding “my language and listening skills improved immensely.”
The parents bankrolling their child's trip will be glad to see their student's language grade rise. As with any European vacation, the trip is not inexpensive. The Spanish excursion totaled $3,345, though the German trip is about $800 less.
There have been a few fund-raising opportunities. Spanish students sold concessions at a few basketball games this past winter, and may be bagging groceries at Cub within a few weeks.
“My parents are paying for the actual sticker price, but I have to cover all expenses while I'm over there,” says Colleen.
But the high costs are considered a worthy investment. All trip participants seem to be very eager to see Europe and try out a bit of the language. “It’s a great way to get to know about the country and experience first hand what it would be like to live there. Also it’s a great way to use the language you’re learning,” says Sarah.
The students hope to get the something significant from their experience. “I hope to walk away with a better understanding of the culture of Spain and I also hope to become fluent in Spanish,” says Laura.
Both groups are small, with six students on the German trip, and twelve traveling to Spain. The visits are a few weeks in length, and include a home stay with a native family, in addition to a week or so touring with the group. Multiple cities will be visited, giving students a thorough feel for the country.
The Spanish students depart on June 18, 2009 and will be gone for three weeks, two of which are spent with a host family. Host families receive minimal compensation, but it is a hospitable effort on their behalf to host American students and show them around the cities.
“I'm a bit nervous about staying with complete strangers for two weeks. It'll be awkward for a few days, but I think it will be worth it,” confides junior Laura Jorgenson, who will be traveling to Sevilla, Spain this summer with the school.
Host families and students both fill out forms with information such as likes and dislikes and meal preferences, and students indicate if they're comfortable staying with a family who smokes or has pets.
German student Colleen Lesch, who is also a junior with plans to travel abroad this summer, isn't too nervous about the host family. “Mrs. Sonnenberg told us that we have a high rate for good matches and the students are happy with their families,” she notes. “Also, the teachers who organize our trips usually know their own students well enough that they can match the exchange students with a compatible family.”
The trip to Germany, which leaves June 16, and is also for three weeks, will introduce students to the cities of Berlin and Inglostadt. There will also be day trips to visit prominent castles and neighboring cities such as Salzburg, Austria.
In addition to sight-seeing, students will be able to improve their language skills. Junior Sarah Brunsvold, who stayed with a German host family last year for a month through the Rosemount High School program, says her family spoke almost perfect English, so she did not use as much German as she thought she would.
Colleen agrees. “I think the basic idea is immersion, but I have no doubt that we will attempt to use English when possible.”
However, Sarah claims just being around German speakers for a month vastly improved her control of the language, adding “my language and listening skills improved immensely.”
The parents bankrolling their child's trip will be glad to see their student's language grade rise. As with any European vacation, the trip is not inexpensive. The Spanish excursion totaled $3,345, though the German trip is about $800 less.
There have been a few fund-raising opportunities. Spanish students sold concessions at a few basketball games this past winter, and may be bagging groceries at Cub within a few weeks.
“My parents are paying for the actual sticker price, but I have to cover all expenses while I'm over there,” says Colleen.
But the high costs are considered a worthy investment. All trip participants seem to be very eager to see Europe and try out a bit of the language. “It’s a great way to get to know about the country and experience first hand what it would be like to live there. Also it’s a great way to use the language you’re learning,” says Sarah.
The students hope to get the something significant from their experience. “I hope to walk away with a better understanding of the culture of Spain and I also hope to become fluent in Spanish,” says Laura.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
News Story Peer Review
News Story - Graduation 2010 ~ Sonja Burke
http://sonjaburke.blogspot.com/
Review: The lead does a good job with providing a quick, basic overview of the story, including most of the 5 w's. The information is a bit crammed together, and the sentences are slightly clunky, but overall the lead does a thorough job setting up the story. It's a great idea for a story because it's highly relevant, and something most students (especially the juniors).
I am most interested in learning why this has been decided, and if it's a permenant change. Also, a confirmation that seniors will in fact not have to attend school that last week is needed.
News Story - Business Apprentice Challenge ~ Allie Johnson
http://alliejohnsonjournalism.blogspot.com/
Review: The opener is very interesting, an effective attention getter. The lead is maybe a bit too detailed right away, and there is a lot of extra information to weed through to find the 5 w's. Consider minimizing the first paragraph and moving the extra explanatory info to the second paragraph.
