JRN1903 - Feature writing

Leader(s): Bill Birnbauer

Offered

Berwick Second semester 2009 (Day)
Caulfield Second semester 2009 (Day)
Gippsland Second semester 2009 (Day)
Gippsland Second semester 2009 (Off-campus)
Sunway Second semester 2009 (Day)
Singapore Second semester 2009 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

Students critically consider the genre of feature writing for print and electronic media, including new media. They produce news features and magazine style articles to publishable standard, learn advanced reporting skills, and address the cultural implications of writing about issues of contemporary interest. The unit includes aspects of design and presentation of feature articles.

Objectives

1. production of newspaper and magazine feature articles to publishable standard;

2. application of research skills for writing in the genre;

3. understanding of the similarities and differences between news and news feature writing, including the role of argument and persuasion;

4. management of information in the form of documents and date bases;

5. professional understanding of workplace practices and principles and of industry standards relevant to the craft of feature writing

Assessment

Two feature articles (800-1000 words each): 50% +

One extended feature article (1600-1800 words): 30% +

Critique (800 words): 20%

Contact hours

3 hours (1 x 1 hour lecture and 1 x 2 hour tutorial) per week

Prohibitions

GSC1903, GSC2902