DABOSS POLYTECHNIC, IDOMINASI

MEDIA WRITING AND STYLE 2

MAC 121
MISS MARGARET FASANMI

25
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 CHAPTER ONE drama, talk shows, comedy, etc. Television has become primarily an
entertainment medium. Even highly specialized channels like news
PRINT MEDIA channels, nature and wildlife channels also have a lot of humorous and
1.1 INTRODUCTION TO MASS MEDIA comic content. Among all media, films are perhaps the only medium
concentrating on entertainment. Except documentaries, educational films
Definition of the Mass Media: and art movies, all films are made to provide three hour of escape, fantasy
and entertainment.
Blake and Haroldsen, refer to the mass media as technical vices through
which mass communication take place. Technically, the mass media can be To Persuade: Most of mass media are used as vehicles of
said to be an institution that keeps daily records of events in a society. promotion and persuasion. Goods, services, ideas, persons, places, events-
the range. Different media have different features and reach. Advertisers
1.2 FUNCTIONS OF MASS COMMUNICATION
and advertising agencies analyze these features and depending upon the
Mass communication has three basic functions: nature of the message and the target audience, choose where (in which
media) and how (with what frequency) the message should be placed.
# To inform

# To entertain and
1.3 INTRODUCTION TO PRINT MEDIA
# To persuade
Print media refers to the means of mass communication that
Additionally it also educates and helps in transmission of culture. disseminate information through printed publications content such as,
newspaper, magazines, books, and newsletter.
To Inform: Dissemination of information is the primary function of
the news media. Newspapers, radio and TV provide us news from around Print media has been one of the oldest forms of media
the world and keep us informed. In addition to dissemination of communication and yet still places a critical role in the dissemination of
information news media provide us information and also helps understand News, Education, Entertainment, and Advertising. Print media provides a
the news events, ideas, policy changes, etc. tangible and lasting record of information, allowing readers to engage with
content at their own pace.
To Entertain: The most common function of mass communication is
entertainment. Radio, television and films are basically entertainment According to Dominick (2011), print media serves as both a
media. Even newspapers provide entertainment through comics, cartoons, historical record and a source of public information that can be reviewed
features, cross word puzzles, word jumbles, and etc. Entertainment through repeatedly making it necessary in information retention and archival.
radio consists of mainly music. Radio also provides entertainment through

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 individuals, businesses, or organizations to: Promote a good or service,
such as a restaurant or nightclub. Persuade or send a social, religious, or
political message, as in evangelism or political campaign activities on
behalf of a political party or candidate.

1.4 TYPES OF PRINT MEDIA The different types of print media content, varies according to the
targeted audience or market. Content in newspapers slightly differ to that in
Newspapers: Newspapers are the most popular forms of print magazines, tabloids and newsletters. These mediums serve the purpose of
media. The advertiser in this case can choose from a daily newspaper to a showcasing advertisements, news or entertainment related information to
weekly tabloid. Different types of newspaper cater to various audiences and audiences. Newspapers are a worldwide medium that have been around far
one can select the particular category accordingly. Advertisers then design back to Julius Caesar’s time in the form of government bulletins. With the
press advertisements where in the size is decided as per the budget of the industrial revolution, newspapers were made possible to print and were
client. used as a means of communicating in the year 1814, which kick started
journalism.
Magazines: Magazines also offer advertisers an opportunity to
incorporate various new techniques and ideas. Magazines are one such
form of print media that give a more specific target group to the client. The
client can make a choice of the particular magazine as per the product. 1.5 PRINT MEDIA WRITING

Newsletters: Newsletters also form an important part of print Print media writing involves creating content for printed
media. These target a specific group of audience and give information on publications, taking into account the unique characteristics and requirements
the product. of each medium.

