News and Notes: Week of 10.17.11

Monday: The Dirty Dozen, covering Homecoming, continue editing, blog post due Wednesday night

Tuesday: Introducing Gotta or Notta and Just Sayin' short writing rules, continue editing

Wednesday: no class for A period, blog post due (you should have a minimum of four posts on your blog).
      Topic for blog post: your choice

Thursday: short writing (either Gotta or Notta or Just Sayin'), continue editing


Friday: blog reading day, editing as necessary. Worknight is tonight!

News and Notes: 10.6.11

Today is BLOG READING DAY! Read and comment upon the blogs in the appropriate column for your group. All commenting needs to be completed by Friday at 9 pm.

Bloggers, your next post, on a topic of your choice, is due by Wednesday, Oct. 12 at 9 pm.

Check the spreadsheet for story assignments and act upon those immediately. You will need to bring a hard copy of your story to class (typed, double-spaced) on Thursday, October 13. No printing after 7:10 am.

News and Notes: 10.3.11

Blog posts: Your next blog post must be posted by Wednesday, 9 pm. The topic is your choice. Length minimum 300 words.

Today: review inverted pyramid and story practice


After today, class will often be split into different groups. We will be doing peer editing in class more frequently. To participate in those assignments, you will need to bring a hard copy of your story, double-spaced. No printing after 7:10 am.

News and Notes: 9.29.11

It's BLOG READING DAY! Each week, you will need two documents for this assignment. The first is the group list. Check that list for your name. Find your group number, then check which blogs you are reading for that week. For example, if you are in Group 7, this week you are reading blogs in column C.

• Reading blogs is a weekly assignment
• You will read EACH blog on your weekly list
• You will comment on EACH blog on your weekly list. Comments must be substantive and move the conversation forward about the topic. If you don't know anything about the topic at first, say so. Ask questions. Maybe the author will write a post addressing your questions! Keep your comments on topic, but feel free to expand on the topic as needed. You may also comment on other comments.

Story pitches are TOMORROW. Come to class with at least THREE story ideas in THREE different Departments (News, Sports, Feature, Arts). Be prepared to discuss the angle for the story and why that story is important to your readers. Also, what research needs to be done and who needs to be talked to (these are NOT the same thing). Stories that are off limits for purposes of this assignment:

• update on the fall play
• update on the solar panels
• anything about specific games for any of the fall sports teams
• update on the plastic bag ban

Interesting ideas that could be entertained by your editors:

• school/district disaster plan
• student and staff parking (unless the issue is already resolved in a satisfactory manner)
• ???

News and Notes: 9.21 and 9.22, 2011

Please check to see that your blog is listed on this chart. If it is NOT, immediately send your URL with your name and the title of your blog to Wojo.

See yesterday's announcements for your assignment that is due no later than Sunday at 5 pm. That post is right under this one.

News and Notes: 9.20.11

Don't forget worknight is Friday. Your editors will tell you if you need to attend.


Blog Assignment:
Today: Read about Zoe Strickland who started blogging when she was 13.
By Sunday, September 25 at 5pm do the following with your blog:

• fill in the About Me section. Remember, this is a professional blog, so be careful about what you write here. Also, be careful about putting personal information out there. Generally, it's okay to say you live in California or Northern California or maybe even the SF Bay Area. Don't put the name of your city.
• Add a hit counter to your blog if you can add widgets/gadgets. All Blogger blogs can take widgets. One free widget is SiteMeter. Another is ClustrMap. Feel free to add both since they do slightly different things.
• Write a post of not more than 750 words explaining to your readers why you started a blog on this particular topic. Generally speaking, bloggers write a first post of this nature to let their readers know what the blog is about and where it's going. Your post should not be fewer than roughly 300 words. Describe your passion to your readers.

Updates for 9.13.11

Check here each day for updates and reminders.

Tuesday: paper blogs
Wednesday: no class
Thursday: resume due, roots quiz,
Friday: roots and vocab quiz, Banned Books Week presentation.

News and Notes: 6.3.11 The End

It's hard to believe the year is nearly over. The seniors are ready to leave for a week of activities and graduation practice, while the underclassmen get ready for finals (or breathe a sigh of relief that finals are done). Thanks for all of your hard work this year!

Seniors: Your final is due before you leave your class period today.

Freshmen, Sophomores and Juniors:
     Your final will be an audit of the most recent issue of the paper. The purpose of an audit it to analyze the type and quality of coverage using a variety of benchmarks. For this assignment, you will be creating a report, complete with graphs and charts, to bring to your final.
     First, review the demographics of Hercules High School by going to DataQuest.
     Next, for level select SCHOOL, for subject select ENROLLMENT.
     Click Submit
     Next, make sure 2010-2011 is selected at the year, then type in HERCULES.
     Make sure Hercules High is selected
     Review Enrollment by ethnicity, grade and gender.
     **NOTE: The numbers for freshmen in all categories is off (as is our total enrollment), but the percentages are roughly correct. For the purposes of this assignment, the percentages are close enough.

     Now you are ready to begin your audit. Go through the June 3 issue of the paper and examine the way we cover our campus and its students. Create a chart for each of the following:

• number of stories for news, feature, arts, sports
• number of sports stories versus the number of spring sports
• number of stories featuring males, number of stories featuring females
• number of stories featuring freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors (yes, this issue will be heavy on senior coverage because of the Top 10 page and the doubletruck on seniors). 
• number of stories featuring students of various ethnicities: African American, Hispanic, Asian, Filipino, White (these are our major groups...in some instances, this section might not be complete because you don't know the ethnicity of a student).
• number of stories citing an expert or authority figure on our campus, number of stories citing an expert or authority figure NOT on our campus (and where they are from).
• one more chart of your choosing that must be significantly different from those listed above. It must be something about the stories and the way they are covered. 

Charts may be combined. For example, you might have ONE chart that shows the number of stories featuring each grade level (that would probably be a bar graph). You may put more than one chart on a page. Clearly label all charts.

Now for the hard part. Analyze our coverage. Compare our coverage to our demographics. What are we doing well? Who are we covering well? Who is being left out of the paper? What are we not doing well in terms of coverage? AND what should we do about it (this would be an action plan to remedy any areas of poor coverage)? Solutions may be creative, but must be reasonable. The analysis should be 2-3 pages long, not including the charts.

Put your audit portfolio neatly bound in a folder in the following order:

1. Cover page that includes your name and the title of the assignment "Titan Template Audit, June 3, 2011 Issue"
2. Charts as described above
3. Analysis as described above 

This assignment must be typed and turned in as a hard copy. You cannot turn it in late. Bring this audit portfolio to class on Monday (7:20-9:15) and be prepared to discuss it. We will be formulating a plan to move our paper forward to meet the information needs of more of our readers.

News and Notes: 6.2.11

Seniors: review yesterday's announcements for your final. It is due tomorrow in hard copy by the end of your class period.

Distribution of the final issue of the paper is tomorrow! Thank you incoming and outgoing editors for making that happen.

Underclassmen, you will get instructions for your final tomorrow.

News and Notes: 6.1.11

Today is yearbook distribution day. No, you don't get your book early just because you're on the newspaper staff.

Seniors this is your FINAL: Collect a minimum of three pieces of writing, but not more than six pieces you did this year (or evidence of other work you did for the paper). For each piece include an analysis of your work. In other words, what worked about it and what could you have done better? Finally, include a piece (form is your choice...i.e. letter, essay, etc.) about how the skills you learned in newspaper can help you regardless of the type of career path you take. Put together neatly in a folder in the following order:

• cover with name and Newspaper Final 
• piece 1
• analysis 1
• piece 2
• analysis 2
• piece 3 
• analysis 3
• reflection on newspaper skills and the future

Analyses and reflection should be between 3/4 and 1 full page typed. Do not exceed two pages for each analysis piece. DUE FRIDAY, JUNE 3 by the end of your class period.

Freshmen, Sophomores and Juniors will receive their final (which is different) on Friday.

News and Notes: 5.31.11

Assignment: This article about El Cerrito was published in the New York Times Bay Area Edition weekend before last.  It sparked something of a controversy in El Cerrito. Read the analysis from El Cerrito Patch.

In no more than one page, write a thoughtful response to the issues described. What is the problem and how could it have been avoided? What do you, as a high school journalist, need to keep in mind as you do reporting for your stories?

Use appropriately formal language, double space. Print out your assignment before you leave class and turn it in.

News and Notes: 5.27.11

Today is the last day to complete your Professional Development requirement for the quarter.

