Mr.

Kovalsky
AP Journalism

Preamble:

Our outlet of information, AP Journalism, will be dedicated to uncovering the truth and
sharing that truth with the public. We will ensure the information published is accurate,
fair, and unbiased in its nature.

Ethical Stances:

1. Reporting the news must not, in any way, harm others. If an interview can be
potentially dangerous or have negative effects on the individual being interviewed,
avoid it.
2. Though finding and reporting a story is important, know the boundaries; Do not
push or prod where one is not welcome. If efforts to develop a story become
unethical, end them immediately.
3. News must be unbiased. One’s own views must not get in the way of reporting the
news truthfully. If the topic is a controversial one, all viewpoints must be explored
thoroughly and equally.
4. News must be reported with utmost accuracy; it is in the reporter’s best interest to
present the news as truthfully and factually as possible.
5. Respect the privacies of all sources. If sources wish to remain anonymous, heed
their wishes and do not reveal their identity to the public.
6. News must be entirely factually based; exaggerations and embellishments are
unacceptable as they do not address the purpose of our mission. Sensationalism is
not the foundation of a trustworthy, reliable newspaper.
7. News must be presented fully and truthfully, supported by large bases of factual
evidence.
8. News reportings must be original; plagiarism is unacceptable. All sources must be
clearly identified and cited with the exception of a source who wishes to remain
anonymous.
9. The public has the right to receive and be informed of all information, whether it
will spark conflict or not.
10. Recognize the differences between the legal access to information versus the ethical
justification to publish the information.
 Original Brainstorm:

1. Know when we are pushing for a story more than necessary (Ex: do not invade
a family if they are grieving over a loved one. They deserve time and respect.)
2. Be responsible for your writing, and present your news in a timely fashion.
3. Never plagiarize.
4. “Be wary of promises but always keep promises made”
5. The public has the right to receive and be informed of all information,
whether it will spark conflict or not.
6. If reporting on a controversial issue, be sure to give all viewpoints in order to
properly inform the reader.
7. Recognize the difference between the legal access to information versus the
ethical justification to publish.
8. Be accountable and transparent.
9. Determine the difference between news and advertising. Clear up the blurred lines
between them and label sponsored content.
10.We will present the news fully and truthfully, supported by facts and evidence.
11. We will take into account every viewpoint, and be unbiased.
12. We will provide our sources clearly.
13. Never purposefully twist or alter facts and visual information.
14. Always use original information.
15.Respect privacy: Respect the source’s privacy. If they wish to remain
anonymous, respect their wishes and do not reveal their identity to the public
16.Accuracy: Accuracy above all. News should be information for the public to
know and use, and thus must be as close to the truth as possible
17.Avoid harming others. If an interview can potentially be dangerous or have
negative effects on the individual being interviewed, avoid it.
18.Stick to the Facts: Do not exaggerate the news for shock factor or excitement.
Sensationalism is not the founding of a trustworthy, reliable newspaper.