I'm interested in learning if the students have to negotiate with local businesses, and who gets the profit. Are there any prizes, and how much do students usually make in terms of a profit? It should be a very interesting story, and I look forward to reading the finished project, as this was something I've been wondering about.
http://sonjaburke.blogspot.com/
Review: The lead does a good job with providing a quick, basic overview of the story, including most of the 5 w's. The information is a bit crammed together, and the sentences are slightly clunky, but overall the lead does a thorough job setting up the story. It's a great idea for a story because it's highly relevant, and something most students (especially the juniors).
I am most interested in learning why this has been decided, and if it's a permenant change. Also, a confirmation that seniors will in fact not have to attend school that last week is needed.
News Story - Business Apprentice Challenge ~ Allie Johnson
http://alliejohnsonjournalism.blogspot.com/
Review: The opener is very interesting, an effective attention getter. The lead is maybe a bit too detailed right away, and there is a lot of extra information to weed through to find the 5 w's. Consider minimizing the first paragraph and moving the extra explanatory info to the second paragraph.
I'm interested in learning if the students have to negotiate with local businesses, and who gets the profit. Are there any prizes, and how much do students usually make in terms of a profit? It should be a very interesting story, and I look forward to reading the finished project, as this was something I've been wondering about.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
News Story
APPLE VALLEY, MN -- Eastview students are starting to prepare for their trips abroad this summer with the school's language departments. Students taking Spanish and German, two of the languages offered at Eastview in addition to French and Japanese, will be traveling to Spain and Germany, respectively. The trips are seperately organized and on different dates. Spanish students leave for Madrid in July.
Both groups are small, about 6 students on the German trip, and slightly more traveling to Spain. The visits are a few weeks in length, and include a home stay with a native family, in addition to a week or so touring with the group. Multiple cities will be visited, giving students a thorough feel for the country.
Both groups are small, about 6 students on the German trip, and slightly more traveling to Spain. The visits are a few weeks in length, and include a home stay with a native family, in addition to a week or so touring with the group. Multiple cities will be visited, giving students a thorough feel for the country.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
How to Prepare and Conduct Interviews
Starting Off:
- 3 interviews
- schedule interviews (24+ hours)
- give a "heads up" to interviewees
- conduct background research
- write interview questions (10 - 15)
Preparing Questions:
- it's your job
- first impressions
- nervous and unexpected circumstances
- higher quality questions
- preparation is a guide, not a limitation
Holy Trinity
- anecdote
- revealing quotation
- portraiture: description created by writer, based on observations of interviewee. Description is related.
Preparation Payoff:
- varying types for various purposes
- to relax, gain trust, show genuine interest
Types of Questions:
- Opener: beginning question/remark, establish a rapport: "Oh, cute pictures. Are those your children?"
- First Step: asks about the topic. "I wanted to talk to you about the upcoming fundraiser?"
- Qualifier: find out if your source is qualified. "What is your role in the fundraising efforts?"
- Routine factual: 5w/h "Who is on the committee? When will the fundraiser be?"
- Numerical: statistical information. "How much money do you hope to raise?"
- GOSSEY: ask deeper questions: goals, obstacles, solutions, start, evaluation, why?
- Responder: clarification. "Would you explain what you mean?"
- Soliciting a quote: a specific question. "Tell me exactly what your hope is for this fundraiser."
- Soliciting an anecdote: prompts a short story. "What has been the most memorable aspect of this process?"
- Imaginative: strays from the routine. "Does your team have any superstitions?"
- Grenade: difficult questions. "Some people say you favorite certain platers. Would you comment on this?"
- Recover from grenade: a neutral question. "Any last minute strategies before the game?"
Concluding the Interview:
- "thank you"
- sign documentation sheet
- further questions
Beware:
- Some people are bad at interviews.
- plan ahead, there are unforeseen circumstances
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Writing News
Writing a News Story
Current event that is newsworthy.
Types of Stories
Hard News Stories: +/- 600 words. News of the day. What's happening in the world, a chronicle of human events. Starts with a summary lead - who what when where why. Washington, middle east, murders, swine flu, etc.
Soft News: news that is not time sensitive. Profiles on people or events.
Features: (+/-1500 words) Effective way of writing about complex issues that are too large to discuss in 600 words. Usually some perspective is needed. Ex: gender equity in sports.
Editorial: Expresses a personal opinion on news, but it must be relevant and newsworthy.
Structure
Lead - First paragraph. Summarizes issue and and leads into what will follow. Who what when where and why in a hard news story.
