1. Why did Bowie student Jack Guy design Grade Buzz? Page A1 "Student launches..." Did you know this was in our school newspaper 2 weeks ago!!!!
The AISD Cloud site's user interface wasn't very effective.
2. After the huge snowstorms hit Buffalo, NY last week, what is the next major concern for the region? Page A5 "Winter Weather"
Flooding because of snow melt.
3. What point is cartoonist, Chan Lowe, trying to make in the political cartoon on page A11?
That all of the different "holidays" that feature extreme sales on products are just going to cause consumers to buy more and more, which will cost them more than if they had just bought what they needed at its normal price.
4. Why is Alexis Alpha suing the San Marcos police department? Page B1 "Woman sues police…"
Because she was assaulted by a police officer, the attack resulting in a concussion and broken teeth.
5. Why are theme parks struggling to attract new visitors? Page B7 "Changing theme of parks"
Because people have so many entertainment outlets in the comfort of their own home, it's becoming harder and harder for them to be convinced to make the trip to an amusement park.
Short Answer: What impact does Capitol Metro's decision to raise fares by $.50 in January potentially have on the people of Austin?
Think logically here and think outside the box. Who does this impact the most and what will happen to their lives?
While the increased fares may help fund things in the city, they will impact many people negatively. Specifically homeless people, for which the bus is a main mode of transportation. 50 cents can make a big difference for someone who has to scrape together coins earned on the side of the road just to eat, much less to get from one place to another in a way other than walking. Some homeless people even use the bus as a place to sleep, for lack of any other safe, warm place to shut their eyes. The raised fares will definitely impact their lives negatively, and leave some of them exposed to the elements as winter sets in.
Monday, November 24, 2014
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Feature Story Example
1. When you read the headline, were you at all interested in the story?
Somewhat; I think if it had just been a headline about WWII veterans it wouldn't have been as interesting, but the quote draws a reader in more.
2. After you completed the story, what were two things you learned about that you did not know before
I never really realized how quickly the WWII generation is "slipping away from us". Also, I didn't know that 6,000 Americans died on Iwo Jima.
3. Was the story better than you expected after reading the headline?
Yes. Even though the quote made it better, this isn't the kind of story that I usually read.
4. What person was the story written in?
First.
5. Did the chronological format help the story in your opinion?
Yes, it was easier to follow.
6. How many different people did the writer quote in the story?
13.
7. What was the thematic element the writer used throughout the story?
The thief of time.
8. How did the quotes help the story?
They made the story more personal, more intimate.
9. Was the story written in a very strict, quote-transition format?
No.
10. How is this story different than the hard news pieces we have written in the past?
It has more pathos in it and it's less about the hard facts and more about the people.
Somewhat; I think if it had just been a headline about WWII veterans it wouldn't have been as interesting, but the quote draws a reader in more.
2. After you completed the story, what were two things you learned about that you did not know before
I never really realized how quickly the WWII generation is "slipping away from us". Also, I didn't know that 6,000 Americans died on Iwo Jima.
3. Was the story better than you expected after reading the headline?
Yes. Even though the quote made it better, this isn't the kind of story that I usually read.
4. What person was the story written in?
First.
5. Did the chronological format help the story in your opinion?
Yes, it was easier to follow.
6. How many different people did the writer quote in the story?
13.
7. What was the thematic element the writer used throughout the story?
The thief of time.
8. How did the quotes help the story?
They made the story more personal, more intimate.
9. Was the story written in a very strict, quote-transition format?
No.
10. How is this story different than the hard news pieces we have written in the past?
It has more pathos in it and it's less about the hard facts and more about the people.
Current Events Quiz 11/20/14
1. Why would the city spend money to develop two PGA-level golf courses in East Austin? Page A1 "Austin council considers…"
It's a vision that's been in the works for four decades and it would help fund work in the city and share income.
2. What is the % of 1st time gun buyers purchasing weapons at Metro Shooting Supplies in Ferguson, MO? Page A2 "Gun sales surge…"
60%
3. How many feet of snow fell in Buffalo, NY in a 24 hour period yesterday? Page A3 "7 dead in Buffalo…"
5 1/2 feet of snow.
4. Why were 2 Austin Police Department officers suspended yesterday? Page B1 "2 officers suspended…"
They were caught on tape making jokes about rape.
