NorCal Media Day: On-site Contest Descriptions
News
Contestants will attend a pre-determined session to get the content for this contest. The written story should demonstrate an understanding of news values and basic newswriting style.
Editorial
Contestants will attend a session in which a speaker will present on a newsworthy topic and follow with a question and answer period. The written editorial should take a position on the topic and present a well-supported argument.
Review
Contestants will view a film or performance and participate in a question and answer session afterward. The review should offer a balance of information and well-supported critique.
Feature
Contestants will attend a pre-determined session to get the content for this contest. The written feature should balance showing and telling, have a clear and specific angle, and use narrative details and direct quotations well.
Sports
Contestants will attend a pre-determined session to get the content for this contest. The written story should demonstrate an understanding of news values and basic newswriting style. The written story should balance showing and telling, have a clear and specific angle, and use narrative details and direct quotations well.
Live social media reporting
Contestants will attend a pre-determined session to get the content for this contest. They will be responsible for documenting the event via social media. During the contest time, they will organize their posts to be submitted as one entry.
On-site Photo
Contestants should bring a camera and SD card to participate in this contest. They will be asked to document a pre-determined session and will spend the contest time choosing and editing the three best photos from the event before submitting them. Photos will be evaluated on composition, visual impact and technique.
On-site Video
Contestants should bring a video camera or device to participate in this contest. They will be asked to document a pre-determined session and will spend the contest time editing the video to submit. Videos will be evaluated for production quality, journalistic value, and overall cohesion. Individuals or teams of 2 can compete in this contest.
Best of Show
Carry in only, the Best of Show Contest follows NSPA Guidelines for national JEA/NSPA conventions. Newspapers, newsmagazines and broadcasts must be published between Aug. 1 of the contest year and NorCal Media Day. Only yearbooks and literary magazines from the prior school year will be accepted. Websites must have been updated since Sept. 1 of the contest year.