FIRST-AID KIT IN JOURNALISM

FIRST-AID KIT IN JOURNALISM

WHAT IS JOURNALISM?

JOURNALISM is the art of writing for publication in newspapers and other media, embracing
all thoughts and actions that have significance and interest to the readers. In this kit, we will only
concentrate on print journalism.

***

WHAT IS NEWS?

News is an oral or written report of an event that happened, is happening, will happen in the
North, East, West, or South that is of interest to the reader and which should be reported.

But what is interesting to one is not always interesting to another.

***

Elements of the News

1. Conflict

2. Immediacy or Timeliness

3. Proximity or Nearness

4. Prominence

5. Significance

6. Names
7. Drama

8. Oddity and Unusualness

9. Romance and Adventure

10. Sex

11. Progress

12. Animals

13. Number

14. Emotion

***

BASIC RULE IN WRITING: ACCURACY, BREVITY, CLARITY. ABC.

***

NEWS WRITING EXERCISE

Identify the elements involved on the following headlines. There may be more than one answer.

1. Principal issues new school policy

2. Dog saves masters life by attacking robbers

3. Cure for AIDS discovered

4. Man becomes pregnant

5. Icebergs appear in Northern Luzon

6. Senator injured in a car accident

7. Two solons lambaste each other, then end in a fist fight

8. Woman permitted to celebrate holy mass

9. Filipino wins Miss World title

10. 10 killed in shootout

***

Different forms of writing an incident

Situation: A fire broke out and four persons made their separate essays on what happened.

For a 10-year-old grade school pupil,

I saw a fire. It was a big red fire. It burned a house. There were many people around. Some men
put water on the fire.

For a romantic high school student,

Fearful scarlet tongues arose to the star-studded heaven and licked greedily at the doomed
edifice while the stout-hearted firefighters risked their all to quench the terrible conflagration.

For a lady bystander,

You know, Mare, there was a fire in our community. I think it cost the owner a great deal of
money. The date was August 8. August is the eighth month. So I bet in the lottery, 8-16-24-32-
40-48.

For a campus paper writer,

A fire of undetermined origin razed to the ground a two-storey apartment owned by lawyer
Herman Lagon of 80 Lopez Jaena St., Jaro Iloilo City, last night. Four trucks from the Jaro Fire
Station subdued the fire within an hour. The damage estimated by the police at P500,000 was
covered by insurance.

The combination of simple, vivid and dignified articles produces a copy simple enough for Mr.
Average Reader to understand. We call it news article.

***

Narrative vs News

(Example: Dog hero story)

Narrative: Pyramid (from less important to climax)

News: Inverted Pyramid (from climax to less important)

***

Sample News

Headline (ulo ng balita)

Dog dies saving blind master

Lead (pamatnubay) Most important facts

A FOUR-YEAR-OLD dog saved the life of his blind master, Thursday night, but the canines
loyalty cost the trusty animal his life.

BridgeElaboration of lead

In serious condition today in Doctors Hospital is Erland Escobanez, 71, a street sweeper.
Escobanez of SSS Building, Rizal St., Iloilo City was found early this morning unconscious on a
sidewalk near the Aglipayan Church in the Iloilo Terminal Market.

Less important facts

Police theorized that Escobanez was knocked unconscious when he fell, his head hitting a stone.
Potpot, his dog, apparently tried to shield its master from the cold and the rain by draping itself
over the fallen man.

When discovered this morning by the Police Patrol, Escobanez was still out cold. The dog lay
near, dead.

Relatives of Escobanez who is still a bachelor, told authorities that he always took nightly strolls
at about 11 p.m. with his dog.

Minor facts

According to doctors, only the warmth from the dogs body saved Escobanez from certain death.

Escobanez told police that he remembers nothing of the incident. A wallet containing
P500 was still in his pocket leading the authorities to rule out robbery.

***
Types of news stories

A. Scope or origin

a. Local news

b. Foreign news

c. Dateline news

B. Chronology or sequence

a. Advanced or anticipated (dope or prognostication)

b. Spot news (reporter an eyewitness of the event)

c. Coverage news (beat)

d. Follow-up news

C. Treatment

a. Fact story (plain exposition)

b. Action story (narrative of actions)

c. Speech or quote story

D. Content

a. Routine story

b. Police reports

c. Science news

d. Development communication

e. Sports news
E. Structure

a. Straight news

b. News feature

b.1 Single-feature structure

b.2 Several-feature structure

F. Advanced news

a. Investigative

b. Interpretative

c. Depthnews

G. Minor

a. News brief

b. News bulletin (gist of the news)

c. News-featurette (quirks in the news)

d. Sidebar (side by side with the mother story)

e. Flash (boxed message)

***

HOW TO WRITE A LEAD?

Lead
It is a single word, a phrase, a clause, a brief sentence, an entire paragraph or a series of
paragraphs. The main function of the lead, aside from introducing the news story, are to tell the
story in capsule form and to answer right away the questions the reader would naturally ask.

A good lead answers all the important questions of the reader, indicates the facts if they are all
important, and arouses the readers interest to continue reading the story.

***

Kinds of lead

A. Conventional or summary lead

B. Grammatical beginning lead

C. Novelty lead

***

Conventional or summary lead

This kind of lead used in straight news, answers right away all or any of the 5 Ws and/or the H.
It may be one of the following:

1. WHO lead

PRESIDENT Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo addressed, April 20, the PMA graduates in Baguio City.

2. WHAT lead

AN ENTRANCE examination will be given Nov. 24 to all graduating high school students
desiring to enroll in the four-year college course.

3. WHERE lead

TRAPICHE, Oton, Iloilo will be the site of the next International Film Festival.
4. WHEN lead

TODAY, almost to the hour, the Revolutionary Government was proclaimed by former President
Corazon Aquino.

5. WHY lead

BECAUSE of poverty, around a hundred students dropped from school last year. This was
learned from Iloilo Scholastic Academy principal Juan dela Cruz.

6. HOW lead

BY APPEALING to the school board, the University of Iloilo was able to construct a 30-storey,
concrete building.

***

Grammatical-beginning lead

1. Prepositional-phrase lead

WITH BROOMS and other cleaning equipment, boy scouts from the Iloilo public high schools
cleaned the city markets in consonance with the city mayors Clean and Beautiful Drive.

2. Infinitive-phrase lead

TO ENCOURAGE tourism, balikbayans are given a warm welcome by their fellow Filipinos.

3. Participial-phrase lead

HOPING to cop first place, the ISA woodpushers honed up for the chess championship games.
(present participle)
DRESSED like priests, robbers were able to enter the bank. (past participle)

4. Gerundial-phrase lead

WINNING the developmental communications trophy during the national press conference was
Iloilo Scholastic Academys best achievement of the year.

5. Clause lead

BECAUSE Sept. 9 was Osmena Day, all lessons in class dealt with the life of the late President
Sergio Osmena Sr. (subordinate, adverbial)

***

Novelty lead

1. Astonisher lead

CHAMPION of Division of Iloilo City!

BETTER look your best this week!

2. Contrast lead

FOUR MONTHS before the Green Drive, Zone 3 of Brgy. Bo. Obrero, Iloilo City was the
dirtiest community. Three months after the campaign, it won first place in the cleanliness contest
sponsored by the Department of Interior and Local Government.

3. Epigram

LIKE father, like son.

Herman Lagon Jr. graduated first honor this year. Twenty years ago, his father, Engr. Herman
Lagon Sr. also topped his class and delivered his valedictory address on the same rostrum where
the young Lagon gave his.
4. Picture lead

THE NEW principal, Ms. Arianne Agnes Ciao, although only in her early thirties, is already
silver-haired. She seldom talks, but when she does, she talks with sense.

5. Background lead

THE CPU campus was turned into a miniature carnival ground Sept. 1 during the 89th
Foundation Day celebration of the school. Decorated with buntings and multicolored lights, the
University quadrangle was a grand setting for a barrio fiesta.

6. Descriptive lead

DRESSED in white polo barong, and with diplomas in their hands, 109 graduates marched down
the stage to the tune of Hail Alma Mater.

7. Parody lead

WATER, water everywhere, but no water to drink. This was what the flood victims found to
their dismay.

8. Punch lead

VICTORY Day!

Bonifacio High School celebrated March 18 its fifth victory in the city-wide journalism contest.

9. One-word lead

MARCH!

Thus ordered Chess Club president Pol Buenconsejo to start the Walk to Win fund-raising
drive.
10. Quotation lead

THE YOUTH sucks, thus said Association of Dimwits president Don Pepot in a seminar-
workshop yesterday in Brgy. Walang Kwenta, Siete Pecados, Guimaras.

