Hot
links for Student Journalists
Project URL: http://teachersnetwork.org/teachnet-lab/fklane/pmaslow/journalism.html
How it works:
Students go to the hot links page on the web and then choose other student
articles to read from all over the country. Depending on what type of
article, commentary or feature/news, the students evaluate the article
using a worksheet. Usually, it takes a full class period for a student to
find an article he or she is interested in, read and complete an
evaluation. Students are allowed to work with a partner or in groups.
Another type of activity using the hot
links is to do the contest from SSNB by going to www.straightscoop.org.
The contest entry has to be a feature article published in the school
paper and mailed to the contest by May 31. The site provides excellent
ideas for articles and resources as well.
Other hot link sites included in the
project actually instruct students how to write a certain kind of article.
One site provides expert analysis of a current newspaper article.
What you need:
Internet connection and search engine such as Netscape.
The students:
Two levels of journalism students use these hotlinks. Beginning students
use them with structured guidance from the teacher. Advanced journalism
students who currently write for the newspaper can have more freedom to
explore. However, all students are required to hand in their evaluation of
what they have read.
Overall value:
Student journalists need to meet
specific criteria when writing a feature or news article. Evaluating how
other writers satisfy the requirements of the form of article, especially
other students journalists, is very useful.
Also, students need to come up with new
ideas for articles, often inspired by the exploration of these hotlinks.
The contests are also very motivating.
Standards:
Technology: Students develop critical thinking and research skills
while evaluating the credibility and appropriateness of Web sites and the
validity of the information available at those sites. They locate
specified sites, employ the computer and the Internet as research tools
and resources, develop word-processing skills, develop research skills
appropriate to computer usage, and express information with accuracy and
creativity.
Language Arts: Students read and comprehend informational materials
to develop understanding and expertise, and produce written work that
makes connections to related topics or information. They critique a
document, skim texts to gain an overall impression and for particular
information, and take notes and organize information.
Tips:
Teachers should evaluate the links themselves, decide what their student
journalists' needs are and use the links in lessons accordingly.
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Peggy Maslow, a New York City high
school English teacher for 23 years, has used technology in the
classroom for over 16 years. She has also been her school's newspaper
advisor for almost two years. She has taught all levels of students
ranging from those with reading difficulties to honors, and has taught
courses in journalism, mystery, American literature and other topics.
E-mail Contact:
pmaslows@gmail.com
Subject 1:
Language Arts
Subject 2: Journalism
Number of class periods: 10 or more
Beginning grade level: 9
Ending grade level: 12
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