Analysis of News Article

1. What was the headline for the story? "7-Year-Old Philadelphia Girl, Abducted Monday, Breaks Free"

2. Discuss the effectiveness of the headline in summarizing the story and getting the reader’s attention. It is quick but very attention grabbing with certain details such as “7-year-old,” “abducted” and “breaks free.”

3. Briefly describe the factual content of the story related to the lead: 5 W’s and the H. • Who: Erica Pratt • What: She was abducted but escaped quickly • When: Monday, July 22, 2002 • Where: Philadelphia • Why: Two kidnappers wanted money in form of a ransom • How: She gnawed through rope and punched out a window

4. How did the end of the story summarize the main ideas and provide closure for the reader? The details describing her escape provided relief for the reader as well as awe for Erica's strength. Erica was also praised from many shocked neighbors who are also very happy she was able to escape.

5. Facts in a news story are supposed to be arranged from most to least important. Do you believe the author did this effectively? Why? Yes, the most important details were mentioned all the way in the title and really caught the attention of readers.

6. Writing style is important in keeping those reading and listening to the story engaged. Comment on the use of the following throughout this story: • active voice • precise, concise wording • interesting and varied word choices • unbiased reporting These were all used throughout the entire article

7. Discuss the accuracy of the facts used in the story. How do you know that the sources used were reliable and accurate? Provide specific examples. The New York Times, is a well-respected publication. The author, Richard Jones, is a renowned journalist who does not seem to have any conflicts of interests. There were also many specific quotations from people of the neighborhood themselves.

8. In what way did the use of quotations…. • add to the credibility of the story? They show first-hand information from people involved themselves • make the story more interesting? They show the humaneness of these people who are enduring these hardships • present differing points of view about the topic? They show the paranoia caused by this event and the awe of how Erica managed to escape from many different people from around the neighborhood.