A soft news story lead is more literary - perhaps a quote or anecdote as an attention getter.
Body - combines interviews, facts, and narrative. Must be objective. Engage the reader, use senses.
Current event that is newsworthy.
Types of Stories
Hard News Stories: +/- 600 words. News of the day. What's happening in the world, a chronicle of human events. Starts with a summary lead - who what when where why. Washington, middle east, murders, swine flu, etc.
Soft News: news that is not time sensitive. Profiles on people or events.
Features: (+/-1500 words) Effective way of writing about complex issues that are too large to discuss in 600 words. Usually some perspective is needed. Ex: gender equity in sports.
Editorial: Expresses a personal opinion on news, but it must be relevant and newsworthy.
Structure
Lead - First paragraph. Summarizes issue and and leads into what will follow. Who what when where and why in a hard news story.
A soft news story lead is more literary - perhaps a quote or anecdote as an attention getter.
Body - combines interviews, facts, and narrative. Must be objective. Engage the reader, use senses.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Law and Ethics notes
Censorship
What authority do school officials have to control the content of high school media?
Five Freedoms of First Amendment
1. speech
2. assembly
3. religion
4. press
5. petition
But First Amendment rights are not unlimited. Rioting and murder are illegal. Believe, write, assemble whatever and whenever you want within the confines of the law.
Because they are government agencies, public schools are further limited by First Amendment rights. However, public schools have more freedom than private schools. Because they're often based on religion, unregulated private schools are frequently more stifling than public schools.
Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District (1969)
The US government recognizes First Amendment rights protect student rights to protest.
Neither students nor teachers "shed their constitutional rights to freedom of expression or speech at the schoolhouse gate."
Tinker Standards - cannot be unlawful or physically disruptive speech.
Bethel School District vs. Fraser (1986) ~ inapproriate speech for class president
Because school officials have an "interest in teaching students the boundaries of socially approriate behavior", they can censor student behavior that is indecent or vulgar, even if it does not cause a "material or substantial disruption."
Fraser Standards - decency standards
Hazelwood Standard: If an article goes against what the school teaches, the school has the right to edit or censor. Example: teenage pregnancy.
"Reasonable educational justification"
Morse vs. Frederick (2007)
Olympic torch travels through town and school is canceled. Senior unveils banner on sidewalk across streets "Bong Hits 4 Jesus". Suspended for 10 days.
Students claim it's not on school grounds, during school, met for a joke, or actual illicit activities.
Ruled in favor of school, because it's a school authorized activity.
Libel and Slander
Libel: an oversimplified definition
Publication of a false statement of fact that seriously harms someone's reputation.
Have to be able to prove it.
Red Flag Statements:
-accusations of illegal conduct
-sexual misconduct
-associated with "loathsome diseases"
-lying
-unfit for business
-academic problems
-racial/religious/ethnic bigotry
-financial instability or lack of creditworthiness
Acting Reasonably:
-use trustworthy sources - evaluare sources and don't overstate credibility
-take accurate notes
-documents
-report, don't sell
-talk to all sides - including the subject
-be open-minded
-do the work required or don't do the story
-be rigorous in your choice of language
-never publish a story if you doubt it's truth
What authority do school officials have to control the content of high school media?
Five Freedoms of First Amendment
1. speech
2. assembly
3. religion
4. press
5. petition
But First Amendment rights are not unlimited. Rioting and murder are illegal. Believe, write, assemble whatever and whenever you want within the confines of the law.
Because they are government agencies, public schools are further limited by First Amendment rights. However, public schools have more freedom than private schools. Because they're often based on religion, unregulated private schools are frequently more stifling than public schools.
Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District (1969)
The US government recognizes First Amendment rights protect student rights to protest.
Neither students nor teachers "shed their constitutional rights to freedom of expression or speech at the schoolhouse gate."
Tinker Standards - cannot be unlawful or physically disruptive speech.
Bethel School District vs. Fraser (1986) ~ inapproriate speech for class president
Because school officials have an "interest in teaching students the boundaries of socially approriate behavior", they can censor student behavior that is indecent or vulgar, even if it does not cause a "material or substantial disruption."
Fraser Standards - decency standards
Hazelwood Standard: If an article goes against what the school teaches, the school has the right to edit or censor. Example: teenage pregnancy.
"Reasonable educational justification"
Morse vs. Frederick (2007)
Olympic torch travels through town and school is canceled. Senior unveils banner on sidewalk across streets "Bong Hits 4 Jesus". Suspended for 10 days.
