Fog Index test
Excerpt from “The Future of News: That’s us”
95 words
Why shouldn’t we just sit back and perform the way all of our college textbooks instruct us to? If anyone thinks news is just delivering facts, and that it is a piece of cake, the truth is that creativity and organizational skills need to be of the highest caliber in order to stay with the ever-changing world. We are all striving to play a part in the future of news, so damn right this business is competitive. Writers pull-over, because up and coming journalists are equipped with so much more than a pencil and paper.
Average words per sentence: 23.75
“Hard” word count: 8
23.75 + 8 = 31.75
31.75 x 0.4 = 12.7
My Fog Index = 12.7
First of all, I learned what a Fog Index is. At first I thought it would be some stupid, useless way to rate writing. But it is in fact, an almost perfect way of calculating the readability of my written content.
It is nice to know to shoot for a Fog Index of eight. I think, recently, I have been writing at a fog index of 14, even when I do my best to simplify things.
This was very interesting; I’m pretty sure I will remember how to calculate the Fog Index for the rest of my life; or at least until I become a retired, senile journalist.
I have one question. Do hyphenated words count as one or two words? Because I had two hyphenated words in my excerpt. Just wondering. Thank you!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Got what it takes to be a Reporter? Apparently, I do.
Talent
1. I enjoy reading. I consume a lot of books and magazines.
-Not True.
2. For me, writing is rewarding. And I am confident that people genuinely enjoy the stuff I write.
-Mostly True.
3. I don’t pay much attention to spelling.
-Not True.
4. I’m generally adept at computer technology.
-Mostly True.
5. I can organize my ideas and write quickly when I need to.
-Mostly True.
6. I’d make a good game show contestant because I’m pretty good at remembering facts and trivia.
-Mostly True
7. I am efficient and self-sufficient when it comes to doing extensive library research.
-Mostly True.
Temperament
8. I’m generally more curious than most people I know.
-Mostly True.
9. In public situations, I’m pretty shy.
-FALSE
10. I think it’s unpatriotic to question or criticize our government.
-Not True. … umm, democracy. Duh.
11. When I choose a career, I’ll require a stable 9-to-5 job where my workday is routine and I make big money.
-Not True.
12. If I really want something, I’m tenacious until I get it.
-Not True.
13. When I’m under pressure, I can keep my cool and stay focused without losing my temper.
-Mostly True (when it comes to work and school)
14. When strangers or teachers criticize what I write, it really bugs me.
-Not True.
Total Points:
0 + 3 + 2 + 1 + 3 + 2 + 2 = 12
3 + 2 + 1 + 3 + 3 + 1 + 2 = 15
12 + 15 = 27
I think that this was a pretty fun and practical reporter test. Still, it seems way to easy to answer these questions in favor of the ‘right’ answers. I answered every question truthfully, unfortunately I doubt that I am “27 out of 30,” for my reporter potential.
The test did teach me a few things about being a reporter, or at least reminded me of certain concepts. Still, I don’t think reading the examples of rough situations really makes me feel the stress I would truly feel as a reporter.
1. I enjoy reading. I consume a lot of books and magazines.
-Not True.
2. For me, writing is rewarding. And I am confident that people genuinely enjoy the stuff I write.
-Mostly True.
3. I don’t pay much attention to spelling.
-Not True.
4. I’m generally adept at computer technology.
-Mostly True.
5. I can organize my ideas and write quickly when I need to.
-Mostly True.
6. I’d make a good game show contestant because I’m pretty good at remembering facts and trivia.
-Mostly True
7. I am efficient and self-sufficient when it comes to doing extensive library research.
-Mostly True.
Temperament
8. I’m generally more curious than most people I know.
-Mostly True.
9. In public situations, I’m pretty shy.
-FALSE
10. I think it’s unpatriotic to question or criticize our government.
-Not True. … umm, democracy. Duh.
11. When I choose a career, I’ll require a stable 9-to-5 job where my workday is routine and I make big money.
-Not True.
12. If I really want something, I’m tenacious until I get it.
-Not True.
13. When I’m under pressure, I can keep my cool and stay focused without losing my temper.
-Mostly True (when it comes to work and school)
14. When strangers or teachers criticize what I write, it really bugs me.
-Not True.
Total Points:
0 + 3 + 2 + 1 + 3 + 2 + 2 = 12
3 + 2 + 1 + 3 + 3 + 1 + 2 = 15
12 + 15 = 27
I think that this was a pretty fun and practical reporter test. Still, it seems way to easy to answer these questions in favor of the ‘right’ answers. I answered every question truthfully, unfortunately I doubt that I am “27 out of 30,” for my reporter potential.
