These ideas come from the pages of TIME for Kids books, which help curious kids learn more about their favorite topics. Interested in reporting the news (or applying to be a TFK Kid Reporter)? These journalism tips might help.
As a reporter, you should expect to INTERVIEW people for every story you write. Prepare questions ahead of the interview. The best questions are those that can’t be answered with a simple yes or no.
An ANGLE is a story’s approach. When writing, a journalist considers what angle to take. The angle has to do with the story’s point of view, or perspective.
A BREAKING NEWS REPORTER must be ready at a moment’s notice. These reporters work quickly, interviewing sources and writing stories in hours or even minutes.
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTERS, on the other hand, might work on a story for months or even years.
Images and videos can be journalism, too. PHOTOJOURNALISTS capture stories by documenting events in a single photograph or video. These can sometimes tell a story more powerfully than words can.
An OP-ED is a piece written by someone who’s arguing their stance on a topic. An example of an op-ed is a student writing about the importance of picking up trash and not littering.
COMMENTARY is a verbal or written description, explanation, or opinion of a situation. A sports journalist, for example, provides commentary by weighing in with facts and opinions before, during, and after a game.
Ready for a bigger bite? Kid Reporter Field Guide is available now, online and in bookstores and libraries.
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