News Writing Tutorial Exam: Mastering the Craft of Concise and Accurate Reporting127

This exam tests your understanding of fundamental news writing principles. Each question requires a clear, concise, and accurate response. Demonstrate your proficiency in crafting compelling news stories using the inverted pyramid style and adhering to journalistic ethics.

Section 1: Multiple Choice (10 points, 1 point each)

Instructions: Choose the best answer for each question.
Which of the following best describes the inverted pyramid style of news writing?

Starting with the least important information and building to the climax.
Presenting information chronologically, as it happened.
Leading with the most important information, followed by supporting details in descending order of importance.
Using literary techniques like foreshadowing and suspense to engage the reader.


What is the primary purpose of a lead (lede) in a news story?

To introduce the reporter's opinion on the event.
To grab the reader's attention and summarize the most important information.
To provide background information and context.
To offer analysis and interpretation of the events.


Which of the following is NOT a key element of journalistic ethics?

Accuracy
Objectivity
Fairness
Sensationalism


What does "attribution" refer to in news writing?

The location where an event took place.
The source of information used in the story.
The headline of the news story.
The conclusion of the news story.


What is a "nut graf"?

A short paragraph summarizing the main point of the story.
A catchy headline that grabs the reader's attention.
A detailed description of the setting.
A quote from a key source.


What is the importance of verifying information before publishing a news story?

To avoid lawsuits.
To maintain credibility and trust with the audience.
To meet deadlines.
To impress editors.


What is a "quote"?

A summary of someone's opinion.
The exact words spoken or written by someone.
A paraphrase of someone's statement.
A description of someone's appearance.


Why is conciseness important in news writing?

To make the story more interesting.
To save space and time.
To ensure clarity and readability.
To impress the editor.


What is the purpose of a headline?

To summarize the entire story.
To grab the reader's attention and indicate the story's main point.
To provide background information.
To offer analysis and interpretation.


What is plagiarism?

Using someone else's work without giving them credit.
Writing a story that is factually incorrect.
Publishing a story before it is fully edited.
Writing a story that is biased.

Section 2: Short Answer (20 points, 5 points each)

Instructions: Answer the following questions concisely and completely.
Explain the importance of objectivity in news writing. Give an example of how bias can affect a news story.
Describe the structure of a typical news story, including the lead, body, and conclusion.
Explain the difference between a direct quote and a paraphrase. When is each appropriate to use?
Discuss the ethical considerations involved in using anonymous sources in a news story.

Section 3: Writing Exercise (70 points)

Instructions: Write a news story (approximately 300-400 words) based on the following scenario:

A local high school is implementing a new initiative to address bullying. The initiative includes a new anti-bullying curriculum, peer mentoring program, and increased student support services. The principal believes this comprehensive approach will significantly reduce bullying incidents and create a safer, more inclusive school environment. Interview at least two students and one teacher for their perspectives on the initiative.

Grading Rubric: The writing exercise will be graded based on the following criteria: accuracy, clarity, conciseness, organization (inverted pyramid structure), use of quotes and attribution, adherence to journalistic ethics, and overall quality of writing.

2025-05-07

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