Tuesday, you have an in class assignment, do not be late for class.

News and Notes: 5.26.11

Mr. Brown will be here to collect the registration forms and answer any questions you might have about the writing class.

All Professional Development must be completed by Friday, May 27. Be sure this is done in a timely manner.

News and Notes: 5.25.11

Today is Career Day. There is a modified schedule. Please consult the board for times. This should be covered in the paper.

Don't forget:

• Worknight is today! (This is also, unfortunately, the same night the ladies softball team goes to the playoffs!).
• All Professional Development must be finished by Friday, May 27.
• We have just three weeks of school left. A period your final is Monday, June 6 from 7:20-9:15 (it was either that or have you come in at 9:30 on the last day of school). Second period is all seniors so your final won't be held finals week.

News and Notes: 5.24.11

Don't forget:

• Worknight Wednesday, May 25. (This is also, unfortunately, the same night the ladies softball team goes to the playoffs!).
• All Professional Development must be finished by Friday, May 27.
• We have just three weeks of school left. A period your final is Monday, June 6 from 7:20-9:15 (it was either that or have you come in at 9:30 on the last day of school). Second period is all seniors so your final won't be held finals week.

News and Notes: 5.23.11

Congratulations to the first Miss Hercules, Domonique Jones! She was crowned at Saturday evening's event.

Don't forget:

• Worknight Wednesday, May 25. (This is also, unfortunately, the same night the ladies softball team goes to the playoffs!).
• All Professional Development must be finished by Friday, May 27.
• We have just three weeks of school left. A period your final is Monday, June 6 from 7:20-9:15 (it was either that or have you come in at 9:30 on the last day of school). Second period is all seniors so your final won't be held finals week.

News and Notes: 5.20.11

Finish up your stories.

Complete your quarterly professional development. Don't forget it's due May 27. That's ONE week from today.

Worknight is May 25. If you have work to complete you are expected to be there.

News and Notes: 5.19.11

Congratulations to Charles Gomez and Stefan Feurst who each took second place awards in the Journalism Education Association of Northern California Annual Contest. Charles was got the nod in the Yearbook Photo Illustration category while Stefan was acknowledged in the Newspaper Column Writing category. For a complete list of winners, click here.

Don't forget worknight is May 25. If your story and/or page isn't finished you should be there.

News and Notes: 5.18.11

Mr. Brown will be here tomorrow to talk about the writing class he's offering through Contra Costa College. Give this opportunity SERIOUS consideration.

Worknight is May 25. If your story isn't done, you are expected to be there. 2011-2012 editors MUST be in attendance.

Senior layout editors: Your pages need to be complete and checked by the end of worknight since you are leaving for Grad Night. The paper must be sent off before you return, so you will not have a chance to work on it again. Please note that your page must be complete and checked (I know I'm repeating myself...this is a grade) before you leave worknight.

News and Notes: 5.16.11

The room will be closed during lunch this week except for the Intro to Journ meeting on Wednesday.

All stories need to be finished ASAP so they are ready for worknight on May 25.

News and Notes: 5.12.11

If you are in second period AND were at the Every 15 Minutes program yesterday, please review yesterday's announcements and complete the assignment there.

If you are in A period and were taking an AP test yesterday, please do the same.

Second period will review their civics story ideas today.

Don't forget all Professional Development is due no later than May 27.

News and Notes: 5.11.11

News you can use: First, Adobe has a deal for students on CS5.5. I know is LOOKS expensive, but it's really quite discounted. Also, Mashable has a great article on Best Practices for Media Companies on Facebook. Finally, at least one Education Ministry office in South Korea has found a novel solution to rising hemlines. Read the article and leave your comment below. Is this the way to handle short skirts? Why or why not? Leave the comment no later than the end of your class period today. Note: When leaving your comment, please remember to use professional language.

Don't forget all professional development is due no later than May 27. Don't delay. NewsU courses are highly recommended.

The room is CLOSED all week at lunch. Sorry for the inconvenience.

News and Notes: 5.10.11

Room closed all week during BOTH lunches. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Don't forget that you must complete a professional development assignment by May 27. This is part of your quarter grade and will make a difference in the final outcome of the grade. Do NOT delay.


To review today's assignment:

The San Francisco Chronicle has reported that student knowledge of our democracy (civics) is on the decline. Read the article here.  If we were going to feature this topic in the Titan Template, how should it be packaged? You'd have a story, of course, but what else would go with it? What kind of photos? Sidebars? Where would you get the information?

Prepare a one-page report (that's ONE side of the paper) describing how you would use either one page or a double-truck (that's two facing pages) to feature this topic. Be specific. Include the angle for your story, which specific people you would interview on campus and off campus, what your sidebars and graphics would be (feel free to sketch it out if you need to include that), and the specific sources you will use for your research on the topic. Typed work is required. You may hand-draw your graphics if necessary. You may use "I" language (i.e. I would do this because...). You may not work with a partner. I am looking for YOUR creative thinking. This is due by the beginning of the period on Tuesday, May 10. A period students: if you come to class late, it needs to be in your hand when you walk through the door. Electronic copies are not acceptable for this assignment.

News and Notes: 5.9.11

Room closed all week during BOTH lunches. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Don't forget that you must complete a professional development assignment by May 27. This is part of your quarter grade and will make a difference in the final outcome of the grade. Do NOT delay. 

We have five weeks left of school. You will still have assignments to complete. In fact, please review and complete the assignment from last Friday. The due date is changed to TOMORROW.

The San Francisco Chronicle has reported that student knowledge of our democracy (civics) is on the decline. Read the article here.  If we were going to feature this topic in the Titan Template, how should it be packaged? You'd have a story, of course, but what else would go with it? What kind of photos? Sidebars? Where would you get the information?

Prepare a one-page report (that's ONE side of the paper) describing how you would use either one page or a double-truck (that's two facing pages) to feature this topic. Be specific. Include the angle for your story, which specific people you would interview on campus and off campus, what your sidebars and graphics would be (feel free to sketch it out if you need to include that), and the specific sources you will use for your research on the topic. Typed work is required. You may hand-draw your graphics if necessary. You may use "I" language (i.e. I would do this because...). You may not work with a partner. I am looking for YOUR creative thinking. This is due by the beginning of the period on Tuesday, May 10. A period students: if you come to class late, it needs to be in your hand when you walk through the door. Electronic copies are not acceptable for this assignment.

News and Notes: 5.6.11

The San Francisco Chronicle has reported that student knowledge of our democracy (civics) is on the decline. Read the article here.  If we were going to feature this topic in the Titan Template, how should it be packaged? You'd have a story, of course, but what else would go with it? What kind of photos? Sidebars? Where would you get the information?

Prepare a one-page report (that's ONE side of the paper) describing how you would use either one page or a double-truck (that's two facing pages) to feature this topic. Be specific. Include the angle for your story, which specific people you would interview on campus and off campus, what your sidebars and graphics would be (feel free to sketch it out if you need to include that), and the specific sources you will use for your research on the topic. Typed work is required. You may hand-draw your graphics if necessary. You may use "I" language (i.e. I would do this because...). You may not work with a partner. I am looking for YOUR creative thinking. This is due by the beginning of the period on Monday, May 9. A period students: if you come to class late, it needs to be in your hand when you walk through the door. Electronic copies are not acceptable for this assignment.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Mark your calendars:

1. May 18: Introduction to Journalism during both lunches. Your editors for 2011-2012 will be meeting with potential recruits for staff next year. Come in and help spread the word.
2. May 25: Work night. Be there or be square.
3. Final: (A period)We will have to set a date for your final since it's scheduled for the morning of the last day of school.  We can either meet after school for two days (2:30-3:30) OR two mornings before school (8:20-9:20). Your final assignment for the year will be an intense discussion and planning session. Let me know your druthers (which you prefer) on time.

News and Notes: 5.5.11

It's Cinco de Mayo! So, what exactly is that, anyway? Put the answer on a post-it note and put the note (with your name on it) on the door behind Wojo's desk. INCLUDE your source on the post-it note.

Mark your calendars:

1. May 18: Introduction to Journalism during both lunches. Your editors for 2011-2012 will be meeting with potential recruits for staff next year. Come in and help spread the word.
2. May 25: Work night. Be there or be square.
3. Final: (A period)We will have to set a date for your final since it's scheduled for the morning of the last day of school.  We can either meet after school for two days (2:30-3:30) OR two mornings before school (8:20-9:20). Your final assignment for the year will be an intense discussion and planning session. Let me know your druthers (which you prefer) on time.