5. What has helped Target stores report an increase of 3.2% on profits? BE SPECIFIC Page B5 "Target rebounds…"
Beauty products, toys, and back-to-school items.
6. Who are the current projected teams who will play in the 1st ever NCAA football play-offs? Page C3 "Power Four plus more" List the 4 teams projected by both the National Staff Writers and the other team selected by the Austin American Statesman for a total of 5 teams.
Alabama, Oregon, Florida State, Baylor, Mississippi State.
7. What are three of the best items you can build to improve your outdoor space to make it more livable? Page SA3 "Move your lifestyle…"
Outdoor kitchens, outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits.
8. Why is Players burger joint closing" Page D1 "Customers reminisce about…"
To become a building that houses a school for business.
9. Which of the 5 items in the Long Weekend Five Things to Do would you like to go to? Page D2
The performance of Hamlet.
10. Do you ever read your horoscope? Go to page D5 and read yours and respond to the predictions.
Oh wow, my horoscope (Sagittarius) definitely has some advice that I really need to take to heart. I don't read serious horoscopes very often, but I think they can be interesting and have good advice even if you don't believe in astrology.
It's a vision that's been in the works for four decades and it would help fund work in the city and share income.
2. What is the % of 1st time gun buyers purchasing weapons at Metro Shooting Supplies in Ferguson, MO? Page A2 "Gun sales surge…"
60%
3. How many feet of snow fell in Buffalo, NY in a 24 hour period yesterday? Page A3 "7 dead in Buffalo…"
5 1/2 feet of snow.
4. Why were 2 Austin Police Department officers suspended yesterday? Page B1 "2 officers suspended…"
They were caught on tape making jokes about rape.
5. What has helped Target stores report an increase of 3.2% on profits? BE SPECIFIC Page B5 "Target rebounds…"
Beauty products, toys, and back-to-school items.
6. Who are the current projected teams who will play in the 1st ever NCAA football play-offs? Page C3 "Power Four plus more" List the 4 teams projected by both the National Staff Writers and the other team selected by the Austin American Statesman for a total of 5 teams.
Alabama, Oregon, Florida State, Baylor, Mississippi State.
7. What are three of the best items you can build to improve your outdoor space to make it more livable? Page SA3 "Move your lifestyle…"
Outdoor kitchens, outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits.
8. Why is Players burger joint closing" Page D1 "Customers reminisce about…"
To become a building that houses a school for business.
9. Which of the 5 items in the Long Weekend Five Things to Do would you like to go to? Page D2
The performance of Hamlet.
10. Do you ever read your horoscope? Go to page D5 and read yours and respond to the predictions.
Oh wow, my horoscope (Sagittarius) definitely has some advice that I really need to take to heart. I don't read serious horoscopes very often, but I think they can be interesting and have good advice even if you don't believe in astrology.
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Feature Story Brainstorm
1. Who is your main subject?
Our family friend Doug Craig.
2. Supporting interviews (who else do you need to talk to)?
2. Supporting interviews (who else do you need to talk to)?
Wife Elizabeth, stepdaughter Ava.
3. What is the topic or potential topic?
3. What is the topic or potential topic?
His upcoming cross-country trip on his mobility scooter to raise money and awareness for muscular dystrophy, which he has.
4. Which angle from above will you write the story?
4. Which angle from above will you write the story?
Human Interest
5. Then to help you get going faster, come up with 20 questions that you can ask your main subject. Type these in your blog.
5. Then to help you get going faster, come up with 20 questions that you can ask your main subject. Type these in your blog.
1. When were you diagnosed with muscular dystrophy?
2. How does it affect your life on a daily basis?
3. How does it affect your family's life?
4. How has your disability changed the way you perceive the world?
5. How has your disability changed your outlook on life?
6. What made you come up with idea for your cross-country trip?
7. When will you start the trip?
8. How are you raising money for the trip?
9. How will this trip help raise awareness for muscular dystrophy?
10. How will your mobility scooter hold up for the long trip?
11. Are you going to be staying in hotels or with friends/acquaintances?
12. What sort of obstacles are you facing as you prepare for the trip?
13. What sort of obstacles will you face during the trip?
14. Where will you start your trip?
15. Where will you end your trip?
16. How long will the trip take?
17. Will the trip help raise money for muscular dystrophy?
18. If so, is the money being donated to research or to people with it?
19. Are you going to try to get more visibility about your trip?
20. If so, how? The media?
6. Once you complete that portion, you need to come up with 5-10 questions you need to ask your supporting interviews. Type these into your blog. You may need different questions for each supporting subject.
