Chapter 1 Introduction

Yearbook Curriculum & Adviser Guide A reference guide to train your yearbook staff

- Chapter 1 -

An Introduction to Yearbooks © 2020 Shutterfly Lifetouch LLC

Welcome to the world of

Yearbook

advising

Bellville High School

Your yearbook staff is the only group in school charged with preserving the personal history of every person within the organization, and the complete story of the events, activities and academic pursuits that occurred this past school year.

With Lifetouch, you have no worries in producing a top-quality book. For more than 80 years, Lifetouch has produced beautiful, comprehensive yearbooks for students across North America. You and your yearbook sales professional will meet on a regular basis to create and market your book.

Because you are busy with this and your other classes, Lifetouch created this user-friendly curriculum.

This guide will help you plan and teach your lessons with hands-on activities included. The exercises teach staff members how to select and develop the book’s theme, plan and design double-page spreads, write stories and design captions and headlines. They also help students finalize pages that are ready for editors to review and advisers to submit. The curriculum will help you organize your room, appoint students to specific positions, and teach them what they should know before they begin working on the actual project. It will help you meet your deadlines and create a book people will want to keep forever.

Our goal is to help you and your students produce the best yearbook your school has ever seen. Let’s get started.

Introduction to

Yearbook • 1

Start with a

Plan

Introduction to

Planning and vision are key to creating a

Yearbook • 2

keepsake yearbook. Begin with the end goal in mind, then plan backwards to help your team accomplish the goal.

Determine your yearbook specifications If you are a new adviser, review past yearbooks and take note of the number of pages, color pages, spot-color pages, cover materials and enhancements. Familiarize yourself with the number of copies ordered and sold. Review any paperwork from previous years, if available.

Your Lifetouch Yearbook Representative will meet with you to discuss all options available for your book.

Yearbook environment and responsibilities The yearbook room should provide you and your staff an organized, comfortable environment. Before school starts, ask your Yearbook Representative to arrange a visit to an experienced adviser’s room to see how they use their space.

You’ll be responsible for scheduling portrait photographers, organizing picture day, managing marketing, sales and public relations, dealing with parents and staff, and, of course, putting out Elgin Middle School

a yearbook. The more organized you are, the more smoothly your year will go.

Room layout

• Use office-style desks for editors, assistant editors

• Large tables and chairs rather than individual desks

and section editors, with in/out baskets so that staff

work best in the yearbook room.

members know where work is to be turned in

• If your administration allows additional equipment, for editing. make the room comfortable with a microwave, small

• Create a mailbox for each staff member.

refrigerator, a sofa and coffee tables.

• Make an eraser board available to make notes for

Introduction to

Yearbook • 3

staff meetings.

How to organize on computer • Assign every staff member a file drawer and

are responsible. Use the electronic folders to store

for example, so you can create the final scoreboard

computer. Use this equipment to keep copies of

photos, story plans and section design ideas.

without the coach’s help. Also, note classes or groups

designs, photos, interview notes, etc.

• Organize bins or file cabinet drawers for each

that win awards so you can include the information on

• Have students create an electronic folder on the

deadline and file the important information relevant

their pages.

computer for every double-page spread for which they

to that deadline. Save the scores of each football game,

• Maintain a picture filing system with a separate folder for each spread. On the computer, within the folder for each spread, store edited photos in a sub-folder for that spread.

• Never upload photos directly from the camera.

Instead, edit all pictures in a photo-editing computer program such as Photoshop or Lightroom. Always “save as” the edited version of each picture to avoid losing originals.

• Set up a file for each of the categories listed below.

Highlight important dates and retain documents of all correspondence, including e-mails.

Portrait photographer(s) Marketing and sales Public relations Staff member/parental contact

Tracy Cramer, adviser, and staff, Choctaw Middle School

Staff

Selection and assignments Introduction to

Yearbook • 4

Staff roles Select your staff with thought and care. The staff may be large or small, depending on your school, but try to recruit students with different skills: computer/Photoshop experts, artists, designers, writers and photographers.

You’ll also need students who like business and marketing to serve as ad and yearbook salespersons. Qualities to look for in these individuals include dependability, creativity, attention to detail and the ability to work with other people.

Selecting your staff Students can be recruited or they can apply.

• Advertise for your positions and require that students complete an application. (See Adviser Resource pages 10-12 for Staff and Editor Applications and Teacher Recommendation Form) • Interview each applicant with returning staff members involved.

• Provide the applicant with as much information as possible about what is expected of each staffer. Make them aware that after-school and weekend hours are required.

Staff member roles and

Responsibilities Introduction to

Yearbook • 5

Adviser • Recruits students for yearbook staff • Sits on the editorial board as a member • Instructs students on computer programs and briefs them on journalism skills • Works with students on developing stories, design and photo assignments • Helps establish a system to ensure deadlines are met • Checks frequently with the student business and advertising managers • Is actively involved in creating a sales campaign • Evaluates staff members’ work and assigns them a grade • Helps submit spreads to Lifetouch • Helps with proof checks and returns them in a timely manner • Mediates disagreements among staff • Arranges field trips to state/national conventions and acts as chaperone • Stays abreast of the latest journalism techniques, practices and industry developments • Provides career shadowing opportunities for students

Editor(s)-in-chief • Attends a summer yearbook workshop to prepare for the upcoming leadership role • Manages the publication’s content and quality; manages a staff of peers • Together with the staff, creates a theme and a plan for using the theme • Sits on the editorial board • Designs or oversees the cover design, endsheets and any theme-related spreads, including opening, closing and dividers • Writes the colophon and acknowledgements • Conducts weekly staff meetings to review deadlines, as well as upcoming photo and copy coverage • Compiles the ladder diagram • Approves any changes to the ladder as coverage develops • Together with the managing editor, plans celebration days, special holiday activities and birthday parties • Checks and prepares all spreads for submission to Lifetouch • Establishes all deadlines, including mini-deadlines • Is actively involved in creating a book sales campaign

Staff member roles and

Responsibilities

Managing editor • Attends a summer yearbook workshop to prepare for the upcoming leadership role • Manages the publication’s content and quality; manages a staff of peers • Helps the editor finalize a theme and a plan for using the theme throughout the book • Sits on the editorial board • Assists the editor in designing the cover, endsheets and any theme-related spreads, including opening, closing and dividers • Acts as editor in case of absence • Helps the editor review deadlines, upcoming photo and copy coverage in weekly staff meetings • Assists in developing ladder diagram, the list of pages and page content • Together with the editor, plans celebration days, special holiday activities and birthday celebrations • Plans activities to maintain staff morale and to build team spirit • Checks and prepares all spreads for submission to Lifetouch • Is actively involved in creating sales campaigns

Introduction to

Yearbook • 6

Business manager • Attends a summer yearbook workshop (if possible) to prepare for the upcoming staff role • Handles all business transactions, including yearbook sales, advertising sales and bill payment • Assists the advertising manager with organizing sales campaign • Sends advertisers copies of their ads for approval before the deadline and keeps the approval or changes on file • Bills advertisers after they approve their ad • Prints a copy of each ad contract for the advertising manager to reference when designing ads • Organizes and advertises sales campaigns • Records all yearbooks ordered • Works with the school treasurer on all deposits and withdrawals related to yearbook sales and expenses • Frequently checks the publication’s financial balance with the school treasurer • Sits on the editorial board and participates in all decisions related to yearbook costs • Organizes any fundraising campaigns to finance the yearbook and/or enable student travel to state or national journalism conventions

Staff member roles and

Responsibilities

Photography editor • Attends a summer yearbook workshop to prepare for the upcoming staff role • Manages the coverage and quality of all photos in the yearbook • Manages a group of student photographers; assigns photo duties to all photographers • Maintains an all-school calendar with photographer assignments for events, including sports activities • Shoots some assignments and arranges for other assignments to be covered • Examines and edits all photos for quality before pictures are uploaded to the online design site • Uploads all photos to the online site, placing them in correct folders • Carries camera at all times while at school • Collects caption information for photos and encourages other photographers to do the same • Backs up original images on storage media, labeling the content and folder names • Files all pictures in digital or physical subject files with photographer’s name included • Confirms accuracy of all captions and checks the spelling of all names against the official list from the administration • Keeps a record of all camera equipment and alerts adviser when equipment is missing or needs repair • Sits on editorial board and participates in all decsions dealing with yearbook theme, concept designs and photo usage • Covers or ensures coverage of events when assigned photographer can’t attend an event • Assists in selection of all photos included in the yearbook

Introduction to

Yearbook • 7

• Creates a backup system of all original and edited images on external hard drives and cloud storage units • Assists section editors in organizing photos on their respective computer hard drives • Assists photographers and staff with writing captions for all photos in the book • Checks captions for accuracy, name spelling and photo credits

Photographer • Attends a summer yearbook workshop to prepare for the upcoming staff role • Carries camera at all times while at school • Shoots all assignments made by photo editor; contacts photo editor if unable to cover assigned event • Collects caption information for photos • Deletes poor pictures from digital card; corrects pictures in digital photo editing software and assists photo editor with uploading images to the appropriate folder after the photo editor reviews them • Backs up original images on external hard drives • Files all pictures in digital files with photographer’s name included • Confirms accuracy of all captions and checks the spelling of all names against the official school administrative list

Staff member roles and

Responsibilities Section editor(s) • Compiles section content and submits a partial ladder diagram (i.e., list of page numbers and page content) to the editorial board • Creates templates for his/her section • Works with his or her team as they: – Assign photos for any coverage within section – Write copy or assign copy for each spread – Work on design – Create headlines and captions – Write captions for each photo • Meets deadlines set by editorial board and ensures that those working for him/her make their deadlines • Attends all mandatory work sessions to meet deadline • Helps select photos to be used within the section, with the assistance of the photo editor or photographer • Assists general staffers as they create stories, photos, captions, headlines and secondary coverage for their spreads • Works closely with general staffers to meet deadlines • Copy edits/proofreads section spreads for content, readability and errors before deadline

