The majority of writing you'll do for JSR will be objective and empty of subjective statements. If you are a continuing student, you may occasionally write an editorial so long as you pitch it to the program coordinator and get approval first. 

 

New students may only submit objective reports. 

 

Reporters aim to uncover and state facts. Let the readers decide how to interpret those facts. Do not include your personal opinions or biases in an informative article.

 

Here are some points to help you stay objective:

 

Only write with a first person point-of-view when writing opinion pieces.

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Avoid generalized statements, which also express opinions or exaggerate facts. For example, “Everybody knows that Justin Bieber is the most famous singer on the planet;” or “All Koreans love kimchi!”

 

​Use denotative, rather than connotative, language. For example, “stench” (denotative) instead of “stench" (connotative); “active” instead of “fanatical;” “conversational” instea

 

Use transitional sentences to introduce quotes that are opinionated. For example, “Some people disagree with the new measure. Van Nuys resident Sandra Park said, ‘It’s unfair to treat seniors that way!’”

 

When quoting, use neutral verbs like “said” or “stated” – verbs can inadvertently express opinions too!

 

​Always cite your sources.