Journalism: A Write It Activity

Scholastic’s “Write It: Journalism,” for older students, incorporates interactive tutorials, exercises, publishing opportunities, message boards, and creative ideas – all meant to help students find their voice and develop their craft while writing journalistic pieces. 

• Brainstorm: These four ideas help students investigate an idea, whether from their own community, the news, or a controversial topic. Plus, for inspiration, students can read Eric Schlosser’s investigative piece on American eating habits.
• Draft: Students learn how to report on their subject, conduct a successful interview, or write a critical review. Plus, they can read a profile of P. Diddy, then try writing a profile of their favorite celeb!
• Review: These four exercises help students see their articles through fresh eyes and get tips on receiving and offering helpful feedback.
• Revise: How to revise an article or start over if necessary. Plus, students can read an interview with a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter on what it takes to be an investigative journalist.
• Polish: How to copyedit and proof an article like a pro. Plus, how to avoid making grammar and punctuation mistakes.
• Publish: A unique opportunity for students to become published poets! Tips for submitting pieces for competitions and publications.

Plus:

• Students can Chat with Fellow Writers to get feedback on their writing.
• Aaron, 16, shares his piece on a detective called “Two Heroes, One Common Dream.”

Learning Objectives

• Students study journalism by reading and responding to mentor articles.
• Students may use this interactive site to develop and publish his/her own article.