Goals and objectives: 1.Describe the different types and features of columns 2.Review a current school production, film, video, book or album 3.Create ideas that could be used in a column 4.Write a column for publication

Key terms Column Syndicated Review Specialized column Jargon

Building a column A column… 1.Uses a byline 2.Is usually between 450 and 1,000 words 3.Expresses an opinion 4.Allows a freedom and variety of topics 5.Shows-off the individuality of the writer.

Based on factual information upon which the writer has formed an opinion. The writer does not need to be objective, since the column represents their opinion. Each columnist is expected to take a unique approach with a unique voice. Columns should be…

To begin a column, think of an unusual angle on which to focus. There is no specific formula for writing a column. The parts of a column are like a short story: a beginning, a middle and a conclusion. Column writing

The beginning To write an effective introduction for your column, what “occurs” to you should grab the reader’s attention. You might include a current news item exclusive to the column, an anecdote or even a joke.

The middle The body of your column should back up your opinions with facts. The details you include should contribute real meaning to your column. You can include colorful descriptions or factual evidence which will be found in the research that must be done for every article that goes into the newspaper.

The middle Magazines, newspapers and television can be the inspiration for a column. Famous quotations might spark a column idea.

The conclusion Always conclude a column in a way that will satisfy readers. Three types of conclusions are common: The circle ending The rhetorical question ending The summary ending

Relates the reader back to the beginning of the column and ties up loose ends. The circle ending

The rhetorical question ending… Leaves the reader with something to think about.

The summary ending… Summarizes the writer’s main points.

Characteristics of a column Humanity — discuss topics close to your heart

Characteristics of a column Wit—not necessarily humor, but how well the writer expresses him/herself. A witty columnist writes in an imaginative, insightful way and has the ability to communicate his/her thoughts and ideas originally. Wit is also the columnist’s ability to change tone, subject and style.

Characteristics of a column Freedom of approach—A columnist can do just about anything on paper. Some columnists may abandon straight column writing and write verse or imaginative prose.

Rules for column writers 1.Vary your subject matter 2.Look for oddities and the unusual to spark interest in your readers 3.Use a style that is usually offbeat—use the personal flavor and touch. 4.Keep it short and to the point. 5.Admit it when you make a mistake. 6.Have a genuine interest in your readers; write for them instead of for yourself.

1.DON’T embarrass anyone without real reason. 2.DON’T assume that you always know best— that you have all the answers. 3.DON’T claim all the credit. 4.DON’T overwork the pronoun “I”. 5.DON’T think that your own experiences and ideas are always fascinating to others. 6.DON’T hesitate to give all sides to a story. You don’t have to be objective, but it gives you more credibility when you recognize other sides to the story. More rules for column writers

Types of columns Syndicated columns A syndicated column is published through an association that acquires columns, stories, articles and cartoons for more than one newspaper or periodical.

Humor columns The purpose of a humor column is to amuse and entertain others. Success depends on the writer’s point of view and his/her ability to shape opinions into words that will entertain readers. Types of columns

Gossip columns This is a danger zone. People like to read gossip, but repeating rumors is not journalism. Furthermore, gossip columns are subject to the same libel laws as the rest of the paper. Types of columns

Entertainment page and reviews Reviews are columns that typically comment on movies, recordings, books, television programs, concerts, plays, computer software or restaurants. A review is more than just an opinion—it is an argument with a heavy emphasis on judgment. The reviewer or critic is attempting to persuade or influence readers. Types of columns

Specialized columns Columns that appear in specific areas of the newspaper, such as on the sports, travel or politics pages, are called specialized columns. Types of columns

Specialized columns Columnists who write these types of columns usually know their readers and know the terminology used the subject they’re writing about – this is called jargon. Types of columns