Introduction To Newspapers

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

Tabloids tend to be easier to read, feature shorter articles and include more photographs. They report on major news, but also include a lot of showbiz gossip, entertainment and sport. They tend to be the better sellers. Examples include The Sun and the Daily Mirror.

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

Broadsheet newspapers traditionally used to be larger (printed on ‘broad sheets’) although most are the same size as tabloids now. They tend to be 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). They tend to have lower circulation figures than tabloids. Examples include the Times and the Daily Telegraph.

3) If someone is left-wing, which political party in the UK are they most likely to support? Which newspapers would they be likely to read?

 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 in the UK are they most likely to support? Which newspaper would they be most likely to read?

 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 50 years?

 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 is vital to a democracy like the UK because it acts as an independent watchdog, holds power to account and inform people so they can make informed decisions and provide a forum for public debate.