11. Question lead

WHO WILL reign as Miss Intramurals this year?

This will be known Aug. 8 after the final screening to be held at the WVSU gym.

***

NEWS WRITING EXERCISE

Identify what kind of lead is used in the following:

1. He used to be a mechanic. Now, he is president of a college.

2. Dressed in caps and gowns, and with diplomas in their hands, the graduates sang their
farewell song to their alma mater.

3. There was food and fun galore! The student body of Lally Jane Cabanilla High School
held an excursion in Villa beach last Sunday.

4. Supt. Rasan Trompeta was the guest speaker during the investiture of boy scouts held
Jan. 15 at Jaz Tandug High School.

***

ews leads are not always one sentence in length, but because of the frequent paragraphing in
journalistic writing, a one-sentence lead (of at most 25-35 words) is the most common. Whatever
the arrangement, the lead answers some or all of the 5 Ws and 1 H. The shorter, more complete
and clearer the lead, the better it is.

***

NEWS WRITING EXERCISE

Find the 5 Ws and 1 H

1. On Saturday, April 30, the moon will pass directly in front of the sun causing a total
eclipse for half an hour.

2. Aboard an airplane flying 30,000 feet above the ground was born a fat plump baby boy
this morning to a 60-year-old woman.

3. At least 100 young surfers, who are members of the Surfing Association of Brgy. Ortiz
will go to Siargao on Nov. 22-26 to view the Annual Championship Competition.

***

NEWS WRITING EXERCISE

Write a summary lead using the data below:

reforestation drive

held at the foot of Mt. Makunat in Lambunao

last April 10

local boy scouts participated in the three planting activities

they were headed by Scout Master Joven Kidlat

Write a summary lead using the data below:

seminar on population education

third of a series

being currently held this year in Laklak High School

reason: in observance of World Population Year

held March 31 at the school social hall

***

Dos and Donts in writing a news story

1. Write the story immediately.

2. Play up the dominant points.

3. Be accurate and truthful.

4. Avoid opinions called editorializing.

5. Use adjectives sparingly.

6. Avoid libelous, seditious and rebellious matters, prejudice and bad taste.

7. Give source (attribution) of the news.

8. Write names in full when these are mentioned for the first time.

9. Identify the names mentioned.

10. Avoid redundancy.

11. Watch out for errors in fact, grammar, structure, and style.

12. Observe the guidelines for clear effective writing (unity, coherence, emphasis, brevity,
clarity, etc.)

13. Adopt a paper stylesheet or stylebook for consistency and professionalism (in Ripples,
we officially adopt the Daily Inquirer Stylebook)
***

Guidelines in writing a news story

1. Give your lead sentence a punch to catch the interest of the readers.

2. Starts with the most important event or idea.

3. Use the rule or proximity and explain how the news affects the people in the locality or
the students in school.

4. If your story has something unusual or novel to tell, bank on that for the lead. Its hot
copy.

5. Make your sentences concise and clear so that they could be easily understood. Long
tedious sentences will likely kill the readers interest. Besides, they usually lose the readers
along the way. News stories are not luxury or pleasure reading. They have the basic function
to inform.

6. Use simple words. Using highfalutin words does not prove anything but pedantry and
literary pretentions. Even literary writers try as much as possible to use simple words.

7. Never be afraid of breaking the rules if it will prove helpful in making a good copy.

***

NEWS WRITING EXERCISE

Make a four-paragraph news report of Ripples Phase 1 Basic Journalism Course. The article
shall be published tomorrow, April 12. Supply the headline.

***

SAMPLES:

Failed bank heist ends with 1 dead

AN ALLEGED bank robber was shot dead by a security guard in a robbery hold-up at Equitable
Bank, Quezon St., Iloilo City noontime yesterday.
Police Supt. Bakleng Bading of Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) identified the fatality as Garin
Farm thru a Comelec identification card, while the security guard was identified as Neil Andrew
Tupaz y Falayfay, 42, of 17 Gen. Blanco St., Iloilo City.

Police reports revealed that at 10:45 a.m. Monday, the suspect entered the said bank to encash a
check with a companion waiting outside. The suspect demanded money from the teller, Ethel
Booba Sya, but the latter refused prompting Farm to grab the guards shotgun. In the commotion,
the guard fired the gun, hitting the victim in the abdomen.

A certain Mr. Pelongsya informed the police thru a phone call about the incident.

The companion of the suspect evaded arrest and is still being hunted by the authorities.
No amount was reportedly lost.

6 killed in attacks vs cops

THE PHILIPPINE National Police has blamed the New People's Army rebels for the two
ambush attacks yesterday, April 10 that killed five policemen and a security guard.

Three policemen were responding to a call about an alleged bomb in Silang town, Cavite when
they were shot dead on Thursday afternoon, a police report said.

Two hours later, unidentified men sprayed a police checkpoint in Olongapo City with bullets,
killing two policemen and a security guard. Two other police officers were seriously wounded.

Authorities said they have launched an investigation of the attacks that could be the work of the
NPA.
PNP chief Director General Edgardo Aglipay said the communists were known to step up their
attacks just ahead of their anniversaries.

The Communist Party of the Philippines marks its 36th anniversary on December 26.

Aglipay also noted that the communists announced in October that they would step up
their attacks.

Sanggol, binigti at itinapon ng ina

IMUS, Cavite Upang maitago ang kanyang pagbubuntis at panganganak, isang 17-anyos na
babae ang dinakip ng mga awtoridad matapos na patayin ang kanyang sariling sanggol na
kapapanganak pa lamang kamakalawa ng hapon sa Bacoor, Cavite.

Kasalukuyang nakakulong si Monica Merca, tubong-San Mariano, Isabela at stay-in maid sa

Alabang Hills Village, Muntinlupa City habang pansamantalang inilibing ang sanggol na si Baby
Merca sa Public Cemetery sa Bacoor, Cavite.

Ayon kay SPO3 Rodolfo Arboleda, alas-2:30 ng hapon nang matagpuan ang isang patay na
sanggol na nakalagay sa itim na plastic bag na nakalagay sa basurahan.

Tinungo ng mga pulis ang lugar at nakita nila na nakabigti ng panty ang leeg ng sanggol at
nakabalot ng t-shirt na puti.

Isang sobre din ang nakuha ng mga pulis sa nakabalot sa sanggol na mula sa San Beda College at
nakapangalan sa mag-asawang Alvin Domingo ng Alabang Hills Village, ng nasabing lungsod.
Hindi nag-aksaya ng oras ang mga awtoridad at agad na nagtungo sa bahay ng mga Domingo
kung saan nakita nila si Merca na namumutla at kasalukuyan pa ring dinudugo.

Dito inamin ni Merca na mag-isa niyang ipinanganak ang kanyang sanggol noong Miyerkules ng
gabi at siya na rin ang nagputol ng pusod nito.

At sa takot na malaman ng kanyang mga magulang sa probinsiya ang kanyang pagbubuntis,

ipinasya na lamang niyang patayin ang sanggol.

Ayon naman sa amo ng suspek natatakot ito sa kanyang mga magulang dahil madalas umano
itong sinasabihan na sagabal ang pagbubuntis sa kanyang trabaho. (Ulat ni Herman Landi)

***

WHAT IS A FEATURE ARTICLE?

(LATHALAIN)

Itis hard to define a feature article because it can take so many forms and can cover so many
subjects. However, a reader may easily distinguish feature stories from news stories through its
different characteristics.

A feature article is an essay based on fact. Its a virtual drop bag. It is never fictitious. This
makes it different from ordinary essay you study in your literature class.

Like an editorial, a feature article is hung on a newspeg.

Feature stories, like news stories, are written to inform but they enlarge news in a leisurely and
entertaining way. They are written to add life to the paper and therefore their style lends more to
the creativity of a writer.

The main objective of news is to inform while that of a feature article is to entertain. But feature
articles may also instruct, advise, influence, inform, and entertain at the same time.

The matrix below compares and contrasts news, feature and editorial articles.

