Module:  JPU6104-20 Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalism

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor:  Katie Glass

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

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module enables you to focus on writing for a specialist magazine(s) of personal interest to you. You will develop both your critical awareness and in-depth knowledge of key publications and trends in lifestyle and entertainment journalism, and in your specialist area of choice.

You will examine sectors such as fashion, sport, interiors, music, and food magazines, and consider audience and brand identity, editorial content strategy, and the impact of developments in digital technology. You will have opportunities to debate current issues, and to work independently, undertaking thoughtful research into your chosen sphere of interest.

You will hone your ability to produce professional-standard writing targeted at specific publications, e.g. fashion show report, gardening feature, food book review, sports interview, alongside a keen awareness of audience, topicality and ethical considerations (e.g. in securing interviews).

Curating and manipulating engaging, high-quality images are important skills in this sector, from fashion brands using social media to present the backstage story, to food styling. You will learn about and have opportunities to practise these skills.

2. Outline syllabus: 

• Sources for lifestyle and entertainment stories

• Trend analysis, forecasting and planning: finding your angle  

• Developing story concepts

• Brand identity and editorial strategy

• Event reporting (e.g. sport, exhibition, festival)

• Reviewing (e.g. books, film, fashion show, products)

• Image curation and photographic styling

3. Teaching and learning activities:

The module will be taught through lectures, seminars, workshops, and weekly practical activities.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description:  Essay (2,500 words)

• % Weighting: 50

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: CW

• Description:  Feature Article (1,500 with illustrations) and Key Sources List (equivalent to 2,500 words)

• % Weighting: 50