Hi I need help on these journalism questions I usually dont ask for help but this is my only overdue lesson so yeah. Please help fast. 1. What is a source? Describe two different types of sources.
2. What does it mean if a source wants to remain anonymous? Why might a source want this?
3. What does it mean if a source wants to remain off-the-record? Why might off-the-record information be helpful to a reporter?
4. Describe two ways that journalists use to get their information.
5. What is an open-ended question? What is a closed-ended question? Describe each and give an example of a question that fits each.
6. Why is it important for journalists to choose credible sources?
7. You are assigned to write an article about the school board’s recent decision to enforce a dress code in your school. List at least one primary source and one secondary source you can use to gather information for your article. Why would these sources be good ones to use?
We do not do your homework for you. Although it might take more effort to do the work on your own, you will profit more from your effort. We will be happy to evaluate your work though.
However, I will give you a start.
From Google:
In journalism, a source is a person, publication, or other record or document that gives timely information. Outside journalism, sources are sometimes known as "news sources".
I dont need help on the seventh question of course
my mistake I should show you my answers
1. A source is the origin of which information came from. Primary and secondary sources are 2 examples.
2. The person the source came from does not want people to know that the information came from them.
3. They don’t want certain people to know they let this information go public. Reporters can use off the record information to uncover related facts.
4. They can use social media and reliable people.
5. A question that cannot be answered with a yes or no. A question that comes with a multiple choice and can be answered with a simple yes or no. Here are 2 examples. Close ended question: What do you think of starbucks? Love it or hate it? Open ended question: On a scale of 1-10 how satisfied are you? This is an open-ended question because you have more free form on how to answer it.
6. If their source is not credible, they could be accused of lying.
these are my current answers
1. A source in journalism refers to someone or something that provides information for a news story or article. Here are two different types of sources:
- Primary sources: These are original sources that provide first-hand information about an event or topic. They often have direct knowledge or involvement in the subject being reported. Examples of primary sources include eyewitnesses, participants, documents, photographs, or videos relevant to the story.
- Secondary sources: These are sources that analyze or interpret primary sources. They offer commentary, analysis, or expert opinions on a particular subject. Examples of secondary sources include academic papers, expert interviews, books, or news articles that provide additional context or perspective.
2. When a source wants to remain anonymous, it means they do not want their identity to be disclosed to the public or even the journalist. Sources may choose anonymity for various reasons:
- Protection: They may fear retaliation or negative consequences if their identity is revealed, such as losing their job, facing legal consequences, or endangering their safety.
- Whistleblowing: They may want to disclose sensitive or classified information without facing repercussions.
- Privacy concerns: They may prefer to keep their personal information private for personal or professional reasons.
3. If a source wants to remain off-the-record, it means they do not want their information to be directly published or attributed to them. Off-the-record information can be helpful to a reporter because it provides valuable background or context without being directly attributable to the source. This allows journalists to gain insights, understand motivations, or verify information through other sources. However, it is essential to establish clear guidelines and agreements about what can and cannot be used off-the-record to maintain trust and avoid credibility issues.
4. Journalists employ various methods to gather information:
- Interviews: Journalists directly speak with sources to collect information, seek quotes, or clarify details. They may conduct face-to-face interviews, phone interviews, or even email interviews.
- Research and investigation: Journalists conduct research using various sources, such as documents, public records, academic studies, or archival materials. They may also investigate through observation, background checks, or fact-checking.
5. Open-ended questions and closed-ended questions are two types of questioning techniques used in journalism:
- Open-ended questions: These questions require more than a simple "yes" or "no" answer and prompt the interviewee to provide detailed and expansive responses. They encourage discussion and allow for more in-depth information. For example: "Can you describe your experience attending the recent protest rally?" This question encourages the interviewee to provide personal anecdotes, emotions, or observations.
- Closed-ended questions: These questions have specific answer options and often require a brief or one-word response. They are useful for obtaining specific information quickly. For example: "Did you witness any acts of violence during the protest rally?" This question elicits a simple "yes" or "no" response, providing a clear and concise answer.
6. It is important for journalists to choose credible sources to maintain the integrity and accuracy of their reporting. Here are a few reasons why:
- Accuracy and reliability: Credible sources provide accurate and reliable information. Journalists rely on trustworthy sources to ensure their reporting is based on facts and not misinformation or speculation.
- Accountability and ethics: Credible sources are accountable for their statements and have a track record of providing accurate information. This helps journalists avoid spreading false or misleading information and upholds journalistic ethics.
- Public trust: Journalists are often seen as gatekeepers of information. By using credible sources, they build trust with their audience and establish their reputation as reliable news sources.
7. For an article about the school board's recent decision to enforce a dress code, you could consider the following primary and secondary sources:
- Primary source: An interview with a school board member involved in the decision-making process. This would provide direct insights into their motives, considerations, and any challenges they faced.
- Secondary source: A survey conducted among students, teachers, or parents affected by the dress code policy. This would offer diverse perspectives and opinions on the impact of the decision.
Both of these sources would be valuable for your article because they provide first-hand information on the decision-making process, personal experiences, and the potential consequences of the dress code policy. This would help you present a balanced and comprehensive view of the topic. Remember to fact-check and verify the information obtained from these sources to ensure accuracy.