COMPARISON NEWS EDITORIAL FEATURE

1. Definition Report an event Interpretation of an event/issue An essay based on

facts

2. Main Purpose To inform To interpret To entertain using present human interest

stories

3. Timeliness Timely Timely Timely

4. Length Short Around 300 words (2000 computer characters) Depends upon the
needs

5. Use of words Simple precise, concrete Simple, forceful, direct May be

descriptive, flowery, colorful

6. Use of sentences Short, simple, 15-25 words average May be longer May be longer

7. Paragraph No topic sentence, one idea, one paragraph With topic sentence, longer With
topic sentence, longer

8. Use of literary devices Journalistic, direct to the point, no idioms, figures of speech
Journalistic, direct to the point, may use idioms, figures of speech if properly handled
Literary, can be journalistic; idioms, figures of speech used freely

9. Use of adjectives/opinion Uses adjectives sparingly; opinion, never Adjectives used

freely; primarily opinion As much as desired
10. Parts Lead, (Bridge), Body Introduction (newspeg, reaction), body, conclusion
(clincher) Introduction, body, ending

11. Style Follows style-sheet newspaper style Follows style-sheet, newspaper style
Composition style or newspaper style

12. Structure Inverted pyramid Hypothesis, arguments/stand on issue, conclusion

Suspended interest or pyramid structure

13. Title/Headline Short (subject-verb; telegraphic sentence form) Shorter (at most three
words) Any length as long as it is appealing to the reader/topic

14. Kinds (Refer to the syllabus)

Note: Sports News is not included since this special news article combines News, Feature and
Editorial precepts.

***

Additional point

Short words are words of might

By Gelett Burgess

This is a plea for the use of more short words in out talk and in what we write. Through the lack
of them our speech is apt to grow stale and weak, and, it may be, hold more sham than true
thought. For long words at times tend to hide or blur what one says.

What I mean is this: If we use long words too much, we are apt to talk in ruts and use the same
old, worn ways of speech. But if we use short words, we have to say real things, things we know,
and say them in a fresh way. We find it hard to hint or dodge or hide or half say things.
For short words are bold. They say just what they mean. They do not leave you in doubt. They
are clear and sharp, like signs cut in a rock.

***

IMAGINE THIS

You are a reporter of a newspaper covering a beat in the Iloilo Port Terminal. While going home
for work, you notice an old man ferrying people across a narrow waterway that divides the
passenger bancas from the wharf.

You have passed by him hundreds of times before without a second thought, but suddenly you
get off your motorcycle press and grab your notepad. You have just spotted a feature story.

You take a candid shot of the old man and start asking him questions about himself, his family,
his job, his odd experience with the endless stream of humanity that he ferries daily across the
small brook.

At home, you sit down and focus your thoughts on the old gnarled ferryman and study the odds
and ends about him on your notepad. You organize your material and determine your focus of
interest. Then, you begin to write your story:

REGIE Zabalacheng has the loneliest job in town.

Each day, he ferries hundreds of people across the Iloilo stream, but no one bothers to say
hello, or even give a friendly wave.

Sabalacheng, 68, of 70 Lopez Jaena Street, Iloilo City, has been at his job for 40 solitary years.
Nobody ever pays attention to me except to give me the two peso-fare after I get them safely
across the river. I know them all by face because I see them every day but I dont know their
names, Zabalacheng said with a cynical grin, I guess they dont know mine either.

Its not a bad job, but it sure gets lonely.

The story continues with more quotes from Zabalacheng, a description of his appearance and
mannerisms, anecdotes from his 40-year career, and his family.

Youve got a feature story.

***

The Wall Street Journal Formula

Here is a structure for features that the Wall Street Journal has used successfully for many years.

Beginning (introduction)Start with an anecdote or an illustration of the theme (1st to 2nd

paragraphs).

ThemeShortly after the beginning, state the point of the piece (3rd to 6th paragraphs).

BodyProvide details that elaborate on that theme. Tell the reader what is happening and why
and whats being done about the situation. This serves rather than conclude on a secondary piece
of information as to most news stories, a feature may have what is called a kicker, a punch at the
end that drives home the theme and that the reader must always remember. (5th to 7th
paragraphs)

***

Topics for Feature Stories

1. Personalities

2. Experience and adventure

3. Description

4. Narratives

5. Backgrounders

6. Developmental feature articles

7. What to do and How to articles

***

How to introduce (begin) the Feature article

Unlike straight news, a feature article may begin in any form and in any style. It depends on the
topic or purpose of the writer. Most features, however, may be introduced by any of the
following:

1. Rhetorical question

WHO says that age is an obstacle to education?

Take it from Procopio Dimakulangan of San Miguel, Iloilo who stopped going to school 50 years
ago after finishing the elementary grades. This year, he enrolled as a first year evening student at
Andres Bonifacio High, Iloilo Scholastic Academys adopted school.

2. Startling statement

HINDI pa kami laos!

Ito ang pahayag ng mga young oncemga guro, pinuno ng paaralan at mga magulangnang
kanilang ipinagdiwang ang Araw ng Ateneo, Agosto 17, at lumahok sila sa ibat ibang
palatuntunan at paligsahan upang bigyang-buhay at kasanayan ang pagdiriwang.
3. Narrative statement

MRS. NELLY Marie Pradas, a fourth year evening student sends herself and her six children to
school, acting as mother and father at the same time.

Every day, Mrs. Pradas takes her tentative place between the half-time tindera tending her
sarisari store during the day and the half-time student studying at night.

4. Quoted remarks

I EARN while I learn. He smiled at me as the interview reeled off. How can you work, have a
part-time job as an exotic dancer, and at the same time go to school? I asked.

Well, it is easy, she explained. I dont do all of these at the same time.

5. An old maxim, an aphorism or a salawikain

TUBIG, tubig sa lahat ng dako, ngunit kahit isang patak ay walang maiinom. Itong siniping
sabi ni Samuel Coleridge sa tulang The Ancient Mariner na wala nang bisa ngayon. Kahit na
tubig na galing sa baha ay maiinom na. Paano? Ganito ang paraan.

6. History or background of the subject

ISLAMS throughout the world, including our Filipino Muslim brothers observe the holy month
of Ramadan, starting Sept. 17. Ramadan is the ninth lunar month of the Muslim calendar. It is
observed by Muslims as the Lenten Season is commemorated by Christians.

7. Problems to be discussed in the article of fact to be established

THIS IS the answer to the rising cost of vegetables: raise your own.
***

Ending the Feature article

1. A summary of the whole article

MAKINIG ka sa dalubhasa: ang paninigarilyo ay lubhang masama sa kalusugan. Maaring

maturingan kang tunay na lalaki dahil sa paninigarilyo mo, subalit hindi tatagal ang buhay mo
upang mapatunayan mo ang iyong pagkalalaki.

2. An announcement of the main point for the first time

THEREFORE, a major part of the development communications effort should be directed at

strengthening the character of the people and developing in them moral values, particularly by
self-discipline, self-reliance, strength of character, and fortitude.

3. A question left in the readers mind

ANG KAMAY ng makabagong Pilipino ay handang marumihan. Pinaiikoit niya ang gulong ng
pangkaunlaran. Iwina-wagayway niya ang bandila ng kalayaankalayaan laban sa
paghihikahos, at kalayaan sa kamangmangan.

4. Suggested results or significance

LET US conserve our forests now if we want to save the future of our country and of our
children.

5. A forecast or prophecy

IN SIX-AND-A-HALF centuries from now, if population explosion would not be checked, there
would be one person standing on every square foot of land on earth. By that time, people would
be devouring one another for there would be no more space for plants to grow.

6. A repetition of the introduction

ASKED if he had formal training in photography, Lovely Sepe finally answered, Ah, it is now
the reverse. It is here where I learn as I earn, not earn as I learn. (the lead of the feature article
is, I learn while I earn).

7. A repetition of a sentence or slogan, or a reference to the title

AFTER four years of working as a houseboy, working during the day and going to school at
night, Jose Bonifacio will soon graduate as a first honor student.

Now, who says that poverty is a hindrance to education?

(The title of the feature article is Poverty, not a hindrance.)

8. An appropriate quotation

NESTOR claims that he is poor. But when asked why he gave his last centavo to the old man, he
answered:

Not what we give, but what we share

For the gift, without the giver is bare,

Who gives himself with his alms feeds three

Himself, his hungering neighbor and me.

***

A good feature writer should possess the following:

1. a keen observation

2. an intellectual curiosity
3. ability to find features in everyday happenings

4. cupboards of descriptive words (using all senses)and everyday idioms

5. the skill to weave words into interesting sentences and paragraphs

6. the ability to write effectively

7. the attitude to think first before writing and to show (suggest), not tell, things

***

FEATURE WRITING EXERCISES

Describe vividly your seatmate in a two-sentence paragraph.

Write a short (at most five paragraphs) feature article about abortion. It doesnt matter if you are
for or against it. What is important is you remain factual yet entertaining, convincing and
informative. Provide your own title. Show your work to your group mates.