Introduction to

Yearbook • 8

People editor(s) • Collects information about seniors and compiles it for the people section • Works with sub-section editors (freshmen, sophomores, juniors, seniors and faculty) to ensure all spreads contain portraits and secondary coverage modules • Assists faculty section editor to compile a list of all faculty, staff and administration and their academic and extra-curricular duties • Schedules a make-up day with the school photographer and ensures the seniors and their parents are aware of this final chance • Ensures that candid photos of students without portraits are published elsewhere in the yearbook • Edits stories, captions, headlines and secondary coverage modules; returns pages to team members for error corrections • Sends finished pages to editors for review

Staff member roles and

Responsibilities Introduction to

Yearbook • 9

Clubs/organizations editor(s) • Works with activities director to develop a list of all active organizations in the school; determines where they will be covered in the section • Meets with club sponsors to obtain a list of all events planned for the year and to discuss story ideas to feature their organizations • Works with photo editor and photographers to make sure all club events are covered • Arranges for all club photos that will be included in the yearbook • Identifies names on all group shots; ensures that they are entered and edited • Edits stories, captions, headlines and secondary coverage modules; returns pages to team members for error corrections • Sends finished pages to editors for review

Sports editor(s) • Meets with athletic director to obtain a list of all sports offered through the school’s extra-curricular program • Works with photo editor and staff to ensure all sports are covered both at home and away • Meets with coaches to discuss story and coverage ideas for each team in the book • Records scores for all games and all sports, including freshmen, junior varsity and varsity girls’ and boys’ teams • Collects game/team statistics • Encourages and maintains positive working relationships with coaches, their assistants and the athletic director • Organizes sports group photos and identifies all team participants • Edits stories, captions, headlines and secondary coverage modules; returns pages to team members for error corrections • Sends finished pages to editors for review

Staff member roles and

Responsibilities Academics editor(s)

Student life editor

• Works with curriculum director to find stories and plan section content • Assigns pages and/or duties to academics section team members • Works with photo editor to assign photography events to photographers • Oversees team to ensure that all aspects of pages are finished on time • Edits stories, captions, headlines and secondary coverage modules; returns pages to team members for error corrections • Sends finished pages to editors for review

• Works with photo editor and staff to ensure all events are covered in pictures • Meets with activities coordinator to acquire dates of all school events planned for the year; maintains communication with activities coordinator to include other events that may not have been listed at the beginning of the year • Works with section team to plan the content of every spread • Discusses other coverage ideas with section team to include new stories in this year’s book • Oversees spread production to ensure deadlines are met • Edits stories, captions, headlines and secondary coverage modules; returns pages to team members for error corrections • Sends finished pages to editors for review

Copy editor • Coaches staff members on possible angles, sources and questions prior to interviewing • Reads and edits all stories according to staff’s stylebook rules • Confers with staff members on stories that need rewriting or clarification • Proofreads stories and captions after they are placed on the page • Spell-check all names • Reads and corrects all proofs in a timely fashion • Checks the tone and the accuracy of all headlines

Introduction to

Yearbook • 10

Staff member roles and

Responsibilities Section team members • Works with section editor on specific spreads • Makes sure the proper template is used and that the section editor approves any adjustments to the template • Builds a story plan with topic, angle, photo ideas and secondary coverage modules to further develop the story • Discusses story plan with the section editor and copy editor • Interviews, secures information and quotes to write stories and captions for each spread assigned • Notes number of photos needed; works with section editor and photo editor to assign photographers to take pictures in vertical and horizontal formats • Provides photographer a copy of the design template and discusses story angle so photos match the topic of the spread • Helps brainstorm photo ideas with photographer and photo editor • Can also be responsible for taking his/her own photos, if necessary • Writes complete captions. For dominant and (where space permits) action/reaction/emotion photos, secures a quote to complete the caption • Immediately begins work on secondary coverage modules, especially on spreads that require candid head-and-shoulder shots and a quote collection

Introduction to

Yearbook • 11

Alternative

Structures

for small staffs and clubs Introduction to

Editorial staff • Made up of selected members returning from the previous year; positions include leadership, business and production teams • Choose the theme and the look based on the book’s concept • Work with first-year staff members to guide them through the page production process • Proofread copy, captions, secondary coverage modules and headlines, returning pages for corrections before sending them to the adviser • Work on all sections of the book in a leadership capacity

First-year staff • Complete page or module assignments made by adviser and returning staff members • Learn to use cameras to take quality photos for their spreads • Plan the content of each assigned spread, including the topic, angle, photo ideas and secondary coverage modules • Write and proofread stories, headlines, captions and copy for secondary coverage modules • Design pages on computer; save and back up PDF files and send them to editorial staff for review • Correct errors and finalize pages before sending them to the adviser for review

Yearbook • 12

Copy editor • Coaches staff members on possible angles, sources and questions prior to interviewing • Reads and edits all stories according to staff’s stylebook rules • Confers with staff members on stories that need rewriting or clarification • Proofreads stories and captions once they are placed on the page • Checks the spelling of all names • Reads and corrects all proofs in a timely manner • Checks the tone and the accuracy of all headlines

Technology editor • Edits all photos in digital photo editing software; uploads photos to appropriate folders on the website or computer • Assists other students with computer designs, graphics and photo-editing software

Staff motivation and

Organizational techniques

Team-building is essential Once your staff is assembled, you’ll want them to get acquainted with each other. The yearbook is a team effort, and team-building activities will help them develop strong working relationships.

Staff management best practices 1. Lead by example. Keep your enthusiasm high to fuel your staff’s energy.

2. Set clear goals for the school year and yearbook.

3. Create a safe environment for risk-taking, where all ideas are valued and all questions are answered.

4. Allow individuals to develop their ideas, bringing them first to a small group, then presenting to the group as a whole.

5. Partner with staff on the first day to create expectations for how they should work together.

6. Give staff adequate resources. If they need something that you don’t have, help them figure out how to obtain it.

7. Prepare editors for the role. They are personnel managers as well as yearbook managers. Discuss staff motivation. Editors should share decisions at the beginning of each class session.

8. Determine a fall-back system in case a staff member should fall ill or move to another school. Don’t let everything fall on one person.

9. Praise often. If criticism is needed, do it privately and constructively.

Introduction to

Yearbook • 13

Adviser’s

Calendar of success for spring-delivered books

Important phone numbers: Volumes: 1.800.736.4762 Sales Professional: Sales Pro’s number: Plant Consultant: Senior portrait photographer: Portrait photographer:

June/July - Before school starts Meet with your Lifetouch yearbook sales professional as soon as possible in June or early July.

Discuss your budget to determine how much the

Job number:

Deadlines: Deadline one: Deadline two: Deadline three: Deadline four:

Attend a summer yearbook workshop. Check with your sales professional to find out where workshops will be held.

Check with your portrait photographer to make

books will cost and how much money you can

sure fall portrait dates are set for seniors and

generate. Set book sales and ad sales goals. Examine

underclassmen.

current equipment to decide if you will need to update cameras, computers, software and other technology for the coming year.

Meet with principal and/or school secretary to ask if you can include yearbook flyers in the packets to be mailed to parents in the summer.

Meet with your yearbook staff before registration day to assign students to sell books when parents are in the building.

Set up staff user names and emails after you receive a Lifetouch email inviting you to use the online creation site.

Plan Picture Day. Set date to distribute Picture Day flyers.

Send student names to the portrait studio two weeks prior to picture day.

Make sure picture day sales flyers ae printed and ready for distribution.

Schedule date for fall sports team pictures. Ask how they will be delivered.

Ask business manager to assign ads for staff to sell; mail senior ad forms to parents. Order sales banners and flyers.

Important dates: Underclass picture day: Senior portraits due date: Fall sports team pictures date: Big events:

August - Before school starts Order your yearbook kit through the online creation website. Download available items from the website. When the kit arrives, review the contents to make sure you have everything you need to create the book. In addition, order a “Yearbooks on Sale” banner and sales flyers through your online program.

Meet with your yearbook staff to discuss theme ideas. Begin to plan the content. Turn in ad contracts for ads sold over the summer.

Work with your yearbook sales professional to set up your yearbook sales online site.

Introduction to

Yearbook • 14

Adviser’s

Calendar of success for spring-delivered books

August/September - (After school starts) Spend the first three weeks of school working with

Section editors work with teams and co-editors to create

returning staff members to teach beginners how to plan and

“the thematic look” for each section. Create section design

design double-page spreads, write and design captions and

ideas on paper layout sheets. Co-editors and adviser have

headlines, and write stories.

final approval.

Work with editors to finalize theme, cover and endsheet design. Ask editors to design templates for each section of the book.

Involve the staff in researching words, phrases, writing

Work with sales professional to train students on using the website. Create section templates on the website.

Ask business team to work with staff to sell business ads.

Mail senior ad forms to parents.

Introduction to

Yearbook • 15

October/November Upload cover and endsheets. Work with editors to finalize theme spread designs.

Cover/endsheet deadline:

styles and design ideas that reflect the book’s theme. Ask

Work with administration and portrait photographer to

Check with photographer to make sure portraits have

staff members to share ideas for theme development with

set up dates for sports team group pictures and club group

been uploaded or CD/storage media has been delivered to

the class.

photos. Also schedule professional photographer’s dates for

the school. Ship non-Lifetouch storage media to yearbook

homecoming, other special events and sports competitions.

plant. Check and edit name spellings for all portraits.

Ask beginners to list their first, second and third choices for section team membership. Editors and adviser finalize section teams and announce positions to the staff.

Work with editors to plan the ladder diagram (i.e., list of page numbers and page content. See page7 in Content and Coverage chapter for example). Ask section editors to work with their teams to plan the content for each section. Have co-editors examine section plans to look for duplication or missed topics.

Schedule retake day with your school photographer.

Obtain an official list of students by grade from the

Check to see that all students have portraits made. Send

administration to check name spellings and to make sure

reminders to those who have not been photographed.

students are included in the appropriate class section.

Editors meet with section editors each day to make sure everyone will meet their deadlines.

Finish double-page spreads within one week after each event or sports team’s schedule ends.

Work with business manager to distribute yearbook

Review deposit notice and send to bookkeeper.

Send yearbook sales flyers home to parents. Work with administration to set up Parent Notify, if applicable.

