How to Write for The Talon: A Guide for Students in the Class

Writing for The Talon is an exciting opportunity to develop your journalism skills, contribute to the school community, and create professional-quality articles. As a student in the class, you’ll follow a structured process to brainstorm, write, edit, and publish your work. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Step 1: Choosing a Topic

Before you start writing, you need a strong topic that is relevant, engaging, and newsworthy.

✅ Pick a Story That Matters

• Choose a topic that impacts students, staff, or the school community.

• Common categories include:

  • World News: Policy changes, News, ect.

  • Campus News: Student spotlights, teacher interviews, School events, and Academic Updates.

  • Sports: Game recaps, athlete profiles, season previews.

  • Opinions: Editorials, student perspectives on current issues.

  • Arts and Entertainment: Art Projects, Tv or Movies, ect.

✅ Pitch Your Idea

• Discuss your topic with the teacher or an editor before you start.

• Get feedback to refine your angle and ensure it aligns with The Talon’s goals.

Step 2: Research and Interviews

Once you have your topic, gather information to support your article.

🔹 Conduct Interviews

• You must interview at least three different people per article.

• Each interview should include 10 open-ended questions (30 total per article).

• Use the Otter AI app to record and transcribe your interviews.

• Select one strong quote from each interview to include in your article.

🔹 Use Credible Sources

• In addition to interviews, research reliable sources like:

  • School website, announcements, or faculty statements.

  • News articles, statistics, or expert analysis (if applicable).

Step 3: Writing Your Article

Now it’s time to start drafting your piece.

✅ Follow the Proper Structure

Most articles follow this format:

1. Headline: A clear, engaging title that reflects your topic.

2. Lede (Opening Paragraph): The hook—who, what, when, where, why, and how.

3. Body Paragraphs:

   • Organize information logically.

   • Use clear transitions between ideas.

   • Incorporate interviews and research.

4. Conclusion: Wrap up the article, reinforcing key points or offering final insights.

✅ Incorporate Quotes Effectively

• Introduce the speaker before or after the quote.

• Use quotes to enhance your article, not replace your writing.

Example:
✅ According to senior Jamie Carter, “The new club fair helped students connect with groups they wouldn’t have found otherwise.”

❌ “The new club fair helped students,” Jamie Carter said. (Too vague)

✅ Keep Your Writing Clear and Professional

• Write in third person (unless it's an opinion piece).

• Keep sentences concise and to the point—avoid fluff.

• Stay objective and avoid personal opinions (unless writing an editorial).

Step 4: Editing and Proofreading

✅ Self-Edit Your Draft

• Read your article out loud to catch awkward phrasing.

• Check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

• Ensure smooth transitions between ideas.

✅ Submit Your Draft to Editors

• Turn in your article in the required format (Microsoft Word or PDF in OneNote).

• Be open to feedback—editors will help refine your work.

• Editors, website editors, and Dr. George have final say on all articles.

✅ Revise Your Article

• Review editor feedback carefully.

• Make necessary revisions to strengthen clarity and structure.

• Double-check quotes, names, and sources for accuracy.

Step 5: Final Submission and Publication

• Once your article is fully edited, submit your final draft.

• Ensure your work follows The Talon’s formatting and content guidelines.

• After approval, your article will be published online or in print!

Final Tips for Success

✅ Stay Organized – Keep track of deadlines, interviews, and drafts.
✅ Be Professional – Communicate respectfully with interviewees and editors.
✅ Engage Your Audience – Write in a way that keeps readers interested.
✅ Learn and Improve – Take feedback seriously and grow as a journalist.

By following this guide, you’ll successfully contribute high-quality articles to The Talon while sharpening your journalistic skills. Happy writing! 📝