You are the feature editor of your school paper. This morning while you were on your way to
school, you saw a Grade 4 pupil helping an old woman cross the street. Fourth year boys, who
were playing nearby saw the old woman but did not care to help her.

You interviewed the young boy. Now write a feature story on the boy or on the incident. Supply
the facts you gathered from the interview. Remember, you are not writing an editorial. Note also
that like an editorial, a feature article is hung on a natural or artificial newspeg. Give an
interesting and entertaining title.

***

Feature Examples

Topic: Abortion
 COME TO me, Mama. Come, touch me and feel my pain. Dont be afraid now, Mama.
You werent when you killed me.

Here, touch this can you feel it now, Mama? The excruciating pain that consumed my
helpless body? You inflicted that, remember?

Look at my body, now a mass of rotting flesh and coagulated blood. The dregs of what was a
tiny human body. A body that was soft with a tiny head matted with a sheen of baby hair. A tiny
body with a tiny heart that pulsated in time with yours. These were my fingers and ohh!... Heres
my thumb which I sucked while snugly tucked inside you.

You see, I had long lashes just like Dads. My sensitive mouth was just like yours. And here are
my ears that heard your quickening heartbeat when youre afraid.

I could have been a wonderful child if youve let me live.

I could have been baby boy, just what Daddy wanted. A strong, healthy and bubbly bundle in
your arms. My hypersensitiveness would have exasperated you.

Daddy? Hmmm He could have coached me in playing basketball. Hell be the passer and I am
the shooter. I could have grown into a writer. You would be proud of me coz Im gonna join
contests.

Mama, see I was alive but not anymore. So, please let baby brother live. He could also be as
wonderful as me. His life wouldnt be like mine. A life that never was.
Topic: Abortion

LISTEN TO the cry of the unborn.

Listen carefully and see. He is therefrail, delicate, heart beating with the glorious thump of
life. Blood running in his anemic veins, smooth hands, dainty feet, pink flesh, unseeing eyes all
in the protective shell of his mothers womb. His souls voice cries out in joy as he looks forward
to the bountiful harvest he will reap in life. A fresh breath of life; a new creation carefully
molded by the hands of God.

But listen. He is there. Crying out in excruciating pain. He feels the sharp tingle of needles
tearing his flesh. His unseeing eyes roll up. In confusion and rage. His once joyful soul now
crying for the need of life. But no one heard him. No one heeded his call as he plunged into the
world of nullity. His last breath reeked of revenge. The unborn was silent.

Listen to the cry of the unborn.

They stare at you and contemplate their sweet revenge.

Look around you. The guilt-ridden eyes of women carrying this burden state back at you. They
know their child will not be able to feel its parts during the first recital. They know she will not
be able to play Chinese garter or beat up the boys next door because she is gone. They are gone.
Millions of unborn children are presented with the gift of life only to be taken away by selfish
ambitions.

The burden they carry is their revenge. The guilt that is locked in their hearts is their revenge
the revenge of the unborn.

Listen to the cry of the unborn.

Their chances in life were selfishly taken away. Their rights as human beings were unjustly
abused. Their hearts and souls yanked out and were swallowed up in a cloud as dark as ebony.
They lust for death as revenge but they have no voice. They cannot scream.

Listen to the cry of the unborn. They need you.

***

Tomorrow

By Pamela Joy Go, AdI-SMCS

700 words in 1 hour

First Prize masterpiece, DSPC 2002

Theme: Environmental Problems

No. of participating schools: 25

HEAL the world,

Make if a better place

For you and for me

And the entire human race

There are people dying,

If you care enough for the living

Make a better place

For you and for me

I could only stare at the third-grade pupils as they interpret this Michael Jackson classic for their
presentation during the flag ceremony. They seem to be so full of life, so vibrant. Nothing in this
world could seem to break the unbeatable character they have glowing brightly inside them.

I sigh as my thoughts fall on the degrading society that we are having now. How long will these
nave tots have the overwhelming spirit in them? How will they manage to smile?

Look around you, human. What do you see? The pressing issues concerning the
destruction of Mother Earth is too realtoo hard to ignore.

The huge forest fires that terrorize countless of species both here and abroad. The
perennial garbage problem that embraces the government like a cold pack of harsh ice. The
dwindling population of all sorts of mammals and reptilesthe endangered species. The red list
is getting longer and longer. Soon, I doubt if well ever be able to keep track of all the creatures
that have disappeared from the face of the earth forever.

Yes, we want to escape from these enigmas. We really want to. But listen. Its also we who are
keeping ourselves chained to the enslaving powers of material riches. We are blinded by the
glitter of gold every time we cut down trees.

However, there are better realities in this issue our ancient mentality should just think about. The
contemporary ambience of people all over the world getting more humane, more environment-
friendly, more real is embracing us. Any maybe, just maybe, we could start from here.

A year ago, I came across this Readers Digest article that suggested a different view of
this dilemma. While countless others would rather stick to the old, hopeless sense of presenting
these inevitable facts, the article examined the optimism that, surprisingly, never left us.

We still have a chance. At least, thats what the article said. People are becoming civilized. We
are no longer a heartless breed of warm bodies out for nothing but earthly wealth. Through time,
we have evolved to be persons with some sense. And Mother Earth is pretty much depending on
it. Her whole life, her whole existence is actually relying on this so-called sensitivity that we are
starting to acquire.

These are not made-up facts, ladies and gentlemen. No, this isnt escapism. We are not merely
creating this news for the sake of lessening the parables that grasp us by the throat. This is
reality.

And this is where we could start. Instead of being a wet blanket, why not take a positive
paradigm shift? This maybe is the breakthrough we have been waiting for. And this could take us
somewhere in renovating our home, to say the least.

Yes, the predicaments around us are more than enough to last us a lifetime. Theres no way
theyll be solved the moment we put our acts together. They may not even be solved in the entire
life of this generation. They may not even be solved at all. But let us begin. Let us start now.

In John F. Kennedys words, United theres little we cannot do. Divided, theres little we can
do. If we hold hands now, if we open our hearts to one another and disregard those barriers that
keep us from being who we truly are, then maybe we could still hang on to life.

As I watch the children hold hands and dance about the stage, I recognize in their eyes what we
almost losthope. The smiles pasted on their innocent faces spell a promise that there will be a
tomorrow. And that tomorrow will surely be better.

Tomorrow, the world will be healed.

Tomorrow, the world will be a better place.

For you and for me and the entire human race.

***

Lathalaing naglalarawan (Description)

 Pagdalaw sa Lawa ng Bulusan

Ni Perlegio Paderes

Mataas na Paaralan ng Samar

Unang Gantimpala, NSPC 1993

KUNG sinasabing ang pluma ay higit ha pakapangyarihan kaysa anumang snadata, sa pluma
man ay may higit pang makapangyarihan. Ito ang ganda ng kalikasan.

Kahanga-hanga, makapitlag-puso, makalangit, kapita-pitagan at walang pinag-iwan sa

isang tunay na paraiso. Ito ang Lawa ng Bulusan, lawa para sa sinumang nilalang na ibig mapag-
isa upang lasapin ang biyaya ng tunay na katahimikan sa buhay o dili naman kayay upang
lunasan ang hapdi ng puso sa pamamagitan ng walang sawang pagmasid sa mapang-aliw at
masaganang kagandahan ng buong pusong inihain ng kalikasan.

Sa aking nasaksihan sa una kong pagdalaw sa lawang ito na matatagpuan sa dakong

timog silangan ng lalawigang Sorsogon na may apatnaput limang kilometro mula sa punong
bayan ay ang mga sumusunod:

Isang likas na daan o pilapil na maaring mapagdaanan na tuloy-tuloy sa buong paligid. Sa

pampang naman ito ay nakapalibot ang malilin na punong-kahoy na pawing nangayuko at
animoy nahihiyang nagbubulungan.

Sa paligid pa rin ay ang mgaburol na siyang nagsisilbing muog sa sinuman o anumang

ibig magsamantala sa walang batik na kagandahan nito. Sa libis naman ng burol ay para-parang
inihasik and naglalakihan at nag-papaligsahang mga magagandang bulaklak.
 Tunay na kawili-wili at kahanga-hanga. Ang malamig na simoy nghangin ay
nakapagpapadama na waring ang buhay ay walang katapusan. Ito ang mga pangunahing
katangian ng lawa ng Bulusan na may labing anim na hektarya ang lawak at may tatlumput
dalawang metro ang lalim. Ang lawa ay tatlong daan at animnaput limang taong gulang na.
Itoy maaaring marating sa pamamagitan ng bus o anumang sasakyang pangkalsada sa loob ng
may humigit-kumulang sa dalawa at kalahating oras.

