Compare/Contrast Writing Assignment: Analyzing News Coverage

Objective

This assignment aims to develop your critical thinking and analytical skills by comparing and contrasting the coverage of the same news story from two different news outlets, Fox News, MSNBC, or CNN. You will examine how each outlet presents the story, including differences in tone, language, emphasis, and perspective.

Select a News Story

   - Choose a current news story that has been covered by at least 2 outlets: Fox News, MSNBC, and/or CNN. This could be a political event, social issue, major policy announcement, or any other significant newsworthy event.

Research

   - Find and read articles or watch video segments from 2 outlets covering the chosen story. Take notes on the key points each outlet presents.

Analysis

   - Analyze how each news outlet covers the story. Pay attention to the following aspects:

     - Tone: Is the tone of the coverage positive, negative, neutral, or biased? How does it differ between the two outlets?

     - Language and Diction: What kind of language is used? Are there any noticeable differences in word choice, framing, or rhetoric?

     - Emphasis: What aspects of the story are highlighted or downplayed by each outlet? Are there any facts or details that one outlet focuses on more than the other?

     - Sources and Evidence: What sources and types of evidence are used to support the coverage? How credible and diverse are these sources?

     - Perspective and Bias: What is the underlying perspective or bias of each outlet? How does it shape the presentation of the story?

Writing the Essay

   - Write a five-paragraph essay comparing and contrasting the coverage of the news story by Fox News and MSNBC. Your essay should include the following sections:

     - Introduction: Introduce the news story and the two outlets you are analyzing. Provide some background on the significance of the story and why it is important to analyze different perspectives.

     - Body Paragraph 1: Compare and contrast the tone of the coverage. Provide specific examples from each outlet to support your analysis.

     - Body Paragraph 2: Discuss the differences in language and diction. Highlight any notable word choices or framing techniques used by each outlet.

     - Body Paragraph 3: Examine the emphasis and focus of the coverage. What aspects of the story are prioritized or omitted by each outlet?

Conclusion

Summarize your findings and reflect on the impact of media bias on public perception. Discuss the importance of consuming news from multiple sources to gain a well-rounded understanding of current events.

Citations

   - Provide proper citations for all articles, videos, and sources referenced in your essay. Use a consistent citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) as directed by your instructor.

Evaluation Criteria:

- Critical Analysis: Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the differences in coverage between the two outlets.

- Evidence and Examples: Uses specific examples from the news stories to support the analysis.

- Clarity and Organization: Presents ideas clearly and logically, with well-structured paragraphs and transitions.

- Writing Quality: Uses correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Employs appropriate academic language and style.

- Citation and Referencing: Properly cites all sources and follows the assigned citation style.

 Tips for Success:

- Be objective in your analysis. Focus on the content and presentation of the news stories rather than your personal opinions about the news outlets.

- Take detailed notes while researching to help you remember key points and examples.

- Proofread your essay for clarity, coherence, and correctness before submitting it.

Good luck, and remember that understanding different perspectives is key to becoming an informed and critical consumer of news!