News and Notes: 5.4.11 Star Wars Day

Why is it Star Wars Day? Find the answer, write it on a post-it note and post the note (with your name on it) to the door behind Wojo's desk. Because of testing, this offer applies only to A period staffers.

Please keep your ear to the ground about stories on campus (i.e. Merit Scholars announced yesterday). You might find that a new story will bump an older one from the paper.

News and Notes: 5.3.11

Stories should be finishing up for the May/June issue. Make sure you are caught up with your edits.

Worknight is May 25. That's a Wednesday. We will begin immediately after school.

Editors for 2011-2012: Don't forget we have a lunch meeting immediately after testing tomorrow.

News and Notes: 5.2.11

How is Osama bin Laden's death being covered? Check out these sites to see what is being said around the world:

1. Newsmap
2. The World's Front Pages from Newseum (click on the thumbnails to see them better)
   
3. Look at PCWorld's article on the Google Maps, Twitter and Facebook
4. Check out the Twitter Timeline from the White House
5. Poll: How did you hear about bin Laden's death? Vote in the poll, then look at the results.

Now that you've looked at several articles and features about the event AND the coverage of the event, start thinking about what it means. What can we learn about news coverage from this event? What are the positives and negatives of this coverage? What do people need to know about the coverage of breaking news events?


A period will have a discussion on this topic. First period has a guest speaker. Second period, we will have this discussion once the guest speaker leaves.

News and Notes: 4.29.11

Don't forget...if you're not in first period and want to attend the Tom Barnidge talk for professional development points, sign up on the list on the black table. I need to send the excuse list today.

Worknight is May 25. Please adjust your schedules accordingly. The final paper of the year will be distributed June 3.

News and Notes: 4.28.11

Today is a modified testing day. Freshmen, Juniors and Seniors go about your day as regularly scheduled. Sophomores go to your testing room at 8:20. Do NOT go to your first period class, go to the testing room. You will be finished by third period and will resume your regular schedule.

The final testing date is next Wednesday for grades 9-11.

Tom Barnidge, a columnist for the Contra Costa Times, will be on campus next Monday at 8:40 am to talk about working for a newspaper and being a columnist. This talk will count for professional development for fourth quarter. If you are interested in attending, but NOT in first period, please sign up on the sheet taped to the black table.

News and Notes: 4.26.11

Testing today. Don't forget your story deadlines.

A period, I'll see you tomorrow at 7:40.

News and Notes: 4.25.11

I hope everyone had a restful vacation. Those of us who went to JEA had an AMAZING time!


Testing begins this week. Grades 9, 10, and 11 test Tuesday AND Wednesday. Grade 10 tests on Thursday (that means that grades 9, 11 and 12 have a regular schedule). Next week grades 9, 10 and 11 test on Wednesday. All other days are regular schedule for all grades.


Even though we have testing this week, you are expected to continue working on your deadlines. Your deadlines are still in effect.


Before vacation, you read some information about Overland High School's newspaper and its ongoing struggle to be published. At JEA I met an adviser from a neighboring school whose program is also being threatened. Now, the principal at Overland has issued an apology for using the work of others without attribution in his monthly updates to the community.


Ms. Taylor Oliva will be in for me tomorrow as I head off to Skywalker Ranch! WooHoo! Really, I'm there to meet the folks at Edutopia, but still....

News and Notes: 4.14.11

WASC is done...for now.

Here is a powerful talk on the importance and power of images. Thank a photographer:

News and Notes: 4.13.11

Be sure to read the email from your editors. All drafts need to be in on Friday. If, for any reason, you will not make that deadline, email your editors now (check in with ALL of editors who will be reviewing your piece).

Make sure to check your email and GoogleDocs over the vacation to keep up on your story.

URGENT: If you are planning to attend the field trip to the SF Chronicle on May 25, you must bring your permission slip tomorrow. I have to fax the form downtown.

Worknight is May 6. (Just two weeks after vacation).

News and Notes: 4.12.11

In preparation for your assignment, please read the following article on the face veil ban in France. Please also review the French Constitution to see how the veil ban fits in with individual expression in France. Finally, please review the U.S. Constitution as it relates to individual expression. Hint: You're looking in both constitutions for what the government says individuals can and cannot do. Take notes.

Assignment: Write an opinion piece in which you compare and contrast the French and U.S. constitutions on the issue of individual expression (this is directly related to free speech). Would such a ban work here in the United States? Why or why not?

You may consult other sources for your piece. Be sure to correctly attribute material from ALL sources. Be sure to reference the face veil ban in France as the starting point for your work. Your response should be between 300 and 500 words. You will PRINT your essay before you leave class today.

WASC Work: Some of you may be called out to a student focus group meeting during your third period class today. The Visiting Committee will ask you questions related to the work we did last December about school culture and climate.

News and Notes: 4.11.11

Story pitches today. Please make sure you have, on paper, at least three story ideas with possible angles, who to interview and questions that need to be answered. You will be turning in your paper before you leave.

In preparation for class on Tuesday, please read the following article on the face veil ban in France. Please also review the French Constitution to see how the veil ban fits in with individual expression in France. Finally, please review the U.S. Constitution as it relates to individual expression. Hint: You're looking in both constitutions for what the government says individuals can and cannot do. Take notes.

News and Notes: 4.8.11

Worknight is TODAY. If you are an editor (current or incoming) or your work isn't done, you need to attend worknight. Worknight will begin by 2:30.

Wojo is out today. Finish up your stories. Get those final edits completed.

Assignment for Monday: STORY PITCHES. Yes, it's that time again. Bring at least three story ideas with possible angles and interview subjects (specific people not 'the cafeteria lady' or 'someone in AP Gov'). Include as much detail as you can. This needs to be in hard copy when you walk in the door. You will NOT be able to print in class. You MUST turn this in by the end of the period.


It's field trip time! Yes, you read that correctly. If you are interested in visiting the offices of the San Francisco Chronicle for a little bit of history, a tour through the offices and an editorial meeting, then grab one of the NEWSPAPER STAFF permission slips on the black table. Make sure you have the correct slip. There are spots for 20 staffers, so don't delay in getting that form back. The event is May 25. We will be taking BART. Tickets for BART will be ordered on Monday.

News and Notes: 3.7.11

Grab a partner and clean, clean, clean. Our WASC visit starts on Sunday, the WASC visiting committee will visit starting Monday morning and the room is a mess! All loose papers and trash needs to be recycled as necessary. Surfaces need to be cleaned and/or dusted. Excess newspapers need to go to the recycling bin. If everyone chips in, it will only take a few minutes!

It's field trip time! Yes, you read that correctly. If you are interested in visiting the offices of the San Francisco Chronicle for a little bit of history, a tour through the offices and an editorial meeting, then grab one of the NEWSPAPER STAFF permission slips on the black table. Make sure you have the correct slip. There are spots for 20 staffers, so don't delay in getting that form back. The event is May 25. We will be taking BART. Tickets for BART will be ordered on Monday.

Worknight is TOMORROW. If you are an editor (current or incoming) or your work isn't done, you need to attend worknight. Worknight will begin by 2:30.

News and Notes: 4.6.11

TODAY: After school journalism meeting. Attend for Professional Development credit. We will begin at 4 pm. George Kelly from the Contra Costa Times will be our featured speaker on online journalism. Mr. Kelly manages the Twitter and Facebook presence for the Times as part of his job. Get your professional development out of the way early by attending this one hour session that begins at 4 p.m.


It's field trip time! Yes, you read that correctly. If you are interested in visiting the offices of the San Francisco Chronicle for a little bit of history, a tour through the offices and an editorial meeting, then grab one of the NEWSPAPER STAFF permission slips on the black table. Make sure you have the correct slip. There are spots for 20 staffers, so don't delay in getting that form back. The event is May 25. We will be taking BART. Tickets for BART will be ordered on Monday.

Worknight is April 8. If you are an editor (current or incoming) or your work isn't done, you need to attend worknight.

News and Notes: 4.5.11

April 6: After school journalism meeting. Attend for Professional Development credit. We will begin at 4 pm. George Kelly from the Contra Costa Times will be our featured speaker on online journalism. Mr. Kelly manages the Twitter and Facebook presence for the Times as part of his job. Get your professional development out of the way early by attending this one hour session that begins at 4 p.m.

Assignment today: get a half sheet of paper from the black table. Put your name on it. Go through the visualizing exercise we did yesterday as you read the sentence below. After visualizing it, write the revised sentence to provide more sensory detail.

