What is it and why should I do it?

Journalism introduces students to the fundamentals of news gathering and reporting. The subject teaches students the importance of objectivity, balance, fairness and accuracy in presenting and interpreting events and issues. Being ‘Media Literate’ is a crucial skill for 21st global citizens. You will study the significance of journalism and the structure of digital media, furthermore learn the skills necessary to decode ‘fake news’ and produce newsworthy articles in today's world. You will explore different forms of media to produce an interactive web folio which will hone your writing and editing skills, and showcase your ability to create digital content. Students are empowered to delve into truthtelling on the stories and issues that matter to them. 

What will I do in class?

Throughout the journalism course you will debate and discuss the cultural significance and ethics of journalism. The class will undertake collaborative projects, which will include fact gathering and content creation. Students are required to create an online news presence through a personal news blog, where they can showcase their work. Each student will have lots of journalistic freedom to respond to issues that are important to them in written and oral form. Class tasks will include research and writing on issues important to you, research on 'Whistleblowers', 'Censorship' and case studies of unethical journalism. Furthering this, students will engage in interviewing tasks, scripting, recording and editing audio/video reports and critically analyse media forms on a regular basis. 

How do I satisfactorily complete the unit?

Participate in classwork and discussion, and produce an interactive web portfolio. 

RLT 1 - Web Folio 

• Reading and commenting on media texts through the use of the 'Inverted Pyramid' style of informative writing.
• Practising journalistic techniques to manipulate facts and visuals for a specific audience and effect.
• A feature article on a case study comparing 'Representations in the Media'.
• Using ICT tools to draft, edit and refine written texts.

RLT 2 - Investigative Journalism

• Exploring media bias in Australia (and across the globe!)
• Researching and uncovering important stories with regards to 'Censorship' and manipulated news. 
• Exploration and evaluation of case studies to identify the impact of fake and manipulated news on global societies. 
• Analytical commentary on the cultural significance and ethics of journalism. 

RLT 3 - Oral Presentations. 

• Podcasting/Vlogging tasks. 
• Students will choose from a variety of RLT options to hone their skills in investigative and informative journalism as well as developing their persuasive 'pitch' skills. These tasks can be collaborative or individual. 

PHSC Wiki Space:

Yr10 Journalism: Manufacturing Opinion