6. Once you complete that portion, you need to come up with 5-10 questions you need to ask your supporting interviews. Type these into your blog. You may need different questions for each supporting subject.
1. Are there any concerns you have about Doug's trip?
2. Will you be going on the trip?
3. Or will you meet him at certain points?
4. How has Doug's disability affected you?
5. What affects have you seen it have on his attitude or personality?
7. You will need to do a little research on the topic you expect to interview your main subject about. Take a little time and do some google searching - find at least 5 new things about the intended topic you should know before you interview your main subject. List those on your blog.
7. You will need to do a little research on the topic you expect to interview your main subject about. Take a little time and do some google searching - find at least 5 new things about the intended topic you should know before you interview your main subject. List those on your blog.
Before I interview I will need to know…
- What exactly muscular dystrophy is
- What it does to a person's body
- What sort of research is being done for it
- How long it takes to become actually noticeable/visible
- How it affects a person's general health
8. Write when you plan to conduct the interview(s)?
Thanksgiving break while we're staying with Doug & Elizabeth.
9. Where you will interview them (some interviews are better to do in the persons environment, while others should be done in public places, ALL interviews should be done in person)?
9. Where you will interview them (some interviews are better to do in the persons environment, while others should be done in public places, ALL interviews should be done in person)?
At their apartment in Jersey City.
10. How will you record the information? (taking notes is ideal, and if you want to record the conversation you MUST get permission. You can do both if they will allow you to record, this is a really strong technique that you could use.)
10. How will you record the information? (taking notes is ideal, and if you want to record the conversation you MUST get permission. You can do both if they will allow you to record, this is a really strong technique that you could use.)
I will take notes and record the conversation.
Key Ingredients
1. LIST 3 DETAILS THAT YOU FOUND ABOVE THAT HELP THE STORY
The client's name (and position), the description of the woman, and the
2. THERE ARE DETAILS THAT YOU MIGHT NOT INCLUDE IN A REGULAR NEWS STORY, PLEASE LIST AT LEAST 2 OF THEM
The prostitutes name, what the governor paid for.
3. DO YOU WANT TO KEEP READING?
Yes.
The client's name (and position), the description of the woman, and the
2. THERE ARE DETAILS THAT YOU MIGHT NOT INCLUDE IN A REGULAR NEWS STORY, PLEASE LIST AT LEAST 2 OF THEM
The prostitutes name, what the governor paid for.
3. DO YOU WANT TO KEEP READING?
Yes.
4. LIST 3 DESCRIPTIVE DETAILS THAT YOU FOUND ABOVE THAT HELP THE STORY
The state of the room the little girl was found in, her age, and the horrific condition she was found in.
5. THERE ARE DETAILS THAT YOU MIGHT NOT INCLUDE IN A REGULAR NEWS STORY, PLEASE LIST AT LEAST 2 OF THEM
The graphic details of her condition and what she was wearing.
6. WHAT CONDITIONS EXIST REGARDING THIS CHILD THAT THE AUTHOR DESCRIBES TO YOU?
She is emaciated, bug-bitten, and unwashed.
7. DO YOU WANT TO KEEP READING?
Yes.
8. HOW DOES THE QUOTE HELP THE TRANSITION STATEMENT ABOVE IT?
It supports it with details as well as emotion.
9. DO YOU WANT TO KEEP READING?
Yes.
10. LIST 3 DESCRIPTIVE DETAILS THAT YOU FOUND ABOVE THAT HELP THE STORY
The sparks, the ranch hands trying to fix the water pipe, the temperature.
11. THERE ARE DETAILS THAT YOU MIGHT NOT INCLUDE IN A REGULAR NEWS STORY, PLEASE LIST AT LEAST 2 OF THEM
The description of the sparks from the metal grinder and the ranch hands fixing the pipe.
12. WHAT WAS THE ANECDOTE THAT THE AUTHOR USED IN THIS STORY?
The ranch hands fixing the pipe near Lake Zaca.
13. WHAT WAS THE IRONICAL PART OF THIS STORY IN REGARDS TO HOW THE FIRE STARTED?
The sparks originated from something being used to fix a water pipe.
