Prepare by reading a local or national newspaper, either in print or online. Choose a story about a new proposal in state government. Look for the original press release on the government website.
(Alternatively, you could find a press release first and then look for any corresponding stories.)
Compare the media story to the press release. Post to the Discussion Forum:
A brief summary of the story (one paragraph or less)
Whether or not anything was copied directly from the news release
Whether or not the reporter did any additional news gathering or solely relied on the release
If a photo was published, your opinion on the photo
Whether or not the newspaper or the government amplified the story on social media
If they did, what platforms they used and how many posts
Whether or not you think the reporter did a good job, and what the reporter could have done better
Example:
Most major government entities have a press release section on their website. Here is an example from New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.
New York State Governor's website: Governor Cuomo announces awards for seven farm-to-school programs to benefit nearly 300,000 students across the state
Two stories generated by the release:SoutholdLOCAL. (2016, December 7). Greenport school district wins $68,820 state grant to support farm-to-school program for North Fork schools. Southold LOCAL.
Bostick, C. (2016, December 2). Mohawk Valley to receive farm-to-school money. Utica Observer-Dispatch.