Press Release Assignment -- Due at Final Exam

PRESS RELEASE ASSIGNMENT



Assignment: Choose a famous scandal (sports or otherwise) and write two full press releases reflecting two separate perspectives on the incident. One perspective must be from those who are supporting the person in your scandal (team, company, etc.) while the other must go against the person in your scandal (the victim’s representatives, for example).

Due: At your final exam.

Rubric (All areas scored on a scale of 1-10, unless otherwise noted):
1) Proper length between 175-250 words, printed on one page.
2) Covers the five steps for writing a press release in full (20 points).
3) Uses proper “business language”.
4) Each press release has a clear point of view (two different kinds are necessary:
1) supporting the subject of you scandal or 2) working against the subject of your scandal)


Steps for writing a press release:
1) Write the headline. It should be brief, clear and to the point: an ultra-compact version of the press release’s key point. Try to grab the reader’s attention.
2) First body paragraph. Have a strong lead. A first paragraph (two to three sentences) must actually sum up the press release and the further content must elaborate it.
3) First & Second paragraphs: Include the 5Ws and H.
4) Include background information about the subject. Include facts, statistics and/or quotes.
5) Your contact information and signature.