Fact gathering
When it comes to editorials and opinion pieces, it is imperative to collect information from a variety of sources to fully understand how the issue affects people. Editorials provide an opportunity to show news gathering because they showcase an active search for the truth through statistics and articles. In "Hot topic sends shots nationwide" and "Syrians need refuge," I read at least six credible news articles to research both sides of the issues and to develop my position.
When writing opinion pieces, it is not only important to research both sides, but to address the opposing side in the piece. This helps readers see that the writer is not avoiding the other side, but rather helping show why the side chosen is the "correct" position. I find this to be critical because it encourages students to develop an opinion based upon the information. Even if they do not agree with the side I wrote on, at least they have a basis of understanding for both sides of an argument.
"Hot topic sends shots nationwide" earned an Excellent ranking in Serious Commentary from Florida Scholastic Press Association.
When writing opinion pieces, it is not only important to research both sides, but to address the opposing side in the piece. This helps readers see that the writer is not avoiding the other side, but rather helping show why the side chosen is the "correct" position. I find this to be critical because it encourages students to develop an opinion based upon the information. Even if they do not agree with the side I wrote on, at least they have a basis of understanding for both sides of an argument.
"Hot topic sends shots nationwide" earned an Excellent ranking in Serious Commentary from Florida Scholastic Press Association.
ANNUAL BRAVE AID TALENT SHOW PROVIDES HURRICANE RELIEF FUNDS
Brave Aid, the annual talent show, champions a different cause every year. Since Boone received a huge influx of Puerto Rican students after Hurricanes Irma and Maria, and Central Florida was also directly affected by these natural disasters, it seemed appropriate to donate the money to hurricane relief. Interviewing the SGA sponsor, Cassandra Stilwell, provided readers the most credible source, as Mrs. Stilwell is the authorit on this topic.
ART SHOW RAISES FOUNDATION FUNDS
The annual art show is another fundraising project that provides students an outlet of expression. This story discusses how funds raised affect students, why the art show is important and what to expect. It covers all of the 5 W's and H, and provides credible sources.
GATA DATHERING
Our staff did a special feature on mental health and illness and its impact on students. For data organization, we wanted to create an infographic that sampled students feelings toward their own mental health. Instead of going around campus polling people, the staff felt an anonymous survey through Google Forms would ease this process and give us the most efficient data collection. The polling system helps provide real, applicable statistics that are directly linked to Boone's population. This creates a path of objectivity, as the questionnaire is anonymous and allows students to comment honestly on how they feel, free from judgment. We feel this gave us a more accurate portrait of our students' mental health.