Brochures: Brochures give detailed information about the product. Media writing is a specialized form of writing aimed at informing,
These are mainly distributed at events or even at the main outlet when a persuading, or entertaining a target audience through mass media platforms
consumer needs to read in detail about the product. such as newspapers, radio, television, online blogs, and social media.
Posters: Posters are forms of outdoor advertising. The message in a
Print media must consider the following factors such as:
poster has to be brief and eye catching as it targets a person on the move.
1. Space constraints: Print media has physical limitations,
Flyer (pamphlet): A flyer or flier, also called a circular, handbill or
requiring writers to be concise and focused.
leaflet, is a form of paper advertisement intended for wide distribution and
2. Tone and style: Print media writers must adapt their tone
typically posted or distributed in a public place. Flyers may be used by
and style to suit the publication and audience.
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 3. Fact-checking: Print media writers must ensure accuracy d. Be Organized: Good organization means that the sentences and
and verify facts before publication. paragraphs come in the right order. One leads naturally to the next. Don’t
throw sentences at your readers haphazardly. Make a point clearly, support
it and then make a smooth transition to the next point.
1.6 TYPES OF PRINT MEDIA WRITING
e. Good transitions are essential in guiding the audience from one sentence
1. News writing: Focuses on reporting current events and news to the next. Changes in thought must be clearly signaled. Transitional words
stories. and phrases that could establish the relationship between sentences and
paragraphs include: however, moreover, nevertheless, furthermore, in spite
2. Feature Writing: Provides in-depth coverage of topics, often of this, despite this, e.t.c.
with a more narrative or analytical approach.

3. Editorial Writing: An article written for the op-ed section of the

newspaper in which an editor expresses an opinion about an 1.8 PRESENTATION STYLES IN PRINT MEDIA WRITING
important issue facing the city, state or nation.
1. Headline: headline is the title of a newspaper story, printed in
4. Reviews: Evaluate products, services, or artistic works. large letters at the top of the story. It scantly describes the subject and topic
of your content. The purpose of a headline is to quickly capture the
attention of readers and provide summary of the story.
1.7 PRINCIPLES OF GOOD MEDIA WRITING 2. Lead: it is the opening paragraph of a news story that gives the
The following are some of the principles of good media writing: audience the most important information of the story in a concise and clear
manner while maintaining the reader’s interest. It answers the 5Ws and H.
a. Be Concise: Strive to get your message across in the fewer possible
words. The objective of effective journalistic writing should be to avoid Here is an Example, (The lead) World hunger is caused not by over
cumbersomeness without becoming choppy. Use words that your audience population but by politics, the keynote speaker for “Hunger week” said this
will understand much of the time, replace the unfamiliar with familiar ones. on Monday. Shortly thereafter is the direct quote supporting the lead. “The
b. Be Concrete: Good media writers prefer words that give the reader reason people remain hungry in this world is that they are powerless” said
something to see. Comrade Adams President Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

c. Be Positive: Statement in positive form is easier to read and understand

than evasive and negative construction. And they make the message more 1.9 GUIDELINES FOR WRITING PRINT COPY:
forcefully more direct and interesting. 1. Try as much as possible to gather more information than required.
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2. Do not be too simplistic. Barker: A person who attempts to attract patrons to entertainment events,
such as a circus or funfair, by exhorting passing public, describing
3. De-emphasis the use of past tense to avoid your story looking stale. attractions of show and emphasizing variety, novelty, beauty, or some other
4. Always cross check your stories before submission. feature believed to incite listeners to attend entertainment.

5. Insure that your story is balanced by identifying the parties involved. Byline: The byline is a short phrase or paragraph that indicates the name of
the author of an article in books, magazines, newspapers, newsletters,
content Websites, blogs, or other publications. In some cases, bylines may
be used to give credit for photographs or illustrations.

Creditline: A credit line in a newspaper is where reference is made to

items included in the article from another source, such as research material.
GLOSSARY Acknowledging the source of a picture is an example for a credit line.

