We paused our pace today. After reading about and listening to your issues yesterday it became apparent that a slow down was needed.
With that in mind, I had you share your issues today. We discussed the validity of the topics, problems which may arise and sources that should be tapped. By the end of the class, some of you were ready to dive into the investigating; others will be fine after a little tweaking; still others are going to need to go back to the drawing board. No matter the situation you find yourself in, today's discussion helped to eradicate some misconceptions and clarify some confusing elements to our investigative journalism stories.
This weekend you should start investigating. You should be planning out your attack.
Who will you interview? When? Remember you need a minimum of three interview sources.
Do any research you might need for background information. Write notes in your writer's notebook.
Start drafting some ideas. Play with a variety of leads.
Try to balance the narrative and informational writing techniques.
Check out John Branch's sensational investigative journalism piece called "Snow Fall". It is long but it is an amazing story. Look at how he opens with a gripping description of an avalanche and the fear embodied in Elsie. Just when the avalanche stops, Branch shifts gears and throws in a little history. He is doing what I want you to do: offer a rhythmic balance between the narrative tone and the informational (journalistic) tone.
Be sure to write this weekend and come to class with some progress on your investigative journalism piece.
Until next time...
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