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History of Journalism, News Elements, Ethics Vocabulary, Court Cases
Questions and Answers
1.
Which news element best describes this story: The principal has decided that no students, not even seniors, will be allowed to leave school grounds for lunch.
A.
Consequence
B.
Conflict
C.
Prominence
D.
Human Interest
Correct Answer
A. Consequence
Explanation The correct answer is "Consequence" because the story describes a decision made by the principal that will have a direct impact on the students. The consequence of this decision is that no students, including seniors, will be allowed to leave school grounds for lunch. This decision will have a significant effect on the daily routine and freedom of the students, making it the most fitting news element to describe the story.
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2.
Which news element best describes this story: President Obama will be visiting the school to speak at an assembly.
A.
Prominence
B.
Proximity
C.
Timeliness
D.
Consequence
Correct Answer
A. Prominence
Explanation The news element that best describes this story is "Prominence." This is because the story focuses on President Obama, who is a prominent figure. His visit to the school and speaking at an assembly make the story newsworthy and of interest to the public.
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3.
Which news element best describes this story: The football fields were vandalized last week; the bleachers were spray-painted with obscene words, and grass killer was spread all over the field. Antigo students are the new suspects.
A.
Conflict
B.
Human Interest
C.
Timeliness
D.
Consequence
Correct Answer
A. Conflict
Explanation The given story describes a conflict between the football fields being vandalized and the Antigo students being the new suspects. The conflict arises from the act of vandalism and the implication of the students. This news element best describes the story because it highlights the clash or disagreement between different parties involved in the incident.
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4.
Which news element best describes this story: One RHS teacher, over the course of 30 some years, has taken in over 200 foster children.
A.
Prominence
B.
Human Interest
C.
Proximity
D.
Consequence
Correct Answer
B. Human Interest
Explanation The story of a teacher who has taken in over 200 foster children over the course of 30 years is best described by the news element of "Human Interest." This story captures the attention and curiosity of readers due to its emotional and personal nature. It highlights the teacher's selflessness and dedication to helping others, making it relatable and inspiring to the audience. The human interest element focuses on the human experience, often evoking empathy and fascination.
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5.
Which news element best describes this story: We have decided not to run a story about a school-wide fundraiser that took place at a high school in another state.
A.
Human Interest
B.
Prominence
C.
Proximity
D.
Timeliness
Correct Answer
C. Proximity
Explanation Proximity best describes this story as it refers to the geographical or local relevance of a news event. In this case, the story is about a school-wide fundraiser that occurred in another state, indicating that it is not geographically close or relevant to the audience of the news source.
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6.
Which news element best describes this story: A senior student reportedly shaves his chest hair into the shape of a Hodag for Friday-night football games.
A.
Prominence
B.
Human Interest
C.
Conflict
D.
Timeliness
Correct Answer
B. Human Interest
Explanation The given story about a senior student shaving his chest hair into the shape of a Hodag for Friday-night football games falls under the category of Human Interest. This news element focuses on stories that evoke emotions, curiosity, or fascination in the audience. The unusual and humorous action of the student is likely to capture the attention and interest of readers or viewers, making it a human interest story.
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7.
Which news element best describes this story: The city of Rhinelander is getting an Applebee’s restaurant.
A.
Proximity
B.
Prominence
C.
Timeliness
D.
Human Interest
Correct Answer
A. Proximity
Explanation The news element that best describes this story is proximity. Proximity refers to the closeness or nearness of an event to the audience. In this case, the story is about a new Applebee's restaurant opening in the city of Rhinelander, which is relevant and of interest to the local community. The news of a new restaurant opening in their city is significant to the people living in Rhinelander, making it a proximity-based story.
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8.
Which news element best describes this story: All freshmen hereafter will be required to take an arts course from among: Family and Consumer Sciences, technology education, music, or art.
A.
Consequence
B.
Conflict
C.
Human Interest
D.