Banner: A banner is a headline in large type running across the entire Dateline: Although it sounds like a date such as month day and year, the
width of the page. dateline is actually in the first line of an article and is the location where the
reporter is writing from.
Headline: The headline is the text at the top of a newspaper article,
indicating the nature of the article below it. The purpose of a headline is to Deadline: The time by which a news report must be submitted. Deadlines
quickly and briefly draw attention to the story. are common in print, broadcast and online journalism, and are necessary
for the smooth functioning of the news operation.
Bleed: Bleed is a printing term that refers to printing that goes beyond the
edge of the sheet after trimming. The bleed is the part on the side of a Gravure: Gravure is a printing method in which an image is applied to a
document that gives the printer a small amount of space to account for printing substrate by use of a metal plate mounted on a cylinder.
movement of the paper, and design inconsistencies. Bleed ensures that no
Gutter journalism: Gutter journalism or Yellow journalism, is a type of
unprinted edges occur in the final trimmed document.
journalism that presents little or no legitimate well-researched news and
Blooper: A Blooper is a clumsy or embarrassing mistake committed over instead uses eye catching headlines to sell more newspapers.
radio or print media. Nowadays, bloopers are included in movies, mainly
Handouts: A handout is a document which contains news or information
towards the end. They are usually deleted scenes, containing a mistake
about something and which is given, for example, to journalists or
committed by a member of the crew. This term was popularized in 1950s.
members of the public.
According to Wikipedia, another definition for blooper is “Unintended
indiscretions before microphone and camera.”
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 Jumpline: A line of type identifying the page on or from which a newspaper’s editorial board. These are different from editorials, which are
newspaper story is continued. usually unsigned and written by editorial board members.

Nameplate: A nameplate identifies and displays a person or product’s Tombstone: Tomb-stoning is when you are making your page and two
name. Name plates are usually shaped as rectangles. The primary use of different headlines for two different articles line up. For example, if your
name plates is for informative as in an office environment, where name one article’s headline starts at the top left of your page and is one inch thick
plates are mounted on doors or walls in order to identify employees. and the headline for your second article lines up exactly with the first
article headline, that is tomb stoning. The term “tomb stoning” comes from
Masthead: The masthead which is also referred to as an imprint is a list, the idea of a graveyard where all the tombstones line up and match.
published in a newspaper or magazine, of its staff. In some publications it Tabloid: Tabloid journalism tends to emphasize topics such as sensational
names only the most senior individuals; in others, it may name many or all. crime stories, astrology, gossip columns about the personal lives of
Some mastheads also include information such as the publications’ celebrities and sports stars, and junk food news. Such journalism is
founding date, slogan, logo and contact information. In newspapers the commonly associated with tabloid sized newspapers like the National
masthead typically appears on the editorial page; in magazines it is Enquirer, Globe or the Daily Mail and the former News of the World. The
frequently found elsewhere, often in the first few pages of the publication. terms “tabloids”, “supermarket tabloids”, “gutter press”, and “rag”, refer to
Letterpress: Letterpress printing is relief printing of text and image using a the journalistic approach of such newspapers rather than their size.
press with a “type-high bed” printing press and movable type, in which a Broadsheet: Broadsheet is the largest of the various newspaper formats
reversed, raised surface is inked and then pressed into a sheet of paper to and is characterized by long vertical pages (typically 22 inches / 559
obtain a positive right-reading image. millimetres or more). The term derives from types of popular prints usually
Logotype: A logotype is an artistic symbol that uniquely represents an just of a single sheet, sold on the streets and containing various types of
organization. Examples of organizations that use logotypes include material, from ballads to political satire.
businesses, sports teams, political parties, or even entire cultures and Stringer: A Stringer is a photographer or journalist who contributes
religions. reports or photos to a news organization on an ongoing basis but is paid
Offset: Offset printing is a commonly used printing technique in which the individually for each piece of published or broadcast work. Stringers are
inked image is transferred from a plate to a rubber blanket, then to the generally freelancers and do not receive a regular salary. Nowadays they
printing surface. are also known as correspondents or contributors. Often they do not receive
any public recognition for the work they have contributed.
Op-ed: An op-ed, abbreviated from opposite the editorial page, though
often mistaken for opinion-editorial, is a newspaper article that expresses Dummy: A preliminary layout of a newspaper page, showing the
the opinions of a named writer who is usually unaffiliated with the placement of stories, headlines, pictures and advertisements.

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 Embargo: An embargo is put into place when a story is sent to broadcast Precision Journalism: The application of social and behavioral science
media, publications, or radio before the story is set to be released. An research methods to the practice of journalism is termed as Precision
embargo is an agreement of sorts that allows the press to get the story in journalism. It is applying social science research methods to the problems
advance but not publish it until a specified time. of news gathering in an increasingly complex society.

