Active learning ideas
The Evolution of Print Journalism tracks the dramatic changes in the UK newspaper industry. Students compare the conventions of 'quality' broadsheets like The Guardian or The Times with 'popular' tabloids like The Sun or The Daily Mirror. This topic is not just about layout; it's about news values, political bias, and the social role of the press in British life.
Activity 01
Groups are given a broadsheet and a tabloid from the same day. They must identify the differences in language, imagery, and news priorities, then present their 'bias audit' to the class.
How do news values determine what becomes a story?
Activity 02
Students act as editors for either a tabloid or a broadsheet. They are given five potential stories but only have space for three. They must justify their choices based on their paper's 'news values' and target audience.
What are the stylistic differences between tabloids and broadsheets?
Activity 03
Students brainstorm three reasons why people still buy physical newspapers and three reasons why they might stop. They then pair up to debate whether print journalism will exist in ten years.
How does political bias manifest in print journalism?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Broadsheets are 'true' and tabloids are 'fake'.
Both types of newspapers have political biases and use specific 'news values' to frame stories. A 'comparative analysis' task helps students see that even 'quality' papers choose what to include and what to leave out.
Newspapers are only for old people.
While print sales are down, newspaper brands have huge online audiences. Investigating the 'online presence' of papers like the Daily Mail helps students see their continued influence on younger demographics.
Methods used in this brief
Participatory Culture and Social Media
Students examine the rise of citizen journalism and user-generated content. They will apply Clay Shirky's 'End of Audience' theory to modern digital platforms.
8 methodologies
Fake News and Regulation
An investigation into the proliferation of misinformation online and the challenges of regulating digital spaces. Students will debate the role of IPSO and Ofcom.
8 methodologies