Timeliness
Correct Answer
A. Consequence
Explanation The correct answer is "Consequence" because the statement is about a new requirement for freshmen to take an arts course. This decision will have a consequence on the curriculum and the students' academic experience.
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9.
"Prior Restraint" is legal in the United States, except during times of war.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation Prior restraint refers to the government's ability to prevent the publication or dissemination of certain information before it is made public. In the United States, prior restraint is generally considered unconstitutional and a violation of the First Amendment, which protects freedom of speech and the press. There are very limited circumstances where prior restraint may be allowed, such as during times of war or when it is necessary to prevent immediate and direct harm. However, the statement that prior restraint is legal in the United States, except during times of war, is incorrect. Prior restraint is generally not legal in the United States, regardless of whether it is during times of war or not.
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10.
In school newspapers, it is legal to take another person's writing and use it as your own.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation Taking another person's writing and using it as your own is considered plagiarism, which is unethical and illegal. It is important to give credit to the original author and properly cite any sources used in school newspapers or any other form of writing. Therefore, the statement that it is legal to take another person's writing and use it as your own is false.
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11.
Using anonymous sources in an article is generally acceptable and will help to establish a reporter's credibility.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation Using anonymous sources in an article can actually undermine a reporter's credibility. While there may be instances where anonymous sources are necessary to protect their safety or job security, relying too heavily on anonymous sources can raise questions about the accuracy and reliability of the information presented. Journalistic ethics encourage reporters to use anonymous sources sparingly and to provide as much transparency as possible to maintain credibility with their audience. Therefore, the statement that using anonymous sources will help establish a reporter's credibility is false.
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12.
Spoken defamation of character is defined as __________________.
Explanation The correct answer is "slander". Slander refers to the act of making false spoken statements that harm someone's reputation. It involves spreading false information or rumors about someone with the intent to damage their character. Slander is a form of defamation, which can have serious legal consequences.
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13.
Written defamation of character is defined as __________________.
Correct Answer libel Libel libal libil libell
Explanation Written defamation of character is defined as libel. Libel refers to the act of making false and damaging statements about someone in writing, such as in newspapers, magazines, or online publications. It is a form of defamation that can harm a person's reputation and is considered a civil offense. The other options, libal, libil, and libell, are likely misspellings of the correct term.
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14.
Reporters should establish a code of ethics and stick to those moral principles in order to establish credibility.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation Establishing a code of ethics and adhering to moral principles is crucial for reporters to gain credibility. By having a set of guidelines, reporters can ensure that they are maintaining integrity, objectivity, and fairness in their reporting. This helps to build trust with the audience and establishes the reporter as a reliable source of information. Without a code of ethics, reporters may be prone to biased reporting, sensationalism, or unethical practices, which can damage their credibility and reputation. Therefore, it is essential for reporters to establish and follow a code of ethics to maintain their credibility.
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15.
Which of the following terms is illustrated in this statement: You are writing an article on teachers who bump students' grades based on favortism. You mention Mr. Zohimskie as a teacher who participates in this activity and ask him if he would like to comment. He declines.
A.
Prior restraint
B.
Fair comment
C.
Right of reply
D.
Privileged statements
Correct Answer
C. Right of reply
Explanation The term "right of reply" is illustrated in this statement. The right of reply refers to the right of an individual or organization to respond to criticism or allegations made against them in the same publication or platform where the original statement was made. In this case, the article mentions Mr. Zohimskie's participation in bumping students' grades based on favoritism and offers him the opportunity to comment on the matter, exercising his right of reply.
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16.
Reporters should try at all times to not remain objective; they should not make fair, neutral observations about people and events.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation The given statement is incorrect. Reporters should strive to remain objective and make fair and neutral observations about people and events. Objectivity is a fundamental principle of journalism, ensuring that news is presented without bias or personal opinion. By remaining objective, reporters can provide accurate and balanced information to the public, allowing them to form their own opinions based on the facts presented.
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17.
_________________________ is the legal idea that school authorities act in place of the parent when a child is at school.
A.
Privileged statements
B.
In loco parentis
C.
Forum theory
D.
Composite characters
Correct Answer
B. In loco parentis
Explanation In loco parentis is the legal idea that school authorities act in place of the parent when a child is at school. This means that while the child is under the care and supervision of the school, the school has the authority and responsibility to make decisions and take actions on behalf of the child, just as a parent would. This concept allows schools to exercise control and provide guidance to ensure the safety and well-being of students while they are in their care.
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18.
What was the invention called, during the Civil War, that changed news transmission from being very slow to somewhat fast?
A.
Telephone
B.
Telegraph
C.
Teleprompter
D.
Typewriter
Correct Answer
B. TelegrapH
Explanation The invention that changed news transmission from being very slow to somewhat fast during the Civil War was the telegraph. The telegraph allowed messages to be sent over long distances using electrical signals, significantly speeding up the communication process compared to traditional methods.
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19.
Newspapers used to be one page in length with no pictures, and there was a spot for readers to write in their own news, so it could be passed on and transmitted easily.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation The statement is true because newspapers were indeed one page in length without any pictures in the past. Additionally, readers were able to contribute their own news to be included in the newspaper, making it easy to pass on and transmit information.
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20.
Modern newspapers are supported primarily by the sale of _______________________.
A.
Lotteries
B.
Donations
C.
Advertising space
D.
The government
Correct Answer
C. Advertising space
Explanation Modern newspapers are primarily supported by the sale of advertising space. This means that newspapers generate revenue by selling space to businesses and organizations who want to promote their products or services. Advertising is a major source of income for newspapers, as it allows them to reach a wide audience and attract advertisers who are willing to pay for exposure. While lotteries, donations, and government support may also contribute to a newspaper's revenue, the sale of advertising space is the main source of support for modern newspapers.
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21.
Which of the following did newspaper owners not do during circulation wars:
A.
Sold newspapers for a penny each
B.
Sensationalized news stories
C.
Decreased Yellow Journalism antics
D.
Sold advertising
Correct Answer
C. Decreased Yellow Journalism antics
Explanation During circulation wars, newspaper owners did not decrease Yellow Journalism antics. This means that they continued to engage in exaggerated and sensationalized news stories in order to attract readers and increase circulation. This tactic was commonly used during this period to compete with other newspapers and gain a larger audience.
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22.
A "pillar of free press" is that it is not proper to question and criticize the government.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation The statement is false because a "pillar of free press" is actually the opposite - it is proper and essential to question and criticize the government. Free press plays a crucial role in holding the government accountable and ensuring transparency and democracy. By questioning and criticizing the government, the press can uncover corruption, expose wrongdoing, and provide citizens with unbiased information. This helps to maintain a healthy democracy and protect the rights and freedoms of the people.
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23.
Newspapers have always been printed in color.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation Newspapers were not always printed in color. The technology to print photographs and graphics in color did not become widely used until the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Before that, newspapers were primarily printed in black and white. The introduction of color printing in newspapers was a significant advancement that allowed for more visually engaging and detailed presentations of news and information.
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24.
Sources are not concerned about how their given information will appear in print.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation Sources are indeed concerned about how their given information will appear in print. They want their information to be accurately represented and presented in a way that reflects their credibility and expertise. They may provide specific guidelines or instructions to ensure that their information is properly formatted, organized, and presented in a clear and professional manner. Therefore, the statement is false.
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25.
Newspapers subscribe to large news-gathering bureaus, such as the Associated Press, to obtain national and world news as it happens.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation Newspapers subscribe to news-gathering bureaus like the Associated Press to get access to national and international news in real-time. This allows them to stay updated and provide their readers with the latest news as it happens. By subscribing to these bureaus, newspapers can ensure that they have a wide range of news coverage and can deliver timely and accurate information to their readers.
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26.
What is the inverted pyramid form of writing?
