Project GRASP (Grammar Readiness and Speech Perfection): A Proponent towards Campus Journalism Development in BLMCS

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The Campus Journalism Act 1999 is an act providing for the development and promotion of campus journalism and other purposes.

However, aspiring campus journalists lack the basic knowledge in grammar rules for writers, speech intonation and correct pronunciation in broadcasting.In this regard, Bernardo Lirio Memorial Central School sought programs and practices which will improve the grammar readiness and speech perfection of our young campus journalists to increase the number of participants in the regional level in the School Press Conference contest.

METHODS

We made use of the Input Process Output (IPO) approach, where BLMCS school paper advisers launched grammar and speech camps during summer. The matrix includes an introduction to parts of speech, rules in grammar, spelling and vocabulary building with comprehension, speech preparation, sounds and pronunciation, reading with proper intonation and diction, assessment test an amazing race challenge which became the application of their learning. The results of the two consecutive Division Schools Press Conferences revealed the effectiveness of the launched camp in enhancing the campus journalists.

RESULTS

The previous results of the division press conference show escalation in the number of regional participants during press conference contest. The target of 100% participation rate every year almost hit our target this year with 29 out of 42 contestants who competed for the regional contest compared to the previous year’s having 4 RSPC contestants in 2014, 6 in 2015, and 8 in 2016. Since we started our programs and practices last year; 2017, we had 23 participants who competed in the region.

DISCUSSIONS

The results prove that the increase in the number of participants is due to the writing and speaking skills acquired during the grammar and speech camp, furthermore, the early screening and additional hours of training is also a big factor, the Return of Investment style serves as a good practice too.

Some schools in other divisions and regions have their special program for journalism where they offer journalism as an electivesubject.

However, the need for longer preparation and more training is still a must in the process. Unfortunately, SPAs are also classroom advisers and/or subject teachers.

The practice of having a special program for journalism in performing schools in the division is the best solution in order to focus on training writers with mastery and depth.