Students claim it's not on school grounds, during school, met for a joke, or actual illicit activities.
Ruled in favor of school, because it's a school authorized activity.
Libel and Slander
Libel: an oversimplified definition
Publication of a false statement of fact that seriously harms someone's reputation.
Have to be able to prove it.
Red Flag Statements:
-accusations of illegal conduct
-sexual misconduct
-associated with "loathsome diseases"
-lying
-unfit for business
-academic problems
-racial/religious/ethnic bigotry
-financial instability or lack of creditworthiness
Acting Reasonably:
-use trustworthy sources - evaluare sources and don't overstate credibility
-take accurate notes
-documents
-report, don't sell
-talk to all sides - including the subject
-be open-minded
-do the work required or don't do the story
-be rigorous in your choice of language
-never publish a story if you doubt it's truth
Thursday, April 30, 2009
1. Community events, such as fund-raisers, as well as events, updates on extra-cirruculars, and features on unusual events. It's a wide mix of people writing.
2. 2004: election. Otherwise, it's a mix of schoolboard and district decisions, including the ever present issues of lack of funding and high enrollment, and political happenings, in addition to a few student surveys or human interest stories.
3. Four every issue for Canned Spam - wide mix of students.
4. Inconsistent amount of staff profiles, but the older teachers seem to show up more often.
5. Natural disasters get their own full page spread - Hurricane Katrina and the tsunami. It appears a special edition was printed just for the tsunamis. I don't know if they're still relevant per se, because it's not happening anymore, but certainly no one's forgotten.
6. Sports was a lot bigger in the Lightning Press than it is now. There is a larger section and more variety of articles devoted to it, including a definitive "What makes a sport?" article. In 2005 an EVHS gymnast was part of the successful junior Olympics team.
7. The December 2004 issue features a lot of changes, such as how Target had banned charity loitering and the SAT's redesign.
8. The paper took a lot of stands on school related issues such as budget cuts and teacher reviews.
9. Mostly budget cuts.
10. More activities than classes - like VOICES.
11. No, unfortunately nothing scandalous.
12. Fashion is pretty generic through the age because of the beloved Eastview hoodies. But I did think the article on senior portraits had some examples that looked a bit dated.
13. Just that fact that students were a lot more involved in the paper then than they are now. Today everyone is worringly apathetic.
14. Award winning literary magazine, and a spotlight on pep band and speech ... not much to be found.
15. Sports in general.
16. Just everyday life - buying snacks, senior portraits, etc. Not much NEWS, except for hurricanes and fundraisers.
17. Big Fish, The Bachelorette, Pixar Animation movies, Muse, Coldplay, the Killers
18. Gas prices
19. It's gotten shorter, both in amount of pages and the length of articles. Design has seemed less 'newspapery' as color is added and the spacing is less squished.
20. No?
21. Traditions include color day and 'chomping' . Rivals have always been Apple Valley in everything, more intensely football. Others include Rosemount and Eagan ... ever since Eastview opened it's been competitive.
22. 1. The building looks like a prison.
2. There are usually several valedictorians in each graduating class.
3. The elitist attitude - did this only come to exist as a result of community expectations?
4. good arts programs
5. the love it or hate it attitude of students
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Journalism Notes
Definition: The reporting of newsworthy current events via newspapers, magazines, and the internet.
Define “Journalism” in 1-3 sentences.
The reporting of current and relevant news and events via newspaper, internet, radio, or television for the purpose of informing.
List and describe the six criteria of newsworthiness.
1. Timeliness: current. Examples: Up-to-date weather or political decisions.
2. Proximity: the closeness/locality of a situation. Examples: Vikings draft picks.
3. Significance: major events. Examples: 9/11 or Hurricane Katrina.
4. Prominence: Famous/major people. Examples: Obama's new puppy.
5. Unusualness: Rare occurances. Examples: Murders, fires, octuplets.
6. Human Interest: quick feel good story. Examples: Dolphin born at zoo.
What are the advantages of print journalism?
1. more leeway - being able to choose what to print and when
2. more detailed stories than broadcast journalism
3. easier to archive and generally more accurate
What are the advantages of broadcast journalism?
1. more current and easier to update
2. more interesting and visually dynamic
3. free
Why has online journalism (convergent media) become so popular?
