Journalism — Writing for a Real Audience

Journalism is writing for a real audience with a real deadline. The publication is the control. Indirect aim: research, writing, civic responsibility, preparation for public discourse.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Practical Life — Elementary
• Level: Ages 8-10

Objectives

• Pitch, research, interview, draft, revise, and publish an article
• Meet deadline and word count
• Cite sources
• Respond to editorial feedback

Materials

• Reporter's notebook
• Recording device (with permission)
• Interview subjects
• Draft and revision tools
• School newspaper or blog

Instructions

1. Pitch a story idea. 2. Research background. 3. Interview at least two sources. 4. Draft the article. 5. Revise with peer editor. 6. Fact-check every claim. 7. Publish in school paper or blog. 8. Respond to reader feedback.

Educator tip

Bad journalism is sloppy; great journalism is sourced. Teach fact-checking from the first pitch.

Assessment

Observe pitch quality, interview skill, writing structure, and fact-check rigor.

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