COMM 2017 Feature Writing
Credit Points 10
Legacy Code 102061
Coordinator Asha Chand Opens in new window
Description This subject takes students beyond event and reactionary reporting towards an understanding of the proactive process of exploration, interpretation and exposure in journalism. Students learn how to find, filter and file information in a dynamic and constantly changing environment. Given a lot more time to explore issues, students learn to add value to information while keeping the story current, to deadline and in the public sphere, while negotiating with the media industry to get their stories out into the public sphere. Students are encouraged to develop their unique writing styles while also focusing on social issues such as trauma, violence, mental health and wellbeing.
School Humanities & Comm Arts
Discipline Journalism
Student Contribution Band HECS Band 4 10cp
Check your fees via the Fees page.
Level Undergraduate Level 2 subject
Pre-requisite(s) COMM 1018
Equivalent Subjects LGYA 0585 - Journalism Feature Writing COMM 2023 - Magazine Journalism
Assumed Knowledge
News sense. An interest in telling a story. Basic journalism writing skills and keenness to develop an interest in social issues. Broad understanding of the role of journalism in society. Basic computer skills.
Learning Outcomes
- Generate original story ideas suitable for developing into feature stories
- Undertake newsgathering, research, writing and editing applicable to feature stories
- Apply interviewing and writing skills appropriate to the generation of feature-length stories.
- Analyse writing feature stories and the mediums for publication.
- Adapt writing to various styles while writing tight to deadline.
- Target a specific audience/publication.
- Market stories to different publications/audiences as this will add value to student learning
- Apply teamwork skills through the editing process.
Subject Content
2. Understanding the interview process a principal tool of journalism research and writing;
3. Ways of adding value to a story such as Computer Assisted Reporting (CAR), use of databases, documents and other secondary sources/writing styles
4. The development of a feature article targeting a specific audience/publication.
5. Editing and critically analysing news in circulation to advance understanding of audience needs
6. Tailoring writing to specific markets to help hone skills (such as marketing your idea/story, revamping the structure) required in a professional setting
7. Reflecting on the processes to build the foundation to an appreciation of the many responsibilities of journalism as a profession.
8. Submitting work for journalism competition to gauge opportunities outside the publishing arena.
Assessment
The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.
Type | Length | Percent | Threshold | Individual/Group Task | Mandatory |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Professional Task | 1,000 - 1,200 Words | 35 | N | Individual | Y |
Professional Task | 300 Words | 10 | N | Individual | Y |
Professional Task | 1,200 - 1,500 words plus portfolio | 55 | N | Individual | Y |
Teaching Periods
Autumn (2024)
Online
Online
Subject Contact Asha Chand Opens in new window
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Parramatta - Victoria Rd
On-site
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Sydney City Campus - Term 3 (2024)
Sydney City
On-site
Subject Contact Ming Diao Opens in new window
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Autumn (2025)
Online
Online
Subject Contact Asha Chand Opens in new window
View timetable Opens in new window
Parramatta - Victoria Rd
On-site
Subject Contact Asha Chand Opens in new window
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Sydney City Campus - Term 2 (2025)
Sydney City
On-site
Subject Contact Ming Diao Opens in new window