Comparing Newspapers

Target dating requires that students compare newspapers. For the activity, students become familiar with their local newspaper. Then they compare their local newspaper with other newspapers published on a chosen “target” date. Students may compare their local newspaper’s print and/or replica edition (also called electronic or e-Edition) published online and its Web edition. They may also compare newspapers around the state and nation, using print editions, e-Editions and Web editions.

To obtain print editions from newspapers around the state and nation, a class must select a specific date and then each student must write to a different newspaper requesting a single copy. Students may also email their request to participating NIE programs, but they should be sure that their request meets standards for business writing.

To find out which newspapers have agreed to participate in target dating and send a single copy of a print newspaper to students, ask your local NIE manager if she or he has the Target Date list or use the Target date list provided HERE. Recent personnel changes may affect any newspaper's ability to honor your request for a print edition. The list uses an asterick to identify newspapers that offer e-Editions and gives the address for each newspaper’s Web edition.

Students may also bring in newspapers from places they travel or request that relatives and friends mail newspapers from their hometowns.

Specific steps

Target dating