Freelance: Freelance is a working arrangement when a person sells their Style Book: The content of newspapers and other mass media is typically
services to individual buyers with whom they are not employed. Freelance the result of many different writers and editors working together. A Style
journalists can be reporters on contract who write on a regular basis to Book provides consistent guidelines in terms of grammar, spelling,
columnists, radio moderators and occasional contributors to publications punctuation, numerals and language usage. The AP Stylebook is generally
and broadcast programmes. known as the Bible of print journalism.

Lithography: Lithography refers to a method of printing whereby the

image areas, which are neither raised nor depressed, attract ink and the non-
image areas repel ink.

News Agency: A news agency gathers, writes and distributes news from
around the world to other newspapers, periodicals, radio and television. It is
in effect an agency that supplies news to its subscribers who will otherwise
have to spend a lot of money to gather and collect information.

Beat: A beat is a particular topic or subject area that a reporter covers.

Many news organizations assign journalists to cover specific areas,
CHAPTER TWO
geographic or topical.

Breaking News: Breaking news refers to events that are currently SKILLS OF WRITING FOR PUBLIC RELATIONS
developing, or “breaking.” Breaking news usually refers to events that are
unexpected, such as a plane crash or building fire. Breaking news can also 2.1 Definition of Public Relations
refer to news that occurs late in the day, close to a newspaper’s usual
deadline. Public Relations (PR) is defined as:

New Journalism: This was a style of journalism that originated in the A strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial
1960s in USA. New journalism used techniques borrowed from fiction to relationships between organizations and their publics.
portray a situation or event as vividly as possible.
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In simpler terms, PR is the practice of managing and spreading These are short, direct notices to journalists, informing them about
information from an organization to the public in order to shape their upcoming events or press conferences and inviting them to attend.
perception positively.
3. Newsletters
PR involves writing and distributing content to:
Regular publications (monthly, quarterly, etc.) sent to employees, clients, or
 Promote a positive image of the organization stakeholders to keep them informed about developments within the
 Inform the public about new developments organization.
 Handle crises or negative publicity
 Strengthen relationships with stakeholders (employees, customers, 4. Feature Articles
media, etc.)
Longer, human-interest stories written to highlight positive aspects of a
person, event, or organization in a more creative and engaging way than
press releases.
2.2 Various Forms of Writing in Public Relations
5. Speech Writing
Public Relations writing are focused on maintaining a positive image
of an organization, company, or individual in the eyes of the public. This Writing speeches for top executives or representatives to be delivered at
type of writing requires a unique set of skills, knowledge of public relations public events, conferences, or interviews.
strategies, and an understanding of how to craft messages that influence
public perception.

PR writing comes in various forms, each with a different purpose

and audience. Below are the main types:
6. Social Media Posts
1. Press Releases
Short, timely, and engaging posts that are tailored for platforms like Twitter,
A press release is a short, factual news story written by a PR professional Facebook, Instagram, etc. to maintain online presence and interact with the
and sent to media outlets. It is used to announce events, achievements, public.
product launches, appointments, or other important updates.
7. Corporate Brochures & Profiles
2. Media Advisories
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Printed or digital materials that describe the organization, its vision, mission, TERM MEANING
services, and achievements. Stakeholders All individuals or groups affected by the organization

8. Crisis Communication Statements A series of planned activities designed to achieve a PR

PR Campaign
goal
Carefully crafted messages used to address a crisis or negative incident Crisis PR strategy used during emergencies or negative
involving the organization. These statements are designed to calm the public Communication incidents
and maintain trust.