Ibig ba ninyong dumalaw doon? Kayoy malugod na inaanyayahan at buong pusong

tatanggapin ng mapang-akit na lawang nakahimlay sa tuktok ng higanteng bulkan.

***

Human Interest Feature Article

George, hes a hero!

By Emilyn Martinez

IT IS natural for women to be lavanderas if that is the best thing that they can do for a
living, but have you heard of a guy who does laundry to support his family? Well, there is such
an unusual guy in our school.

George Francis, a 17-year-old junior, has taken on the difficult responsibility of providing
for his little sister and brother. He is father and mother to them, since both his parents are
deceased. His three other sisters have their own families. Fortunately, his youngest brother is
cared for by an aunt.

To be able to feed his siblings and send them to school, George does the laundry of a
family in Moriones. Saturdays he washes their weeks laundry and Sundays, he irons them, a
back-breaking job that assures him P400 a week. And for schooldays, at 5 p.m., when his classes
are over, he cleans the house of his amo for a monthly wage of P500. In one month, he earns a
total of P2,100 which he says is enough for their food, daily baon and monthly rent of P300.
 Ive been doing this for three years now, he says. Mahirap, pero nasanay na ako (Its
hard but Im already used to it). Despite his work, he manages to get good grades. And although
he has so much to do, he does his share of the housework because he doesnt want to tire out his
brother and sister I want them to concentrate on their studies, he says.

George Francis is only one of our many students who must struggle daily in order to
survive. If Rhona Mahilom, the girl from Negros who saved her younger sisters and brothers
when their house caught fire, is a hero, George is a hero for saving his sister and brother from
starvation, for giving them a home and family to afford them the security they badly need in their
formative years.

Georges touching story serves as an inspiration to us. We give you, George, a big round
of applause. We are proud of you and may your tribe increase.

***

WRITING EDITORIALS

Editorial

Itis the official stand of the paper on a relevant development or issue. It is a concerted
commentary written by any member of the editorial staff who comments or gives the
newspapers or staffs opinion on an issue which is of interest and importance to the public.

The editorial is considered the soul of the newspaper for it stirs the conscience of the readers to
action; it influence and molds public opinion. It is usually written in formal language, expressing
the stand of the paper on controversial issues of the day. It has no byline.

It is the expression of the peoples conscience, cause, and convictions.Joseph Pulitzer

***

Content of the editorial section

1. Folio
2. Masthead

3. Editorial proper

4. Editorial column

5. Editorial cartoon

6. Editorial liner

7. Letter to the editor

***

Characteristics of a good editorial

1. Must have clearness of style

2. Moral purpose

3. Sound reasoning

4. The power to influence public opinion

5. Lead logically to a conclusion

6. Present only one idea

7. Avoid wordiness

8. Present facts not mere opinion

9. Concise, around 250-300 words or 2,000-2,500 computer characters (at most 6

paragraphs)

10. Must be decisive and bias

***

Types of editorial

1. Editorial of information
2. Editorial of interpretation

3. Editorial of criticism

4. Editorial of commendation, appreciation, or tribute

5. Editorial of argumentation

6. Editorial of entertainment

7. Mood editorial

8. Pooled editorial

***

How to write an editorial?

In writing editorial, select only one specific idea to develop. Be sure the topic is of interest to the
reader.

Organize your editorial in three parts:

1. Introduction

Contains the newspeg with the reaction. It is usually one short paragraph. (A newspeg is a brief
statement about the news event upon which the editorial is based or an existing issue that needs
to be solved right away)

2. Body

It may take two to four short paragraphs that support or justify the reaction. Cite reasons,
statistics, interviews, or figures.
3. Ending

The ending, sometimes called the clincher, summarizes the editorials stand. It must be crispy
and difficult to forget.

***

Example of an introduction

(reaction is italicized; newspeg is in regular font)

The new office policy of requiring tardy students to study their lessons in the literary while they
wait for the next period is both timely and wise.

It is a source of great pride and inspiration for our school to come out second in the NSAT
regionwide.

Our general PTA is really generous and concerned for the students welfare. They will donate
labor and materials to improve the school gym.

***

The editorial has also a head or title which should be brief (preferably less than four words),
forceful and interesting.

***

Pointers in writing editorial

1. Make the editorial interesting enough to read.

2. Develop it from one specific, limited idea, phrased in one sentence and expanded into the
body of the editorial.
3. Have a purpose well in mind that should be accomplished with sufficient data.

4. Organize all data into well-reasoned arguments, with each argument leading up to the
conclusion.

5. Peg the lead sentence on recent, relevant news for its impact value.

6. Present both sides of an issue and clarify tricky aspects with a widely understood analogy
or with an illustration that makes for easier understanding.

7. Direct the editorial towards the establishment of a consensus.

8. Article must be simple, direct, clear, and forceful.

9. No double meanings.

10. It must reflect clear, logical thinking.

11. Subject matter must be significant to the readers.

12. Sentences and paragraphs must be comparatively short.

***

Dos and Donts in writing an editorial

1. Win the readers interest with an impelling lead paragraph.

2. Avoid generalities by using plenty of facts and by telling what these facts mean.

3. Keep your editorials short; around 300 words (2,500 computer characters) only.

4. Do not preach, scold or moralize.

5. Relate editorials directly to the lives of the reader.

6. Avoid the first person, I. Use the editorial We.

7. Write simply.

8. Develop editorial from only one specific, limited idea, phrased in one sentence and
expanded into the body.

9. Sentences and paragraphs should be relatively short.

10. Accomplish your purpose

***

Editorial beginnings

An editorial may start with:

1. A simple statement that gives enough of the situation, problem or news to be discussed.

2. A question that calls attention to, give an idea about the problem or point out the logical
development of the topic.

3. A striking statement that jolts the imagination and arouses the interest of the reader.

4. A quotation relevant to the subject under discussion.

5. A narrative illustrating the problem or situation.

***

EDITORIAL WRITING EXERCISES:

Across the street from the school are computer stations where students flock during their off-
periods. They spend their snack money on computer rentals and stay there playing until the bell
rings for their next periods. Write an editorial on these facts.

Lack of study habit is again rampant in school. What should be done about it? Write an editorial
using any of the Editorial types you have learned.

***

SAMPLES:

Vandals
ATENEO de La Salles walls have a new coat of paint and are presently clean. Whether they
retain their present state of cleanliness depends almost entirely on the students.

The first spots appeared as a result of negligent student leaning against the walls and scraping the
soles of their shoes on them. Some students have also taken a peculiar delight in making long
pencil scrawls on the walls as they go to classes.

According to an observant parent, Atesallians, more than any other group of students, abuse their
buildings. This report, whether true or otherwise, should serve as a challenge.

Will the walls remain clean?

***

(Editorial of criticism)

Respect flag rites

A FLAG ceremony whether it be a flag raising or a flag retreat is sacred. Therefore, it

should be observed with all the solemnity and sacredness a Filipino citizen can muster.

The National Anthem (Pambansang Awit) like the national flag should be treated with
ceremonial respect.

On this, the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in Kawit in 1898, it is

perhaps timely to remind all and sundry to behave during flag ceremonies.

Sad to say, many students, during the Monday morning flag-raising ceremonies, instead
of standing at attention while singing the National Anthem, and while reciting the Patriotic
Pledge (Panatang Makabayan), move around, play, and make fun, completely disregarding what
is going on.
 It is for this reason that we are calling the attention of all teachers, especially the social
studies teachers to give more emphasis on educational values, love of country, respect for the
flag, veneration of heroes, and proper behavior during flag ceremonies.

If flag ceremonies cannot be held properly, why then do we hold them at all?

- The Newsette, Manila

***

Editorial of Tribute (Nagpaparangal)

Ka Doroy

Si G. Bobby Zabalate, lalong kilala sa pangalang Ka Doroy, ay nagiwan ng isang legado na

mahirap mapantayan ng kanyang mga kapanahon sa pamamahayag.

Nang siyay nabubuhay pa, kanyang ibinuhos ang kanyang panahon sa walang sawang
pagtulong sa mga nahihirap lalo na sa mga kabataang mag-aaral sa pamamagitan ng pagkaloob
ng mga iskolarship.

Isa sa kanyang mga proyekto ay ang pag-ilak ng pondo para sa ampunan, pagamutan at
paaralan. Kanya ring iayos ang Plaza Libertad na nagging isang pandaigdig na palatandaan ot
landmark. Pinangungunahan din niya ang pagpalabas ng mga libreng pangkulturang
pagtatanghal at ang pagpapaganda ng mga liwasan sa Lungsod ng Iloilo.

