The first day of journalism class sets the tone — and a well-made video does what a lecture can't: it shows students the world they're about to enter. This 8-minute, 51-second video covers the functions and purpose of journalism in a format students actually watch. Play it on day one, use it to open a unit, or hand it to a sub with confidence it'll hold the room. What's Included: 8:51 video — covers the core functions of journalism, journalism's role as a public watchdog, and why accurate and timely information matters in a democracy Supporting PowerPoint file included for follow-up discussion or note-taking What the Video Covers:
See it on Teachers Pay Teachers — $4.79
What journalism is and how it functions in society The multiple roles journalism plays — informing, investigating, holding power accountable Why journalism matters to students as citizens, not just as a career path Real-world connections to current media and public discourse How to Use It: Works as a Day 1 opener for any journalism or media literacy unit. Runs in under nine minutes, leaving time for discussion in a standard class period. Strong fit for a substitute lesson paired with a short reflection prompt, or as homework viewing before a Socratic seminar on press freedom and the public's right to know. Accessible for grades 7–12; no prior journalism knowledge assumed. Pairs well with the Introduction to Journalism Slideshow — 50 slides covering ethics, reporting basics, and news writing for a complete introductory unit.
Both are included in the Complete High School Journalism Curriculum Bundle alongside 67 additional resources for a full year of journalism instruction. If this resource saved you prep time, please leave a rating under My Purchases Provide Feedback. Every review earns you TpT Credits toward future purchases — roughly $1 in credits for every $10 reviewed. Follow Starmaker English & Journalism Tools to be notified when new resources launch or go on sale. Keywords: introduction to journalism video, what is journalism lesson, journalism functions and purpose, journalism video lesson, beginner journalism unit, journalism Day 1 activity, media literacy video, high school journalism introduction, journalism grades 7-12, journalism sub plans, journalism and democracy, scholastic journalism intro, journalism video middle school, journalism class opener, what journalists do
Designed for grades 7-12.
Starmaker English and Journalism Tools 
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