14. DO YOU WANT TO KEEP READING?
Somewhat.
15. LIST 3 PIECES OF BACKGROUND INFORMATION FOUND IN THESE 3 PARAGRAPHS
Last year the Forest Service spent over 1 billion dollars on wildfire damage, Congress is considering a new federal account to cover wildfires, and California's wildfire spending has risen 150%.
16. WHICH ONE DO YOU THINK IS THE MOST CRUCIAL?
The amount of money the Forest Service spent on wildfires last year.
17. DO YOU WANT TO KEEP READING?
Somewhat.
Friday, November 14, 2014
Current Events Quiz 11/14/14
1. How many undocumented immigrants could be impacted by proposed immigration changes? Page A1 "Obama immigration overhaul.."
5 million.
2. Why will the Philae lander potentially stop working in a couple of days after its historic landing on a comet? Page A3 "Cliff on comet's surface…"
A cliff is blocking the sun from the solar panels.
3. How many homeless people were provided shelter from the cold last night through city services? How many men were at ARCH? Page B1 "Shelters opening doors…"
About 330 people were given shelter, and 184 men were at ARCH.
4. Who were the American and National Leage MVP's in Major League Baseball? Page C5
Clayton Kershaw and Mike Trout.
5. How can you limit ad tracking on your iPhone? Page SA4 "What Atlas, Facebook's ad…"
Limit your "liking" on Facebook, as well as your ad-tracking by editing the settings on your devices.
Short Answer: Read the article on Page A1 "Cruz's net neutrality views irk techies".Net neutrality is the concept that Internet providers should treat all Internet content equally in terms of the speed it travels to consumers, so that small business owners and entrepreneurs can have the same chance as the big corporations.
I don't think that the government should be involved in regulations like this because while the initial idea appears to be a good idea, it seems like a slippery slope to me in terms of the control they have over what people can access on the Internet; but that's not to say that I don't think the government shouldn't be regulating sites that are potentially dangerous or illegal, but that's a different story all together.
Cruz thinks that net neutrality is necessary to make sure that big corporations aren't getting the upper hand over small businesses, but techies think that the government shouldn't be regulating the speed at which the Internet operates, and that the original purpose of net neutrality won't be fulfilled even if it is implemented.
5 million.
2. Why will the Philae lander potentially stop working in a couple of days after its historic landing on a comet? Page A3 "Cliff on comet's surface…"
A cliff is blocking the sun from the solar panels.
3. How many homeless people were provided shelter from the cold last night through city services? How many men were at ARCH? Page B1 "Shelters opening doors…"
About 330 people were given shelter, and 184 men were at ARCH.
4. Who were the American and National Leage MVP's in Major League Baseball? Page C5
Clayton Kershaw and Mike Trout.
5. How can you limit ad tracking on your iPhone? Page SA4 "What Atlas, Facebook's ad…"
Limit your "liking" on Facebook, as well as your ad-tracking by editing the settings on your devices.
Short Answer: Read the article on Page A1 "Cruz's net neutrality views irk techies".Net neutrality is the concept that Internet providers should treat all Internet content equally in terms of the speed it travels to consumers, so that small business owners and entrepreneurs can have the same chance as the big corporations.
I don't think that the government should be involved in regulations like this because while the initial idea appears to be a good idea, it seems like a slippery slope to me in terms of the control they have over what people can access on the Internet; but that's not to say that I don't think the government shouldn't be regulating sites that are potentially dangerous or illegal, but that's a different story all together.
Cruz thinks that net neutrality is necessary to make sure that big corporations aren't getting the upper hand over small businesses, but techies think that the government shouldn't be regulating the speed at which the Internet operates, and that the original purpose of net neutrality won't be fulfilled even if it is implemented.
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Lone Star Dispatch #2
Front Page
Safe Place offers protection for all abused students
Summary: Austin ISD is collaborating with Safe Place, an counseling organization for troubled teens. Any students who have suffered any kind of abuse, are struggling with addiction, or are parenting can speak with one of the Safe Place counselors, who will help them through the hard times and get them the help they need.
