Media Language - Newspaper Codes & Conventions Flashcards
What is the ‘Masthead’?
Name of the paper, which can signify the paper’s ethos and values.
What is a ‘Plug’?
Run along the top of the front page of a newspaper and advertises lighter aspects of the news. Usually is a stark contrast to the heading. Any other story aside from the main
What is a ‘Headline’?
Larger font than the rest of the front page. Aim is to attract audiences. Popular headlines use colloquialisms.
What is a ‘Colloquialism’?
An informal expression often used in casual conversation rather than in writing.
What is a ‘Strapline’?
Placed above or below main headline and provides more info or anchors the meaning of the central image.
What is a ‘Subheading’?
Short headlines which break up the main text to make it easier to read. Appear on all papers, mainly in tabloids.
What is a ‘Caption’?
Brief text underneath an image describing the photo or graphic
What is a ‘Stand First’?
Black text that introduces the story, normally in a different style from body text and headline
What is a ‘Copy’?
Text or writing found in a newspaper. Provides narrative to the topic being discussed.
What is a ‘Threshold’?
Main story of the day. Appears on front page of most newspapers. Have wide coverage
What is a ‘Jump Line’?
Follows the teaser headline on the front and encourages readers to buy the newspaper in order to read on
What is a ‘Pull Quote’?
Quote from the story that is enlarged and appears within the text
What is a ‘Splash’?
Prominent/sensational news story. Front page lead
What is ‘Sensationalism’?
Presentation of stories in a way that it is intended to provoke public interest or excitement.