A.
Putting the most important information right away in the story
B.
A form for typing words like a triangle
C.
Writing a news story and then switching the information from the end to the beginning
D.
Incorporating Pythagorean theorem into writing
Correct Answer
A. Putting the most important information right away in the story
Explanation The inverted pyramid form of writing is a technique commonly used in journalism. It involves presenting the most important information at the beginning of the story, followed by supporting details in descending order of importance. This structure allows readers to quickly grasp the main points of the story, even if they only read the first few paragraphs. By placing the most crucial information upfront, the inverted pyramid form ensures that readers receive the key facts even if they don't read the entire article.
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27.
Sensationalism is all of the following except:
A.
Making up news
B.
Stretching the truth
C.
Adding sensory details
D.
Making the news seem grander than it is to get more readers
Correct Answer
C. Adding sensory details
Explanation Sensationalism is a form of journalism that aims to attract attention and increase readership by presenting news in an exaggerated or distorted manner. It often involves making up news, stretching the truth, and making the news seem grander than it actually is. However, adding sensory details, such as vivid descriptions or emotional language, is not considered sensationalism. Instead, it is a common technique used in storytelling to engage readers and make the news more relatable and interesting.
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28.
The farther from home, the greater the news value.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation The statement suggests that the farther away from home a news event occurs, the more newsworthy it is. However, this is not necessarily true. The news value of an event depends on various factors such as its impact, relevance, and significance. Distance from home does not determine the news value of an event. There are many local events that can be highly newsworthy, while some international events may not be as significant. Therefore, the given statement is false.
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29.
What does the outcome of "Tinker vs. Des Moines" mean for journalism students today?
30.
What does the outcome of "Bethel vs. Fraser" mean for journalism students today?
31.
What does the outcome of "Hazelwood vs. Kuhlmeier" mean for journalism students today?
32.
"Hazelwood vs. Kuhlmeier" states that an administrator has the right to block anything he or she deems inappropriate unless the school's newspaper is labeled as a "closed forum."
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation The statement is false. "Hazelwood vs. Kuhlmeier" is a Supreme Court case that ruled that school administrators have the right to censor or restrict certain types of speech in school-sponsored activities, including school newspapers, as long as their actions are reasonably related to legitimate educational concerns. However, the case does not state that administrators have the right to block anything they deem inappropriate unless the school's newspaper is labeled as a "closed forum." This statement misrepresents the ruling of the case.
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33.
A newspaper's "circulation" is ___________________.
A.
The number of subscribers it has
B.
The number of people who pass out or "circulate" the newspaper
C.
The number of advertising clients the newspaper has
D.
The number of competitors the newspaper has
Correct Answer
A. The number of subscribers it has
Explanation The term "circulation" in the context of a newspaper refers to the number of subscribers it has. It represents the total number of individuals who receive and regularly read the newspaper. This metric is important for newspapers as it directly impacts their readership and potential advertising revenue. By increasing circulation, newspapers can attract more advertisers and demonstrate their popularity and reach to potential clients.
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34.
Which of the following is ethical?
A.
Libel
B.
Slander
C.
Right of reply
D.
Composite characters
Correct Answer
C. Right of reply
Explanation The right of reply is considered ethical because it allows individuals or organizations who have been criticized or misrepresented in the media to respond and present their side of the story. This promotes fairness and balance in reporting, ensuring that all parties involved have an opportunity to be heard and that accurate information is provided to the public. Libel and slander, on the other hand, involve making false and damaging statements about someone, which is unethical. Composite characters, although commonly used in storytelling, can be seen as unethical if they misrepresent or unfairly combine multiple real individuals.
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35.
Your reputation as a student writer is at stake when you write an article for the school newspaper. Therefore, it is very important that you double-check sources, names, and facts.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation When writing an article for the school newspaper, your reputation as a student writer is at stake. This means that the quality and accuracy of your work are crucial. To ensure that your article is reliable and credible, it is essential to double-check sources, names, and facts. By doing so, you can avoid any potential errors or misinformation, which could damage your reputation as a writer. Therefore, the statement "it is very important that you double-check sources, names, and facts" is true.
