Information Sources

Newspapers report on a topic generally the day after an event occurs. They can also focus nationally or locally, including to a particular state or city.  

Why Use a Newspaper?

• Provides recent information on current events and interests
• Provides opinion pieces and editorials
• Can provide local or regional news coverage and information
• Historical newspapers serve as primary documents, providing firsthand experiences of events at the time of occurrence

Characteristics of a Newspaper

Purpose                       Reports and informs the public on news and current events, either local, regional,

                                    national, or international

Content                        News, feature articles, editorials, and opinion pieces on a wide variety of topics,

                                    including economics, sports, entertainment, politics, environment, business, crime,

                                    education, and society

Intended Audience     Written for a general audience

Authors                       Primarily written by newspaper staff writers, but also columnists or wire services

                                    writers such as those from Reuters or the Associated Press

Layout & Style             Generally short articles; includes images and advertisements

Text                              Conversational language

References                  Typically do not have a list of citations but may include quotes from affected parties

                                    and bystanders

Review Policy              Reviewed by an editor

Publisher                     Published by commercial organizations

Frequency                    Published daily, weekly, or bi-weekly

Availability                   By subscription or at newsstands

Examples

New York Times

Wall Street Journal

The Kansas City Star