Finalize opening, dividers, faculty, some student life, some sports, some academics and all ad pages. Submit them

order forms, make posters, create video ads and sell the

to editors and adviser for review. Send pages for first

book.

deadline to the plant.

First deadline:

# of pages due:

Set the last day to take senior portraits. Send notices to seniors who haven’t been photographed.

Order senior CD/storage media from portrait photographer(s).

Adviser’s

Calendar of success for spring-delivered books

November/December

February/March

Check and submit these pages: Portrait sections, sports, student life, academics pages.

Second deadline:

Finalize and submit icons and namestamping list to Lifetouch through Sales Tracker on website.

# of pages due:

Watch for cover proof notification. Review cover/ endsheets and approve or approve with changes.

plan to order. Icon/namestamping list and number of books must be submitted before final pages can be sent to

Create club and sports team photo schedule and finalize

Lifetouch.

Maintain communication with your sales professional and account executive at the plant.

Send sales flyers to parents to remind them to purchase

Submit these pages to Lifetouch: The rest of student life and academics sections, more sports and closing section.

Third deadline:

# of pages due:

Schedule and take spring sports team pictures and event

yearbooks as holiday gifts for their children.

photos needed to finish the book. Ask for CD or website

December/January

delivery date to ensure you will meet your deadline.

Review Lifetouch deposit notice and send to bookkeeper.

Send yearbook purchase notices to parents.

Set up Sales Tracker. After portraits are uploaded, send names from portrait library to Sales Tracker and monitor sales on website.

Schedule and take winter sports team photos, winter homecoming and action pictures with your portrait photographer. Determine CD or website delivery date to ensure you meet your deadline.

Yearbook • 16

through Sales Tracker. These include any extra books you

Check and update sales list in online program. it with administration.

Introduction to

Send final number of books to be ordered to Lifetouch

Meet with administration to schedule yearbook distribution event. Begin planning the event.

If applicable, schedule and plan spring portrait day Order and distribute flyers to promote it.

Begin plans to attend a Lifetouch summer yearbook workshop. Check with your sales pro or the Lifetouch website for more information.

Submit index and spring sports pages for final deadline.

Final deadline:

# of pages due:

April/May Set up a “Last chance to buy yearbooks” table in the

activities. Work with your sales professional and plant consultant to designate a special website to submit these pages.

Complete other projects and present them to the class.

These might include a community historical magazine, a lit-art magazine, a retiring teachers’ slideshow or theme presentations by next year’s staff.

Finalize your distribution list. Double check names of all students who have purchased books with the online list and the school-purchased list.

Determine how you will sell extra books, if ordered.

Finalize plans for book distribution event. Create signs and directions for picking up books.

Next year’s staff: Assign ads to be sold in the spring and summer. Set summer meeting dates to turn in contracts and to make plans for next year’s book.

Work with counselors and administrators to select next year’s staff. Distribute applications to those interested in working on next year’s staff. Review applications and letters

hallway. Create a “countdown” chart to sell the few

of recommendation. Schedule interviews with those who

remaining books.

want to be members of next year’s staff.

Work with next year’s returnees to begin planning next year’s book.

Plan motivational event to excite all students about this year’s book. This might be an all-school assembly featuring a slideshow of photos from the book with emotional appeal.

Work on spring supplement, including end-of-the-year

Schedule dates with your photographer for senior portraits and underclass portraits.

Fall underclass Picture Day: Senior picture dates:

Take final invoice to bookkeeper to make the final payment to Lifetouch.

Adviser’s

Calendar of success for summer/fall-delivered books

Important phone numbers: Volumes: 1.800.736.4762 Sales Professional: Sales Pro’s number: Plant Consultant: Senior portrait photographer: Portrait photographer:

June/July - Before school starts Meet with your yearbook sales professional as soon as possible in June or early July.

Discuss your budget to determine how much the

Job number:

Deadlines: Deadline one: Deadline two: Deadline three: Deadline four:

Set up staff user names and emails after you receive a Lifetouch email inviting you to use the online creation site.

Attend a summer yearbook workshop. Check

books will cost and how much money you have or can

with your sales professional to find out where

raise. Set book sales and ad sales goals. Examine

workshops will be held.

current equipment to decide if you will need to

Check with your portrait photographer to make

update cameras, computers, software and other

sure fall portrait dates are set for seniors and

technology for the next year.

underclassmen.

Meet with principal and/or school secretary to ask if you can include yearbook flyers in the packets to be mailed to parents in the summer.

Meet with your yearbook staff before registration

Send student names to the portrait studio two weeks prior to picture day.

Make sure picture day sales flyers are printed and ready for distribution.

Important dates: Underclass picture day: Senior portraits due date: Fall sports team pictures date: Big events:

August - Before school starts Order your yearbook kit through the online creation Plan Picture Day and prepare flyers for distribution.

Send student names to portrait studio so they can create name cards for Picture Day.website. Download available items from the website. When the kit arrives, review the contents to make sure you have everything you need to create the book. In addition, order a “Yearbooks on Sale” banner and sales flyers through your online program.

Meet with your yearbook staff to discuss theme

day to assign students to sell books when parents are

ideas and begin to plan content, and to turn in ad

in the building.

contracts for ads sold over the summer.

Work with your yearbook sales professional to set up your yearbook sales online site.

Introduction to

Yearbook • 17

Adviser’s

Calendar of success for summer/fall-delivered books

August/September - (After school starts) Spend the first three weeks of school working with returning staff members to teach beginners how to plan and design double-page spreads, write and design captions and headlines, and write stories.

Work with editors to finalize theme, cover and endsheet designs, and ask editors to design templates for each section of the book.

Involve the staff in researching words, phrases, writing styles and design ideas that reflect the book’s theme. Ask staff members to share ideas for theme development with the class.

Ask beginners to list their first, second and third choices for section team membership. Editors and adviser finalize section teams and announce staff.

Work with editors to plan the ladder diagram. Ask section editors to work with their teams to plan the content

Schedule retake day with your school photographer.

Check to see that all students have portraits made. Send

everyone will meet their deadlines.

Finish double-page spreads within one week after each event or sports team schedule ends.

Work with business manager to distribute yearbook order forms, make posters, create video ads and sell books.

Ask business manager to create and send ad forms to parents.

October/November Upload cover and endsheets. Work with editors to finalize theme spread designs.

Cover/endsheet deadline: Check with photographer to make sure portraits have been uploaded or CD/storage media has been delivered

look for duplication of or missed topics.

to the school. Ship non-Lifetouch CD/storage media to

“the thematic look” for each section. Create section design ideas on paper layout sheets. Co-editors and adviser have final approval.

Work with sales professional to train students on the website. Create section templates on the website.

Ask business team to work with staff to sell business ads.

Mail senior ad forms to parents.

Work with administration and portrait photographer to set up dates for sports team group pictures and club group photos.

Schedule professional photographer’s dates for prom, homecoming, graduation and sports competitions.

Yearbook • 18

Editors meet with section editors each day to make sure

of each section. Have co-editors examine section plans to Section editors work with teams and co-editors to create

Introduction to

reminders to those who have not been photographed.

yearbook plant.

Obtain an official list of students by grade from administration to check name spellings and to make sure students are included in the appropriate class section.

When your deposit invoice arrives, review it and deliver it to your bookkeeper.

Send yearbook sales flyers home to parents. Set up Parent Notify, if applicable.

Work on opening, dividers, faculty, some student life, some sports, some academics and all ad pages. Submit them to editors and adviser for review.

Set the last day to take senior portraits. Send notices to seniors who haven’t been photographed.

Order senior CD/storage media from portrait photographer(s). When it arrives, ship it to yearbook plant.

Adviser’s

Calendar of success for summer/fall-delivered books

November/December

February/March

Check and submit these pages: Portrait sections, some sports, student life and academics pages.

First deadline:

# of pages due:

Watch for cover proof notification. Review cover/ endsheets and approve or approve with changes.

Check and update sales list in online program.

Finalize and submit icons and namestamping list to

Submit these pages to Lifetouch: More student life and academics pages, and more sports pages.

Third deadline:

# of pages due:

Schedule and take spring sports team pictures and any

Create club and sports team photo schedule and finalize

event photos needed to finish the book. Confirm the CD or website delivery date to meet your deadline.

Send sales flyers to parents to remind them to purchase yearbooks as holiday gifts.

Meet with administration to schedule yearbook summer or fall distribution event. Begin planning the event.

If applicable, schedule and plan spring portrait day.

December/January

Order and distribute flyers to promote spring portrait day.

Watch for Lifetouch second deposit notice. Review it and give it to your bookkeeper.

Send parents notices to encourage them to purchase yearbooks.

Submit these pages to Lifetouch: more student life, academics and sports, most or all of organizations section.

Second deadline:

# of pages due:

Yearbook • 19

Continue selling books and promoting books to parents.

Schedule club, organization and sports team photo days. it with administration.

Introduction to

Lifetouch through Sales Tracker on website.

Begin plans to attend a Lifetouch summer yearbook workshop. Check with your sales professional or the Lifetouch website for more information.

Distribute spring Picture Day flyers, if applicable.

April/May/June Send final number of books to be ordered to Lifetouch

Work on final pages and/or spring supplement, including end-of-the-year activities. If creating a spring supplement, work with sales professional and plant consultant to designate a special website to submit these pages.

Finalize your distribution list. Double check names of all students who have purchased books with the online list and the school-purchased list. Submit final list to Lifetouch.

Determine how you will sell extra books, if ordered.

Finalize plans for summer/fall book distribution event.

Create signs and directions for picking up books.

Next year’s staff: Assign ads to be sold in the spring and summer. Set summer meeting dates to turn in contracts and to make plans for next year’s book.

Work with counselors and administrators to select next year’s staff. Distribute applications to those interested.

Review applications and letters of recommendation.

through Sales Tracker. Include extra books you plan to

Schedule interviews with those who want to be members of

homecoming and action pictures with your portrait

order. Icon/namestamping list and number of books must

next year’s staff.

photographer. Set delivery date to meet your deadline.

be submitted before final pages can be sent to Lifetouch.

Schedule and take winter sports team photos, winter

Set up a “Last chance to buy yearbooks” table in the hall.