Online journalism is free and always up-to-date. New stories are posted frequently, and the viewer is able to choose when they'd like to read the news. It has audio and video, and there are more sources in one spot.
Define “Journalism” in 1-3 sentences.
The reporting of current and relevant news and events via newspaper, internet, radio, or television for the purpose of informing.
List and describe the six criteria of newsworthiness.
1. Timeliness: current. Examples: Up-to-date weather or political decisions.
2. Proximity: the closeness/locality of a situation. Examples: Vikings draft picks.
3. Significance: major events. Examples: 9/11 or Hurricane Katrina.
4. Prominence: Famous/major people. Examples: Obama's new puppy.
5. Unusualness: Rare occurances. Examples: Murders, fires, octuplets.
6. Human Interest: quick feel good story. Examples: Dolphin born at zoo.
What are the advantages of print journalism?
1. more leeway - being able to choose what to print and when
2. more detailed stories than broadcast journalism
3. easier to archive and generally more accurate
What are the advantages of broadcast journalism?
1. more current and easier to update
2. more interesting and visually dynamic
3. free
Why has online journalism (convergent media) become so popular?
Online journalism is free and always up-to-date. New stories are posted frequently, and the viewer is able to choose when they'd like to read the news. It has audio and video, and there are more sources in one spot.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Friday, April 17, 2009
Superbowl Ads
1. Company:PlayStation - GameDay NFL
Target Audience: gamers - younger men, sports enthusiasts
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor, skills improvement to impress (motivation)
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
Focus on pizza as object of interest, close up on tackles and diving, music used to energize
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"Want even tougher tackles?" ~Live in Your World, Play in Ours
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Yes, action appealed to sport gamers. Concise and to the point.
2. Company: Budweiser
Target Audience: beer drinkers, presumably male sports fans
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
starts off on slow motion zoom on horses running, slow to reveal punchline which enhances comedy of the situation
What is the slogan/message for the company?
Budweiser -drink responsibly.
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Possibly - it's hardly relevant to beer, but it's funny and people will remember it.
3. Company: Chrysler
Target Audience: younger people, probably women
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
celebrity endorsement - Celine Dion
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
Quick cuts of car close ups to driving music beat, then Dion as the driver is revealed
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"Drive and Love"
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Yes, it did a decent job of romanticizing the car, especially since it combined the music and the endorsement and with the 'drive and love' slogan.
4. Company: Pepsi
Target Audience: everyone, because pop is universal
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor and d-list celebrity endorsements - the Osbournes, the Osmends, that woman from the Brady Bunch
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
tacky editing - the unzipping of the can
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"the twist of a great thing"
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
No, because like the Budweiser commercial, it's irrelevant to the product, but unlike the Budweiser commercial, it's hardly funny. I was a bit disgusted, not amused.
5. Company: FedEx
Target Audience: older homeowners
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor - wit
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
The camera shots were relatively normal, it's the material that was funny.
What is the slogan/message for the company?
FedEx Express
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Yes. One would think postal service was too dry of a subject to have amusing commercials, but this was memorably clever.
6. Company: Dodge
Target Audience: truck drivers, probably men
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor/alternative uses for product
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
The passenger starts choking, so the driver speeds up the truck and then stops abruptly, inadverdently recreating the motion of the Heimlich Maneuver and the man stops choking. At first, it's ambiguous, which makes the ending more effective.
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"Grab Life By The Horns"
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Yes, if you're a car/truck fan.
7. Company: Gatorade
Target Audience: athletes, or those who just like sports drinks. Males, most likely.
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
celebrity endorsement
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
It seems rather scrambled. Really it's just NBA players shooting hoops and giving each other a hard time while they drink Gatorade.
What is the slogan/message for the company?
Gatorade
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Not entirely, because nothing happens, but people were expecting a punchline or something of the sort.
8. Company: ESPN
Target Audience: sports fans who watch ESPN
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
Showed the chaos and hurried tone, but another seemingly pointless commerical. Nothing happened, ring in unrelated.
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"This is SportsCenter"
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
No, because people who like ESPN and going to watch it anyway, and I don't understand how that would draw in new viewers.
9. Company: H&R Block
Target Audience: tax payers - older people who know who Willie Nelson is
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
celebrity endorsement, Willie Nelson. And humor.
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
And first it seems it's a shaving cream commercial, and you're not entirely sure how it will end. Camera shots adequately portray the chaos and confusion of Willie Nelson.
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"We'll find what others miss."