Sa sariling pagsisikap at angking talino, siyay nagging matagumpay hanggang siyay

inangkin bilang isang huwarang anak ng lalawigang Iloilo.

Yumao na si Ka Doroy, subalit siyas mananatiling buhay sa puso ng bawat Ilonggo.

***

WHAT IS SPORTS WRITING?

Sports writing has become one of the most popular forms of modern journalistic writing. More
and more readers are now turning to the sports section before looking at the more prosaic news
of the day.

But while may talk about sports, there are only few who can write a sports story. Even
experienced beat reporters get lost covering games and writing about them because it takes more
than just answering the 5 Ws and 1 H to be able to come up with a comprehensive sports news
story.

***

Example of a sports article

(NSPC Winning Piece)

ILAGAN, IsabelaIsabela National High School, behind the remarkable performances of

Florante Carreon and Paul Gonzales, took all the Roxas National High School could offer before
hacking out a close 60-59 win in an exhibition game held at St. Ferdinand College Court here,
Tuesday.

Carreon scored 21 points to lead Isabela and Gonzales 13 points but delivered this on the
crucial part of the game including the winning free throw.

The game started in a roller-coaster encounter and the first half ended 28-27 with Isabela on the
lead.

The second half was still close and Roxas took the lead with two minutes to go, but Gonzales
displayed a big heart as he connected a three-pointer to give Isabela the lead, 54-53.
Rolly Menor carried Roxas on that decisive moment and tied the game at 59-all with 15 seconds
to go.

Gonzales fished a foul with 10 seconds left and split his charity for the lead, 60-59.

Herman Menor refused to give up but his last desperate jumpshot went in-and-out of the ring.

Faith carried us through this game, its a good game, said Gonzales after the game.

INHS (60)Carreon 21, Gonzales, 13, Magusib, 12, Mercado 6, Aguinaldo 4, Martinez 2,
Cabanlong 2, Ong 0, Lim 0, Gumaru 0.

RNHS (59)Menor 22, Balagan 18, Malaca 12, Soriano 7, Allavigan 0, gonzaga 0, Advincula
0, Limbauan 0, Galapon 0.

***

Aside from having the nose for news, a sports writer should also:

1. have interest in all sports event

2. know the rules and regulations of the event or game he is writing about, and

3. have a working knowledge of the language and jargon of sports writing usually referred
to as the sports lingo.

***

Types of Sports stories

1. Advance story (dope or prognostication)

a. straight news story

b. background story

c. prediction story

2. Coverage story

3. Advance coverage story

***

ike any other news story, a sports story has a lead and a body. The sports lead is the attention-
getter and the body is the news in a-nut-shell.

The classic 5 Ws and 1 H appear in the sports lead as: 1. Who won? 2. How did they win? 3.
Against whom? 4. By what score? 5. Where? and 6. When?

The Torres High School Quintet (1) poured 10 baskets in the last three minutes (2) to edge out
the Osmenians (3) 65-63 (4) at the opponents homeground (5) yesterday afternoon (6).

This kind of summary lead may vary.

***

The lead can also highlight other elements like:

1. The key play

LAKANDULA, IloiloThe visiting Soliman High School sluggers bombed the Lakandula
batters with six runs in the third inning to subdue a nerve-frazzling Lakandula rally, 14-12, as
they clinched the invitational game here, in connection with the celebration of the schools
Foundation Day.
2. The outstanding player

EDWARD Ong of Ateneo de Iloilo, after almost four hours of battle over the chessboard, copped
the most coveted YMCA trophy after outwitting Philippine Science High School chesser
William Santos in 27 moves of a Sicilian defense.

3. Analytical approach

RIDING high on sizzling spikes and tricky placing, the spitfire Ateneo Blue Dragons blasted the
Ateneo Blue Eagles killers in the crucial third set to won 15-10, 11-15, 15-7 in the Jesuit
Athletics Meet (JAM), Sept. 21, at the Sacred Heart School in Cebu yesterday

***

The body

After the lead, the other elements follow in descending order. These will include:

1. Team and/or individual standing

2. Decisive plays

3. Best scores for the day

4. Play-by-play

5. Quotations

***

Elements that make up a good sports article:

1. Personalities

2. Play-by-play description

3. Statistics and comparisons

4. Quotes by players

5. Quotes by trainers and coaches

6. Background stuff on players

7. The importance or significance of the event

8. Background of the game

9. Weather conditions

10. Crowd and celebration

***

Lingos and Slanguages

Basketball (basketbol)

Quintet, goal (gol o buslo), dribble (dribol), pivot, rally, rebound (rebaun), technical foul, 15-foot
line, hook shot, zone defense, first half (unang kalahati), tip-in, full court, press, box out, slam
dunk, man-to-man, trey, full-court press, hook shot, goaltending, baseline, board, layup (leyap),
out-of-bounds, dominated the paint

Baseball or Softball (beisbol at sopbol)

Diamond, pitcher (pitser), catcher (katser), back stop, hit a homerun, rolling ball, short stop,
southpaw, pegged at third, fast ball, playoff (n, adj), play off (v.), slugger, wild pitch, bullpen

Boxing (boksing)

Southpaw, slugger, rabbit punch, kidney punch, referee stopped contest (RSC), technical
knockout, featherweight

Chess
Checkmate, rook, queenside, Sicilian opening, Ruy Lopez defense, Queens gambit, knight,
white, black, fast pawn, en pass, castle, pin, open check, blunder, Philidors defense

Volleyball

Spike (spaik), placing (pleysing), change court, kill (kil), Chinese kill, block, net ball, wallop
(wallop), jump serve, spiker (spay-ker), server (serber)

Soccer or Football

Soccerites, goalie, corner kick, penalty kick, full back, defenders, booters, kick off (v.), kickoff
(adj)

Track

Pass on the baton, breasted the tape, clock a new record, photo finish, distance runner, century
run

Tennis and Badminton

Best of three matches, love set, backhand, drive, doubles, racket, forehand, smash cut

Swimming

Tanker, aquabelle, breast stroke, plunge, springboard, tank, dive, summersault

***

Aids (crutches) that may be useful in covering the game:

1. BasketballFG (field goal), FT (free throw), PF (personal foul), TP (total points), js

(jumpshot) etc.

2. Baseball and softballab (at bat), h (hit), rbi (runs batted in), e (error), etc.

3. Volleyballp (placing), bs (booming service), s (spiker), bb (block ball), etc.

***
Salitang magkasingkahulugan

Nagwagi namituin, bumandila, namayani, nagnuna

Natalo nagapi, nagahis

Magtutuos magsasagupaan, magkakasubukan, magpapaligsahan

Kalaban katunggali

Pinatumba ginupo, nilampaso, pinulbos, tinambakan, pinayukod, pinakain ng alikabok

***

SPORTS WRITING EXERCISE

Make a four-paragraph news article with hypothetical story about a basketball exhibition game
where the Filipinos won against the best players in the NBA.

***

SAMPLES:

Gin Kings bag PBA crown

BARANGAY Ginebra broke the game wide open late in the third period behind Mark Caguioa
and finished off Red Bull Barako, 103-86, Wednesday night to capture the Gran Matador
Philippine Basketball Association Fiesta Conference crown at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon
City.

Caguioa presided over Ginebra's uprising in the third quarter with 15 of his team-high 26 points,
firing three triples that broke the backs of the Barakos and handed the Gin Kings their first title
in the post-Sonny Jaworski era.

Caguioa's exploits electrified a jampacked crowd of 16,468, majority of them Ginebra diehards
who compounded the misery of the jittery Barakos with their non-stop chants and jeers.
Romel Adducul, Eric Menk, Torraye Braggs and Andy Seigle then took over from Caguioa and
the Gin Kings went in for the kill by building a solid 16-point spread, 86-70, that launched
Ginebra to its first crown in seven years.

Lacking their usual spunk, the Barakos simply folded up as the Gin Kings ended the best-of-five
series at 3-1.

Ginebra last tasted victory during the 1997 Commissioner's Cup title as Gordon's Gin with
Jaworski as playing coach.

Overall, the La Tondea franchise snared its fifth PBA crown and matched sister team San
Miguel Beer's feat as the lowest seed in the playoffs to win a championship. The Gin Kings were
ranked sixth prior to the quarterfinals.