Create a “countdown” chart to sell remaining books..

Work with next year’s returnees to begin planning next year’s book.

Plan motivational event to excite all students about this

Submit index and additional student life, academics, organizations and sports pages to Lifetouch to meet your final deadline.

Final deadline:

# of pages due:

Schedule dates with your photographer for senior portraits and underclass portraits.

year’s book. This might be an all-school assembly featuring a

Fall underclass Picture Day:

slideshow with emotional appeal.

Senior picture dates:

Take final invoice to bookkeeper to make the final payment to Lifetouch.

Lesson plans - Week one - Day one - Introductions and class discussion Objectives • Staff meets other yearbook staff team members • Editors and staff understand responsibilities • Staff understands the purposes of the yearbook • Staff reads and understands yearbook forms and contracts

Discussion • Discuss purposes of the yearbook See lecture notes, Introduction to Yearbook.

• Explain roles and responsibilities of the yearbook staff See notes, Introduction to Yearbook.

• Ask former staff members to talk about their yearbook experiences • Discuss grading and staff expectations See notes, Introduction to Yearbook; Grading Rubrics, Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resources.

• Recognize this year’s editors and section editors, if chosen Assign editors to complete Theme Exercise in Theme Chapter.

They started the exercise last spring and worked on it all summer. They will present their Theme Exercise to the staff on Week One: Day Three.

• Announce deadlines for all sections See your notes, Introduction to Yearbook.

• Explain how staff members were chosen See Staff Application and Teacher Recommendation Sheet, Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resources.

• Discuss Staff Contract See Contract, Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resources.

• Talk about Photo Equipment Check-out Sheet, Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resources

Resources Class overview and expectations • Introduction to Yearbook, Grading Rubrics, Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resources Yearbook purpose • Introduction to Yearbook Roles and responsibilities • Introduction to Yearbook Deadlines • Introduction to Yearbook

Introduction to

Staff appliciation • Introduction to Yearbook

Yearbook • 20

Adviser Resources Editor application • Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resources Teacher recommendation sheets • Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resources Staff contract • Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resources Photo equipment check-out sheet • Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resources

Lesson plans - Week one - Day two - Class discussion Objectives • Editors and staff understand yearbook theme, its purpose and how it’s developed

Discussion

Resources

• Introduce yearbook theme using last year’s book, other schools’ books and

Yearbook theme lecture notes • Theme Chapter

theme slideshow.

Exercises:

Note to adviser: See Theme Chapter. Use this link to access the Theme

• School analysis exercise • Theme Chapter Adviser Resources

Slideshow:

• Fictitious school theme exercise • Theme Chapter Adviser Resources

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/redw/index.html

Slideshow:

• Break into groups of 3-4 students and conduct school analysis.

Note to adviser: See school analysis exercise, Theme Chapter Adviser Resources.

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/redw/index.html Additional theme slideshows:

• Editors circulate among groups to listen to discussion.

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/dxgt/index.html

• Editors finalize theme packet

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/mvws/index.html#p=2

Note to adviser: Editors, base presentation on Theme Chapter Adviser Resources.

• Break into groups of 2-3 students to complete fictitious school theme Note to adviser: Theme Chapter Adviser Resources • Group leaders present fictitious themes to class and discuss ideas with staff.

• Editors give feedback.

Lecture and discussion

Notes

for the First Day

Week one - Day one lecture notes: What yearbook membership teaches us If this is your first year advising a yearbook staff, you may be wondering how to plan the first day of class. Before then, identify how many of your students are returning, so you understand who is experienced and who will need training.

You can use students’ expertise to help those who are new to the yearbook staff.

Discuss these ideas as they relate to the importance of the yearbook class: • It is the only class in high school in which you, as the student, are manufacturing a product, selling your product and distributing it to your customers.

• It is the only class where you are responsible for managing a staff, hitting real-world deadlines and working within a budget that can sometimes be thousands of dollars.

• It is diverse. Major components of producing the yearbook include photography, graphic design, journalism, marketing, finance and accounting.

• It will challenge you to use your creativity, not only for imaginative graphic design and writing, but also for innovative fund-raising and marketing programs to generate funds for the yearbook class.

• It is the only class that will produce a keepsake many classmates will keep for the rest of their lives and pass on to others.

Introduction to

Yearbook • 21

Purposes of the yearbook1 It is a history book. The yearbook is a record of what happens every year at your school. It is the staff’s job to report that record. From the facts you provide, readers can interpret memories in their own personal ways.

It is a record book. A record book doesn’t do its job if it contains generalities. Be specific about the numberof students who attended that year and the number of faculty on staff. How many cans did the food drive collect? How much did student council spend on homecoming? Include scores for every team, winning or losing.

It is a memory book. The yearbook should include all the year’s major events, as well as memories of everyday events like sharing lockers, labs and rushing to class in six minutes. It is the staff’s job to find fresh angles on annual book topics and brainstorm new topics that make this year’s book unique.

It is a picture book. There are two types of photos in a yearbook. “Who” pictures are the portraits, team and club photos. “What” pictures breathe life into the book by telling what happened

during the year. Take pictures of students working on the homecoming float rather than posing them in front of it. Storytelling photos put readers up close to school events, people and experiences.

It is a public relations tool. A quality yearbook showcases what students have learned and given to the community, telling the year’s story in a way that administrators and parents can be proud of.

It is a reference book. It is the staff’s responsibility to represent all students multiple times, both in the people section as well as in other sections.

Photo coverage should include captions or identifications. The book should have an index that includes students and faculty, as well as teams, clubs and topics the staff chooses to cover.

It’s an educational experience. From developing skills in writing and design to photography and business management, yearbook students gain real-world experience in producing a product for public consumption. Staff members also learn how to lead a group and to be a part of the team.

Meeting deadlines and fulfilling budget requirements are also a part of the yearbook learning experience.

1 Akers, Martha; Ender, Paul; Schaub, Laura. Scholastic Yearbook Fundamentals. Columbia Scholastic Press Association. Fiftieth Anniversary Edition. 1999, page 8.

Lecture and discussion

Notes

for the First Day

Week one - Day one lecture notes continued: In this course, you will develop skills in basic journalism, photography and layout. You will also learn the ethics of journalism, the responsibilities and demands of creating and funding a publication, and what it means to capture and document the memories and activities of students’ lives.

Course Overview:

In this class, we will plan, design, create, sell, finance and distribute the yearbook. Each day in class we will sharpen our journalistic and photography skills as we develop our book. The finished product will be completely student-generated. Ultimately, you are responsible for what is published in the book. Although your adviser will guide you to strive for a quality end product, it is up to you to follow through and do what’s necessary to create the best yearbook possible.

Grading:

Everything you do (or don’t do) in class can factor into your grade. You will complete major projects while you work on creating your yearbook pages. Since these assignments will run simultaneously, you must learn to balance several tasks at once. For this reason, you will fill out weekly planning and self-evaluation sheets that account for 50 percent of your grade.

Introduction to

• Student grading sheets will help you plan ahead for deadlines and help you stay on task.

• Place grading sheets in the inbox on the last day of each week.

• Your grade will be based upon self-evaluation, supervisor’s assessment and the adviser’s review.

• Sheets turned in late will automatically receive a major grade deduction.

• Sheets that lack detail or insight will be marked down.

Deadlines, projects and other assignments • Projects will be weighted accordingly.

• Projects will be accompanied by detailed outlines of expectations.

• Pages will be self-evaluated and evaluated by the adviser and editors.

• Pages must be revised prior to submission to the yearbook company.

Staff responsibilities • Each staff member will be assigned a managerial responsibility.

• Progress in this area will be evaluated quarterly in a meeting with the adviser.

Note: There will always be something to do or someone else to help. If everyone stays on task, the yearbook will progress smoothly.

Class expectations:

Yearbook • 22

1. Come to class on time and be prepared.

2. Follow through with all commitments and deadlines in a timely fashion.

3. Approach your tasks with professionalism. Consider your audience at all times when creating your pages.

4. Adhere to the staff publication policy.

5. Sign out/in when you leave the room for any reason.

6. Sign out/in the cameras when you are using them.

7. Treat all equipment, including cameras, rechargeable batteries, memory cards and computers with care. The equipment must be locked up before leaving class.

8. Keep your materials tidy and organized. Before you leave class, return anything you have taken out and secure it, if necessary.

9. Attend all planning and club meetings (or suffer the consequences in your grade).

10. Submit assignments that reflect the quality and accuracy of a professional publication.

11. Strive to get the best photo or story, even if that means working after hours (which you will often do).

12. Do your best to interview and picture people who are not already in the yearbook.

13. Publish only your best work.

14. Refrain from using the computer for personal or recreational uses during class time.

15. Treat others with respect and professionalism.

Lesson plans - Week one - Day three - Editors’ theme presentation Objectives

Discussion

Resources Lecture notes:

• Staff members understand theme and how it’s developed

• Editors present the theme/concept for this year’s book, asking staff

• Editors plan and present the yearbook theme they have chosen and how they plan

members to contribute ideas for theme designs, photos and copy-writing

Roles and responsibilities • Introduction to

to develop it; they will also ask staff for ideas that relate to theme design, photo

strategies.

Yearbook Adviser Resources

ideas and copy writing strategies

Note to adviser: Editors show completed theme packet exercise,Theme Chapter

Deadlines • Introduction to

Adviser Resources. (Editors have been working on this exercise since last spring.)

Yearbook Adviser Resources

• Editors outline the book’s style rules and explain their importance

Introduction to

Yearbook • 23

Exercises: Editors: Finalize and present theme

in unifying the book Note to adviser: Editors distribute Style Rules exercise, Design Chapter

Exercise • Theme Chapter Adviser Resources

Adviser Resources.

Resources:

• Editors discuss staff positions and the duties associated with them as they

Design Style Rules exercise • Design Chapter Adviser Resources

relate to the deadline schedule.

Note to adviser: Editors discuss deadline schedule and staff positions listed in Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resources. Editors ask staff to determine which section will work best with their personal schedules. Editors ask staff members to write down their top three choices for positions and explain why they want those positions. Editors meet with adviser to select students for staff positions.

