Curriculum Guides

Questions are found in many forms of journalism. How-to and advice columnists often respond to questions submitted by their readers. The well-written questions of the interview inform reporters, editorial writers and investigative journalists. The Q&A provides a quick read. Partial and full quotations from diverse interviewees that are successfully woven into the reporter’s narrative provide accurate and balanced coverage. Activities in this guide assist students in forming questions, organizing an oral history project, connecting questions to a career and conducting an interview. 

As normalization of diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Cuba has begun, flags have been raised over embassies, officials have engaged in talks, and accords have been signed. This guide provides opportunities to discuss and study government policy formation and international relations; preservation methods, partnerships and accords; journalistic integrity and historic legacy; Cuba’s ethnic, religious and cultural expression; and environmental diversity. 

The visit of Pope Francis draws us to media coverage of religion and faith. From KidsPost articles to editorials and commentary, students read of local, national and international religious events, celebrations, rites and conflicts. Students are asked to do a crossword puzzle, prepare graphics, research and write.

Media credibility can be lost when ethical guidelines are ignored, when a member of the media fabricates quotations and other information, plagiarizes from the work of others, and exaggerates one’s experience.

We examine those who have failed to be ethical, and we review the ways The Washington Post provides accuracy, balance, clarity and transparency.