"We competed and worked as a team. We had mistakes in the past but we've learned from them.
All the hard work paid off," said a teary-eyed Barangay Ginebra coach Siot Tanquingcen.

Tanquingcen, who replaced Allan Caidic as chief bench tactician in the middle of the conference,
became the fourth rookie coach to achieve the feat after Joel Banal of Talk 'N Text, Purefoods'
Ryan Gregorio and Coca-Cola's Chot Reyes.

Aside from these achievements, the Gin Kings also owned the distinction of becoming the first
team to hand the Barakos their first defeat in three PBA Finals.

The Gin Kings also gave import Torraye Braggs his first taste of a championship ring in his
entire professional career.
Eric Menk, who was named Finals MVP, finished with 22 points to complement the fine work of
Caguioa and Braggs, who also had 22 markers on top of 15 rebounds.

Jimwell Torion, who was suspended in Game 3, started for the Barakos but was immediately
pulled out of the game after hurting his right hand during a loose-ball scuffle midway in the first
quarter.

Despite Torion's absence for most of the first half, the Barakos were able to sustain their
offensive through the outside snipings of Victor Thomas and Homer Se's incursions.

A three-pointer by Thomas, named Best Import of the conference, gave the Barakos an early 17-
10 lead and although the Gin Kings cut down the deficit to 30-27 at the end of the first quarter,
Red Bull held its ground until Braggs began throwing his weight around in the paint.

Scores:

GINEBRA 103 -- Caguioa 26, Braggs 22, Menk 20, Adducul 13, Seigle 13, Dimaunahan 5,
Calpito 2, Helterbrand 2, Salvacion 0, Santos 0.

RED BULL 86 -- Thomas 32, Se 19, Valenzuela 15, Tugade 10, Pennisi 3, Baguio 2, Villanueva
2, Harp 2, Ordonio 1, Robinson 0, Asaytono 0, Torion 0.

Quarters: 27-30, 52-48, 78-68, 103-86.

***
COPYREADING

opyreading is much like the work of a communication arts teacher correcting compositions,
except that he uses different symbols.

A copy may be a news item, an editorial, a feature story or any literary article.

***

Duties of a copyreader:

1. Straighten out ungrammatical construction.

2. Shorten sentences and tighten paragraphs.

3. See that the papers style requirements are strictly followed. Check names, addresses,
title, designations, identifications, figures, etc.

4. Rewrite the story completely if it is poorly written.

5. Rewrite the lead or the first few paragraphs whenever necessary, but must never tamper
with the facts unless he is sure of his corrections.

6. Delete all opinion, speculations and statements on news which are without attribution or
sources.

7. Watch out for slanting or any attempt to present the story in a subtly biased way.

8. Watch for libelous statements.

9. Recheck figures and totals.

10. Cross-out adjectives in news which tend to make a story sound over-written.

11. Cut a story to size or to the required length if necessary.

12. Check attributions and see to it that they are properly identified.

13. Challenge facts, claims, or reports when they sound anomalous, illogical and incredible.

14. Check sluglines and paging sequences

15. Write headlines

***

What to copyread

1. Errors in fact

2. Errors in grammar

3. Errors in structure

4. Errors in style

5. Libelous and derogatory statements

6. Seditious and rebellious matter

7. Expressions contrary to law and good taste

8. Opinion and editorializing statements

9. Verbal deadwood, redundancy

10. Technical terms, slang, jargons

***

Copyreading Symbols

1. Punctuation Marks

Symbols Meaning Outcome

The Bionic Woman Emphasize quotes The Bionic Woman

Dr Arthur Cruz Jr Emphasize periods Dr. Arthur Cruz Jr.

said I must go. Emphasize comma said, I must go.

2. Numbers and Abbreviations

in Nov. Spell out in November

Doctor Arthur Cruz Abbreviate Dr. Arthur Cruz

twenty boys Use numeral 20 boys

2 girls were Spell out Two girls were

3. Special form of type

Manila, philippines Capitalize MANILA, Philippines

4. Letter and word changes

meet on Saturday Bridge over meet Saturday

those b oys Close up space those boys

Fe Cruz Principal Transpose Principal Fe Cruz

recieve Transpose receive

pamplet Insert letter pamphlet

went market Insert word went to market

Manila pAper Lower case Manila paper

received free gifts Delete word received gifts

judgement Delete letter within judgment

develope iskill Delete before/after word develop skill

the most talented and Kill the principal

enthusiastic principal

Allright we have time Insert space All right we have time

We were indeed very Run in copy We were indeed very

happy because happy because

5. Others

Paco, Manila Indent for paragraph Paco, Manila

Today he will Today he will

Welfrido Cruz Spell as written Welfrido Kruz

One boy came Restore text; disregard On boy came

correction

Elected prexy Center subhead Elected prexy

the un Syllabicate the un-

finished task finished task

The gong Set in boldface the gong

She read Les Miserables Set in italics She read Les Miserables

30 or # Story is finished

more or ) Story is unfinished

(2) Next page

# - folio copy See copy as written

Note: To arrange paragraphs just place the number (e.g. #1, #3) of the corresponding paragraphs
in the left portion of the copy.

***

SAMPLE COPYREADING MATERIAL

Headline: _____________________________________

No. of units: ____________

The PNU elementary school launch the anual cleanliness & beatification contest September 16 at
the school social hole.

In a mating with Presidents and vice-presidents of each class from Grade III to Gr. Six, Mrs.
Alegria Flora Principal explain the procedures to folow.

According to the principal, its class class will be given an areas to cleaned. Ones a week, school
officials will vissit the area and chose the cleanest amongst them.

Prices will be awarded to the class whos area will be pick the cleanest for 3 times. Th

This will give insentives to the students explained Mrs. Flores.

The handsome and intelligent Mr. Garcia Ramon, vocation al teacher who facilitated the meeting
told the studes that thru the contest cooperation will be developed

while order and cleanliness be maintained.

Congrattulations Mrs. Garcia.

***

COPYREADING EXERCISE

Check the corresponding number of the correctly spelled word:

1. ocasion

2. all-right

3. embarassment

4. inspite of

5. harrassment

6. privileges

7. commitee

8. diphtheria

9. dessimenate

10. tommorow

***

COPYREADING EXERCISE

Verbal deadwood

Column A Column B

_______ 1. for the reason that a. died

_______ 2. a larger proportion b. believes

_______ 3. at the present time c. although

_______ 4. succumbed to injuries d. now

_______ 5. at an early date e. remind

_______ 6. is of the opinion f. many

_______ 7. in the neighborhood g. near

_______ 8. in the event of h. soon

_______ 9. in spite of the fact i. because

_______ 10. draw the attention of j. if

***

COPYREADING EXERCISE

Redundancy

1. The final conclusion revealed that the dead corpse was a victim of a fatal murder.

2. The other alternative is to get some new recruits.

3. It was definitely decided to give free gifts to the underprivileged poor on Christmas.

***

COPYREADING EXERCISE

Brevity

1. The play will be shown in the month of December.

2. The meeting lasted for a period of two hours.

3. These children are the ones who are influenced by indecent films.

4. The building closed its door at five oclock p.m. in the afternoon.

***

COPYREADING EXERCISE

Opinion and editorializing news articles

1. Mr. Amador Cabansag, a very energetic teacher of electricity in the famous Osmena High
School, held a very successful demonstration lesson.

2. The most efficient and knowledgeable principal represented the school in the well-known
national press conference.

***

COPYREADING EXERCISE

Correct Usage, Grammar, etc

1. The sick man was (taken, brought) to the hospital.

2. Where is the other (pair, mate) of this shoe?

3. It is (unhealthy, unhealthful) to stay (in, under) the hot sun.

4. The article (shaded, shed) light on the whole subject.

5. The cadets are marching (on, in, at) the campus.

6. Come to work (in, on) time or you will be (fired, fired out).

7. Put all your (bedding, beddings) away and (take, bring) your (baggage, baggages) (in, on)
the corner of the room.

8. Our main concern (is, are) reference books which (is, are) very dear nowadays.

9. Five and six (is, are) eleven.

10. My friend and teacher (wants, want) me to visit her.

11. I (was, have been, had been) absent yesterday.

12. The criminal was (hang, hung, hanged) by the mob.

13. The owl unlike most birds is awake at night.

14. Claro m. Recto wrote Abajo los cocoteros and Shadow and Solitude.

15. The Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor (Dec. 1941; December, 1941; December 1941)
16. The birthday (celebrant, celebrator) received many gifts.