The test did teach me a few things about being a reporter, or at least reminded me of certain concepts. Still, I don’t think reading the examples of rough situations really makes me feel the stress I would truly feel as a reporter.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Profile (full version) - Principal Joe Siino
Justin Riray
3/9/09
Jour 61 - McCune
Profile (J. Siino)
Word Count: 770
Ever wonder what it would be like to donate your heart and brain … to thousands of kids? The principal of a prekindergarten to 8th grade Catholic school, Joe Siino, of Pittsburg, Calif., has been doing that for a living for over 25 years.
St. Peter Martyr School used to sit between a rundown, weed-filled back lot and a not-so-flattering Pacific Gas and Energy plant. Today, it is surrounded by beautiful houses, a wonderful city park, and a newly renovated downtown area.
Students that attend SPM go through an even sweeter transformation thanks to the very knowledgeable and caring school faculty, led by Siino.
“I always enjoyed teaching and often volunteered in any opportunity I had through college coaching and tutoring students individually and in small groups,” Siino said. He earned a B.S. Degree in Business Administration and Economics at St. Mary’s College but, shortly after, changed direction. “After graduation from college I worked briefly with a consulting firm on a part time basis and did substitute teaching in the local public school districts to help pay bills.” He enjoyed teaching so much he pursued his teaching credential and only two years after receiving it, became the vice principal of SPM!
His friends and family were not surprised as his new choice of career, though they did feel that he would have made more money if he were to stay with business. “My family was always supportive. My dad died while I was in high school and my mom raised all of her six children to follow our goals and to be independent.”
Despite his family hardship, Siino continued to make them proud; just five years after teaching he became the school principal at the young age of 28. Since then, he has also received the Mother Seton Award, an honor bestowed by the Oakland Diocese to someone who has made a significant difference through service.
His favorite parts of the job is working with students and watching their educational development, planning and implementing instructional curriculum with his fellow teachers, and meeting and working with the school families.
“Just recently I had a parent tell me how much their child enjoys coming to school and complimenting the atmosphere of the school. It is inspiring to see many of our alumni choosing to bring their children to our school.” Siino says it is very memorable when people tell him that he played a part in helping them become a better person.
He is the epitome of a teacher, Christian leader, and friend. His perfect mix of professionalism and kind-hearted disposition makes him the perfect school principal. SPM 2002 Alumnus, Justin Reynoso remembers, “He taught with his opinion--his heart. He taught in a way that helped us understand what the book was trying to convey.”
I always used to ask Mr. Siino how he kept the name of every single student and their parents, and no matter how busy he was he always had time to listen and talk to any student no matter how important. “He had the characteristics of a model principal; we all respected him,” said Reynoso. Out of all the principals I’ve ever known, Mr. Siino is the only one that I have never heard anyone say anything bad about.
Siino also knows the meaning of hard work. “I try to meet my difficulties head on and with honesty. If I need to get things done I have never been afraid to put in long hours. If I need advice I consult with peers. I also accept that not every problem has a quick fix.”
It is rough trying to balance budgets, collecting tuition, plan and carry out fundraisers, all while teaching; and it is a known fact that a grade school principal’s salary does not come close to the amount of work they put in or the difference they make in a community. “I grew up very simply and never really felt the need to have an excessive amount of things or money. I have always thankful for a job and health benefits.”
The best piece of advice he had ever received was, “ … trust in myself and live each day to the fullest.” He has helped thousands of people, including myself, adopt this principle into their own lives.
Always the same, lovable principal, Siino tells students to take advantage of all the knowledge and wisdom available and to learn and respect life. “Learning does not end at college. Hopefully, it inspires you to be a lifelong learner.” It’s funny how the man who offers this advice is not only a lifelong learner, but a lifelong teacher as well.
3/9/09
Jour 61 - McCune
Profile (J. Siino)
Word Count: 770
Incredible Principal gives his all for Students
[Joseph Siino]
[Joseph Siino]
(full profile)
Ever wonder what it would be like to donate your heart and brain … to thousands of kids? The principal of a prekindergarten to 8th grade Catholic school, Joe Siino, of Pittsburg, Calif., has been doing that for a living for over 25 years.
St. Peter Martyr School used to sit between a rundown, weed-filled back lot and a not-so-flattering Pacific Gas and Energy plant. Today, it is surrounded by beautiful houses, a wonderful city park, and a newly renovated downtown area.
Students that attend SPM go through an even sweeter transformation thanks to the very knowledgeable and caring school faculty, led by Siino.
