Skills Related to Learning About the News
I. Finding information
A. Identifying and analyzing sources of news.
B. Remaining open and yet selective when gathering news.
C. Identifying the parts of newscasts, magazines, or newspapers.
D. Using the index of a newspaper as a means of locating needed material.
E. Choosing a newspaper or news article appropriate for a purpose.
F. Identifying current issues, points of view, and suggested solutions.
G. Identifying purpose, form or format, writing or speaking styles, and target audiences.
H. Identifying the who, what, when, where, and why of news items.
I. Finding and distinguishing between primary and secondary sources of news.
J. Identifying and analyzing important words and phrases.
K. Noting headlines or opening statements used to get attention.
L. Finding sources of news which give differing points of view.
M. Identifying sources of news which provide well-researched, true information.
N. Gathering news which can be used in situations requiring writing or speaking.
O. Planning procedures, questions, and actions for interviews or trips.
P. Finding and using appropriate maps, graphs, charts, or time lines related to the news.
II. Listening to or viewing the news
A. Listening or viewing with a purpose.
B. Listening or viewing with an openness to multicultural viewpoints.
C. Taking notes, analyzing information, and reserving judgment.
III. Organizing news
A. Using webs and outlines to organize ideas.
B. Using headlines, by-lines, datelines, leads, and credit lines for writing articles.
C. Answering the five w's in news items.
D. Sequencing ideas in a logical manner.
IV. Evaluating and interpreting the news
A. Distinguishing between facts and opinions and reporting and editorializing.
B. Recognizing, agreement, contradiction, and compromise.
C. Analyzing and choosing reliable and appropriate sources.
D. Identifying propaganda techniques and bias.
E. Interpreting photographs, drawings or cartoons, maps, charts, graphs, tables, and time lines.
V. Sharing the news
A. Speaking or writing with accuracy.
B. Choosing and using appropriate words.
C. Using correct grammar, spelling, and style.
D. Showing respect for the audience.
E. Speaking or writing succinctly.
F. Giving credit for sources used.
G. Using appropriate illustrative material.
H. Working with others while sharing the news.
VI. Learning and using specialized terms and skills
A. Learning and using specialized vocabulary related to tasks.
B. Learning and using word processing skills.
VII. Thinking skills
A. Gathering and organizing information which aids recognition of important ideas and problems.
B. Identifying appropriate questions, defining the search process, and carrying out the research.
C. Analyzing, evaluating, and summarizing ideas.
D. Keeping an open mind for new information which may support or change conclusions.