Who? Safe Place organization, AISD, Bowie counselors, Bowie students
What? a counseling program for students going through rough times
Where? AISD/Bowie
When? this year
Why? to get students the help they need
How? with counselors and support groups
Who was quoted in the story? Kate Kopke, Nathaniel Morgan
What quote was the strongest in your opinion? "Young adolescents should seek help from a responsible adult if they are facing any abuse. They shouldn't be ashamed or embarrassed about it." - Nathaniel Morgan
Did the lead sentence make you want to keep reading? Yes.
Was the conclusion a quote or a statement? A quote.
Student Life
Traditions that bring families together on Black Friday
Summary: Every Black Friday millions of Americans brave the packed stores for the discounts. Many people wake up before dawn to prepare for a day of shopping and saving. Students and teachers at Bowie have different opinions about Black Friday.
Who? Bowie students and teachers, Americans in general
What? Black Friday shopping
Where? stores across America
When? The Friday after every Thanksgiving Thursday
Why? For the sales
How? By waking up early and drinking lots of coffee
Who was quoted in the story? Chelsea Hummer, Irene Hidalgo, Vicki Hebert
What quote was the strongest in your opinion? "I love going Black Friday shopping. I wake up really early around 3 a.am. and drink a lot of coffee to stay energized and awake throughout the whole day." - Chelsea Hummer
Did the lead sentence make you want to keep reading? Somewhat.
Was the conclusion a quote or a statement? A statement
Rewritten Lede
Every year on the Friday after Thanksgiving, millions of Americans wake up before the crack of dawn, braving the swarming masses of consumers just like them to get the best deals before Christmas.
News
Halloween games brings on 'spooky' cheers
Summary: This Halloween Bowie football played Lake Travis for the district championship. There was a huge turnout, despite it being on such a popular holiday—or maybe because it was on such a popular holiday. Even though the Dawgs lost 64-7 students and players alike were left with unforgettable memories.
Who? Bowie football players and students
What? the Bowie-Lake Travis football game on Halloween
Where? the football stadium
When? Halloween
Why? For the district championship
How? students supported the team with 'spooky' cheers on Halloween
Who was quoted in the story? Leland huffman, Ian Good, Cody Pedneau
What quote was the strongest in your opinion? "I thought it was really fun playing the district championship on Halloween. I wish we could've won that game but overall it was a good Halloween." - Leland Huffman
Did the lead sentence make you want to keep reading? Yes.
Was the conclusion a quote or a statement? a statement
(I just realized this was a photo essay that was right next to the News section. I hope that that's okay.)
Sports
Swim team paddles to reach goals
Summary: The Bowie swim team has to get up at 6 every morning to make their daily practice before school. They have to push themselves hard in the water as well as on the ground when they do dry-land core and leg workouts. It's hard work, but the swimmers love it.
Who? Bowie swimmers
What? Bowie swim team
Where? Bowie, Circle C Pool
When? Every morning
Why? To practice
How? They have to get up extremely early to get to practice on time
Who was quoted in the story? Zachary Mikkelson, Douglas Smith, Sheldon Wall, Brooke Wheelis, Ashlyn Raley, Kayce Stevens
What quote was the strongest in your opinion? "Even though swimming isn't a team sport, because it's individual races, I like the community and team it builds." - Kayce Stevens
Did the lead sentence make you want to keep reading? Somewhat
Was the conclusion a quote or a statement? A quote
Entertainment
Children's plays on track to tour
Summary: The STC's senior-directed plays are set to tour to several different elementary schools. The senior directors have worked hard to hone their leadership skills even before the school year started. Many of them were in children's shows as a freshman, and they have been striving to be senior directors ever since.
Who? STC, senior directors
What? The STC's children's shows
Where? Bowie, several elementary schools around the city
When? this week
Why? to give elementary students a chance to be exposed to theatre
How? by rehearsing every day
Who was quoted in the story? Betsy Cornwell, Halen Wilson, Ariel Abudu
What quote was the strongest in your opinion? "Anyone who is scared of joining theatre, I encourage them to." - Ariel Abudu
Did the lead sentence make you want to keep reading? Yes.
Was the conclusion a quote or a statement? A quote
Commentary
We 'throw like girls', and think like human beings
Summary: Michelle, the writer of the commentary, defines feminism and gives the example of Bowie's "shorts revolt" as a sort of feminist demonstration. She gives facts about the unequal treatment, representation, and pay that women get in America and calls for a change.