Lesson plans - Week one - Day four - Class discussion Objectives

Discussion

• Staff members understand staff member duties and deadline schedules for each

• Editors announce staff team members

section

• Editors and section editors lead discussion with section teams to brainstorm

• Students apply for open staff positions

for coverage, design, headline and copy ideas that reflect the theme

• Editors work with adviser to choose section team members and fill other positions necessary to complete the yearbook on time • Editors and adviser announce staff positions

announced the previous day

Resources Lecture notes: Roles and responsibilities • Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resources Calendar • Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resources Exercises: Section teams brainstorm for theme-related coverage, design, headline and copy ideas.

Review additional slideshows listed below. Note how section teams tied their pages to theme using theme-related titles.

Additional theme slideshows: http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/kxic/index.html#p=1 http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/mvws/index.html http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/dxgt/index.html

Lesson plans - Week one - Day five - Editors/adviser present design Objectives • Staff understands the importance of design elements, consistent internal and

Discussion • Staff will understand the importance of design elements in yearbook layouts.

Resources Lecture notes:

Note to adviser: Editors/adviser show design elements slides 1-21 from

Design elements and terminology • Design Chapter

• Editors teach staff to sketch a basic design using the elements of good design and

this link:

Typography, headline and caption designs • Design Chapter

the step-by-step process for basic layouts in the Design Section.

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/ijdo/index.html#p=1

Basic step-by-step design • Design Chapter

external margins, style rule compliance and secondary modules in yearbook layouts

• Editors show staff how to include secondary modules to increase coverage

• Editors/adviser will teach staff to sketch a basic design using the step-by-step

Planning designs • Design Chapter

• Editors explain internal and external margins as they relate to design

process for basic layouts, described in the Design Section.

Advanced step-by-step design, planning your

• Editors remind staff of typographyical style rules as they relate to section designs

Note to adviser: Editors/adviser use slides 22-27 in basic design slideshow from

• Staff convert the basic design to an advanced design to expand coverage

this link:

Introduction to

Yearbook • 24

design • Design Chapter Exercises:

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/ijdo/index.html#p=1 • Editors will lead an advanced, step-by-step “draw-along” design lesson, emphasizing secondary modules to expand coverage.

Design exercises • Design Chapter Adviser Resources Graphics collection exercises • Design Chapter Adviser Resources Additional design slideshows:

Note to adviser: Editors use the advanced design slideshow from this link:

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/nhcs/index.html#p=1

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/zwpu/index.html

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/svjx/index.html

• For homework, staff will sketch an original advanced design using the bubble

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/ifzm/index.html#p=1

sheet planner and step-by-step process. Designs are due on Day 1 of Week 2.

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/dfgw/index.html http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/jnlj/index.html#p=1

Lesson plans - Week two - Day one - Photography Objectives • Staff members understand how the camera works • Staff members understand the criteria for excellent, storytelling photos • Staff members understand photo composition and lighting techniques • Staff members take the majority of photos for their pages • Staff members understand photo correction techniques in Photoshop or similar computer program

Discussion • Editors will teach staff about lighting, aperture, shutter speed and ISO, and camera handling techniques.

Note to adviser: Editors will use this presentation through this link: http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/hppf/index.html • Editors will teach staff about storytelling qualities and composition techniques in photography Note to adviser: Editors will use this presentation through this link: http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/pjrw/index.html • All staff members will define aperture, shutter speed and ISO, and explain how they work together to achieve correct exposure in the camera • All staff members will take the majority of photos appearing on their pages, using good composition and lighting techniques • All staff members will edit their photos in Photoshop or similar computer program before uploading them to the yearbook site Note to adviser: Editors will demonstrate Photoshop or other computer program to use in editing photos.

Resources Lecture notes: Camera handling techniques • Photography Chapter Lighting, aperture, shutter speed and ISO • Photography Chapter Storytelling moments and composition • Photography Chapter Resolution, photo illustrations • Photography Chapter Exercises: Camera handling exercise • Photography Chapter Live photo shoot • Photography Chapter Use this Website to learn how aperture, ISO and shutter speed work together: http://canonoutsideofauto.ca

Lesson plans - Week two - Day two - Section teamwork Objectives

Discussion

• Section teams discuss topics to be covered on assigned pages

• Section editors lead their respective teams through the

• Section team members plan their assigned pages

spread-planning process

• Editors add the topics to the ladder diagram

Resources Lecture note: Review bubble sheet and expanded coverage sheet

Note to adviser: Section editors will work with their groups to plan section

• Design Chapter, pages 36-37

content using the bubble sheet and expanded coverage sheet in the Design

Exercises:

Introduction to

Yearbook • 25

Work in teams to complete bubble sheet

Chapter Adviser Resources.

• Section editors list all topics that must be included in their section

and expanded coverage sheet for all

this year

topics assigned • Design Chapter Adviser Resources

• Section editors brainstorm with team members for new coverage

Slideshows:

angles and for stories not covered in previous years

Coverage ideas:

• Section editors lead team through a brainstorming process to plan one

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/ltvs/index.html

spread in the section, listing topic, angle and secondary coverage ideas on the

Review advanced design with modules:

bubble sheet

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/zwpu/index.html

Note to adviser: Section editors will work with their groups to plan section content using the bubble sheet and expanded coverage sheet in the Design Chapter Adviser Resources.

Lesson plans - Week two - Day three - Section teamwork Objectives

Discussion

• Section editors finalize topics to be covered on assigned pages and turn them in

• Section editors work with editors to finalize topics to be covered on

to editors

assigned pages

• Section team members plan their assigned pages • Editors add the topics to the ladder diagram

Note to adviser: Section editors work with teams using planning sheets on in the Design Chapter Adviser Resources.

Resources Lecture notes: Review bubble sheet and expanded coverage sheet • Design Chapter Exercises: Work in teams to continue to complete bubble sheet and expanded coverage

• Section team members plan topics, angles and secondary coverage modules

sheet for all topics assigned • Design Chapter Adviser Resources

for each topic to be covered in their section on planning sheets

Slideshows:

Note to adviser: Section teams work in groups, using planning sheets in the Design Chapter Adviser Resources.

Coverage ideas : http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/ltvs/index.html

• Section editors finalize the topics on bubble sheets and turn them

Review advanced design with modules:

into editors

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/zwpu/index.html

Note to adviser: Section editors approve team plans and turn them into editors.

• Editors add the topics to the ladder diagram and make copies of the bubble sheets before returning them to the section editors

Lesson plans - Week two - Day four - Section planning and design Objectives

Discussion

• Section editors assign one spread to each team member

• Section editors assign one spread to each team member for first deadline

• Section editors oversee team members’ plans for their double-page spreads

• Section editors assist team members with their bubble sheet plans for their

• Section teams use the bubble sheets to plan assigned spread content

assigned double-page spreads

• Section teams design double-page spreads based on their plans

Resources Lecture notes: Review bubble sheet and expanded coverage sheet • Design Chapter; Design Chapter Adviser Resources

Note to adviser: Section teams use bubble sheets and expanded coverage sheets in the Design Chapter Adviser Resources.

Exercises: Work in teams to continue to complete

• Team members brainstorm to develop a bubble sheet plan for their assigned

bubble sheet and expanded coverage sheet for all

double-page spreads

topics assigned • Design Chapter Adviser Resources

• Team members consider how they’re telling the story using secondary

Slideshows:

modules, incorporating the best ideas into their assigned double-page spreads

Coverage ideas:

• Team members design a double-page spread based on their bubble sheet

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/ltvs/index.html

plans

Review advanced design with modules:

Introduction to

Yearbook • 26

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/zwpu/index.html

Lesson plans - Week Two - Day Five - Finalizing section content and designs Objectives

Discussion

Resources Lecture notes:

• Editors and adviser determine deadline schedule for all pages in the book

• Section editors will work with editors to finalize topics to be covered on

• Section editors assign pages due for first deadline to team members

assigned pages

• Section editors finalize topics to be covered on assigned pages

• Section team members will plan topics, angles and secondary coverage

Chapter Adviser Resources

• Section team members plan their sections and design spreads based on those plans

modules for each assigned topic to be covered in their section using the

Exercises:

• Editors will add the topics to the ladder diagram

bubble sheet method

Review bubble sheet and expanded coverage sheet • Design Chapter; Design

Work in teams to finalize bubble sheet and expanded coverage sheet for

• Section team members will finalize deadline one spreads

all topics assigned • Design Chapter Adviser Resources

based on their bubble sheet and expanded sheet plans

Slideshows:

Note to adviser: Section editors direct teams in planning and finalizing

Coverage ideas :

assigned spreads.

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/ltvs/index.html Review advanced design with modules: http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/zwpu/index.html

Lesson plans - Week three - Day one - Caption and headine writing Objectives • Editors teach staff how to write captions and headlines

Discussion • Editors will instruct class members how to write captions

• Section editors oversee caption and headline writing exercise for their teams

Note to adviser: Editors will teach caption writing using this slideshow:

• Section teams complete caption and headline writing exercise

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/antz/index.html

Resources Lecture notes: Captions and headlines • Writing Chapter Exercises:

Introduction to

• Under the guidance of editors and section editors, section team members

Caption and headline writing exercises in

will write the following types of captions: one-sentence, expanded,

Writing Chapter Adviser Resources

identifications and group captions

Additional writing exercises in

Note to adviser: Editors and section editors will work with teams as they write captions based on this linked slideshow: http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/gchd/index.html • Editors will teach class members how to write primary and secondary

this slideshow: http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/gchd/index.html Slideshows: Caption writing: http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/zuwq/index.html

headlines Note to adviser: Editors will teach staff how to write headlines using the linked

Headline writing:

presentation below:

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/vogz/index.html

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/vogz/index.html • Under the guidance of editors and section editors, section team members will write primary and secondary headlines for their assigned pages

Lesson plans - Week three - Day two - Adding captions, headines to designs Objectives

Discussion

• Section teams write captions for their assigned pages

• Section editors will work with team members to write and edit captions and

• Section editors and editors review the captions and return them for corrections

headlines and add them to their first designs

• Section team members correct captions and place them on assigned pages

Resources Lecture notes: Review captions and headlines • Writing Chapter

Note to adviser: Editors and section editors will teach team members how to

Exercises:

interview sources and gather information for captions. For lecture material, see

Gather information and write captions for assigned pages

Writing Chapter.

