Deck 8: The Power of Words and Tone

Question 1

The meanings of words change depending on influences such as politics, religion and culture. According to Keith Woods, which three concepts help us understand and categorize these influences?

A) time, location and language
B) who, what and why
C) speaker, audience and context
D) significance, context and timing
E) none of the above

Answer 1

C

Question 2

The literal definition of a word is called its:

A) denotation
B) connotation
C) hidden meaning
D) linguistic significance
E) A and C

Answer 2

A

Question 3

To avoid "otherness" words, journalists should think twice about the descriptors they use and ask themselves:

A) how relevant is the term?
B) is it accurate?
C) is it helpful to understanding the news issue at hand?
D) what does its use convey to the news audience?
E) all of the above

Answer 3

E

Question 4

Pro-life, pro-choice, illegals, terrorist: These are all examples of what kind of words?

A) otherness words
B) politicized words
C) judgment words
D) code words
E) all of the above

Question 5

If a source uses a judgment word in a quote, journalists can let that quote speak for itself and not probe for meaning.

Question 6

Finish this sentence: When people employ the use of less direct words or phrases to avoid ones that might seem offensive, they are speaking in ___________.

A) tongues
B) parables
C) allegories
D) euphemisms
E) none of the above

Question 7

What term is used to describe the style of writing and mood of a news piece, its personality?

A) tone
B) theme
C) context
D) hypothesis
E) B and C

Question 8

If a journalist wants to examine her writing for euphemisms and overly broad language, she should do what?

A) challenge her sources
B) practice precision
C) take the Blab Test
D) use the Language Checklist
E) all of the above

Question 9

In the reporting guidelines for religious, cultural and national groups, the Reuters' Handbook of Journalism advises that, "The adjective 'Islamic' refers primarily to the religion while 'Muslim' has both religious and cultural connotations."

Question 10

To ensure coverage is straightforward and balanced:

A) use labels with caution
B) vet quotes for negative stereotypes
C) use neutral language
D) use only relevant description
E) all of the above