Middle School Journalism: Semester 1 and Middle School Journalism: Semester 2 are introductory semester courses in journalism. The courses include an introduction to the world of mass media, basic photojournalism concepts and skills, and exploration of journalistic writing. Each course offers self-contained units that can be used with any journalism textbook, or stand alone as texts for a classroom or extracurricular program. These instructional materials are adaptations by Thomas Kaup, a National Board Certified and practicing middle school journalism teacher, of Dianne Smith’s high school text, Introduction to Journalism, also published by Teaching Point.

Class activities, individual and group projects will immerse students in the world of journalism. Students will learn the functions of the media as well as the importance of the First Amendment as a guarantor of democratic society. Among a wide range of skills, they will also learn how use digital cameras and desktop publishing computer software, all part of generating complete print and online newspapers.

The courses are useful for both the beginning or established middle school journalism program. Middle school students will be prepared to not only participate in middle school production, but also motivated to continue participation in high school journalism programs. Included with the instructional material are standard alignments, syllabus, pacing guide, detailed daily lesson plans, student activity book, and assessments, all based on best practices.