After attending lecture and exploring Harrower's third chapter, I quickly discovered the importance of the "inverse pyramid". Unlike other writing styles, journalistic writing requires the most important information and base of the story at the beginning. Details are less important, and therefore trickle down towards the bottom of the piece. An effective news lead is also crucial to a successful story, and should focus on the "5 W's" (who, what, where, when, why). I consider the lead as the "bait": if it is not effective than the audience will oftentimes skip over the article.
I have always had a problem writing a thesis throughout my previous writing classes, so my biggest fear is that I will be unsuccessful in writing an effective lead. I realize that leads must be factual, however I also believe that creativity is necessary in order to "hook" an audience.
I feel that the most important value a story must contain is factual information. Incorrect or mis-cited information can ruin a journalist's reputation, making one bad story permanent. Another value which is necessary in a story is an unbiased opinion. It is important to stay objective as a journalist, and resist the temptation to insert an opinion into the story.
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