FREEDOM OF SPEECH

• Have you heard the term "freedom of speech"?
• Where does this phrase come from?
• What is the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and how does it affect freedom of speech?
• Do you think we have freedom of speech in Canada? Why or why not?
• Should we have complete freedom of speech, so we can say anything we want?"

If the class as a whole seems to agree that "yes, we should have total freedom of speech" ask them:

• Should racist remarks be allowed in the classroom?
• Should a teacher be allowed to swear in a classroom?
• Is it okay to tell lies and spread rumours about other classmates?

If the class as a whole seems to agree that "no, we should not have total freedom of speech" ask them:

• Do you think newspapers should get permission from the person they are writing about before a story is printed?
• What if the person won't give permission?
• What if a story is important and the key person won't give permission? For example, if you found out that the principal was embezzling money from the school, do you think the principal would give you permission to print the story?

BRAINSTORM TOPICS AS A CLASS –

          What a newsworthy topics for a Hague High newspaper?  (on big paper?)

Explain to students that space in a newspaper is an issue. Space costs money and we only have so much money, therefore, we only have so much space.

Upside down triangle – more to less so that the end can be cut.

Headline – Byline – Lead.

1.  First paragraph

In your first one or two sentences tell who, what, when, where, and why. Try to hook the reader by beginning with a funny, clever, or surprising statement. Go for variety: try beginning your article with a question or a provocative statement.
 2.  Second/Third/Fourth paragraphs

Give the reader the details. Include one or two quotes from people you interviewed. Write in the third person (he, she, it, they). Be objective -- never state your opinion. Use quotes to express others' opinions!
3. Last paragraph

Wrap it up somehow ( don't leave the reader hanging. Please don't say...."In conclusion" or "To finish..." (yawn!) Try ending with a quote or a catchy phrase.

• Use active words (verbs that show what's really happening.)
• Take notes when you interview. Write down quotes!
• Tell the really interesting info first!