The cat went for a walk.

Turn in your paper once you have completed your revision.

It's field trip time! Yes, you read that correctly. If you are interested in visiting the offices of the San Francisco Chronicle for a little bit of history, a tour through the offices and an editorial meeting, then grab one of the NEWSPAPER STAFF permission slips on the black table. Make sure you have the correct slip. There are spots for 20 staffers, so don't delay in getting that form back. The event is May 25. We will be taking BART. Tickets for BART will be ordered on Monday.

Worknight is April 8. If you are an editor (current or incoming) or your work isn't done, you need to attend worknight.

News and Notes: 4.4.11

April 6: After school journalism meeting. Attend for Professional Development credit. We will begin at 4 pm. George Kelly from the Contra Costa Times will be our featured speaker on online journalism. Mr. Kelly manages the Twitter and Facebook presence for the Times as part of his job. Get your professional development out of the way early by attending this one hour session that begins at 4 p.m.

Assignment today: grab a copy of the most recent issue of the Titan Template. You will also need a paper and pen.



Worknight is April 8. If you are an editor (current or incoming) or your work isn't done, you need to attend worknight.

News and Notes: 4.1.11 No Foolin'

April 6: After school journalism meeting. Attend for Professional Development credit. We will begin at 4 pm. George Kelly from the Contra Costa Times will be our featured speaker on online journalism. Mr. Kelly manages the Twitter and Facebook presence for the Times as part of his job. Get your professional development out of the way early by attending this one hour session that begins at 4 p.m.

First they came for the journalists...

   Overland High School recently lost their student newspaper. The principal shut it down because he didn't like a story the newspaper was going to publish. Read more about the case here. The students have the backing of the ACLU and the Student Press Law Center. Despite the powerful backers, this type of situation could happen anywhere.

   If you are moved to sign the petition to support the students and their paper, please feel free to do so. Use the school's address for your petition.

Worknight is April 8. Please plan to attend if you are an editor (including editors for 2011-2012), layout editor or if your work isn't finished.

News and Notes: 3.31.11

It's Opening Day! That means it's time for Journalism Baseball!

First they came for the journalists...

   Overland High School recently lost their student newspaper. The principal shut it down because he didn't like a story the newspaper was going to publish. Read more about the case here. The students have the backing of the ACLU and the Student Press Law Center. Despite the powerful backers, this type of situation could happen anywhere.

   If you are moved to sign the petition to support the students and their paper, please feel free to do so. Use the school's address for your petition.

April 6: After school journalism meeting. Attend for Professional Development credit. We will begin at 4 pm. The topic will be online journalism.

Worknight is April 8. Please plan to attend if you are an editor (including editors for 2011-2012), layout editor or if your work isn't finished.

News and Notes: 3.30.11

Thursday is Opening Day of baseball season. In honor of that and the arrival of Spring, we will be playing a team game. We will call it Journalism Baseball. You will go against each other in a Word Choice Championship.

April 6: After school journalism meeting. Attend for Professional Development credit. We will begin at 4 pm. The topic will be online journalism.

Worknight is April 8. Please plan to attend if you are an editor (including editors for 2011-2012), layout editor or if your work isn't finished.

News and Notes: 3.29.11

Thursday is Opening Day of baseball season. In honor of that and the arrival of Spring, we will be playing a team game. We will call it Journalism Baseball.

April 6: After school journalism meeting. Attend for Professional Development credit. We will begin at 4 pm. The topic will be online journalism.

Worknight is April 8. Please plan to attend if you are an editor (including editors for 2011-2012), layout editor or if your work isn't finished.

News and Notes: 3.28.11

Work night is Friday, April 8. You are expected to be here unless your story is finished.

Fourth quarter starts today. Don't forget you have professional development due by Friday, May 27. The first opportunity is an after school meeting April 9. The topic is still to be determined.

The room is CLOSED this week at lunch unless you are working on your stories or layouts.

News and Notes: 3.25.11

Assignment: Now that third quarter is finished and we're in between issues of the paper, it is time to reflect. Write a ONE page reflection (not more than 500 words) using a GoogleDoc about your experience in newspaper thus far. Focus on the skills that you have developed as well as the things you do well and the areas that still need work. I am more concerned about the seeing an honest reflection than a claim that you have no strengths or weaknesses. Share the document with Wojo when you have finished. This is a formal writing assignment, so please use formal language and structure. This assignment is due at the end of the period.

Quarter 3 ends today. Make this assignment count.

News and Notes: 3.24.11

The rules for journalists were great! Watch for a compilation of your suggestions.

Most drafts are due today. Make sure you are on top of your story.

Watch for upcoming Professional Development opportunities for fourth quarter.

News and Notes: 3.23.11

Get those stories in. Make sure your draft gets to your editor in a timely manner. If you don't have a story, email Chris and Chloe.

Thanks to Fiona, Chloe and Yueming for working on CCSpin.

Get a half sheet of paper from the black table. Put your name on it. Title the page Top 3 Rules for Journalists. Below, list your top 3 rules and your reasoning for those top three rules. You have 15 minutes from the tardy bell to complete this assignment and put it on Wojo's desk.

News and Notes: 3.22.11

For the most part, your drafts are due to editors this week. Get those stories completed.

Wojo will be talking to you today if you did not complete your professional development for 3rd quarter.

News and Notes: 3.21.11

Your opinion on "Ditch the Grading" OR your review of "Ruined" is due to Wojo TODAY.

Quarter ends on Friday. Tomorrow, the announcements will contain a list of people who have no professional development for the quarter. The purpose is NOT to give you a final chance to complete it, but to make sure Wojo didn't miss your email with your course report.


Summer Opportunity for Journalists:

J Camp is a program that gives young people the opportunity to develop their written, speaking, communication and leadership skills, while learning about diversity through a program that allows them to meet with top journalists in the country.

AAJA's J Camp is a national multicultural journalism program for high school students, held each before AAJA's national conventions J Camp 2011 will be held at MSU in East Lansing, MI from August 6-11, 2011.

For more information about the program, please download the brochure and submit an application by visiting the link. Deadline April 1, 2011.
http://www.aaja.org/programs/for_students/journalism_trainings/j_camp <http://www.aaja.org/programs/for_students/journalism_trainings/j_camp>

News and Notes: 3.18.11

It's Distribution Day! A period help organize the papers for distribution second period.

Reviews of the play (if you went to see ruined) and opinion pieces (those are A period staffers) need to go to peer reviewers today and need to be sent to Wojo by class time on Monday.

The following individuals need to give me a PRINTED copy of his/her resume no later than Monday:

• Jennifer D
• Helen
• Yueming
• Jagdeep
• Chris H.
• Chloe 
• Elaine

All professional development is due today! Don't forget.

WASC Visit is April 11-13. Be prepared.

News and Notes: 3.17.11 St. Patrick's Day

Story assignments for April are out. Check the spreadsheet. If you do not have a story, contact the editors ASAP.

TODAY: If you are attending Ruined, your assignment is to write a review of the play. If you are not attending Ruined, you will have an in-class assignment.

Don't forget that professional development is due by Friday, March 18. That's tomorrow.

News and Notes: 3.16.11

Check your story sheet to make sure you have all the necessary information for story pitches. Remember, you won't get credit for a story idea already shared, unless you have a significantly different angle.

All professional development must be completed by Friday, March 18. Don't delay.

News and Notes: 3.15.11 Beware the Ides of March

Story ideas are everywhere, but need to be in our paper. Use the exchange papers we have (on the black table) to look for ideas, think about current events and how those could get a local angle, think about what is happening around campus and/or the city of Hercules.

• write down five story ideas complete with an angle and suggested sources. You will turn this in.
• EXAMPLE: in light of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, we should do a story on earthquake preparedness. People need to know what to do in the event of a major earthquake in Hercules.  We should have a story on what people need to do to be prepared. Sidebars could show earthquake preparedness supply kits (where to get them and costs). What should they do if they are at school? What should they do if they are at home? What goes in an earthquake kit? How prepared is the city of Hercules to take care of us? Sources could include fire department or police officials, county office of emergency services personnel, FEMA website, American Red Cross website (calling local offices would be better), Costco and other retail websites or local stores (there's on in Albany or Berkeley) that sell earthquake preparedness supplies.
• the detail above is sufficient for credit
• You will pitch your stories in class on Wednesday (moved from today).

All professional development must be completed by Friday, March 18.

News and Notes: 3.14.11

Story ideas for April will be pitched tomorrow. Make sure you are ready with at least three ideas. You get points for sharing ideas and contributing to the conversation.