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36.
When writing an article for the school newspaper, whether or not your article might be offensive to certain groups of people must be considered.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation Considering whether or not an article might be offensive to certain groups of people is important when writing for a school newspaper. This is because school newspapers are meant to provide information and engage with the entire school community, and it is crucial to be mindful of the diverse perspectives and sensitivities of different groups. Failing to consider this could lead to the publication of content that is hurtful or discriminatory, which goes against the principles of inclusivity and respect.
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37.
How many cats does Mrs. Estreen have?
A.
One
B.
Two
C.
Three
D.
She doesn't have any cats.
Correct Answer
B. Two
Explanation Mrs. Estreen has two cats. This is indicated by the answer choice "two".
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38.
What is the name of Mrs. Estreen's son?
A.
Cruze
B.
Pierce
C.
Blaine
D.
Drake
Correct Answer
A. Cruze
39.
When was Mrs. Estreen born?
A.
May 31, 1983
B.
May 13, 1983
C.
May 31, 1982
D.
May 13, 1982
Correct Answer
A. May 31, 1983
40.
The more disruptive an action, the more likely it will grab attention and cause conflict.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation Actions that are disruptive tend to attract attention and create conflict. When something is disruptive, it means that it interrupts the normal flow or order of things. This disruption often catches people's attention because it stands out from the usual routine. Additionally, disruptive actions can be seen as challenging or confrontational, which can lead to conflict when others disagree or feel threatened. Therefore, it is likely that the more disruptive an action is, the more attention it will grab and the more conflict it will cause.
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41.
The more recently an event occurred, the greater its news value.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation The statement suggests that the timeliness of an event positively affects its news value. This means that events that have happened more recently are considered to be more newsworthy. This is because news outlets strive to provide the most up-to-date information to their audience, and events that have just occurred are more likely to be of interest and relevance to the public. Therefore, the given answer "True" is a valid explanation of the statement.
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42.
A prominent person has a name most people don't recognize, and is, therefore, newsworthy.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation The statement suggests that a prominent person, someone who is well-known or important, has a name that is not recognized by most people. This would contradict the idea of being prominent, as a prominent person is typically someone who is widely recognized and known. Therefore, the statement is false.
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43.
News events that affect the largest number of people have the most consequence.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation The statement suggests that news events that impact a larger number of people are more significant or have greater consequences. This implies that events that affect a larger population have a wider reach and potentially greater implications for society as a whole. Therefore, the correct answer is true, as news events that impact a larger number of people are generally considered to have more consequence.
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44.
Human interest articles report occurrences that involve the reader by arousing feelings such as joy, hatred, sorrow, understanding, or sympathy.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation Human interest articles are designed to engage and connect with readers on an emotional level. These articles aim to evoke various emotions such as joy, hatred, sorrow, understanding, or sympathy. By reporting on occurrences that involve the reader, human interest articles create a sense of relatability and personal connection, making them more impactful and engaging. Therefore, the statement that human interest articles report occurrences that involve the reader by arousing feelings is true.
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45.
When writing an article on cheating among students, the following should be considered: (Check all that apply)
A.
Do you have solid proof of cheating?
B.
Do you risk exploiting certain students?
C.
Will the article be harmful to anyone mentioned?
D.
What's for lunch?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Do you have solid proof of cheating? B. Do you risk exploiting certain students? C. Will the article be harmful to anyone mentioned?
Explanation The correct answers for this question are "Do you have solid proof of cheating?", "Do you risk exploiting certain students?", and "Will the article be harmful to anyone mentioned?". These considerations are important when writing an article on cheating among students because it is crucial to have solid evidence before accusing someone of cheating. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the article does not unfairly exploit or harm any specific students.
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