This unit is designed for one class, 1 - 3 hours, for beginning students in communication or journalism. Included are a set of activities and exercises that drive home the concept of writing a simple news lead. Through role-plays, lecture, classwork, group activities and individual assignments, the students examine the qualities of a well-written news lead, learn the pitfalls of poorly written leads, and collaborate to write their own leads. An individual assignment suitable for homework requires that the students first reflect on what they have learned in the unit, and then write a news story with an effective lead. This assignment includes specific expectations that can be used as part of an instructor’s grading rubric when the assignment is complete. (The rubric that I used is included.)

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