2.4 How to Write for Public Relations

2.3 Terminologies in Public Relations Writing Effective PR writing involves planning, creativity, and clarity. Here is a
step-by-step guide on how to write for public relations:
To write effectively in PR, it's important to understand the common
terminologies used in the field. Here are some key terms: Step 1: Know Your Audience

TERM MEANING Understand who you are writing for (e.g., journalists, customers,
The group of people the message is directed to (e.g., government officials, employees). Tailor your message to their needs,
Audience interests, and level of understanding.
public, customers)
A formal document sent to media to share important
Press Release Step 2: Choose the Right Format
news
A consistent writing style or format used by a Decide whether your message should be in the form of a press release,
House Style
particular organization newsletter, social media post, speech, etc.
A package of promotional materials given to
Media Kit Step 3: Use the Inverted Pyramid Structure
journalists
A short paragraph at the end of a press release giving
Boilerplate For news-style writing like press releases, use this structure:
info about the organization.
Pitch Letter A letter proposing a story idea to a journalist or editor  Lead Paragraph – The most important information (Who? What?
A way of presenting information to influence public When? Where? Why? How?)
Spin
opinion positively  Body Paragraphs – Supporting facts and details
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  Conclusion – Background information and additional notes
Example of a PR Press Release Format
[Organization Logo]
Step 4: Write a Strong Headline

The headline should be brief, clear, and attention-grabbing. It should FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
summarize the main idea of the story. Date: May 21, 2025

Step 5: Be Clear and Concise **ABC Tech Launches New Mobile App to Boost Student Learning**

Avoid long sentences and technical jargon. Use simple language that the Lagos, Nigeria – ABC Tech today announced the launch of its new
average reader can understand. educational mobile app designed to help students access quality learning
materials from anywhere in the country...
Step 6: Be Persuasive but Honest
[Include body paragraphs, quotes, and additional information.]
Highlight the strengths and achievements of your organization, but do not
exaggerate or lie. Credibility is key in PR. Contact:
Jane Doe
Step 7: Include Quotes Public Relations Officer
Email: janedoe@[Link]
Add direct quotes from company leaders, managers, or stakeholders to make Phone: 0803 123 4567
the content more engaging and trustworthy.
### About ABC Tech
Step 8: Add Contact Information
ABC Tech is a leading educational technology company committed to
transforming learning through innovation.
Always include the name, phone number, and email of a PR officer or media
contact at the end of press releases.
Conclusion
Step 9: Proofread and Edit
Public Relations writing are a powerful tool in managing how people see an
Ensure the final message is error-free, grammatically correct, and
organization. As a mass communication student, mastering PR writing will
professionally formatted.
prepare you for roles in media relations, corporate communication, and
reputation management.
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Understanding the various forms, correct formats, and writing techniques
helps you become a professional communicator who can promote trust,
handle crises, and build strong public relationships. 3.2 Forms of Digital Communication

Digital communication exists in different forms depending on the platform

and content format. The most common forms include:
CHAPTER THREE
1. Text-Based Communication
SKILLS OF DIGITAL MEDIA WRITING
 Blog posts
3.1 Digital Medium of Communication  News articles
 Social media captions and comments
A digital medium of communication refers to any electronic method of  Email newsletters
sending and receiving messages or information through internet-enabled  SMS messages
devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers.  Web content

Examples of Digital Media Platforms 2. Audio Communication

 Websites and blogs  Podcasts

 Social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, TikTok, LinkedIn)  Voice notes
 Email and newsletters  Online radio
 Podcasts  Audio ads
 Online video channels (YouTube, Vimeo)
 Messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram) 3. Visual Communication
 Mobile applications
 Infographics
These platforms allow for fast, interactive, and global communication.  Memes
Unlike traditional media, digital media enables two-way communication,  Images with captions
where users can respond, share, like, and comment on content.  Posters
 Slideshows

4. Video Communication
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  YouTube videos  Tailored for different devices (especially mobile phones)
 Live video streaming (Instagram Live, Facebook Live, TikTok Live)
 Short-form videos (Reels, TikTok, YouTube Shorts)
 Webinars