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Yes, it's intelligent and funny. And usually taxes aren't funny.
10. Company: BudLight
Target Audience: beer drinkers, most likely males
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor, but it's hardly funny
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
The upside down clown suit confuses the viewer as much as the people in the commerical - I don't know what message they're trying to portray.
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"For a great taste that fills you up."
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
No. It was confusing and crass.
Target Audience: gamers - younger men, sports enthusiasts
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor, skills improvement to impress (motivation)
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
Focus on pizza as object of interest, close up on tackles and diving, music used to energize
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"Want even tougher tackles?" ~Live in Your World, Play in Ours
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Yes, action appealed to sport gamers. Concise and to the point.
2. Company: Budweiser
Target Audience: beer drinkers, presumably male sports fans
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
starts off on slow motion zoom on horses running, slow to reveal punchline which enhances comedy of the situation
What is the slogan/message for the company?
Budweiser -drink responsibly.
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Possibly - it's hardly relevant to beer, but it's funny and people will remember it.
3. Company: Chrysler
Target Audience: younger people, probably women
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
celebrity endorsement - Celine Dion
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
Quick cuts of car close ups to driving music beat, then Dion as the driver is revealed
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"Drive and Love"
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Yes, it did a decent job of romanticizing the car, especially since it combined the music and the endorsement and with the 'drive and love' slogan.
4. Company: Pepsi
Target Audience: everyone, because pop is universal
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor and d-list celebrity endorsements - the Osbournes, the Osmends, that woman from the Brady Bunch
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
tacky editing - the unzipping of the can
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"the twist of a great thing"
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
No, because like the Budweiser commercial, it's irrelevant to the product, but unlike the Budweiser commercial, it's hardly funny. I was a bit disgusted, not amused.
5. Company: FedEx
Target Audience: older homeowners
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor - wit
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
The camera shots were relatively normal, it's the material that was funny.
What is the slogan/message for the company?
FedEx Express
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Yes. One would think postal service was too dry of a subject to have amusing commercials, but this was memorably clever.
6. Company: Dodge
Target Audience: truck drivers, probably men
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor/alternative uses for product
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
The passenger starts choking, so the driver speeds up the truck and then stops abruptly, inadverdently recreating the motion of the Heimlich Maneuver and the man stops choking. At first, it's ambiguous, which makes the ending more effective.
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"Grab Life By The Horns"
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Yes, if you're a car/truck fan.
7. Company: Gatorade
Target Audience: athletes, or those who just like sports drinks. Males, most likely.
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
celebrity endorsement
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
It seems rather scrambled. Really it's just NBA players shooting hoops and giving each other a hard time while they drink Gatorade.
What is the slogan/message for the company?
Gatorade
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Not entirely, because nothing happens, but people were expecting a punchline or something of the sort.
8. Company: ESPN
Target Audience: sports fans who watch ESPN
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
Showed the chaos and hurried tone, but another seemingly pointless commerical. Nothing happened, ring in unrelated.
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"This is SportsCenter"
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
No, because people who like ESPN and going to watch it anyway, and I don't understand how that would draw in new viewers.
9. Company: H&R Block
Target Audience: tax payers - older people who know who Willie Nelson is
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
celebrity endorsement, Willie Nelson. And humor.
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
And first it seems it's a shaving cream commercial, and you're not entirely sure how it will end. Camera shots adequately portray the chaos and confusion of Willie Nelson.
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"We'll find what others miss."
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
Yes, it's intelligent and funny. And usually taxes aren't funny.
10. Company: BudLight
Target Audience: beer drinkers, most likely males
What persuasive method used (humor, action, celebrity, human interest, etc.)?
humor, but it's hardly funny
How were camera shots and editing used to enhance the message?
The upside down clown suit confuses the viewer as much as the people in the commerical - I don't know what message they're trying to portray.
What is the slogan/message for the company?
"For a great taste that fills you up."
Was the message effective? Why or why not?
No. It was confusing and crass.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Advertising - Maxim
1. 1 million (11.25 million)
2. 40% (34%)
3. 80% (80%)
4. $40,000 ($63,000)
5. 95% (78%)
6. 50% (73%)
7. 75% (66%)
8. 70% (80%)
9. $3000 ($156,000)
2. 40% (34%)
3. 80% (80%)
4. $40,000 ($63,000)
5. 95% (78%)
6. 50% (73%)
7. 75% (66%)
8. 70% (80%)
9. $3000 ($156,000)
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