What Journalism is
Luke 1:3
“It seemed good to me also, since I have carefully investigated everything from the very first, to write to you in an orderly sequence...”
For students of journalism, this verse highlights three key principles. First, good reporting requires investigation. Luke did not write casually or from secondhand guesses; he took time to look deeply into the facts. Second, it shows the importance of order. Information should be arranged in a way that helps the reader understand the full story. Third, it reflects integrity. Luke’s goal was clarity and truth, not confusion or persuasion through distortion.
What is Journalism
Journalism is the work of gathering facts, asking questions, and sharing important information in a clear way. Journalists help people know what is happening, why it matters, and how it affects others. In this class, journalism also means learning to listen well, write clearly, and work together to create a newspaper. This year, the newspaper will include five sections: the main article, encouragement, entertainment, class or tutor spotlight, and upcoming events.
A story is newsworthy when it is important, interesting, useful, or meaningful to readers. Good journalism is built on truth, clarity, and careful investigation. Luke 1:3 is a strong reminder that careful research and orderly writing matter when telling a story.
What Makes Something Newsworthy?
Not everything becomes a news story. Journalists look for specific qualities that make a story important or interesting to others.
Something is usually newsworthy if it includes:
- Timeliness – It is happening now or recently happened
- Impact – It affects people or a community
- Interest – It is unusual, emotional, or surprising
- Conflict – A problem, challenge, or disagreement
- Human story – It connects to real people and experiences
Ask yourself:
“Why would someone else care about this?”
Overview of the 5 Newspaper Sections
Our class newspaper is divided into five main sections. Each student will help contribute to these areas throughout the year.
1. Main Story (Feature Article)
Each month we will focus on a bible story and bring it to life as reporting it as news.
2. What’s Happening (News Section)
What going on in the classrooms at CHEAR.
3. Encouragement Section
Stories that inspire, uplift, or highlight positive things happening in people’s lives.
4. Events/Photography
Visual storytelling through photos. Upcoming Events
5. Comics & Puzzles / Creative Corner
A fun section that includes creativity, humor, puzzles, or lighthearted content.
In-Class Activity
Brainstorm story ideas for our class newspaper
Homework
Write down 2–3 bible story ideas you could turn into an article. Be ready to share next class.
Encouragement
Journalism is more than writing, it is learning how to listen, notice, and share what others need to know.