Impact

Definition

Impact refers to the strong effect or influence that an event, decision, or piece of information has on a situation or audience. In news writing, impact plays a crucial role in determining how a story resonates with readers, shaping their understanding and emotional response.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Impact is often assessed based on how many people are affected by a news event, whether it changes opinions or behaviors, and how it aligns with audience interests.
2. The most impactful stories typically address significant issues such as public health, safety, or social justice, drawing attention and prompting action.
3. Journalists often highlight impact in the lead of their articles to engage readers quickly and emphasize the significance of the story.
4. Understanding the potential impact of a story helps journalists prioritize which events to cover and how to frame them for their audience.
5. Impact can vary based on audience demographics, with different groups responding uniquely to the same information based on their values and experiences.

Review Questions

• How does impact influence the selection of news stories by journalists?
  • Impact significantly influences the selection of news stories as journalists aim to prioritize those that resonate with their audience. Stories that have a larger potential impact—such as those affecting a community's health, safety, or welfare—are more likely to be chosen for coverage. This focus on impact ensures that audiences receive information that is not only timely but also relevant and potentially life-changing.
• In what ways can journalists effectively highlight the impact of a story in their writing?
  • Journalists can effectively highlight the impact of a story by incorporating compelling leads that draw readers in and emphasizing key statistics or personal anecdotes throughout the article. By clearly illustrating how an event affects individuals or communities, journalists create an emotional connection with the audience. Additionally, using quotes from affected individuals can amplify this impact, making the story more relatable and powerful.
• Evaluate the role of audience engagement in shaping the impact of news stories on public perception.
  • Audience engagement plays a critical role in shaping the impact of news stories on public perception by determining how actively individuals connect with and respond to content. Engaged audiences are more likely to share articles, discuss them within their networks, and even take action based on what they read. This ripple effect enhances the overall impact of stories by amplifying their reach and prompting wider societal discussions, ultimately influencing public opinion and policy decisions.

Related terms

newsworthiness:

The criteria that determine the importance or relevance of a news story, including its impact, timeliness, and proximity.

audience engagement:

The level of interaction and emotional connection that readers or viewers have with a news story, which can be influenced by the impact of the content.

lead:

The opening sentence or paragraph of a news article that summarizes the main points and grabs the reader's attention, often highlighting the impact of the story.