Exercises in Editorial Judgment > Honing your news judgment

Consider the seven elements of news when deciding which of each of the following pairs would make a better news story. There are no right or wrong answers, but in giving voice to the reasons behind your choices, you'll be articulating news values shared by journalists across the world.

1			A. A 15-year-old has been found safe and healthy after being lost for three days in the Sierras. B. A 15-year-old fended off bear attacks and survived three nights alone in Sierras. Explain your reasoning:
2			A. A beloved teacher left behind an inspiring legacy after retirement. B. A beloved teacher left behind an inspiring legacy and moved on to the city council presidency. Explain your reasoning:
3			A. The mayor announced a plan for free citywide wireless computing access. B. The mayor's plan for free citywide wireless access is getting a cold reception from the city council. Explain your reasoning:
4			A. A teen driver is in critical condition after a fiery crash on her way home from work last night. B. A teen driver is in critical condition after a fiery crash on her way home from prom last night. Explain your reasoning:
5			A. The local university has hired a new football coach. B. The local university has hired a new football coach, the first Latin to hold that position. Explain your reasoning:
6			A. Yesterday's campus blood drive yielded twice as many pints as last year's drive. B. Yesterday's campus blood drive yielded half as many pints as last year's drive. Explain your reasoning:
7			A. The latest draft of the city budget eliminates funding for a needle-exchange program. B. The latest draft of the city budget reduces funding for employee pension programs. Explain your reasoning:
8			A. A Korean videogame player has died after a marathon gaming session. B. A new study shows prolonged videogame use may be linked to obesity. Explain your reasoning: