National Political Journalism Competition 2006/07
The media is the source of almost everything we know about politics. However, we are often not aware of the hugely influential processes involved in deciding what and how to report. This competition gives young people first-hand experience of the relationship between politics and the media.
This competition is no longer running nationally. However, you can download your own resources to run a competiton internally by following the Running a Political Journalism Competition link or click here
If you would like any further information please email competitions@citizenshipfoundation.org.uk.
What's involved? What is a 'political' issue? Why run a political journalism competition? |
What's involved?
An individual, or a team of up to four 11-18 year olds, investigate a current political issue, and put together their own news piece in one of the following ways:
- A five-minute broadcast news 'package'. TV entries should be submitted on video or DVD and radio entries on audio cassette or CD. Broadcast entries should include interviews, at-the-scene reporting and studio analysis;
- A 1000-word newspaper spread, including a news article, a headline, graphics and an editorial column.
All entries must contain a clear introduction, quotes, evidence of direct research, analysis of the issue and interviews with real people. Participants must present a broad range of opinions in a balanced and engaging way, focusing on a newsworthy political issue.
What is a 'political' issue?
Political issues are not just about politicians or parliament. Anything that affects the way society is run - at a local, national or international level - is political.
A local issue, such as the creation of a hostel for young asylum seekers in your area, can be political because it is decision that might affect the life of the community as a whole. You could interview local campaign groups, residents, asylum seekers, and the local council. You could also investigate who will fund the building, who decided where it would be built, and who will benefit.
A national issue, such as introducing compulsory identity cards, is political because it involves a decision that will lead to a change in the law. You could interview civil liberties groups, the police and the 'man-in-the-street'. You could also use existing quotes from MPs and other decision-makers to illustrate their views.
An international issue such as fair trade is political because decisions about trade are made in and between states, and affect both producers and consumers. You could look at UK policy and international agreements as well as putting it into context by interviewing businesses that sell fair trade products, their current and potential customers.
If an issue affects 'the public' (local, national and international communities) it is political. A 'private' issue that affects you, your friends and your family, is not necessarily political, and you will have to make the links between your example and how it affects others.
Why run a political journalism competition?
As well as being an interesting and engaging way of exploring political issues, the competition develops communication, teamwork and research skills.
Taking on the roles of media professionals and creating a news piece gives young people the opportunity to gain an insight into the processes of political journalism.
The competition provides an opportunity for cross-curricular or project work in English, Media Studies, ICT, Modern Studies and Humanities subjects. It supports the Citizenship curriculum in England at key stages 3 and 4.
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