5. Interactive Communication
Key Features of Digital Media Writing
 Polls and quizzes
 Live chats and DMs  Conciseness: Online readers have short attention spans. Messages
 Comments and replies must be clear and straight to the point.
 Web forms and surveys  Visual Integration: Images, emojis, videos, and links are often
included to enhance text.
Each form has a unique writing style and tone based on the audience, the  Hyperlinking: Digital writing often includes clickable links to direct
platform, and the purpose of communication. readers to more information.
 Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Keywords and formatting are
used to help content appear in search engine results.
 Call to Action (CTA): Digital content often includes CTAs like
3.3 What is Digital Media Writing? “click here,” “subscribe,” “share,” or “leave a comment.”
 Interactive Language: Writers may use questions, hashtags, or
Digital media writing is the act of creating content specifically for digital emojis to encourage interaction.
platforms such as websites, social media, blogs, email, and video-sharing
platforms, taking into account the unique characteristics and requirements of
each medium.
3.4 How to Write for Digital Media Platforms
It combines traditional writing skills with digital tools and modern
communication techniques to produce content that is: Writing for digital media platforms requires specific strategies that differ
from traditional print or broadcast writing. Here's how to do it effectively:
 Engaging
 Brief and scannable 1. Know Your Platform and Audience
 Visually supported
 Optimized for search engines (SEO) Each digital platform has its own style:
 Easily shareable
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  Twitter/X favors short, witty, and trending messages (280 If you're writing for blogs or websites, research keywords that people search
characters). for and include them naturally in your content. This helps increase visibility
 Instagram focuses on visual storytelling with brief captions. on Google and other search engines.
 Blogs and websites require informative, well-organized articles.
 YouTube descriptions include keywords and calls to action. 7. Always Include a Call to Action (CTA)
 Emails/newsletters are more personalized and direct.
Encourage readers to take action like:

 “Leave a comment”
2. Use Headlines and Subheadings  “Follow us on Instagram”
 “Download the app”
Headlines should be catchy and informative. Subheadings help break down  “Click the link in bio”
content into readable sections. Online readers often scan instead of reading
word-for-word. 8. Be Authentic and Engaging

3. Write in a Conversational Tone Today’s digital audiences value honesty. Avoid corporate-sounding or
overly polished language. Use relatable examples and real-life stories when
Use simple, friendly language. Write as if you are speaking to one person. appropriate.
Avoid formal or academic writing unless the platform demands it.
9. Use Hashtags Wisely
4. Keep Paragraphs and Sentences Short
Hashtags increase visibility and help your content reach a larger audience on
Most digital users read on mobile phones. Use short sentences and 1–3 platforms like Twitter and Instagram. Don’t overuse them—stick to relevant
sentence paragraphs to enhance readability. tags.

5. Add Visual and Multimedia Elements 10. Edit and Proofread

Support your writing with images, videos, GIFs, or infographics to capture Digital content must be free from spelling and grammar mistakes. Errors
attention and explain ideas visually. reduce your credibility and professionalism.

6. Include Keywords for SEO

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3.5 Skills Needed for Effective Digital Media Writing Whether you're writing a blog, managing social media, or publishing a
podcast script, the key is to know your audience, write clearly, and use
To succeed in writing for digital platforms, students must develop the the right format for the right platform.
following skills:

Skill Importance
Knowing how to use digital tools and platforms CHAPTER FOUR
Digital literacy
effectively
MEDIA WRITING AND STYLE
Research skills Finding reliable information and online trends
Using keywords to improve content visibility on Media writing is a specialized form of writing used in newspapers,
SEO knowledge
search engines magazines, radio, television, and online media platforms. It involves
Content planning Scheduling and organizing content for regular updates communicating clearly, accurately, and efficiently to a large audience. To
Writing in different styles and tones for various achieve this, the style and language used must be suitable for the medium
Adaptability and the target audience.
platforms
Analytics Using data (views, likes, shares) to improve future
interpretation content
Creativity Developing original and interesting content ideas 4.1 DEFINE STYLE
Knowing when and how to use images, videos, or
Visual sense In media writing, style refers to the unique way a writer or journalist
infographics
presents information using tone, language, sentence structure, and format. It
encompasses grammar, punctuation, vocabulary, and sentence construction.
CONCLUSION Style is not just about aesthetics; it affects how readers perceive the message
and how effectively the message is delivered.
Digital media writing is a critical skill in today’s fast-paced and technology-
driven world. As ND 1 Mass Communication students, learning to write for Different media platforms (such as print, broadcast, or online) may require
digital platforms gives you a solid foundation to become effective different writing styles depending on their format, audience, and purpose.
communicators in journalism, advertising, public relations, and content
creation.

