Process

Because you are a new reporter, one of your co-workers has graciously supplied you with some basic steps to help you get started. You know that this will be good information because she was featured on three covers of Kids' Entertainment Weekly in the last two months.

Step 1:

Before doing anything else, make sure that you have read the book and have seen the movie. See your boss (teacher) if you need access to the book.

Step 2:

Once you have read the book and viewed the movie, complete a Venn Diagram so you can compare and contrast the two versions. If you have Inspiration 7.5, you can use the following file. (Or try this file saved as Inspiration, version 6.) If not, you can print a copy here. If you create the diagram using Inspiration, be sure to save it or print it out for future reference.

Step 3:

Before you start writing your article, you need to do a little background research. Check out the following links and learn what you can. You should probably take some notes. (All good writers do!)

• Learn about the author - Chris Van Allsburg
• Learn more about the author - Chris Van Allsburg
• Interview with the author about The Polar Express
• Watch the movie trailer to be reminded of what you've seen
• Read a synopsis (brief overview) of the movie
• Read what others have said about the movie:

  • Roger Ebert
  • Bob Curtwright
  • Joel Siegal
• Read what others have said about the book:

  • Kidsreads.com review
  • LDOnline review
  • South Ayrshire Library review

Step 4:

Now you are ready to write. Get all your notes together along with your Venn diagram you used to compare and contrast the book and the movie. Remember, this is not just any old movie review. Your article will have to really grab the readers' attention and impress your boss if it will be front page material. Don't forget who your audience is! You may use the computer to type your first draft or you may use paper and pencil. However, the final copy must be typed. (Have you ever seen a handwritten newspaper????)

When you are finished, turn your article into the editor (your teacher) for comments and revisions. It has to be perfect if it will be published! Your editor (teacher) will let you know what else you need to do before it can be turned in to the boss!

Be sure to check out the Evaluation section to be sure your article meets the boss' requirements!