17. Mother is often tired from the (everyday, every day) chores.

18. Peter tried to (reason, reason out) to his father about his low grades.

19. The jeep (collided, crashed) against the wall of the school.

20. The old (is, are) richer in expertise than the young.

It

***

HEADLINE WRITING

is easy to write the news headline. Just look at the first paragraph called the lead which contains
the gist, Just write the gist of that lead.

***

Dos and donts in writing traditional headlines

1. Make your headline answer as many Ws as possible.

2. The headline should summarize the news story, but must avoid using all the words used
in the lead. It should contain nothing that is not found in the story.

3. Positive heads are preferable to negative ones. School physician allays flu fear is better
than Flu epidemic not rampant in city.

4. Out a verb expressed or implied in every deck.

5. Omit articles like a, an, and the, and all forms of the verb to be (is, are, be, etc.), unless
needed to make the meaning clear.

6. Use the strongest word in the first line as much as possible.

7. The active verb is better than the passive verb in headlines (Food production drive
intensified; RPs lost image abroad regained)

8. Use the present tense for past stories and the infinitive form for future stories
(Archbishop Sin bats for national reconciliation; Lantern parade to cap Xmas affairs).

9. Write numbers in figures or spell them out depending upon your needs for your unit
counts.
10. Avoid heads that carry double meaning.

11. Use only common abbreviations.

***

Punctuating a headline

1. Use a comma in place of the conjuction and

2. Two related thoughts should be separated with a semicolon.

3. The dash may be used in smaller decks but not for headlines in large types.

4. The single quotation marks are used in headlines.

5. Follow the other rules of punctuations.

***

Unit counting in headline

unit - jiltf and all punctuations except the em dash (--), and the question mark (?)

1 unit - the question mark, space, all figures, capital JILTF, all lower case letters except
jiltf

1 units - the em dash, lower case m and w, and all capital letters except capital M and W
and JILTF

2 units - capital M, W

***

Headline vocabulary

1. Faculty club strengthened (beefed up)

2. Enrolment decreases (dips)

3. Science examinations announced (quiz bared)

4. Contests highlight Animal Week (cap)

5. Santos urges cooperation (bats for, calls for)

6. DepEd disapproves tuition fee increase (bucks, nixes, axes)

7. Ateneo wins 12 medals in press contest (bags, romp away with; tilt, parley)

8. Principal praises editors humility (lauds, extols)

9. Local staff dominates press tilt (rules, lords over)

10. Local basketball players retain championship (sluggers; crown)

11. US attacks Russ nuclear test (hits)

12. Laurel ends diplomatic tour (winds up)

13. Cops ended syndicate (busted)

14. Slay suspect questioned (grilled, probed)

15. RP sees import hike (eyes)

16. 456 pass bar exams (hurdle)

17. Lim dismisses 5 cops (fires)

18. RP-Malaysia dispute solved (row)

19. Fiscal dismiss rape charge (dismiss; rap)

20. Import talk delayed (snagged)

***

Mga halimbawa

Huwag gumamit ng pangalan maliban kung kilala ito

MaliJaime Diaz, nahalal na pangulo

TamaMag-aaral ng Mapa, nahalal na pangulo ng samahan

Maging tiyak (specific)

MaliMag-aaral, nagwagi sa paligsahan

TamaMag-aaral ng Mapa, nagwagi sa pagsulat ng balita

Iwasan ang opinyon sa balita

MaliPaaralang Datu Puti, lumaro ng kahanga-hanga

TamaPaaralang Datu Puti, nanalo ng 3 sa 4 na laban

Lagyan ng pandiwa ang bawat ulo

MaliLimang guro sa seminar

TamaLimang guro, dadalo sa seminar

Iwasan ang paggamit ng negatibong pandiwa

MaliPaligsahan sa talumpatian, hindi matutuloy

TamaPaligsahan sat al;umpatian, pinagpaliban

Gumamit ng makakatawag-pansing pandiwa

MahinaTinato ng UST ang St. Joseph, 50-36

MalakasPinataob ng UST ang St. Joseph, 50-36

Gamitin ang maikli at kilalang salita

MasalitaBayang Pilipinas, sasali sa pandaigdig na palaro

MaikliRP, sasali sa olimpiyada

Iwasan ang paggamit ng pantukoy at ng pandiwang pantulong nahango sa verb to be

MaliSi Japhet Burgos ay ang napiling punong patnugot ng Ripples

TamaJaphet Burgos, napiling punong patnugot ng Ripples

***

HEADLINING EXERCISES

Draft a one-line headline

GARNERING 185 points, the Manila Science High School athletes retained for the third time
the much coveted District Athletic Meet Championship Crown.

Draft a two-line headline (at most 25 unit counts per line)

THE PNU Laboratory School was awarded a gold trophy. Its Model Platoon copped first place in
the District CAT Competition. Enrico Joaquin, Model Platoon Commander, was named Best
Platoon Leader.

Draft a one-line headline all caps with at most 25 unit counts

A MAKATI woman who lived and died in relative obscurity despite great wealth has left P10
million to the University of the Philippines.

***

It

EDITORIAL CARTOONING

is an editorial page illustration expressing opinion and interpretation (a column or opinion in

cartoon form). The word cartoon is derived from two words: caricature and lampoon.
A caricature is an exaggerated description, generally by sketching. It is a pictorial representation
of a person or thing in which a defect or peculiarity is exaggerated so as to produce a ludicrous
effect.

A lampoon, on the other hand, is a piece of malicious writing, a personal-written satire that
attacks and ridicules.

A good cartoon appeals to the readers sense of humor in order to persuade him/her to accept an
opinion.

***

How to conceptualize

1. Read/listenresearch your facts well.

2. Decide on your point of view or angle of your chosen issue.

3. Make your comment on the issue.

4. Translate your comment into coordinating, representative graphic symbols (e.g. crocodile
for corrupt officials and typewriter for press)

5. Take into consideration the papers target readers.

6. Sketch/make doodles.

7. Draw your final cartoon.

***

Ways to present your view

1. Take the issue to a ridiculous situation.

2. Exaggerate the effect of an issue.

3. Use clich or something contemporary or in.

4. Juxtapose or put together two events, even unrelated ones.

5. Take quotes literally. Play with words.

6. Consider the occasion.

7. Make an interesting artwork.

8. Caricature a political figure and add a punch line

***

10 drawing techniques

1. Use the acronym see for the basic ingredients for an effective cartoon drawing.

a. SIMPLE

Even basic shapes positioned properly in relation to each other would be enough.

b. EXPRESSION

Eyes are the most expressive part of our anatomy. Next, comes the mouth. Third, are the hands.

c. EXAGGERATE

Overemphasize a feature or several features to make your cartoon funny.

2. In drawing caricatures, exaggerate the prominent features of the subject.

3. Take advantage of your medium.

a. Pen and in, brush and ink, charcoal or dark pencil.

b. Contrast the black and white.

c. Dark areas tend to catch the focus of the eyes.

4. Properly place your shadows. Simplify your light source. Have only one light source.
5. Read and draw left to right.

6. Use less words. Less is more difficult, but the better. Instead, use symbols a lot,
especially familiar ones (e.g. crocodile for corruption).

7. Dont overwork your drawing (using too much props, background, details, etc.)

8. Keep your message clear to the intended reader, not only to yourself. Ask the opinion of
others.

9. If you can, apply Balance and Composition; Depth and Perspective.

10. Be funny, except in tragic situations.

***

Tips for cartooning

1. Limit the use of words and labels.

2. Use universal symbols, those which can be understood at once by your intended reader.

3. Have your own style. Do not copy or plagiarize.

4. If your cartoon is about the editorial for the day, it must reinforce the stand stated in the
piece.

5. Choose a most interesting issue and express your comment in an arresting way.

6. Do not clutter your cartoon with unnecessary details or complicate your drawing with
artistic touches. These will just distract from the impact of the cartoon. Minimal is better.

7. Cover your cartoon with a frame or border.

8. Use shading to make your article more convincing.

***

Steps in Editorial Cartooning

Dr. Net Billones, one of the countrys top cartoonists, suggests the following steps:

1. List down the subjects to choose from.

2. Once the subject is chosen, ask what is the issue? What is the papersopinion about the
issue?

Example:

IssuePress freedom

OpinionThe government is going back to the martial law days as far as press freedom is
concerned.

3. Decide the symbols to be used

Example:

GovernmentGMA

Press freedombird (dove) flying, typewriter, school paper

Repressionchain, scissors, slingshot, bar

4. Draw the cartoon.

***

EDITORIAL CARTOONING EXERCISE:

Make a sketch (not trace) of at least one of the following editorial cartoons of your choice: