News is information about events that are happening or have happened. It is the job of newspapers, magazines and radio to inform their readers, listeners or viewers. Sometimes this can also entertain them – music and drama programs on radio, cartoons in newspapers or crossword puzzles. It is important that the information in the news is accurate and true, but it is equally important to write a story which is interesting and attractive to read or listen to.
It is usually people or things which affect or interest a large number of people which make the news. These include:
Prominent men and women: what they do, their lives and looks are of interest to many people. It is particularly newsworthy when these people fall from grace or are involved in scandal.
Diseases, hospitals and clinics, drugs, diet and exercise: these are all of interest to many people. Sex: all societies are interested in sex, especially when it goes against generally accepted moral and social norms.
In-depth news stories: these take a smaller subject and research it heavily. It may involve interviews with people who have a direct connection to the event or subject.
It is the role of journalists to report on all sides of a story, without bias or comment. This is called objectivity. However, the reality is that newspapers, magazines and radio have a tendency to lean towards certain types of news – those which have a high impact, incorporate violence or scandal or are familiar and local.