JOU 4308 - Magazine & Feature Writing
Catalog description:
Preparation of features and articles for publication in newspapers and magazines coordinated with study of magazine editing problems. Supervised marketing of pieces produced in the course.
Credits: 3
Prerequisites: JOU 3101 Reporting or permission of instructor
Student goals for the course:
- To understand characteristics of feature stories: the differences between features and other genres, i.e. what makes a story a feature
- To understand different kinds of features (i.e. profile, trend, slice-of-life, etc.)
- To identify differences in target audiences—and to understand how to tailor ideas to that audience
- To use a variety of research techniques while gathering information—live sources, documents, web-based sources
- To use a variety of interviewing techniques to draw out useful and colorful information
- To integrate various non-fiction storytelling techniques into feature stories (anecdotes, colorful quotes, description, etc.)
- To be able to soundly structure a feature story using those elements and by tying them together with a clear and compelling focus
- To be able to write tightly, clearly and colorfully
- To be able to identify the best markets for each story
- To be able to write query letters that sell story ideas
- To publish stories in newspaper, magazines or Web sites
Assignments:
Assignments vary by instructor. Heavy emphasis on writing throughout the semester. Stories of varying lengths will cover variety of topics and genres, including profiles and trend stories for local and national publications. Text, readings and exams determined by instructor.
Semesters this course is offered: Fall, Spring
The Campaign for the University of Florida