• Section team members will gather information, write and edit captions and

Gather information and write headlines for assigned pages Review slideshows:

headlines before placing them on their first spreads

Caption writing:

• Section editors will work with team members to perfect their captions,

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/zuwq/index.html

headlines and first designs

Headline writing: http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/vogz/index.html

Yearbook • 27

Lesson plans - Week three - Day three - Writing interesting feature stories Objectives • Staff members find story angles and write feature stories • Section editors and editors teach and coach section team members how to find angles and write feature stories • Staff members conduct interviews to obtain information to use in their stories

Discussion • Editors will teach interviewing and feature-writing techniques

Resources Lecture notes:

Note to adviser: Editors use the link below for notes on interviewing:

Review Writing Chapter

http://yearbooks.lifetouch.com/files/files/YearbookInterviewing.pdf

Watch interviewing slideshow below:

• Section editors and editors will teach section team members how to find

Exercises:

and write their stories

Students practice writing leads •

Introduction to

Yearbook • 28

Note to adviser: Section editors and editors use the link below to access the

Writing Chapter

presentation on finding and writing stories:

Divide class into groups of two or three students

presentation on finding and writing stories:

each and ask them to interview each other for personality profiles. Have them introduce each

http://yearbooks.lifetouch.com/files/files/YearbookCopywritingBestPractices.pdf

other to the class and tell how they would write the story about the person they interviewed.

• Section editors and editors will review first drafts with section team

Slideshows:

members, working with them to improve their stories

http://yearbooks.lifetouch.com/files/files/YearbookInterviewing.pdf

Note to adviser: Editors and section editors meet with team members one-on-one for copy coaching.

Lesson plans - Week three - Days four/five - Interviewing; writing and perfecting stories Objectives

Discussion

• Section team members practice interviewing techniques in class before

• Section editors will work with team members to interview authoritative

conducting interviews for their stories

sources and use the information to write and edit feature stories for their

• Section team members find the angle for each story assigned, focusing on that

assigned spreads

Resources Lecture notes: Review Writing Chapter Exercises:

angle to build an eye-catching lead

Note to adviser: Section editors will serve as coaches for team members as the

Story writing practice • Assign students to find and write a profile of the

• Section team members develop interesting stories based on the information they

team writes and finalizes stories.

student they interviewed the previous day

obtained through interviews and research

• Section team members will interview authoritative sources and use the

• Editors and section editors continue to coach section team members about

information to write and edit feature stories for their assigned spreads.

write a story for their assigned spread.

strong writing

• Section editors will work with team members to perfect their stories for

Slideshows:

inclusion on their assigned spreads

Review Finding and Writing Great Stories. Show this presentation:

Note to adviser: Section editors will review final pages, then turn them in to editors for final editing.

Story writing practice • Ask students to find a unique angle and use it to

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/suks/index.html

Lesson plans - Week four - Day one - Media law and responsibilities Objectives

Discussion

• Staff members understand media law as it applies to yearbook

• Staff members will recite the definition of libel, defenses for libel, fair

• Staff members discuss ethics as applied to yearbook

comment and criticism standards, plagiarism and invasion of privacy criteria Note to adviser: Using the link to a law and ethics presentation below, beginning staff members will discuss the scenarios in the presentation and share their responses with the class. http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/erga/index.html

Resources Lecture notes: Review media law and ethics • Media Law and Ethics Chapter Exercises:

Introduction to

Practice reciting libel definition • See

Yearbook • 29

presentation below Study other media law terms • See

• Staff members will explain why all information in the yearbook must be

presentation below

true, accurate, fair and complete

Slideshow:

• Staff members will make ethical decisions in regard to photo selection and

Media Law and Ethics slideshow:

other content in the yearbook.

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/erga/index.html

Lesson plans - Week four - Day two - Content and coverage Objectives

Discussion

• Staff members plan pages with a variety of students covered

• Staff members will plan pages to cover as many students as possible,

• Staff members triple check the spellings of all names on their pages

striving to include all students in the school at least three times in photos

• Staff members ensure that all groups in the school are included in the yearbook

and/or words

Resources Lecture notes: Study yearbook sections and their content • Content and Coverage Chapter Exercises:

Note to advisers: To include new coverage ideas, section editors will show

Check name spellings against official school list

their team members ideas from the Content and Coverage

Check to see the number of times students are in the book

slideshow using the link below to access it.

Slideshows:

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/binu/index.html

Content and Coverage slideshow:

• Staff members will use the official student list to triple check the spellings

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/binu/index.html

of all names of those included in the yearbook

Building the Ladder slideshow:

• Section editors and team members will check with authoritative faculty and

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/sbjr/index.html

administrative staff to ensure that all groups in the school are covered in the yearbook.

Lesson plans - Week four - Day three - Marketing and business management Objectives

Discussion

• Staff members understand the importance of meeting book sales goals

• Business manager will conduct ad and book sales training sessions for all

• Staff members assist business manager with book and ad sales campaigns

staff members

• Staff members assist businesss manager with ad designs

Resources Lecture notes: Read Marketing and Business Management Chapter

Note to adviser: Business manager conducts ad and book sales training

Show business management slideshow (see below)

sessions using the link to the presentation below:

Show ad design slideshow (see below)

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/iwtu/index.html • Business manager will set book and ad sales quotas and meet with staff once a week to ensure quotas are met Note to adviser: Business manager sets time, prepares agenda and conducts weekly meetings for updates on book and ad sales.

Exercises:

Introduction to

Design ads after viewing the ad design slideshow (see below).

Divide into groups of three or four. Assign each group to create a promotional video to sell more books.

• Staff members will assist business manager in creating posters, ads and

Slideshows:

other promotional materials to boost book and ad sales

Business management slideshow:

Note to adviser: Business manager directs creation of promotional materials to

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/iwtu/index.html

use for book and ad sales.

Ad design slideshow:

• Business manager will teach staff members how to design ads for the book Note to adviser: Business manager teaches staff ad design strategies using the link to the presentation below: http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/fqgc/index.html

Yearbook • 30

http://online.fliphtml5.com/traa/fqgc/index.html

Staff Management and

Organizational ideas

Postings/Lists

Introduction to

Yearbook • 31

• Post the complete ladder diagram (i.e., the list of pages and page content in numerical order) and your adviser calendar.

• Make copies of the ladder for all staff members to include in

On-time pages equal on-time delivery With a yearbook class, student due dates represent more than

their staff notebooks.

just grades. The entire yearbook depends on getting the work done

• Post deadlines and check them off as work is completed.

well and on-time, which means deadlines are crucial. Here are

• Display your Lifetouch yearbook job number.

a few tips that will make the word “deadline” less intimidating.

• Make a list of telephone courtesy rules and post next to the

1. Look at your ladder diagram. Assign earlier dates to pages that can

phone.

be completed earlier.You should be able to produce most pages for

Provide students with wallet cards containing the same guidelines

clubs, portraits and fall/winter sports in a timely manner. Many

for field use.

student “daily life” spreads can be done early.

• Design business cards for each student to use when meeting with

2. Stay on top of what needs to be photographed. This is a critical step to

business owners, teachers and other interested parties.

getting pages from students. Keep a weekly calendar of events

• Create a list of behavior expectations.

happening in the school and photograph them as they happen.

• If you have fewer computers than staff members, post a

3. Give students early deadlines to provide some breathing room to

computer usage schedule so staff members will know when they

compensate for technical difficulties or other issues.

have access to the computers and for how long.

4. Limit students’ design time so they don’t spend excessive time

• Create a “goal for the day” board where the editor lists tasks to

tweaking.

be accomplished, organized by section, for that day.

5. Avoid last-minute work. Sending in unfinished pages creates more

Forms

work for you and Lifetouch. Help students be productive every day.

• Make staff sign-out sheets showing time in/time out, as well as

6. Do as much up-front work as possible. Brainstorm clever headlines

destination.

early in the process of creating a spread. Research and write

• Design press passes for students to use on yearbook errands and

captions as soon as photos are selected.

at school events.

7. Make sure students see the yearbook as a team project. After they

• Create camera and equipment sign-out sheets.

finish their assignment, they should help others do the same. A great spread hidden in a mediocre book will not stand out. Each and every page must succeed for the whole book to be its best.

Creating an

Award-winning

book Becoming competitive in yearbook The most experienced advisers recommend “going for the gold” early in your advising career. Such a philosophy helps motivate students to do their very best work and produce top-quality, potentially award-winning books. The best books in the nation adhere to the following guidelines:

Theme or unifying concept

• Judges are looking for a theme with a degree of sophistication appropriate and relevant to the audience.

• A theme shouldn’t be force-fit, (e.g., hard hats and jackhammers for a construction year, or fairy tale characters for high schoolers).

• The theme should be carried throughout the book, from the cover to the opening and dividers with solid, specific copy and photos that show how the theme represents the school and the year’s activities.

• Theme typography should be consistent. Staff should develop consisent graphics, folios and other design elements.

Coverage

Showcase winner

gh School • Union Grove Hi

• Coverage should include a 12-month year (not necessarily weighted equally) and should include events both within and outside of school.

• Issues that affect the students – like jobs, dating, community service, cars, etc. – should be included.

Award-winning books will often address topical issues affecting teens (e.g., smoking and eating disorders).

• The coverage should show creativity and include more than surface coverage.

Introduction to

Yearbook • 32

• Sports should be balanced between male and female teams and show a variety of photos.

• Copy should tell the story of the year through the eyes of the students without editorializing.

Writing

• Solid story-telling copy should be specific, telling the reader what has happened during the year. It should include names and specific anecdotes and build on story-telling details gathered during research.

• Captions should be mini-stories. They should include several sentences and tell more than the obvious. Captions must be researched and should tell the reader something that is not obvious from the picture.

• Include detail: How many cans did the food drive collect? How long did it take to pack them up? A quote in the caption brings the photo to life. All photos should have captions or identifications.

