The aim of this module is to enable a thorough understanding of how print and web magazines operate and promote the production of written content to commercially publishable standards. To write effectively for magazines it is essential to understand how they are run and what makes them distinctive. Having that total focus on a magazine's identity, purpose and operations is essential for producing reader-addictive content. Topics covered: originating content ideas, targeting publications, meeting reader expectations, writing techniques including attention to style, voice and tone, creative intros, feature structures, the outro, intertextual references, sidebars, Q&As and pitching; market sector and audience; revenue models and budgets, including editorial budgets; advertising, marketing, printing processes, circulation and distribution; the distinction between B2B and consumer magazines and investigation of key types of consumer magazines including national, regional and local consumer magazines and the B2B sector. The syllabus for the operational elements of the module will also prepare students for the NCTJ examination in the business of magazines should they wish to take it. A portfolio of coursework and in-class tests will be used for the assessment of the module. Writing for magazines must be produced and pitched to editorially rigorous publications, print and/or online. Guest speakers will be invited to talk about particular aspects of magazine work and there will be one field trip to observe professional magazine production.

Assessment will be by
A portfolio of: writing for magazines produced as independent coursework - 1500 words including a reflective evaluation (50%) (LO 1, 2, 3, 4, 6)
and
A class test focused on the business of magazines (50%) (LO 3, 5, 6).

Key Information Set Data:
50% coursework
50% written exam

Blackboard
Library resources
Web
Tutor-supplied readings

Evans, H. (2000) Essential English: For Journalists, Editors and Writers. London: Pimlico
Harrington, W. (1997) Intimate Journalism: The Art and Craft of Reporting Everyday Life. London: Sage
Hennessy, B. (1997) Writing Feature Articles: A Practical Guide to Methods and Markets. London: Focal Press
McKay, J: (2013) The Magazines Handbook
Morrish, J. (2012) Magazine Editing: In Print and Online: How to Develop and Manage a Successful Publication. London: Routledge
Rowe, D. (2004) Sport, Culture and the Media. Maidenhead: Open University Press
Rudin, R. and Ibbotson, T. (2002) An Introduction to Journalism: Essential Techniques and Background. London: Focal Press
Stam, D: (2014) Inside Magazine Publishing
Temple, N. (2003) Writing Copy for the Web in a Week. London: Hodder and Stoughton

Attendance will be required at 13 lectures which will include guest speakers, and 13 seminars
Students will be required to produce examples of writing throughout the module with opportunities for formative assessment (not affecting the module grade) and feedback.
Independent learning, study, research and writing - 124 hours.

Key Information Set Data:
25% scheduled L & T activities
75% guided independent learning

The aim of this module is to enable a thorough understanding of how print and web magazines operate and promote the production of written content to commercially publishable standards. To write effectively for magazines it is essential to understand how they are run and what makes them distinctive. Having that total focus on a magazine's identity, purpose and operations is essential for producing reader-addictive content. Topics covered: originating content ideas, targeting publications, meeting reader expectations, writing techniques including attention to style, voice and tone, creative intros, feature structures, the outro, intertextual references, sidebars, Q&As and pitching; market sector and audience; revenue models and budgets, including editorial budgets; advertising, marketing, printing processes, circulation and distribution; the distinction between B2B and consumer magazines and investigation of key types of consumer magazines including national, regional and local consumer magazines and the B2B sector. The syllabus for the operational elements of the module will also prepare students for the NCTJ examination in the business of magazines should they wish to take it. A portfolio of coursework and in-class tests will be used for the assessment of the module. Writing for magazines must be produced and pitched to editorially rigorous publications, print and/or online. Guest speakers will be invited to talk about particular aspects of magazine work and there will be one field trip to observe professional magazine production.