Who? Women across America and the world
What? the feminist movement
Where? America, the world
When? from 1910 to the present
Why? for equality for all women
How? different kinds of demonstrations, videos, articles, protests, etc
Who was quoted in the story? no one
What quote was the strongest in your opinion? N/A
Did the lead sentence make you want to keep reading? yes
Was the conclusion a quote or a statement? a statement
In-Depth
The debate on student loans
Summary: Bowie seniors are already facing the looming issue of student debt. College tuition is constantly rising, and even with scholarships many students have to take out student loans to be able to attend their college. This will leave them in debt for years.
Who? Bowie seniors
What? their growing debt
Where? Bowie
When? now
Why? college tuition is far too expensive for most students to pay without student loans
How? not fully paying tuition money because of various reasons
Who was quoted in the story? Alex Koke, Spencer Cobb, Tyler Young, Lindsay Worthington
What quote was the strongest in your opinion? "A solution to student debt would be avoiding taking out a lot of loans and getting as many scholarships as possible." - Alex Koke
Did the lead sentence make you want to keep reading? Somewhat
Was the conclusion a quote or a statement? a statement
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Feature Writing Preview
1. What is the difference between a hard news lead (lede) and the one you read above?
It doesn't give a brief summary of all of the information given in the article like it would in a hard news lead, instead it draws the reader in.
2. What paragraph(s) did you learn the following information?
a. Who
Ted Williams
b. What
His voice
c. Where
Hudson Street northbound off I-71
d. When
January of 2011
e. Why
He's on the streets because of bad decisions he made.
f. How
He's using his vocal talent to get himself off the street.
3. Are there quotes in this story?
Yes.
4. Are those quotes arranged in the "quote-transiton" style we used in news writing?
No.
5. Who is quoted in the story?
Ted Williams, Kevin McLoughlin, Doral Chenoweth III, Ken Andrews, Tony Florentino, Shane Cormier, Frank Wilson, and Patrick Harris.
6. What quote is the most powerful in the story, in your opinion?
"My boss said to me, 'If you don't get him hired, you're fired.'"
7. How many paragraphs is the story?
33
8. How many words is the story (hint: you can copy and paste into Word and get a word count)?
762.
9. What is significant about the lead (lede) and the final paragraph of the story?
The lede ,"That voice." and the final paragraph, "That voice could be his." are significant because they tie into each other, almost as if the first one is a question and the last one is an answer. "That voice you hear? This guy could be that voice."
10. Why do you think the writer did that with the lead (lede) and final paragraph?
It adds interest to the story, making the writing more interesting to read than that of hard news, which you only read to get information about events.
11. Was the story interesting to read?
Yes.
12. When you finished the story, but BEFORE you watched the video, did you want to hear the voice?
Yes.
13. Multimedia approaches are powerful tools, what impact did the video have when watched directly after reading the story?
It gave you an image and a sound to what was described in the story—the video made you connect what his voice actually sounds like to people's reactions towards it.
14. Would the story have lost its impact without the video?
Yes.
15. Did the writer try to come up with a way for you to hear the voice, i.e. did he try to describe the voice or give you a way to "hear" the voice without really hearing it?
Yes.
16. How did the writer do that?
The writer uses the words "radiant pipes" and uses the phrases he says in the voice in the writing to bring to mind the voice-over voices, which allows you to "hear" what his voice must sound like.
It doesn't give a brief summary of all of the information given in the article like it would in a hard news lead, instead it draws the reader in.
2. What paragraph(s) did you learn the following information?
a. Who
Ted Williams
b. What
His voice
c. Where
Hudson Street northbound off I-71
d. When
January of 2011
e. Why
He's on the streets because of bad decisions he made.
f. How
He's using his vocal talent to get himself off the street.
3. Are there quotes in this story?
Yes.
4. Are those quotes arranged in the "quote-transiton" style we used in news writing?
No.
5. Who is quoted in the story?
Ted Williams, Kevin McLoughlin, Doral Chenoweth III, Ken Andrews, Tony Florentino, Shane Cormier, Frank Wilson, and Patrick Harris.
6. What quote is the most powerful in the story, in your opinion?
"My boss said to me, 'If you don't get him hired, you're fired.'"
7. How many paragraphs is the story?
33
8. How many words is the story (hint: you can copy and paste into Word and get a word count)?
762.