• Using both headlines and secondary titles help showcase the story. The secondary headline is a sentence that explains what the story is about.

• Headline treatment is an important part of design.

Type, color and other design choices will give your yearbook a recognizable style. (continued on next page)

Creating an

Award-winning

book

Design • Look at magazine layouts for design ideas, graphic ideas, use of color and consistent typography.

• Spread design should have a dominant element with consistent inner spacing, a variety of picture sizes and shapes, good use of typography throughout, alternative coverage like charts, lists, Q&A and good use of color.

• Typography should be chosen based on size, shape, and contrast, and should be consistent within the section or the book.

• Body type and caption type should be consistent in size and leading (space between the lines of type) throughout the book. A good size for body copy is 9 to 11 point. A good size for captions is 8 point.

• Color should be used to complement, not compete.

Try to coordinate the color with the main photos and other colors that might be on the page. Color can be used on type in the headline, or on a specific word in the headline to make it pop.

Photography

Showcase winner • Union Grove High School

• Photography should be technically excellent with good focus, color balance and contrast.

• Photos should tell a story with action, reaction and emotion.

• Try shooting photos from different angles to make them more interesting.

• Cropping needs to enhance photo content. Crop to the center of interest in the photo with eye-pleasing composition in mind.

• Photos on the layouts should alternate between vertical and horizontal orientation.

Introduction to

Yearbook • 33

How the

Grading

system works

Introduction to

Grading the staff On the last day of the school week, staff members fill out the Student Grading Sheet, indicating the work completed in the past five days.

Students earn 20 points per hour spent in and out of class. Those points are earned for interviewing, covering events, writing stories, selling ads, promoting yearbook sales at special events and other activities listed and approved by the adviser and/or immediate supervisor.

Weekly grade sheets must be approved and signed by the staff member’s immediate supervisor. For example, section team members must have the section editor approve and sign their grade report; section editors must have an editor’s approval.

The editors or adviser complete special project grading rubrics, such as designs, photography or captions. Those grades are listed on the weekly grade report under work completed for current and future assignments and averaged into the final weekly grade.

The rubrics that follow are used to evaluate pages, photos, captions, modules and other aspects of yearbook. Also included are a sample weekly grade sheet for staff members to fill out and one for the adviser to complete.

Yearbook • 34

Weekly Grade Report From Student Name:

Topic:

Section:

Due Date:

Page Numbers Assigned:

Evaluator:

Total points = Criteria Work completed this week This includes all pages completed and submitted to section editor/editor. It also includes ads sold and submitted to business manager

Met:

Percentage =

Missed:

90-100 = A 80-89 = B 70-79 = C 60-69 = D 0-59 = F

Letter grade = Specifics

Points Earned/Comments [Student calculated: 20 points per hour worked. Attach weekly point sheet with specifics included.]

Work continuing on future assignments

This includes all pages assigned for other deadlines, including the planning, content-gathering, design and finalization of pages due in the future.

Additional projects This portion includes search for graphics to include in class graphics notebook, outside readings, and other duties assigned by adviser and editor.

Supervisor’s comments/ signature This space is reserved for comments/suggestions from your immediate supervisor regarding assignments and fulfillment of duties and responsibilities to the yearbook staff.

Student’s comments Use this space to respond to your supervisor’s comments.

Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 1

Weekly Grade Report From Teacher Name:

Topic:

Section:

Due Date:

Page Numbers Assigned:

Evaluator:

Met:

Percentage = Criteria Work completed this week This includes all pages completed and submitted to section editor/editor. It also includes ads sold and submitted to business manager

Missed:

90-100 = A 80-89 = B 70-79 = C 60-69 = D 0-59 = F

Letter grade = Specifics

Points Earned/Comments [Student calculated: 20 points per hour worked. Attach weekly point sheet with specifics included.]

Work continuing on future assignments This includes all pages assigned for other deadlines, including the planning, content-gathering, design and finalization of pages due in the future.

Additional projects This portion includes search for graphics to include in class graphics notebook, outside readings, and other duties assigned by adviser and editor

Editor’s/section editor’s comments This space is reserved for comments/ suggestions from your immediate supervisor with regarding your assignments and fulfillment of duties and responsibilities to the yearbook staff.

Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 2

Spread Plan/Execution Rubric Name:

Topic:

Section:

Due Date:

Page Numbers:

Evaluator:

Total points =

Percentage =

Criteria

9-10 = Excellent design 7-8 = Good design [revise - see suggestions] 5-6 = Good start [revise according to directions] 0-4 = Nice idea, but needs complete revision

Letter grade = Specifics

Points/Comments

Spread plan • Spread is based on a well-developed graphic organizer attached to this rubric

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Primary story • Primary story focuses on unique angle and pulls reader into the story

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Secondary coverage • Secondary coverage elements complete the primary story content • Secondary coverage elements add meaning and depth to the story

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Secondary coverage • Secondary coverage elements feature photos when possible design • Secondary coverage elements are titled with theme-related headlines

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• All topics are fully developed: nouns/people, verbs/actions associated with event. Nine graphic organizers in total • Before, during and after coverage areas identified • Photo opportunities, story ideas and secondary coverage possibilities are noted with circles, triangles and squares • Primary story is well-written in a succinct style • Primary story option: story written in alternative style

• Secondary coverage elements answer readers’ questions about the story

• Headlines for secondary coverage elements are subordinate to primary headlines • Secondary coverage elements are placed to the outside of the spread

Primary headline • Type sizes are consistent and appropriate for content

• Headlines for secondary coverage are subordinate to primary headlines • Type fonts and sizes for body copy and captions are readable • If applicable, theme type is used sparingly to drive the theme through the book

Overall appeal • Photos and graphics are placed to guide readers toward specific elements on the page

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 3

Spread Design Rubric Name:

Topic:

Section:

Due Date:

Page Numbers:

Evaluator:

Total points =

Percentage =

Criteria

9-10 = Excellent design 7-8 = Good design [revise - see suggestions] 5-6 = Good start [revise according to directions] 0-4 = Nice idea, but needs complete revision

Letter grade = Specifics

Dominance • Dominant element is obviously larger than all other elements and serves as the primary point of visual entry for the reader • Dominant element symbolizes spread content • Dominant element connects with headline and story angle

Unity • Designer uses linking device (eyeline, color block, dominant photo) to connect facing pages visually

Points/Comments 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• Designer uses color, graphics and/or typography to unify spread

Contrast • Page design features dramatic contrast in photo sizes

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• Primary and secondary headline feature contrast in the design • Spread features contrasting elements vertically and horizontally

Repetition • Repetition is apparent on the spread in the form of graphics, typography, color or photo sizes

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Typography • Type sizes are consistent and appropriate for content

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• Repetition serves an apparent purpose (ties the spread together, highlights an area on the spread, adds coverage to the book, helps tell the story) • Headlines for secondary coverage are subordinate to primary headlines • Type fonts and sizes for body copy and captions are readable • If applicable, theme type is used sparingly to drive the theme through the book

Margins • A wide external margin holds the spread together and gives the reader breathing room

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Direction of movement • Photos and graphics are placed to direct readers toward specific elements on the page

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• External margins are violated only once per side with bleeds • Internal margins are created for a reason/purpose (traditional = 1 pica between elements; expanded = more than 1 pica; tight = 0-3 points) • Photos and graphics are placed to direct readers toward specific elements on the page Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 4

Photo Rubric Name:

Topic:

Section:

Due Date:

Page Numbers:

Evaluator:

Total points = Criteria Photo planning Story-telling quality

Composition and lighting Technical aspects

Cropping

Percentage =

Specifics Specifics

9-10 = Excellent design 7-8 = Good design [revise - see suggestions] 5-6 = Good start [revise according to directions] 0-4 = Nice idea, but needs complete revision

Letter grade =

• Photographer worked with reporter and designer to plan the shots and followed the plan • Photographer also shot unplanned images that contributed to the story • Photographer contributed ideas to the designer for using photos in designs • Reader can understand the story from photo content • Photographer captured moments of emotion, conflict, action, reaction or relationship • Close-ups feature expression or emotion •- Secondary photo elements contribute to, rather than detract from, the photo’s story-telling quality • Photo features a strong center of visual interest • Photographer’s lighting technique contributes to the story-telling quality • When applicable, photographer used shallow depth of field • Photographer controlled the background • Photographer filled the frame • Photographer cropped using the rule of third when appropriate • Photographer used a creative angle for the shot • Photo is in focus • Photographer used a tripod when necessary • Noise is eliminated • Contrast is excellent, adding depth to the photo • The photo is sized correctly and has the appropriate resolution • Cropping features the center of visual interest in an interesting manner with distracting objects eliminated • Subjects are not cropped at joints (elbows, wrists, knees, ankles, etc.)

