In January, a new term begins at Greenhill Middle School. Many pupils are excited to join different clubs this year. The school news club has special appeal because it covers a wide variety of topics. Members can learn to use a camera, write interesting reports, and share school affairs with the whole school. More than twenty students sign up on the first day.
Mr. Chen is the club's teacher and advisor. He is an adult journalist who used to work for a big city newspaper. He teaches students how to operate a camera and use the right techniques to take clear photos. With regard to news reporting, he always says that good journalists must depend on the facts, not just their feelings. The club uses the school website as a medium to share their stories with other students and parents.
Many pupils fear public speaking at first. One student named Amy remembers the pain of her first interview very well. She was so nervous that her hands were shaking and her voice was very small. But she immediately took a deep breath, smiled, and continued to ask her questions. Her classmates give great weight to her brave effort, and her teacher is very proud of her, too.
In the middle of February, the club covers the school student council election. There are four candidates running for student president. The pupils press a button on the camera to record every speech. They also fish for more details by asking follow-up questions after each talk. Each candidate shares a different version of their plan for the school. The club reports every plan fairly so that all students can choose wisely.
The club also learns about politics. On the surface, student politics at school may seem simple and small. But it helps pupils understand how people in society discuss ideas and make decisions together. The club even watches news programs from America to see how professional reporters interview guests and present information clearly.
Time seems to fly when everyone is busy working on a story. The students learn to appeal to their readers with interesting headlines and clear writing. They regard every piece of news as a real chance to learn and improve. By the end of the term, many pupils feel more confident. Mr. Chen is happy to see his young reporters grow step by step.