9. What is significant about the lead (lede) and the final paragraph of the story?
The lede ,"That voice." and the final paragraph, "That voice could be his." are significant because they tie into each other, almost as if the first one is a question and the last one is an answer. "That voice you hear? This guy could be that voice."
10. Why do you think the writer did that with the lead (lede) and final paragraph?
It adds interest to the story, making the writing more interesting to read than that of hard news, which you only read to get information about events.
11. Was the story interesting to read?
Yes.
12. When you finished the story, but BEFORE you watched the video, did you want to hear the voice?
Yes.
13. Multimedia approaches are powerful tools, what impact did the video have when watched directly after reading the story?
It gave you an image and a sound to what was described in the story—the video made you connect what his voice actually sounds like to people's reactions towards it.
14. Would the story have lost its impact without the video?
Yes.
15. Did the writer try to come up with a way for you to hear the voice, i.e. did he try to describe the voice or give you a way to "hear" the voice without really hearing it?
Yes.
16. How did the writer do that?
The writer uses the words "radiant pipes" and uses the phrases he says in the voice in the writing to bring to mind the voice-over voices, which allows you to "hear" what his voice must sound like.
Monday, November 3, 2014
Peer Reflections #2
1. Who wrote the story?
Violet Glenewinkel
2. What is their story about?
Their story is a review of the book Ask the Passengers.
3. What is their direct opinion about that topic? Please quote it directly from the story or do a really good job of paraphrasing.
Violet thinks that "Ask the Passengers is an unforgettable journey with concepts that will haunt you long after the last page is turned."
4. Did they address what the other side might think about their topic?
No, not really, but there wasn't necessarily another "side" to this topic.
5. Were they wishy-washy with their opinion? By this I mean do they ever write anything that makes it sounds like they really aren't sure about their opinion?
No, she was very clear in how she felt about the book.
6. Are there any quotes in the story?
No.
1st person.
8. Can you tell if this person was writing an editorial or a straight commentary piece?
You can tell that it's a review.
----------
1. Who wrote the story?
Melissa Weprin
2. What is their story about?
Melissa's story is about discrimination in society.
3. What is their direct opinion about that topic? Please quote it directly from the story or do a really good job of paraphrasing.
She thinks that "Without all the discrimination, I feel like we could make so many advancements."
4. Did they address what the other side might think about their topic?
No, but I think that it's unnecessary to include the opinions of bigots with a fair point of view, since they are the "other side" in a story like this.
5. Were they wishy-washy with their opinion? By this I mean do they ever write anything that makes it sounds like they really aren't sure about their opinion?
No, she stated her stance and stuck with it.
6. Are there any quotes in the story?
No.
1st person.
8. Can you tell if this person was writing an editorial or a straight commentary piece?
It was a straight commentary piece.
Current Events Quiz 11/3/14
1.What internet speeds will Google Fiber potentially bring to business in Austin when it arrives? Page A1 "Businesses: Google Fiber…"
Google Fiber will bring 1 gigabit-per-second Internet to Austin, which is 100 times faster than our current speed.
2. What band does Thomas Magnuson play in" Page B1 "Musical McCallum teens…"
It's called the Mr. Clark Experience.
3. What states are considering raising the minimum wage in the upcoming election? Page B5 "Small businesses divided…"
Alaska, Arkansas, Illinois, Nebraska, and South Dakota.
4. What were the final scores in both the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans football games this weekend? Page C1
28-17 (Cowboys) and 31-32 (Texans).
5. On page D2 in the section called Joe Gross Pop Culture Countdown, pick your top-5 things coming soon and list them in order.
1. You Have to (Expletive) Eat
2. Interstellar
3. Revival by Stephen King
4. One Direction, "Four"
5. Rick Ross, "Hood Billionaire"
Short Answer: Read the story on page C6 called "Dying wish is a dream come true for Hill"
Answer the following questions:
A. Is this story written in a different style than we have encountered so far in our journalism writing experience? HOW?
B. How did the story impact your emotionally?
C. What is wrong with Hill
D. What two awards has Hill won?
The story was written focusing on a single person, instead of an event or a news story, which is something we haven't done. It's a story that, while the writing itself isn't emotionally charged, still elicits an emotional reaction from readers because of the subject matter—a young person who is dying getting to fulfill a dream. Hill has an inoperable brain tumor, and she has won the U.S. Basketball Writer's Association Pat Summitt Most Courageous award as well as another award unnamed in the article.
