Introduction and Contextualization

Introduction

Narrative typology refers to the classification of different types of texts produced within a narrative structure. In this task, we will focus on news and reports, two types of texts that are central to communication in the modern world. Both are essential to inform the public about events and situations happening around the world, but in very different ways.

News is a journalistic format that seeks to inform the reader about current and relevant events. It is presented in an objective and impersonal manner, providing the reader with the most essential facts and information. News needs to be concise, relevant, and timely.

On the other hand, a report provides a deeper analysis of an event or situation. A report may include interviews, personal stories, and a variety of perspectives to give the reader a more comprehensive understanding of the topic. It is less restricted in terms of length and format, allowing the reporter more freedom to explore the topic in depth.

Contextualization

The ability to differentiate and understand news and reports is an essential skill in today's world. We are constantly bombarded with information from all types of media, and being able to understand and evaluate this information is crucial.

Furthermore, news and reports play a crucial role in shaping our worldview and understanding of reality. They help us understand what is happening around us, formulate our own opinions, and make informed decisions. Moreover, understanding the difference between news and reports can help us be more critical consumers of information, which is vital in the era of 'fake news'.

The study of narrative typology is also fundamental for anyone interested in pursuing a career in journalism, communication, or any related field. It is an essential skill to understand how information is conveyed and received.

Practical Activity

Activity Title: News vs Report: Understanding and Practicing Narrative Genres

Project Objective

The objective of this project is to provide students with the opportunity to explore the differences and similarities between news and reports. Students will work in groups of 3 to 5 people to investigate, write, and present their own news and reports, as well as analyze real examples of these narrative genres.

Detailed Project Description

Students, divided into groups, will have to choose a relevant and current event at school or in the community and create both a news and a report about the same event. Each group will be responsible for collecting information, conducting interviews, and recording this data. After collecting the data, the groups will draft the text of the news and the report in printed format and for circulation in other media (radio or TV/video).

Required Materials

1. Pen and paper for notes
2. Computer with internet access
3. Camera or smartphone for video/interview recording (optional)
4. Microphone for audio recording (optional)

Step by Step

1. Divide the class into groups of 3 to 5 students.
2. Each group must choose an event happening at school or in the community. The event must be relevant and current.
3. The groups must investigate the chosen event, collecting information and conducting interviews when necessary.
4. After gathering information, each group must write a news article about the event. This news article should follow the genre's characteristics: title with a verb in the present tense, lead, progression given by the decreasing order of importance of the facts, use of the 3rd person, words indicating precision, among others.
5. The same group must also write a report about the same event. This report can be longer and more detailed, including interviews and different perspectives.
6. After drafting the news and the report, the groups must create a presentation for the class, explaining their choice of event, the information collection process, and the difference between the news and the report they created.
7. Each group must also write a report to accompany the presentation. This report should include an introduction, the theory behind the work, a detailed description of the activity's development, conclusions, and bibliography used.

Project Deliverables

The groups must deliver:

1. The printed news and report, as well as the version for other media (radio or TV/video), if applicable. This will demonstrate the students' understanding of the differences and similarities between these two genres.
2. An oral presentation, lasting a maximum of 10 minutes, showing the process of creating the news and the report and explaining the perceived differences between them.
3. A written report, at least two pages long, about the activity, containing:
   • Introduction: Describing the chosen event and the relevance of this project.
   • Development: Detailing the theory about news and reports, explaining the production process (including information collection and image selection, if applicable), and discussing the results obtained.
   • Conclusion: Summarizing the essential points, explaining the learnings obtained, and drawing conclusions about the project.
   • Bibliography: Indicating the sources used for the project.