Course Structure:
Several components make up this course, as follows:

In- and out-of-class writing assignments: This is a hands-on class. We'll spend much of our class time writing and revising short stories. You'll draft some stories in class and finish them afterward, and you'll draft some outside class and finish them in class.

13 stories at 20 points each

260 points

(29%)

Style quizzes: Developing a working familiarity with basic writing style rules is critical to media writing. Adherence to style rules develops discipline and consistency. You will take a style quiz every Monday. A review guide will be distributed in class each Wednesday to assist you in preparing for the quiz. All style quizzes are open book, so bring your AP Stylebook and When Words Collide to each quiz.

13 style quizzes at 15 points each

195 points

(22%)

Out-of-class information-gathering assignments: This category includes assignments designed to help build your information-gathering and interviewing skills. For some assignments, you will be asked to find examples of media writing skills and techniques in current newspapers and magazines to bring to class. For others, you'll prepare story ideas and conduct research.

3 media-writing examples at 5 points each	15 points
2 information-gathering assignments at 50 points each	100 points
2 interviewing assignments at 50 points each	100 points
1 interviewing assignment at 10 points	10 points
TOTAL from out-of-class assignments and exercises	225 points	(26%)

Midterm and final exams: Twice, you'll be given a test similar to the placement test you took to be admitted to this course. Each of the two tests will examine your skills in spelling, grammar, punctuation, usage and news judgment. The exams also include an in-class writing assignment.

2 exams at 100 points each	200 points	(23%)
COURSE TOTAL	880 points

NOTE: At the back of this syllabus a tally sheet is attached. If you record your scores as assignments are returned, you can total your grade at any point in the course and check the percentage against the grading scale on the first page of the syllabus. You can also make sure my math is correct and help me correct any errors in your grade.

SAMPLE SYLLABI HOME | BUNTON 1 2 3 4