“I always enjoyed teaching and often volunteered in any opportunity I had through college coaching and tutoring students individually and in small groups,” Siino said. He earned a B.S. Degree in Business Administration and Economics at St. Mary’s College but, shortly after, changed direction. “After graduation from college I worked briefly with a consulting firm on a part time basis and did substitute teaching in the local public school districts to help pay bills.” He enjoyed teaching so much he pursued his teaching credential and only two years after receiving it, became the vice principal of SPM!
His friends and family were not surprised as his new choice of career, though they did feel that he would have made more money if he were to stay with business. “My family was always supportive. My dad died while I was in high school and my mom raised all of her six children to follow our goals and to be independent.”
Despite his family hardship, Siino continued to make them proud; just five years after teaching he became the school principal at the young age of 28. Since then, he has also received the Mother Seton Award, an honor bestowed by the Oakland Diocese to someone who has made a significant difference through service.
His favorite parts of the job is working with students and watching their educational development, planning and implementing instructional curriculum with his fellow teachers, and meeting and working with the school families.
“Just recently I had a parent tell me how much their child enjoys coming to school and complimenting the atmosphere of the school. It is inspiring to see many of our alumni choosing to bring their children to our school.” Siino says it is very memorable when people tell him that he played a part in helping them become a better person.
He is the epitome of a teacher, Christian leader, and friend. His perfect mix of professionalism and kind-hearted disposition makes him the perfect school principal. SPM 2002 Alumnus, Justin Reynoso remembers, “He taught with his opinion--his heart. He taught in a way that helped us understand what the book was trying to convey.”
I always used to ask Mr. Siino how he kept the name of every single student and their parents, and no matter how busy he was he always had time to listen and talk to any student no matter how important. “He had the characteristics of a model principal; we all respected him,” said Reynoso. Out of all the principals I’ve ever known, Mr. Siino is the only one that I have never heard anyone say anything bad about.
Siino also knows the meaning of hard work. “I try to meet my difficulties head on and with honesty. If I need to get things done I have never been afraid to put in long hours. If I need advice I consult with peers. I also accept that not every problem has a quick fix.”
It is rough trying to balance budgets, collecting tuition, plan and carry out fundraisers, all while teaching; and it is a known fact that a grade school principal’s salary does not come close to the amount of work they put in or the difference they make in a community. “I grew up very simply and never really felt the need to have an excessive amount of things or money. I have always thankful for a job and health benefits.”
The best piece of advice he had ever received was, “ … trust in myself and live each day to the fullest.” He has helped thousands of people, including myself, adopt this principle into their own lives.
Always the same, lovable principal, Siino tells students to take advantage of all the knowledge and wisdom available and to learn and respect life. “Learning does not end at college. Hopefully, it inspires you to be a lifelong learner.” It’s funny how the man who offers this advice is not only a lifelong learner, but a lifelong teacher as well.
-Justin Riray
Profile - Principal Joe Siino
Incredible Principal gives his all for Students
[Joseph Siino]
[Joseph Siino]
(shortened profile)
Ever wonder what it would be like to donate your heart and brain … to thousands of kids? The principal of a K-8 Catholic school, Joe Siino, of Pittsburg, Calif., has been doing that for a living for over 25 years.
Students that attend St. Peter Martyr School experience an amazing education thanks to the very knowledgeable and caring school faculty, led by Siino.
“I always enjoyed teaching and often volunteered in any opportunity I had through college coaching and tutoring students individually and in small groups,” Siino said. He earned a B.S. Degree in Business Administration and Economics at St. Mary’s College but, shortly after, changed direction. “After graduation from college I worked briefly with a consulting firm on a part time basis and did substitute teaching in the local public school districts to help pay bills.” Within two years he became the vice principal of SPM!
“My dad died while I was in high school and my mom raised all of her six children to follow our goals and to be independent.” But, despite his family hardship, Siino continued to make them proud; just five years after teaching he became the school principal at the young age of 28. Since then, he has also received the Mother Seton Award, an honor bestowed by the Oakland Diocese to someone who has made a significant difference through service.
His favorite parts of the job is working with students and watching their educational development, planning and implementing instructional curriculum with his fellow teachers, and meeting and working with families.
“Just recently I had a parent tell me how much their child enjoys coming to school and complimenting the atmosphere of the school. It is inspiring to see many of our alumni choosing to bring their children to our school.”
His perfect mix of professionalism and kind-hearted disposition makes him the perfect school principal. SPM 2002 Alumnus, Justin Reynoso remembers, “He taught with his opinion--his heart. He taught in a way that helped us understand what the book was trying to convey.” Out of all the principals I’ve ever known, Mr. Siino is the only one that I have never heard anyone say anything bad about. “He had the characteristics of a model principal; we all respected him.”
Siino also knows the meaning of hard work. “I try to meet my difficulties head on and with honesty. If I need to get things done I have never been afraid to put in long hours.”
