1st Place, School-Related News Story or Package
2023-24, Division 1, Video Journalism
By Cassandra Wilson
Athens TV
Troy Athens HS
VJ-01. School-Related News Story or Package
News stories reporting on a single school event, occurrence or issue (not related to sports) that have news value and timeliness to the program’s audience. They focus on the 5 Ws and factual information and give a balanced, unbiased overview. These stories may include interviews, voice-overs, dramatizations, graphics, b-roll and stand-ups. Lower thirds are important for identification.
Judging Criteria
Journalistic Content
- Does the content match the requirements of the category? Is the topic relevant for the target audience, including students and the school community? Is it clear what this story is about? Is the story told in an interesting way?
- Does the story display sound journalistic principles? Does it showcase thorough reporting skills with facts/quotes from multiple primary and reliable secondary sources? Are interview subjects appropriate for the story being told?
- Is the reporter’s delivery and presentation professional and appropriate for the context?
Writing
- Is the writing clear, concise and conversational? Does the reporter use active voice and present tense? Does the script complement the visuals?
Audio
- Is it clear? Is there any audio distortion? Was the appropriate mic used? Is the mic properly placed? Is there a “popping” sound from the reporter? Does the audio fit the action/pace of the video? Is the volume consistent?
Video
- Is there obvious use of a tripod or is the video shaky? If no tripod was used, was it appropriate to shoot handheld? Is the color consistent? Have the shots been white-balanced? Are there different angles for a variety of shots? Are the shots framed well without cutting out important information? Do the shots have good lighting? Do shots “cross the line/axis”?
Editing
- Is there an overuse of transitions? Does the piece have a good pace & flow? Are there any errors in continuity and/or screen direction? Are there any lagging lulls and/or jump cuts? Are any of your shots/scenes unnecessary?
Graphics (if any)
- Is the text a good size, good color, and within the safe title area? Does the text appear long enough for the audience to read? Does the graphic(s) have any spelling/grammar errors? Are graphics/chromakeys clean?
Automatic Disqualifications
- If the video does not meet the specific time requirement (such as the 30/60s rule for PSAs & Commercials) (not including any black/slates before or after the video itself).
- If the video does not meet the category description.
- If the video includes copyrighted music or graphics.
Use of music or other content that is not created by student staff members
- If any music is included in an entry, indicate the title(s) of track(s) used and source of the music. Provide this information either in a name-slate/title card in a video entry or in the space provided on the entry form.
- If you are making a “fair use” claim on copyrighted materials, please cite your reasoning in the entry form.