Professional Development is due by Friday, March 18.

This video shows, graphically, what a tsunami does when it enters a town.

News and Notes: 3.11.11

Read yesterday's announcements and do the assignment there.

Work night is tonight. Don't miss it.

Professional Development is due no later than March 18.


News Alert from Hercules PD this morning:

Hi Natalie Wojinski,
Alert Message has been issued by the Hercules Police Department.
Friday March 11, 2011 6:49 AM PST
Tsunami Advisory Warning: 2 to 4 rise in tide is expected along San Pablo Bay (along Hercules coast). Be prepared.
Please be prepared and advised of the Tsunami Advisory Warning for the City of Hercules. A 2 to 4 feet rise in tide is expected along the San Pablo Bay which is along the Hercules coast. For full details, go to https://local.nixle.com/alert/4665059/?sub_id=318847.
Contact Information:
Gaema Obenchain
Hercules Police Department
510-799-8263 gobenchain@ci.hercules.ca.us
To manage your text and email settings, please log into your account at https://local.nixle.com/accounts/login/.
Powered by . © 2011 Nixle, LLC. All rights reserved.

News and Notes: 3.10.11

Work night is tomorrow! We will begin immediately after school and work until 9pm. All editors (current and incoming), page editors (current and incoming), and writers who's stories aren't finished need to attend.

Get a post-it note. Put your name on it. Correct the three sentences above by writing them out correctly and post the note on the door behind Wojo's desk. You may ignore the two sets of parentheses and the words inside of them for this exercise.

Don't forget that professional development is due by next Friday, March 18.

News and Notes: 3.9.11

Please review "Perfect Punctuation" from last week. It is embedded below.

Don't forget worknight is this Friday, March 11 beginning immediately after school.

All professional development for the quarter must be completed by March 18.

News and Notes: 3.8.11

Don't forget worknight is this Friday. All current and incoming editors must attend. Page editors must attend, writers and/or cartoonists who do not have their stories finished must attend.

Please be prepared for pop quizzes on editing. The focus right now is on ending punctuation (periods only, please), proper capitalization and the evil Oxford comma.

News and Notes: 3.7.11

Gather your team and fly your banner! It's time to get to work!

Don't forget worknight is this Friday, March 11. If your story isn't done, you need to be here.

News and Notes: 3.4.11

On Monday, come to class with a TEAM (your team must be members of your own class period). No more than four students per team. You may NOT work alone. Have a name for your team as well as a flag or banner that identifies your team. Bonus points for a team slogan or tagline that sets you apart from other teams. This is an assignment, so come to class prepared.

Work night is Friday, March 11. Please plan accordingly. All layout editors will need to be here as will department editors, copy editors and EICs. If your story isn't finished, you are expected to attend work night until it is finished. We begin immediately after school.

Can you believe it's March already? That means it's almost the end of the quarter. Don't forget that you need to have professional development done no later than March 18. What can you do? Please review this earlier posting with suggestions. You may do other courses in NewsU if you wish. Do not repeat courses you already did. Your total time should be at least an hour.

Seniors: Your service learning requirement has been taken care of. Do not worry about it. I've sent and email to the counselors as well as Mr. Franz.

News and Notes: 3.3.11

Welcome Mr. Fadelli to class. He will be here today and tomorrow while I am at the California Council for the Social Studies conference. Stories should be finished by tomorrow.

Work night is Friday, March 11. Please plan accordingly. All layout editors will need to be here as will department editors, copy editors and EICs. If your story isn't finished, you are expected to attend work night until it is finished. We begin immediately after school.

Can you believe it's March already? That means it's almost the end of the quarter. Don't forget that you need to have professional development done no later than March 18. What can you do? Please review this earlier posting with suggestions. You may do other courses in NewsU if you wish. Do not repeat courses you already did. Your total time should be at least an hour.

Seniors: Your service learning requirement has been taken care of. Do not worry about it. I've sent and email to the counselors as well as Mr. Franz.

News and Notes: 3.2.11

Write a headline for the following story. Put the headline on a post-it note with your name on it and place it on the door behind Wojo's desk. This is a real story. Headlines must be appropriate, but may be irreverent:

NAPLES, Fla. -- Police say a brawl between roommates over Girl Scout cookies led to assault charges against one of them.

According to the Naples Daily News, the Collier County Sheriff's Office reports that 31-year-old Hersha Howard woke up her roommate early Sunday and accused her of eating her Thin Mints.
They argued and deputies say that it turned physical with Howard chasing her roommate with scissors and hitting her repeatedly with a board and then a sign.
Police say the roommate's husband tried to separate them. The roommate said she gave the cookies to Howard's children.
Howard is charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. She was released Monday on $10,000 bail.
A telephone listing for Howard could not be immediately found.

Can you believe it's March already? That means it's almost the end of the quarter. Don't forget that you need to have professional development done no later than March 18. What can you do? Please review this earlier posting with suggestions. You may do other courses in NewsU if you wish. Do not repeat courses you already did. Your total time should be at least an hour.

Work night is Friday, March 11. Please plan accordingly. All layout editors will need to be here as will department editors, copy editors and EICs. If your story isn't finished, you are expected to attend work night until it is finished. We begin immediately after school.

Seniors: Your service learning requirement has been taken care of. Do not worry about it. I've sent and email to the counselors as well as Mr. Franz.

News and Notes: 3.1.11

Good job on the gluey lock story. Check out Arkenews.net for the details.The story will be updated as we learn more.

Can you believe it's March already? That means it's almost the end of the quarter. Don't forget that you need to have professional development done no later than March 18. What can you do? Please review this earlier posting with suggestions. You may do other courses in NewsU if you wish. Do not repeat courses you already did. Your total time should be at least an hour.

Work night is Friday, March 11. Please plan accordingly. All layout editors will need to be here as will department editors, copy editors and EICs. If your story isn't finished, you are expected to attend work night until it is finished. We begin immediately after school.

Seniors: Your service learning requirement has been taken care of. Do not worry about it. I've sent and email to the counselors as well as Mr. Franz.

News and Notes: 2.28.11

Welcome back. I hope you had a good week off!

Progress reports are due today. I'm guessing you will get them at the end of the week, though I am not sure.

Get caught up on your stories for the March issue ASAP. Everything should be finished by Friday. Worknight is March 11.

The room will be closed at lunch today, Thursday and Friday. Sorry for the inconvenience.

News and Notes: 2.18.11

Happy Vacation! Get some rest next week since you have about a week to put the paper together when we return.

Help your fellow students! Middle College High is starting a newspaper. Steve O'Donoghue will be telling them about CC Spin on March 16, but there's also room for you to attend and tell students what it's like working on a school paper (how you generate story ideas, your editing process, etc.). The meeting will be at Middle College High. The time will be forthcoming. If you're interested, see Wojo.

Scholastic Journalism Week Activities:

Friday: Journalism Potluck. Bring your favorite journalism-related dish to share with the class. Include a card with your dish to explain how it is related to journalism. For example, you could have Katie Couric Baby Carrots. Katie Couric was the first solo female news anchor for an evening newscast on one of the major networks.Be sure to include the explanation. You get points. If you don't want to bring food, you could bring cups, plates, forks, spoons and napkins. Just make sure they are journalism related!

News and Notes: 2.17.11

Help your fellow students! Middle College High is starting a newspaper. Steve O'Donoghue will be telling them about CC Spin on March 16, but there's also room for you to attend and tell students what it's like working on a school paper (how you generate story ideas, your editing process, etc.). The meeting will be at Middle College High. The time will be forthcoming. If you're interested, see Wojo.

Scholastic Journalism Week Activities:

Thursday: Finish cards for faculty and staff.

Friday: Journalism Potluck. Bring your favorite journalism-related dish to share with the class. Include a card with your dish to explain how it is related to journalism. For example, you could have Katie Couric Baby Carrots. Katie Couric was the first solo female news anchor for an evening newscast on one of the major networks.Be sure to include the explanation. You get points. If you don't want to bring food, you could bring cups, plates, forks, spoons and napkins. Just make sure they are journalism related!

News and Notes: 2.16.11

The room is closed at lunch today. Sorry for the inconvenience. It will be open tomorrow and Friday.


Scholastic Journalism Week Activities:


Wednesday: Journalism Bingo! Play for prizes and glory. Also, we need to finish the cards!



Thursday: Guess Who? This is where the list of historical journalists comes in. The rules will be explained when you get here.


