Special Topics (390-0-20)

Topic

Intro to Sports Writing

Instructors

Melissa K Isaacson

Meeting Info

Fisk Hall 309: Tues, Thurs 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

This course is a dive into the world of sports journalism and how sports reporters do their jobs on a daily basis, utilizing all the fundamentals of good journalism while recognizing that it is also a unique endeavor. In this class, you will learn how best to perform on deadline in the fast-paced environment of covering sports; how to craft daily game stories and features while also recognizing the importance and best use of social media as it pertains to sports journalism; how the most successful journalists in the business develop sources and report breaking news before their competition; and how to interview and interact with athletes and coaches in a way that gets the best results.

Registration Requirements

Sophomore standing

Class Materials (Required)

For required reading (and podcast) material each week, I will try to provide free links or hard copy. You will, however, be expected to subscribe, if necessary, to the publication of your beat writer and if you have not already, you really should consider subscribing to The Athletic (through a Chicago story, please). We will refer to it often and it is the source of great work that in many ways reflects where the industry is today and where it is headed (student discount is $30 yearly).

Class Attributes

Attendance at 1st class mandatory
No Freshmen

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for Medill Sophomores, Juniors & Seniors