Module: JPU5102-20 Journalism Portfolio 1

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor:  Katie Glass

Module Tutor Contact Details: k.glass@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

In this module you will learn how to start to develop your voice as a journalist, developing originality in your work through research, seeking new angles on existing stories, experimentation with your writing, and perhaps exploring an area of specialism. As a journalist you will need to write clearly, concisely and accurately – and often at speed. You will also need to be able to flex your writing style across different writing forms and publications, and varied topics from fashion to current affairs. Throughout this you will be guided by long-standing journalistic editorial guidelines and codes of conduct, which are important in the gaining and retention of trust in the media.

This module will develop your abilities to plan and manage journalistic projects, work to deadlines with both speed and accuracy, edit your own work and add suitable images, headlines and captions, and exercise editorial judgment. Initially, you will develop your language skills by working on a series of short writing tasks (e.g. daily news summaries, mobile news notifications, news reports, blog items, short features, reviews, and backstories) to build up fluency and speed in writing concisely and getting to the heart of a story quickly and effectively. You will need to adopt an alert and inquisitive mind-set, and be ready to challenge and ask questions of your sources to flush out an unusual approach or original angle.

2. Outline syllabus:

• Developing your own approach, style and specialism

• Editorial guidelines and codes of conduct, diversity, legal and ethical considerations

• Writing for different journalistic forms

• Identifying target publications and audiences for your work

• Writing to regular deadlines

• Giving and receiving constructive feedback on writing

• Professional presentation

3. Teaching and learning activities: 

The module will be taught through workshops, practical activities and supported independent learning.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Portfolio (equivalent to 5,000 words)

• % Weighting: 100%