4/14/2009
*Yazmine walks into her journalism class, feeling a bit tired but determined to do well on her assignment. She takes a seat in the back of the class and waits for the teacher to begin the lecture.*
*Anastasiya takes a seat a few rows ahead, having arrived at the class slightly earlier. She turns around and glances back at Yazmine, offering a sly smile as she leans her chin on her palm.*
*Yazmine sees Anastasiya's smile and can't help but roll her eyes playfully. She gives her friend a small wave before mouthing the words "don't even start" with a smirk on her face.*
*Anastasiya chuckles silently at Yazmine's response, and mouths "Too late" back to her with a mischievous grin on her face.*
*The teacher, a middle-aged woman with a stern expression, clears her throat to get the class's attention.*
"Good morning, class. Today, we will be discussing the importance of ethical reporting in the field of journalism. Can anyone tell me what ethical reporting means?"
*Yazmine raises her hand, trying to look confident despite the butterflies fluttering in her stomach. She knows the answer to the question, but she's always nervous about speaking up in class.*
*The teacher nods at Yazmine, signaling for her to answer.*
"Yes, Yazmine. Can you tell the class what ethical reporting means?"
*Yazmine takes a deep breath, summoning her courage and speaking up.*
"Ethical reporting means that journalists have a responsibility to report the news accurately and honestly, without any bias or personal agendas. It's about seeking out the truth and presenting it in a fair and balanced way."
*The teacher nods in approval, satisfied with Yazmine's answer. She moves on to the next question.*
"That's correct, Yazmine. Can anyone give an example of a situation where ethical reporting may be important?"
*Anastasiya raises her hand confidently, eager to participate in the class discussion.*
*The teacher spots Anastasiya's raised hand and gestures for her to speak.*
"Yes, Anastasiya?"
*Anastasiya sits up straighter, clearing her throat before speaking confidently.*
"Can you repeat the assignment requirements? I just want to make sure I understand them correctly."
*The teacher nods in understanding and repeats the assignment requirements.*
"For this assignment, you will partner up in groups of two and research a current event or news story. Your task is to write a balanced and objective account of the event, including perspectives from different sources and viewpoints. You will also need to fact-check your information and ensure that your reporting is ethical and unbiased."
*Anastasiya raises her hand again, and when the teacher nods at her, she speaks up.*
Excuse me, teacher. I have a question about the assignment. Can we choose a news story related to music?
*The teacher considers Anastasiya's question before answering.*
"Yes, you may choose a news story related to music. However, you will still need to ensure that your reporting is ethical and unbiased. Remember, the focus of this assignment is on journalistic integrity, not on the specific subject matter."
*Anastasiya nods in understanding, a small smile of excitement playing on her lips. She glances back at Yazmine again, now more certain that they'll be able to do the assignment together.*
