Final Project for JOUR 21A – Write a localization story
Write a 750-word multi-source story based on the following instructions. Type your story using normal
margins, double-spacing and paragraph indentation. Use the grading rubric below as an editing checklist.
Find a national, state or local story or poll/trend and localize it to De Anza by getting reaction from instructors,
staff and/or students (pretend youre writing for the student newspaper LA Voz). You may also choose to
localize a story to your local community (as if you are a reporter for your local community paper). This second
option is good for students who may not be near or on campus.
Finding story ideas
Look for interesting trends you observe on campus or injustices that should be exposed. Look in newspapers
and magazines for potential story ideas. Research the web or watch television to get an idea of whats going on
in the world not just politically and economically but culturally as well. (If you are writing for the student
newspaper, limit your ideas to stories that would appeal to the campus audience.) What you are looking for is a
larger trend happening in the world, nation or state and then focusing on the local angle.
Examples:
Studies show that college students dont get enough sleep (or have too much debt, or are suffering from
depression, etc.)
Studies show more people are distracted than ever before because of technology addictions.
Current national or international event and how it affects locals (i.e., wildfires, immigration, housing costs)
Research and understand the story before you begin.
Use at least one reliable documentary source (i.e., national poll, news magazine, etc.).
Quote from at least five real people. Identify students by full name, age, year at De Anza and major.
Identify experts by full name, position, expertise, etc. Identify off-campus interviewees by full name,
age and city of residence.
NOTE: This story will also be used to create a blog. Save links for all relevant websites you find and also
look for elements such as maps, charts, timelines, etc. Take photos or video if you can!
Special points I will consider in grading:
Well-developed summary lead the most interesting or important thing someone said in your
interviews, not a repeat of the original story.
A news peg: the story or poll should be current. Attribute the story or poll to the source (e.g. a recent
New York Times article, a recent Gallup poll).
Context of interviews day and place
At least five direct quotations from five different people no more than two sentences of direct
quotation per person. Zoom interviews are accepted.
Transitions, paraphrases, proper punctuation and attribution of all quotations
Accuracy on all points
Lack of subjective language and commentary
No inappropriate generalizing
AP style