4.2 TYPES OF STYLE IN MEDIA WRITING

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There are several styles commonly used in media writing, each with distinct 4.3 FUNCTIONS OF STYLE IN MEDIA WRITING
characteristics:
1. Audience Engagement: A suitable style helps grab and retain the
1. Formal Style: reader’s attention.
o Used in news reporting, official announcements, and 2. Clarity and Understanding: Proper style ensures the message is
editorials. clear and easily understood.
o Features proper grammar, structured sentences, and avoids 3. Credibility: A consistent and professional writing style builds the
slang. writer’s or outlet's credibility.
o Example: News reports on politics or economic updates. 4. Brand Identity: Media organizations develop a recognizable style
2. Informal/Conversational Style: that aligns with their brand voice.
o Used in blogs, opinion pieces, entertainment stories, and 5. Efficiency in Communication: Appropriate style helps deliver
feature writing. messages effectively within limited time or space.
o Involves casual language, contractions, and a friendly tone.
o Example: Celebrity interviews, lifestyle articles.
3. Narrative Style:
o Tells a story or describes an event in a chronological format.
o Engages readers with storytelling techniques.
o Example: Human-interest stories or investigative features.
CHAPTER FIVE
4. Descriptive Style:
IDIOMATIC EXPRESSIONS IN MEDIA WRITING
o Focuses on vivid descriptions to paint a picture for the reader.
o Uses sensory details and figurative language.
o Example: Travel journalism or restaurant reviews.
5. Persuasive Style: 5.1 DEFINE IDIOMS
o Aims to convince the audience to accept a viewpoint or take
an action. An idiom is a group of words or a phrase that has a figurative meaning
o Common in editorials, reviews, and opinion columns. different from the literal meaning of the individual words. Idioms are
o Example: Editorials urging government action on climate commonly used expressions that convey specific meanings understood
change. through usage rather than direct translation.

Example: “Kick the bucket” means to die, not literally to kick a bucket.

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 5.4 HOW TO USE IDIOMATIC EXPRESSIONS IN DIFFERENT
MEDIA WRITINGS
5.2 EXPLAIN IDIOMATIC EXPRESSIONS
1. News Reports: Use sparingly to maintain objectivity. Example:
Idiomatic expressions are essential tools in language that enrich writing “The government is under fire” (facing criticism).
and make it more relatable or vivid. They are especially useful in making 2. Feature Writing: Can be used more freely to create interest and
points clearer, adding humor or color, and creating a strong impact. Media imagery. Example: “The town has bounced back from the brink.”
writers often use idioms to add flavor to their articles or connect with 3. Editorials/Opinions: Useful for emphasizing arguments or making
readers on a cultural level. points memorable. Example: “We must not sweep the problem under
the rug.”
Common idioms in media writing include: 4. Broadcast Scripts: Use idioms to make spoken language sound
natural and engaging. Example: “The project is back on track.”
 “Break the news” – to announce something.
 “On the same page” – to be in agreement. Tips for Effective Use:
 “Burning the midnight oil” – working late.
 Ensure the idiom fits the context.
 Avoid overusing idioms – too many can confuse readers.
 Consider the audience – some idioms may not be universally
5.3 FUNCTIONS OF IDIOMATIC EXPRESSIONS IN MEDIA understood.
WRITING  Do not mix idioms (called “idiom blending”), which can confuse
readers.
1. Enhance Readability: Idioms make writing more enjoyable and less
monotonous.
2. Create Emotional Connection: They help writers connect with the
audience by using familiar language. CONCLUSION
3. Add Color and Humor: Idioms can bring humor and creativity to
an article. Understanding and applying different styles helps writers
4. Convey Complex Ideas Simply: Idioms express complex or communicate effectively with varied audiences across different media
abstract ideas in a simple, figurative way. platforms. Idiomatic expressions, when used correctly, add richness,
relatability, and depth to media content. A good media writer must know

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when, where, and how to apply these tools to enhance their storytelling and
ensure clarity in communication.

REFRENCE

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