Activity: Newspapers Matter
Florida State Standards
Strand ELA.12.R: Reading
Standard 2 ELA 12.R.S: Reading Informational Text
ELA.12.R.2.3: Evaluate an author’s choices in establishing and achieving purpose(s).
Strand ELA.12.C: Communication
Standard 1 ELA.12.C.1: Communicating Through Writing
ELA.12.C.1.3: Write arguments to support claims based on an in-depth analysis of topics or texts using valid reasoning and credible evidence from sources, elaboration and demonstrating a thorough understanding of the subject.
Strand ELA.12.C: Communication
Standard 3 ELA.12.C.3: Following Conventions
ELA.12.C.3.1: Follow the rules of standard English grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and spelling appropriate to grade level.
Teacher Needs
Laptop/desktop
MS Word
Printer and printer paper
Internet access
NEXT magazine
Student Needs
Laptop/desktop
MS World
Access to a printer
Internet access
NEXT magazine
Teacher Transcript:
- Teacher: “Begin by reading the NEXT article entitled, “Newspapers Matter”. It speaks to the publication of newspapers and free press which is one of our freedoms according to the First Amendment in the Constitution. After reading the article in NEXT, what is your opinion? Are newspapers essential and important to society? Do we really need newspapers when we have online news? What do newspapers tell us that we cannot find on the Internet?
- Teacher: You will use a word processor today to write a position paper. A position paper is an essay that typically speaks and presents an opinion about an issue or topic. The basis of your paper will be your opinion concerning whether we need newspapers today. You can use the internet for quotes and background information, but the paper itself will be your opinion and analysis of the topic, do we need newspapers in society today? Why or why not?
- Teacher: Your essay must be at least one page in length. The references should be listed on a different page than the story text page. Use MLA or APA format for references. Use appropriate vocabulary and grammar.
- Teacher: When you have proofread your work, print it, and display your work on the bulletin board.