Friday: Journalism Potluck. Bring your favorite journalism-related dish to share with the class. Include a card with your dish to explain how it is related to journalism. For example, you could have Katie Couric Baby Carrots. Katie Couric was the first solo female news anchor for an evening newscast on one of the major networks.Be sure to include the explanation. You get points. If you don't want to bring food, you could bring cups, plates, forks, spoons and napkins. Just make sure they are journalism related!

News and Notes: 2.15.11

Or is it Valentines Day? Why should it be punctuated one way or another? Investigate, get a post-it note from the box and explain which way it should be punctuated and why.There are two schools of thought on it. Yes, this is an assignment.



It's Scholastic Journalism Week! Celebrate all things high school journalism by participating in this week's events.

Wear your SJW ribbon every day this week. Get points.

Tuesday: SJW Thank you cards. Get an index card. Decorate it. Include a message like the one on the wheasel. Melissa O. will add a piece of candy and deliver them to teachers. Use the list of teachers and staff provided. Make sure everyone gets a card.


Wednesday: Journalism Bingo! Play for prizes and glory.


Thursday: Guess Who? This is where the list of historical journalists comes in. The rules will be explained when you get here.


Friday: Journalism Potluck. Bring your favorite journalism-related dish to share with the class. Include a card with your dish to explain how it is related to journalism. For example, you could have Katie Couric Baby Carrots. Katie Couric was the first solo female news anchor for an evening newscast on one of the major networks.Be sure to include the explanation. You get points. If you don't want to bring food, you could bring cups, plates, forks, spoons and napkins. Just make sure they are journalism related!

News and Notes: 2.14.11 Valentine's Day

Or is it Valentines Day? Why should it be punctuated one way or another? Investigate, get a post-it note from the box and explain which way it should be punctuated and why.There are two schools of thought on it. Yes, this is an assignment.

It's Scholastic Journalism Week! Celebrate all things high school journalism by participating in this week's events.

Monday: Get a list of journalists through history. You will need to look up these people in order to participate in class on Thursday. Second, make a SJW ribbon. Pin it on. Wear it every day this week. Get points.

Tuesday: SJW Thank you cards. Get an index card. Decorate it. Include a message like the one on the wheasel. Melissa O. will add a piece of candy and deliver them to teachers. Use the list of teachers and staff provided. Make sure everyone gets a card.

Wednesday: Journalism Bingo! Play for prizes and glory.

Thursday: Guess Who? This is where the list of historical journalists comes in. The rules will be explained when you get here.

Friday: Journalism Potluck. Bring your favorite journalism-related dish to share with the class. Include a card with your dish to explain how it is related to journalism. For example, you could have Katie Couric Baby Carrots. Katie Couric was the first solo female news anchor for an evening newscast on one of the major networks.Be sure to include the explanation. You get points. If you don't want to bring food, you could bring cups, plates, forks, spoons and napkins. Just make sure they are journalism related!

News and Notes: 2.11.11

Please do not complete your Web Assignment for the week of 2/14. Changes are coming to the system. Form a team of no more than four people (you must have at least three), name your team (creative journalism related names are encouraged, but not required. Team flags are encouraged, but not required) and come to class Monday ready for a titanic battle!

The room is open for lunch today.

Keep reviewing "7 Deadly Sins of Student Writers" and your AP stylebook. Quizzes are in your future.

News and Notes: 2.10.11

Get a piece of paper and complete the following:

1. I wonder why...
2. I wonder why...
3. If I ruled the school, I would...
4. At school, I really like __________________ because ______________________.
5. My friends are talking about (list 3 things):
6. I've overheard people talking about (list 3 things):
7. Why do I have to ____________________?
8. I have no idea how to ____________________.

You will be turning these in. The answers here do not have to all be school related, but MUST be appropriate for school and of interest to teen readers.

Please do not complete your Web Assignment for the week of 2/14. Changes are coming to the system. Form a team of no more than four people (you must have at least three), name your team (creative journalism related names are encouraged, but not required. Team flags are encouraged, but not required) and come to class Monday ready for a titanic battle!

The room is closed today and tomorrow at lunch. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Keep reviewing "7 Deadly Sins of Student Writers" and your AP stylebook. Quizzes are in your future.

News and Notes: 2.9.10

Today you will pitch story ideas. Be ready with several great ideas.

The room is closed today and tomorrow at lunch. Sorry for the inconvenience.

Keep reviewing "7 Deadly Sins of Student Writers" and your AP stylebook. Quizzes are in your future.

News and Notes: 2.8.11

Wojo is out working on WASC stuff. Our visit is in April.

You have an assignment today. Follow the directions on the paper. Turn it in before you leave. When you are finished, the story should be no longer than 120 words including the lede.

You will pitch story ideas tomorrow! Bring a list of several ideas for the March paper. You get points for pitching ideas that are new and original.

News and Notes: 2.7.11

Way to go, Staff! Everyone worked really well at worknight and got a LOT done (more than usual, in fact!). Keep up the good work.

Pitch your story ideas on Wednesday. We will do the pitches as we have done in past months. Come prepared with several ideas as you may not repeat one already suggested.

Today: ooooh, a semi-pop quiz just for you. Topic? The Seven Deadly Sins of Student Writing.

News and Notes: 2.4.11

Worknight begins as soon as you're done with class. Who should attend:

• students in leadership positions for 2010-2011 AND 2011-2012
• all page designers
• those whose articles are unfinished
• those mentioned in your EIC's email from earlier this week
  

Project: This is an individual assignment. It will be on paper (8 1/2x11 or 11x17). If you have a Glogster account, you may make your poster in Glogster, then print. InDesign is encouraged as your design platform. The assignment: Read "The Seven Deadly Sins of Student Writers." Pick one of the "deadly sins" and make a poster to help students remember not to commit that sin in their writing. The use of humor is encouraged (think a la The Oatmeal, but appropriate for the classroom).  Yes, the instructions are deliberately loose. I want you to be creative in helping your classmates become better writers. Due date: TODAY no later than 1:15 p.m.

WANTED: a staff shirt design. Submit a hard copy of your one or two-color design no later than class time TODAY. Show your creativity. Be remembered forever as the designer of the 2010-2011 staff shirt.

Please congratulation the following individuals who will serve in leadership positions for the Titan Template Staff 2011-2012:

Editors-in-Chief: Terilyn Chen and Beilul Naizghi
Associate Editor/News Editor: Leah Defigueiredo 
Opinion Editor/Editor at Large: Jobel Vecino
Arts Editor: Kimmy Ny
Features Co-Editors: Wendy Chen and Erinn Kuehne

What's Happening: 2.2.11

Please congratulation the following individuals who will serve in leadership positions for the Titan Template Staff 2011-2012:

Editors-in-Chief: Terilyn Chen and Beilul Naizghi
Associate Editor/News Editor: Leah Defigueiredo 
Opinion Editor/Editor at Large: Jobel Vecino
Arts Editor: Kimmy Ny
Features Co-Editors: Wendy Chen and Erinn Kuehne


 
Project: This is an individual assignment. It will be on paper (8 1/2x11 or 11x17). If you have a Glogster account, you may make your poster in Glogster, then print. InDesign is encouraged as your design platform. The assignment: Read "The Seven Deadly Sins of Student Writers." Pick one of the "deadly sins" and make a poster to help students remember not to commit that sin in their writing. The use of humor is encouraged (think a la The Oatmeal, but appropriate for the classroom).  Yes, the instructions are deliberately loose. I want you to be creative in helping your classmates become better writers. Due date: Friday, February 4 no later than 1:15 p.m.

WANTED: a staff shirt design. Submit a hard copy of your one or two-color design no later than class time February 4. Show your creativity. Be remembered forever as the designer of the 2010-2011 staff shirt.

Worknight is February 4. Make plans accordingly.

What's Happening: 2.1.11

Project: This is an individual assignment. It will be on paper (8 1/2x11 or 11x17). If you have a Glogster account, you may make your poster in Glogster, then print. InDesign is encouraged as your design platform. The assignment: Read "The Seven Deadly Sins of Student Writers." Pick one of the "deadly sins" and make a poster to help students remember not to commit that sin in their writing. The use of humor is encouraged (think a la The Oatmeal, but appropriate for the classroom).  Yes, the instructions are deliberately loose. I want you to be creative in helping your classmates become better writers. Due date: Friday, February 4 no later than 1:15 p.m.

WANTED: a staff shirt design. Submit a hard copy of your one or two-color design no later than class time February 4. Show your creativity. Be remembered forever as the designer of the 2010-2011 staff shirt.

