Journalism Ethics & Integrity
- Understand the ethical responsibilities of journalists
- Discuss real-world examples of ethical dilemmas in news
- Connect biblical principles with truthful reporting
- Begin planning second article for October newspaper issue
Scripture
Ephesians 4:25 – “Therefore, putting away lying, speak the truth, each one to his neighbor…
Let’s discuss honesty in journalism!
What is Journalism Ethics?
Key Ethics: Truth, Accuracy, Fairness, Accountability
In journalism—and in everyday life—ethics guide us to make responsible choices when sharing information. Today, we will learn about four important ethics: truth, accuracy, fairness, and accountability.
1. Truth
What it means: Always report the facts honestly. Do not exaggerate or make up information.
Example: A newspaper reports that a fast-food restaurant is giving away 10,000 free meals, but in reality, it’s only 1,000. This exaggeration can mislead people and damage trust.
Think About It: Why is it important to tell the truth, even if a story sounds more exciting when exaggerated?
2. Accuracy
What it means: Make sure every detail is correct. Double-check your facts, numbers, names, and dates.
Example: A student journalist writes that the school football game is on Friday, but it is actually on Saturday. Readers who rely on this information may miss the game.
Tip: Always verify your facts before sharing or publishing them.
3. Fairness
What it means: Present all sides of a story. Avoid showing favoritism or personal bias.
Example: A news story only interviews one side of a debate about school uniforms. Readers don’t get the full picture and may form unfair opinions.
Think About It: How would you feel if your side of a story was ignored?
4. Accountability
What it means: Take responsibility for mistakes and correct them. Be honest if you do something wrong.
Example: A blogger copies part of another journalist’s article without giving credit (plagiarism). When called out, they deny it. This damages their credibility.
Tip: Admitting mistakes and fixing them earns trust.
Activity: Spot the Ethical Challenge
Read these situations and decide which ethics are being challenged:
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A rumor spreads online about a celebrity. Should you share it?
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A friend asks you to share a screenshot that might embarrass someone. What do you do?
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You find out a classmate copied part of their assignment from the internet. How do you respond?
Think: Which of the four ethics—truth, accuracy, fairness, accountability—applies to each situation?
Case Study Game: “What Would You Do?”
- The Misquote: A student said something funny. You want to include it, but it sounds better if you change the wording. What should you do?
- The Photo Problem: You didn’t attend the event but want to use a friend’s photo. Should you?
- The Rumor Story: A classmate told you something about a teacher that sounds like news. Should you write about it?
Homework
- New Article Draft
Begin writing your October article. Include:
- A clear headline
- A truthful, fair, and fact-based body
- Quotes (if needed)
2. Ethics Reflection
Answer the following in 2–3 sentences:
What does it mean to be an honest journalist?
3. Find a Biased or Inaccurate Article (Optional)
Bring in or link to an article that seems unfair, biased, or misleading. Be ready to explain why.
4. Bonus – Your Own Ethics Dilemma (Optional)
Write your own made-up journalism scenario and we’ll vote on what’s ethical next class.