Journalism

Journalism is a course designed to provide a positive learning experience while teaching the essence of the First Amendment in America. Why? Everything that is the foundation of journalism in America goes back to 1A. But, that's the starting point. What, in essence, is Journalism? Most people understand that journalism has something to do with news, investigation, and opinion as presented through the mediums of newspapers (increasingly online), magazines (also online as well) and broadcast journalism which involves not only listening to audio/radio and/or watching video streaming on mobile devices, laptop/desktop computers, as well as television. As you know, news/journalism has changed dramatically over the past decade. We are going to learn about the impact of that change in the field of journalism, how the news is disseminated, how some sources are reliable while others are so biased is can be called "fake news." These changes also impact careers in journalism. On the one hand, there are hundreds, even thousands, of news media job opportunities;  in the 60s there were only 3 television networks. Funding, however, through paid advertising, backing by a wealthy donor, or donations like Public Radio or TV. 

Classes will include discussions, workshops, group, and individual meetings, writing, revising and publishing news articles; writing, revising news scripts for broadcasting, interviewing, notetaking, even pitching (selling) a story to the editor..."This story is really important! I did some investigating and I found..."  Meanwhile, the practice of journalism will keep you focused on the news both BREAKING NEWS and in-depth investigative reporting. We will start the day with a current key news story, take notes as the story is heard over the speakers, and, write a story from your notes as if you were the original reporter. Every day there will be a deadline! That's the nature of the 24-7 news cycle; it changes almost instantaneously, thus you have to be quick, thorough but ready for change.

GRADES

Major grades: grade cycle project (six weeks work)n= 45%

Minor grades: daily news story, vocabulary quizzes = 35%

Participation includes prompt arrival, ready to listen and take notes, actively working on daily project =20%

Theater

 This introductory theater course will focus on creative expression through theatrical performance and design. Students will become skilled at employing: acting techniques, movement and body control, proper vocalization methods, and the development of characters from different periods and styles of drama. Students will explore historical and cultural studies in theater and opportunities to see live professional theater. Course work will include theater etiquette, vocal and physical warm-ups, theater vocabulary, actor discipline, improvisation, mime, characterization, monologues, scenes, play analysis of classic plays, theater history, play production, and production design 

GRADES

Major grades: performance and design projects, tests (auditions or demonstrations), play reviews = 45%

Minor grades: daily classwork, theater vocabulary quizzes = 25%

Participation: weekly = 30%