Google Fiber will bring 1 gigabit-per-second Internet to Austin, which is 100 times faster than our current speed.
2. What band does Thomas Magnuson play in" Page B1 "Musical McCallum teens…"
It's called the Mr. Clark Experience.
3. What states are considering raising the minimum wage in the upcoming election? Page B5 "Small businesses divided…"
Alaska, Arkansas, Illinois, Nebraska, and South Dakota.
4. What were the final scores in both the Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans football games this weekend? Page C1
28-17 (Cowboys) and 31-32 (Texans).
5. On page D2 in the section called Joe Gross Pop Culture Countdown, pick your top-5 things coming soon and list them in order.
1. You Have to (Expletive) Eat
2. Interstellar
3. Revival by Stephen King
4. One Direction, "Four"
5. Rick Ross, "Hood Billionaire"
Short Answer: Read the story on page C6 called "Dying wish is a dream come true for Hill"
Answer the following questions:
A. Is this story written in a different style than we have encountered so far in our journalism writing experience? HOW?
B. How did the story impact your emotionally?
C. What is wrong with Hill
D. What two awards has Hill won?
The story was written focusing on a single person, instead of an event or a news story, which is something we haven't done. It's a story that, while the writing itself isn't emotionally charged, still elicits an emotional reaction from readers because of the subject matter—a young person who is dying getting to fulfill a dream. Hill has an inoperable brain tumor, and she has won the U.S. Basketball Writer's Association Pat Summitt Most Courageous award as well as another award unnamed in the article.
Sunday, November 2, 2014
Second Opinions Piece
Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire
A review by Avila Dye
To preface this review I’d like to say that I was practically raised on the 2003 to present musical adaptation of Gregory Maguire’s novel. I’ve seen it on stage several times, and I can sing every song from memory. However, for me the book is on an entirely different level than the musical, which has become a smash hit across the world.
Like L. Frank Baum’s Oz book before him, Maguire’s Wicked, which follows the iconic Wicked Witch, has been overshadowed by a glossed-over adaptation, void of the political or philosophical complexities included in the original work.
Those who were enchanted by the musical and raced home to read the book are in for a jarring experience. Stephen Schwartz’s musical is a Saturday morning cartoon when compared to the novel it’s based on. That’s not necessarily a bad thing; Broadway’s Wicked is a refreshing show that is centered around two women’s friendship and has a strong message about being yourself and standing up for what you believe in, as well as being sprinkled with a few darker themes, and it’s no wonder that it’s enthralled so many people, including myself.
In contrast, Maguire’s Wicked is a grim novel that philosophizes on the nature of good and evil, turning Baum’s Oz on it’s head and filling in the world’s gaps to make it into a living, breathing world with religion, politics, social tensions, and sexuality. The narrative follows Elphaba, also known as the Wicked Witch of the West, from her birth, to her college days with Glinda (the Good Witch), to her time in the Emerald City as an anarchist, to her self-sentenced exile in the “Winkie” lands where she becomes the Witch of the West and is ultimately “melted” by Miss Gale.
One of the most intriguing parts of the novel is how Maguire takes familiar characters that were originally relatively one-dimensional and breathes life into them, just as he did with Oz as a whole, as mentioned above. Before Dorothy came along, Glinda was a naive, aspiring socialite with a love for architecture and was dear friends with Elphaba, or Elphie as she affectionately called her, a cynical green girl with a knack for science, philosophical thinking, and a love for her disabled sister Nessarose, who would grow up to become the governor of Munchkinland and a religious zealot, which earned her the title the “Witch of the East”.
Wicked is an intricately woven story with beautiful prose and implications that you only catch onto on the second or even third read. Those who enjoyed The Wizard of Oz or the musical adaptation won’t necessarily enjoy Maguire’s novel; the way at which the plot develops is not instantly gratifying nor is it fast-paced, taking a certain kind of reader to enjoy the plot that spans over four decades with sizable gaps between each of the five parts, leaving only vague suggestions as to what occurred within them.
In conclusion, Wicked is an exceptional but unusual novel, tailored for a reader who enjoys philosophy, doesn’t require happy endings, and is willing to read between the lines. It isn’t a novel for everyone, but for those who fit into it’s intended audience it’s an incredibly rewarding read.
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