Introduction to newspapers

 1) What type of news can you typically find in a tabloid newspaper?

Soft news is typically found in tabloid newspapers. Tabloids are easier to read, feature shorter articles and include more photographs. They report on major news, but also include a lot of  gossip, entertainment and sport.

2) What type of news can you typically find in a broadsheet newspaper?

Hard news is typically found in a broadsheet newspaper. its more serious, have smaller fonts, more advanced use of language and less photography (although they have included more over the last 20 years to be more popular).

3) If someone is left-wing, which political party are they likely to support? Which newspaper would they be likely to read?

• Left-wing (Socialist): in favour of social equality and reform. The Labour Party is considered left-wing and the Daily Mirror generally supports Labour and left-wing causes.

4) If someone is right-wing, which political party are they likely to support? Which newspaper would they be likely to read?

• Right-wing (Conservative): prefer the traditional way things are and in favour of low taxes. The Conservative Party is considered right-wing and the Times generally supports the Conservatives and right-wing causes.

5) Why has there been a decline in newspaper sales in the last 20 years?

Whilst still popular, since the 1950s, there has been a gradual decline in newspaper sales due to the rise of TV ownership (and news programmes) and, more recently, the growth of digital news through websites and social media.

6) Why is a free press important in a democracy like the UK?

A free press implies that journalists (those that write for newspapers) and newspaper editors can edit content free of intervention from Government influence.