The best piece of advice he had ever received was, “ … trust in myself and live each day to the fullest.” He has helped thousands of people, including myself, adopt this principle into their own lives.
Always the same, lovable principal, Siino teaches students to take advantage of all the knowledge and wisdom available and to learn and respect life. “Learning does not end at college. Hopefully, it inspires you to be a lifelong learner.” It’s funny how the man who offers this advice is not only a lifelong learner, but a lifelong teacher as well.
-Justin Riray
Friday, March 6, 2009
Revised - AP Stylebook Exercise S-Z
Justin Riray
JOUR 61 – AP Style Exercise (S-Z)
20 errors / 20 points
1) He thought of Smokey Bear every time he got near a smoldering fire or entered a smoky room. (3)
2) The forecast is for lower temperatures, falling to the low 30s by tonight. If the rain continues, as expected, there could be a traveler’s advisory. (3)
3) To celebrate Veterans Day, the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I, troops of former soldiers will march down Main Street carrying U.S. flags. (3)
4) His weeklong ordeal will be finished when finals week is over. Until then, his well-being is in doubt. (2)
5) A 19-year-old man was arrested Monday for carrying a handgun without a permit. After being released on bond, he disappeared. His whereabouts is unknown. (4)
6) She’d hoped to be able to trade in her car after getting a tuneup, but she totaled it last night. (3)
7) Could you photocopy that invoice for me? I need it for our year-end budget. (2)
JOUR 61 – AP Style Exercise (S-Z)
20 errors / 20 points
1) He thought of Smokey Bear every time he got near a smoldering fire or entered a smoky room. (3)
2) The forecast is for lower temperatures, falling to the low 30s by tonight. If the rain continues, as expected, there could be a traveler’s advisory. (3)
3) To celebrate Veterans Day, the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I, troops of former soldiers will march down Main Street carrying U.S. flags. (3)
4) His weeklong ordeal will be finished when finals week is over. Until then, his well-being is in doubt. (2)
5) A 19-year-old man was arrested Monday for carrying a handgun without a permit. After being released on bond, he disappeared. His whereabouts is unknown. (4)
6) She’d hoped to be able to trade in her car after getting a tuneup, but she totaled it last night. (3)
7) Could you photocopy that invoice for me? I need it for our year-end budget. (2)
Revised - Math for Journalists
1.
You would be surprised that some schools make five percent of their budget from student tuition. This local college said that two-thirds of its total budget of $120 million comes from the state. Only 28% comes from grants or donations.
2.
Average sentence for people convicted for aggravated assault in San Jose in one month in 2006: Just over a year in prison and 13 months of probation.
Median: One year in prison and two years of probation.
The median figure is more accurate in this situation because the highest number is more than five times the other sentences. The number is so far out from the group of other figures that it would be ridiculous to present the mean as “the average.” The median, in this case, is a more truthful representation of the average jail sentence.
3.
California sales tax: 8.25%
People who spend $5 on fast-food, weekly, would save:
$5 x 0.0825 x 52 = $21.45
People who spend $20 on food, weekly, would save:
$21.45 x 4 = $85.80
You would be surprised that some schools make five percent of their budget from student tuition. This local college said that two-thirds of its total budget of $120 million comes from the state. Only 28% comes from grants or donations.
2.
Average sentence for people convicted for aggravated assault in San Jose in one month in 2006: Just over a year in prison and 13 months of probation.
Median: One year in prison and two years of probation.
The median figure is more accurate in this situation because the highest number is more than five times the other sentences. The number is so far out from the group of other figures that it would be ridiculous to present the mean as “the average.” The median, in this case, is a more truthful representation of the average jail sentence.
3.
California sales tax: 8.25%
People who spend $5 on fast-food, weekly, would save:
$5 x 0.0825 x 52 = $21.45
People who spend $20 on food, weekly, would save:
$21.45 x 4 = $85.80
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Copy Edit the World #2
This one is from Cases in Communication Law by Zelezny. "Hays" is actually supposed to be "Hayes."
This is from Mass Media Law, by Pember. "Nonconfidential" should be "Non-confidential," according to the AP style book.
The bottom of the 1st picture and the top of the second picture: "Names not commonly before the public not should not be reduced to acronyms solely to save a few words."It should say "Names not commonly known before the public..."
On Prof. McCune’s blog Mike commented:
“Just passing by.Btw, you website have great content!”
The main correction is to change “you website have great content” to “your website has great content”
If you want to be picky, there needs to be a space between “by.” and “Btw”
And if you want to be even more picky, spell btw out as “by the way,” but this is a casual comment on the internet, so “btw” seems acceptable.
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