Question

This 1865 account has a certain style and tone that differs from news stories today. what effect do you think such a report had on readers in 1865? keep in mind that citizens might have read the report several days after the event occurred. how would today's 24-hour news cycle affect reporting on such a tragic event? how might those changes alter the way citizens today respond to tragedy? give your opinion and support it with examples.

post a detailed response to the 1865 reporting discussion prompt. then respond to two classmates' posts. think about how can add to the discussion in effective and meaningful ways. evaluate the effectiveness of the discussion by asking yourself questions about what people have said in their posts. for example, did a classmate's post cause you to think differently about the topic? did your classmate provide sufficient evidence to support a point? as they respond to each other, do classmates' posts add new ideas or conclusions? think about your own responses in the same way. write it as a 6th grader in a short paragraph.

Answer 1

In 1865 newspaper reports sounded more formal and serious and often used strong, descriptive words that made people feel the sadness and importance of the event. Because news traveled slowly, readers usually saw the report days later and had time to think about it and talk with neighbors, which might make them feel closer and more united. Today’s 24-hour news cycle and social media give nonstop updates, videos, and opinions right away, so people react faster but sometimes with less checking of facts. That can cause quick anger or panic, or make people move on too fast so the tragedy isn’t remembered long. I think slower, careful reporting helps people understand and grieve better, but fast news is useful for safety—both ways have good and bad effects.

Reply to Classmate 1:
I agree that fast news can help because people learn what to do quickly and can help each other, like when people share where to donate or blood drives after a tragedy. But I wonder how we can make sure the first reports are true, because I think wrong information spreads fast online. Do you have an example of when quick news helped and was also correct?

Reply to Classmate 2:
You’re right that modern news can be sensational and make people feel upset or angry, and sometimes it seems like reporters want views more than facts. I also think modern news can let more people tell their stories and get help, which is good. Maybe the best way is to take fast alerts but wait for trusted sources before believing everything. Could you share a story that made you feel this way?