Worknight is February 4. Make plans accordingly.

What's Happening: 1.31.11

Project: This is an individual assignment. It will be on paper (8 1/2x11 or 11x17). If you have a Glogster account, you may make your poster in Glogster, then print. InDesign is encouraged as your design platform. The assignment: Read "The Seven Deadly Sins of Student Writers." Pick one of the "deadly sins" and make a poster to help students remember not to commit that sin in their writing. The use of humor is encouraged (think a la The Oatmeal, but appropriate for the classroom).  Yes, the instructions are deliberately loose. I want you to be creative in helping your classmates become better writers. Due date: Friday, February 4 no later than 1:15 p.m.

WANTED: a staff shirt design. Submit a hard copy of your one or two-color design no later than class time February 4. Show your creativity. Be remembered forever as the designer of the 2010-2011 staff shirt.

Worknight is February 4. Make plans accordingly.

What's Happening: 1.28.11

Continue with edits. Arketechs, check for new stories that need tagging.

Project: This is an individual assignment. It will be on paper (8 1/2x11 or 11x17). If you have a Glogster account, you may make your poster in Glogster, then print. InDesign is encouraged as your design platform. The assignment: Read "The Seven Deadly Sins of Student Writers." Pick one of the "deadly sins" and make a poster to help students remember not to commit that sin in their writing. The use of humor is encouraged (think a la The Oatmeal, but appropriate for the classroom).  Yes, the instructions are deliberately loose. I want you to be creative in helping your classmates become better writers. Due date: Friday, February 4 no later than 1:15 p.m.

WANTED: a staff shirt design. Submit a hard copy of your one or two-color design no later than class time February 4. Show your creativity. Be remembered forever as the designer of the 2010-2011 staff shirt.

Worknight is February 4. Make plans accordingly.

No access to the room at lunch this Friday, January 28 or next Monday, January 31. Make plans accordingly.

What's Happening: 1.27.11

Continue with edits. Arketechs, check for new stories that need tagging.

Project: This is an individual assignment. It will be on paper (8 1/2x11 or 11x17). If you have a Glogster account, you may make your poster in Glogster, then print. InDesign is encouraged as your design platform. The assignment: Read "The Seven Deadly Sins of Student Writers." Pick one of the "deadly sins" and make a poster to help students remember not to commit that sin in their writing. The use of humor is encouraged (think a la The Oatmeal, but appropriate for the classroom).  Yes, the instructions are deliberately loose. I want you to be creative in helping your classmates become better writers. Due date: Friday, February 4 no later than 1:15 p.m.

WANTED: a staff shirt design. Submit a hard copy of your one or two-color design no later than class time February 4. Show your creativity. Be remembered forever as the designer of the 2010-2011 staff shirt.

Worknight is February 4. Make plans accordingly.

No access to the room at lunch this Friday, January 28 or next Monday, January 31. Make plans accordingly.

What's Happening: 1.26.11

Continue with edits. Arketechs, check for new stories that need tagging.

Project: This is an individual assignment. It will be on paper (8 1/2x11 or 11x17). If you have a Glogster account, you may make your poster in Glogster, then print. InDesign is encouraged as your design platform. The assignment: Read "The Seven Deadly Sins of Student Writers." Pick one of the "deadly sins" and make a poster to help students remember not to commit that sin in their writing. The use of humor is encouraged (think a la The Oatmeal, but appropriate for the classroom).  Yes, the instructions are deliberately loose. I want you to be creative in helping your classmates become better writers. Due date: Friday, February 4 no later than 1:15 p.m.

WANTED: a staff shirt design. Submit a hard copy of your one or two-color design no later than class time February 4. Show your creativity. Be remembered forever as the designer of the 2010-2011 staff shirt.

Worknight is February 4. Make plans accordingly.

No access to the room at lunch this Friday, January 28 or next Monday, January 31. Make plans accordingly.

What's Happening: 1.25.11

Continue with edits. Arketechs, check for new stories that need tagging.

Project: This is an individual assignment. It will be on paper (8 1/2x11 or 11x17). If you have a Glogster account, you may make your poster in Glogster, then print. InDesign is encouraged as your design platform. The assignment: Read "The Seven Deadly Sins of Student Writers." Pick one of the "deadly sins" and make a poster to help students remember not to commit that sin in their writing. The use of humor is encouraged (think a la The Oatmeal, but appropriate for the classroom).  Yes, the instructions are deliberately loose. I want you to be creative in helping your classmates become better writers. Due date: Friday, February 4 no later than 1:15 p.m.

WANTED: a staff shirt design. Submit a hard copy of your one or two-color design no later than class time February 4. Show your creativity. Be remembered forever as the designer of the 2010-2011 staff shirt.

Worknight is February 4. Make plans accordingly.

No access to the room at lunch this Friday, January 28 or next Monday, January 31. Make plans accordingly.

What's Happening: 1.24.11

Continue with edits. Arketechs, check for new stories that need tagging.

Worknight is February 4. Make plans accordingly.

No access to the room at lunch this Friday, January 28 or next Monday, January 31. Make plans accordingly.

What's Happening: 1.21.11

Keep those stories coming in! I've seen a good number of them already.

Don't forget worksnight is February 4

As of Wednesday afternoon, you are able to leave the cafeteria to come to the room to work during lunch. Just tell the person at the door that you are going to Ms. Wojinski's room. They have a list and your name is on it.

What's Happening: 1.20.11

If you haven't read your email from Chris and Chloe, please do that. I agree with their assessment of your progress. Keep up the good work, everyone!

Don't forget that worknight is February 4. If reporters keep working at this rate, you will not have to attend worknight!

What's Happening: 1.19.11

Today (really): Lede writing practice. When you finish, please turn in the worksheet and continue work on your story.

Professional Development Opportunity: Wednesday, January 19, 4 pm, H105. The topic is Writing the Review. 


Save the Date: February 26 from 9:30-4:00 at SFSU. Boldfaced Journalism. Attend a variety of workshops on topics of interest to student journalists. This program is sponsored by the Center for Integration and Improvement of Journalism. To sign up, see Wojo. There is no fee to you. You do have to provide your own transportation. This will count as professional development.
 
Summer Opportunity:  BAMMA, June 19-July 2, 2011. Live and work at SFSU while learning about journalism. Apply even if you aren't sure if you can pay for it. If you're interested and accepted, then you can figure out how to pay for it.

BAMMA 2011 is the 21st annual workshop hosted by CIIJ, the Center for Integration and Improvement of Journalism. We offer a two-week residential program build around learning multi-platform story telling skills. Our graduates work in print, radio, television and online journalism. High school students with a passion and interest in journalism and related careers. Up to 16 students will be selected for this program. The program fee is $3000. If you're interested in applying, email casocar@sfsu.edu with your intent to apply by February 7.  To learn more visit http://bamma.ciij.org.

What's Happening: 1.18.11

Today: Lede writing practice. When you finish, please turn in the worksheet and continue work on your story.

Professional Development Opportunity: Wednesday, January 19, 4 pm, H105. The topic is Writing the Review. 


Save the Date: February 26 from 9:30-4:00 at SFSU. Boldfaced Journalism. Attend a variety of workshops on topics of interest to student journalists. This program is sponsored by the Center for Integration and Improvement of Journalism. To sign up, see Wojo. There is no fee to you. You do have to provide your own transportation. This will count as professional development.
 
Summer Opportunity:  BAMMA, June 19-July 2, 2011. Live and work at SFSU while learning about journalism. Apply even if you aren't sure if you can pay for it. If you're interested and accepted, then you can figure out how to pay for it.

BAMMA 2011 is the 21st annual workshop hosted by CIIJ, the Center for Integration and Improvement of Journalism. We offer a two-week residential program build around learning multi-platform story telling skills. Our graduates work in print, radio, television and online journalism. High school students with a passion and interest in journalism and related careers. Up to 16 students will be selected for this program. The program fee is $3000. If you're interested in applying, email casocar@sfsu.edu with your intent to apply by February 7.  To learn more visit http://bamma.ciij.org.

What's Happening: 1.14.11

Today: Lede writing practice. When you finish, please turn in the worksheet and continue work on your story.

Professional Development Opportunity: Wednesday, January 19, 4 pm, H105. The topic is Writing the Review. 


Save the Date: February 26 from 9:30-4:00 at SFSU. Boldfaced Journalism. Attend a variety of workshops on topics of interest to student journalists. This program is sponsored by the Center for Integration and Improvement of Journalism. To sign up, see Wojo. There is no fee to you. You do have to provide your own transportation. This will count as professional development.
 
Summer Opportunity:  BAMMA, June 19-July 2, 2011. Live and work at SFSU while learning about journalism. Apply even if you aren't sure if you can pay for it. If you're interested and accepted, then you can figure out how to pay for it.

BAMMA 2011 is the 21st annual workshop hosted by CIIJ, the Center for Integration and Improvement of Journalism. We offer a two-week residential program build around learning multi-platform story telling skills. Our graduates work in print, radio, television and online journalism. High school students with a passion and interest in journalism and related careers. Up to 16 students will be selected for this program. The program fee is $3000. If you're interested in applying, email casocar@sfsu.edu with your intent to apply by February 7.  To learn more visit http://bamma.ciij.org.

What's Happening: 1.13.11

Work on your stories today. Remember, no outside work during class time.

Next week: 3rd quarter professional development opportunity. "Writing the Review" January 19, 4pm, H105.

What's Happening: 1.12.11

Today: Reviewing Ledes, part II and working on your story.

Professional Development for 3rd quarter: January 19 after school, here on campus. The topic is writing the review.

What's Happening: 1.11.11

It must be a magical day what with the number and all.

Today: Reviewing Lede Writing. Gather around the table in the center.


Professional Development for 3rd quarter: January 19 after school, here on campus. The topic is writing the review.

What's Happening: 1.10.11

Today is the last day to complete Professional Development for the quarter. No exceptions!

Please check the spreadsheet for your story assignment and begin working on it. No work other than journ work in class this week.

Professional Development for 3rd quarter: January 19 after school, here on campus. The topic is writing the review.

What's Happening: 1.7.11

________________________________________________________________________________

Help Wanted: The Titan Template is looking for forward-thinking, creative, focused individuals to serve in a leadership position for the 2011-2012 school year.  Individuals applying for leadership positions must be planning to take Journ 2 next school year as a regular student (no independent study for leadership positions).  Class will most likely be held A period during the 2011-2012 school year.


Interested candidates must fill out this form no later than Saturday, January 8 at 5 pm. You will be notified next week if you have an interview. Interviews will take place during the school day and will last 15-20 minutes.

_________________________________________________________________________________

NEXT week we will be working on writing skills in class. Please do not bring work from other classes to class as you will not have time to work on it. Also, A period staff members need to arrive to class on time each day. That means 7:20 every day. Please set your alarm clocks and arrange your rides to make sure you're in class on time.

No worknight for Template staff in January. February worknight is Friday, Feb. 4. Please plan accordingly.



Some story assignments will go out this week, so check the spreadsheet. If you have a story you're particularly like to write, please email Chris and Chloe (cc Wojo) about the particular story. We will be doing a 12 page issue in February. Two of those pages will go to the middle school and another one or two will be for full page ads. The long and the short of it is that you have more space this issue.


Don't forget the semester ends January 14. Therefore, all professional development needs to be taken care of no later than Monday, January 10. Please do one of these courses that you have not already completed from NewsU:


Cleaning Your Copy
Beyond the Inverted Pyramid
First Amendment for High School Journalists
Freedom of Information (this is very good for seniors in Gov.)
News Sense: The Building Blocks of News (recommended for first year staff members)
On the Beat: Covering Education 
Multimedia Reporting: Covering Breaking News

What's Happening: 1.6.11

________________________________________________________________________________

Help Wanted: The Titan Template is looking for forward-thinking, creative, focused individuals to serve in a leadership position for the 2011-2012 school year.  Individuals applying for leadership positions must be planning to take Journ 2 next school year as a regular student (no independent study for leadership positions).  Class will most likely be held A period during the 2011-2012 school year.


Interested candidates must fill out this form no later than Saturday, January 8 at 5 pm. You will be notified next week if you have an interview. Interviews will take place during the school day and will last 15-20 minutes.

_________________________________________________________________________________

No worknight for Template staff in January. February worknight is Friday, Feb. 4. Please plan accordingly.



Some story assignments will go out this week, so check the spreadsheet. If you have a story you're particularly like to write, please email Chris and Chloe (cc Wojo) about the particular story. We will be doing a 12 page issue in February. Two of those pages will go to the middle school and another one or two will be for full page ads. The long and the short of it is that you have more space this issue.


Don't forget the semester ends January 14. Therefore, all professional development needs to be taken care of no later than Monday, January 10. Please do one of these courses that you have not already completed from NewsU:


Cleaning Your Copy
Beyond the Inverted Pyramid
First Amendment for High School Journalists
Freedom of Information (this is very good for seniors in Gov.)
News Sense: The Building Blocks of News (recommended for first year staff members)
On the Beat: Covering Education 
Multimedia Reporting: Covering Breaking News

What's Happening: 1.5.11

________________________________________________________________________________

Help Wanted: The Titan Template is looking for forward-thinking, creative, focused individuals to serve in a leadership position for the 2011-2012 school year.  Individuals applying for leadership positions must be planning to take Journ 2 next school year as a regular student (no independent study for leadership positions).  Class will most likely be held A period during the 2011-2012 school year.


Interested candidates must fill out this form no later than Saturday, January 8 at 5 pm. You will be notified next week if you have an interview. Interviews will take place during the school day and will last 15-20 minutes.

_________________________________________________________________________________

This week we will be working on writing skills in class. Please do not bring work from other classes to class as you will not have time to work on it. Also, A period staff members need to arrive to class on time each day. That means 7:20 every day. Please set your alarm clocks and arrange your rides to make sure you're in class on time.

No worknight for Template staff in January. February worknight is Friday, Feb. 4. Please plan accordingly.



Some story assignments will go out this week, so check the spreadsheet. If you have a story you're particularly like to write, please email Chris and Chloe (cc Wojo) about the particular story. We will be doing a 12 page issue in February. Two of those pages will go to the middle school and another one or two will be for full page ads. The long and the short of it is that you have more space this issue.


Don't forget the semester ends January 14. Therefore, all professional development needs to be taken care of no later than Monday, January 10. Please do one of these courses that you have not already completed from NewsU:


Cleaning Your Copy
Beyond the Inverted Pyramid
First Amendment for High School Journalists
Freedom of Information (this is very good for seniors in Gov.)
News Sense: The Building Blocks of News (recommended for first year staff members)
On the Beat: Covering Education 
Multimedia Reporting: Covering Breaking News

What's Happening: 1.4.11

________________________________________________________________________________

Help Wanted: The Titan Template is looking for forward-thinking, creative, focused individuals to serve in a leadership position for the 2011-2012 school year.  Individuals applying for leadership positions must be planning to take Journ 2 next school year as a regular student (no independent study for leadership positions).  Class will most likely be held A period during the 2011-2012 school year.


Interested candidates must fill out this form no later than Saturday, January 8 at 5 pm. You will be notified next week if you have an interview. Interviews will take place during the school day and will last 15-20 minutes.

_________________________________________________________________________________

Attention Journalism and Yearbook! BADMINTON Sign-Ups will be held today, January 4, during 4th and 5th Lunch Periods. 4th Period sign-ups will be in Ms. Wojo's Classroom, Room H105, held by Kimmy Ny and Linda Nguyen. 5th Period will be in Ms.Dee's Classroom, Room H501, held by Assistant Coach Andre Alvarez. DON'T FORGET TO SIGN-UP FOR BADMINTON! GET ON IT!

This week we will be working on writing skills in class. Please do not bring work from other classes to class as you will not have time to work on it. Also, A period staff members need to arrive to class on time each day. That means 7:20 every day. Please set your alarm clocks and arrange your rides to make sure you're in class on time.

No worknight for Template staff in January. February worknight is Friday, Feb. 4. Please plan accordingly.


Some story assignments will go out this week, so check the spreadsheet. If you have a story you're particularly like to write, please email Chris and Chloe (cc Wojo) about the particular story. We will be doing a 12 page issue in February. Two of those pages will go to the middle school and another one or two will be for full page ads. The long and the short of it is that you have more space this issue.


Don't forget the semester ends January 14. Therefore, all professional development needs to be taken care of no later than Monday, January 10. Please do one of these courses that you have not already completed from NewsU:


Cleaning Your Copy
Beyond the Inverted Pyramid
First Amendment for High School Journalists
Freedom of Information (this is very good for seniors in Gov.)
News Sense: The Building Blocks of News (recommended for first year staff members)
On the Beat: Covering Education 
Multimedia Reporting: Covering Breaking News