• Story-telling quality is enhanced through cropping • Cropped photo matches the rectangular shape of the photo box on the page • Dramatic cropping (parts of faces, close-up shots of hands) is done for a reason

Points/Comments 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 5

Ad Design Rubric Name:

Topic:

Section:

Due Date:

Page Numbers:

Evaluator:

Total points =

Percentage =

Criteria Point of visual entry

Typography

Essential elements/ placement Copy writing/grammar Design strategy

Specifics Specifics

9-10 = Excellent design 7-8 = Good design [revise - see suggestions] 5-6 = Good start [revise according to directions] 0-4 = Nice idea, but needs complete revision

Letter grade = Points/Comments

• Design features a point of visual entry for the reader • Center of visual interest is dominant, causing reader to enter the ad • Placement of dominant element guides and directs the reader’s eye to other key elements

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• Typography is appropriate for specific elements in the ad • Type sizes and weights provide interesting contrast in the design • Contrast in typography enhances the design • Typography contrasts nicely with the type used in the logo design • Logo design, if student-designed, reflects the personality of the business it represents

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• White space enhances the design • Placement of elements guides readers toward essential information • Essential elements, such as business address, phone number and Web site are included in the design • Placement of elements is logical to the reader and makes essentials easy to find

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• Copy is written tightly with a specific creative strategy • Copy communicates essential information succinctly and clearly • Grammar, spelling and facts checked for accuracy

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• Ad concept is creative in its conception and execution • Borders follow section style rules

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 6

Writing Rubric Name:

Topic:

Section:

Due Date:

Page Numbers:

Evaluator:

Total points = Criteria Story focus/angle

Lead Story development

Ending Grammar/spelling/punctuation

Percentage =

Specifics Specifics

9-10 = Excellent design 7-8 = Good design [revise - see suggestions] 5-6 = Good start [revise according to directions] 0-4 = Nice idea, but needs complete revision

Letter grade = Points/Comments

• Story features a unique angle or new spin on a traditional topic • Story’s focus pulls the reader into the story • Writer develops the story using a strong central character facing obstacles as he/she strives to achieve a goal

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• Lead is eye-catching, clever, well-written and pulls the reader into the story • Lead features unique writing style • Lead “matches” mood or tone of story

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• Writer includes meaningful, story-telling quotes that add depth to the story • Writer uses logical transitions to lead reader out of one quote and into another attribution • Attribution is used in varying forms (indirect quotes, direct quotes and partial quotes) • Story is tightly written with a specific creative strategy • Story communicates essential information succinctly and clearly • Grammar, spelling and facts checked for accuracy

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• Story’s ending is strong and causes the story to come to a logical conclusion • Story’s ending refers back to the lead in some way • Story’s ending ties up loose details and gives the story an air of finality

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• Story communicates essential information succinctly and clearly • Grammar, spelling and facts checked for accuracy

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 7

Secondary Coverage Modules Rubric Name:

Topic:

Section:

Due Date:

Page Numbers:

Evaluator:

Total points =

Percentage =

Criteria

Specifics Specifics

9-10 = Excellent design 7-8 = Good design [revise - see suggestions] 5-6 = Good start [revise according to directions] 0-4 = Nice idea, but needs complete revision

Letter grade = Points/Comments

Module content

• Content is well-planned and executed • Content features a variety of students • Module’s headline reflects content and thematic design • Module contains photos of students when possible

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Module design

• Module’s design pulls reader into it • Module contains appropriate type font and size • Design enhances module’s readability

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Module’s communication value

• Writer includes meaningful, story-telling quotes that add depth to the story • Writer uses logical transitions to lead reader out of one quote and into another attribution • Attribution is used in varying forms (indirect quotes, direct quotes and partial quotes) • Story is tightly written with a specific creative strategy • Story communicates essential information succinctly and clearly • Grammar, spelling and facts checked for accuracy

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Module’s placement

• Module adds meaning and value to the spread • Module is a logical addition to the primary story • Module does not detract from primary story

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Grammar/spelling/ punctuation

• Story communicates essential information succinctly and clearly • Grammar, spelling and facts checked for accuracy

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 8

Complete Captions Rubric Name:

Topic:

Section:

Due Date:

Page Numbers:

Evaluator:

Total points = Criteria

Percentage =

Specifics Specifics

9-10 = Excellent design 7-8 = Good design [revise - see suggestions] 5-6 = Good start [revise according to directions] 0-4 = Nice idea, but needs complete revision

Letter grade = Points/Comments

Caption content

• Captions answer all five Ws and H about the photo • Captions contain all persons included in the photo • Captions feature the importance of the event covered through description or quotes

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Caption design

• Captions are placed to the outside of the spread when possible • Captions are placed to avoid reader difficulty • Captions feature a headline or other graphic reader entry point • Captions are set in readable, 8-point type

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

• Captions are tightly written with a specific creative strategy • Captions communicate essential information succinctly and clearly • Captions do not begin with a, an, the, during, names or titles • Captions do not contain writer’s editorial commentary, inside jokes or other inappropriate material

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Caption placement

• Captains are placed closely to the photos they represent in a reader-friendly manner • Cluster captions are placed within or near the photo module and are designed in a reader-friendly manner

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Grammar/spelling/ punctuation

• Captions communicate essential information succinctly and clearly • Grammar, spelling and facts checked for accuracy

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Writing

Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 9

Desired position:

Applications are due

Submit applications to

Return this application with two letters of recommendations from your teachers or counselor.

What life experiences can you offer the staff? (include current extra-curricular activities)

What does a good team member need to do?

than before?

What are some innovative ideas that you believe will make next year’s yearbook better

What are your weaknesses?

What are your strengths?

Current schedule:

Why do you want to be a member of the yearbook staff:

Name: Grade level:

Yearbook staff

Application

Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 10

Current position:

Applications are due

Submit applications to

Return this application with two letters of recommendations from your teachers or counselor.

What life experiences can you offer the staff? (include current extra-curricular activities)

What does a good leader need to do?

better than before?

What are some innovative ideas that you believe will make next year’s yearbook

What are your weaknesses?

What are your strengths?

Why would you be a good editor?

What are the qualities of a good editor?

Name: Grade level:

Yearbook editor

Application

Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 11

Superior

Good

Satisfactory

Needs Improvement

Superior

Good

Satisfactory

Needs Improvement

Form

Advanced

Profiicient

Basic

Below Basic

Yearbook Adviser

Thank you,

Comments:

Academics

Writing Skills

Scholastic Achievement

Comments:

Innovation

Creativity

Artistic Ability

Comments:

Punctuality

Leadership

Cooperation

Initiative

Work Habits & Citizenship

return it to me, the yearbook staff adviser.

learners who are able to work with other people. Please take a moment to evaluate this student and

This student is applying to work on the yearbook staff. It is important that our staff be self-motivated

Student’s Name: Date:

Teacher recommendation

Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 12

(continued on next page)

6. If you must be absent, be sure all needed materials reach the publication room.

5. A list of major deadlines is available to each staff member. Schedule doctor, dentist, or other necessary appointments so they don’t interfere with yearbook deadlines.

4. Teamwork is key. Unless the adviser excuses you, you’ll be required to work on the yearbook during specified times, including class time and after-hour sessions. Even after you’ve completed your assignment, someone else may need your help on other aspects of the book – so no homework or other non-yearbook activities is permitted during class time.

3. Meeting deadlines is important. One staff member’s failure to meet a deadline may keep other staff members from completing their deadlines. Penalties for missed deadlines range from grade penalties, to parental notification, removal from the staff, and even a failing course grade. Meeting a deadline includes turning in quality work on or before the due date. This may include layouts, list, polls, stories, receipts, money, copy, photographs, designs and reports. You’ll have ample time to complete assignments. If you receive an assignment at the last minute, it is usually because someone else did not complete his or her job. Deadline allowances are made in those circumstances.

2. Yearbook staff members may participate in another school activity (sports, student council, theater).

You are expected to complete all assignments and meet deadlines. Be aware you may have to ask a staff member to miss another school activity so you can complete work or meet a deadline for the yearbook.

Missing a deadline can cost the yearbook staff money or cause the yearbook to arrive after students have left school for summer vacation. If you plan ahead and complete deadlines, you won’t have to miss other activities.

1. We require that you attend all work sessions, whether before or after school and, if necessary, Saturdays. Creating a quality publication requires many hours outside of class. Deadlines and work sessions are announced in advance when possible. If you have a job outside of school, we ask that you negotiate a schedule with your employer that won’t interfere with your yearbook duties. They, too, provide real work experience, and may well provide career benefits after graduation.

The following contract explains the responsibilities of being a staff member, and the commitment we will need from you.

Serving on the yearbook publication staff is similar to any other curricular activity or sport. You will plan, design and produce a yearbook for some members of the and surrounding ommunity. You will join a team that creates a quality product as you develop skills in basic journalism, photography and layout, and learn the ethics of journalism. As a team, we will plan, design, create, sell, finance and distribute the yearbook, and gain valuable job experience along the way.

To: Staff Members and Parents

Suggested yearbook

Contract Page one

Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 13

Parent/Guardian’s Signature

Print Student Name

Date

Student’s Signature

Welcome aboard! To keep order and sanity, these rules are strictly enforced. With the hard work of our fantastic staff, we will put out publications everyone can be proud of.

13. Students are instructed in procedures that promote the safety and well being of all staff members.

These include procedures for computer use and responsibilities as a staff member. By signing this agreement, both parents and students agree that it is the student’s responsibility to learn and follow those procedures and rules as outlined in the publications manual, this contract, staff manual, in class lectures and practices. It is the responsibility of the staff member to follow proper procedures in the classroom, computer room and darkroom.

12. An important part of the publication staff is the financial responsibility of publishing a yearbook. The student agrees to be financially responsible for any money, merchandise or equipment in their possession. This includes money from sales, advertising and fundraising. Students are responsible for computer equipment, cameras and camera equipment, and are held accountable if lost, stolen (without reasonable care on the staff member’s part) or misused in any way. If a problem should occur, and remain unresolved after a reasonable amount of time, the student will be turned over to school authorities for disciplinary actions as well as removed from the staff.

11. Staff members are required to keep the publication room neat and organized. Abandoned materials may be lost, discarded or destroyed.

10. On occasion, staff members are required (or may volunteer) to cover events, or carry out yearbook or photography responsibilities after school hours or off the school grounds.

9. Each staff member is responsible for referring to the staff manual. It contains all the information, rules and policies to help you create an outstanding yearbook.

8. Publication work areas are available daily from a.m. to p.m. You may come in before school, after school, and during lunch to work on assignments. Mandatory Saturday work sessions are sometimes imposed when deadlines are missed, or assignments remain uncompleted. Should you need additional computer time, arrange with the adviser for the room to be open. Any staff member assigned to work after school, but who needs to attend another meeting, must first check in with the adviser. This includes sports practices.

7. You’ll be expected to attend all work sessions and complete all assigned work by deadline. Work out your schedule to avoid conflict with non-school activities, such as employment and youth groups.

(continued from previous page)

Suggested yearbook

Contract Page two

Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 14

Adviser’s Signature: Date:

Parent/Guardian’s Signature: Date:

Student’s Signature: Date:

By signing this contract, I agree to take full responsibility for the equipment during the period in which it is signed out. This includes responsibility if the equipment is broken, lost, or stolen. I agree to pay to repair or replace any broken or missing equipment.

Sign-Out Period:

Case:

Memory Card:

Batteries:

Camera Type: Number:

Name:

Camera Contract/Check-Out Sheet

Checking out

Equipment

Introduction to Yearbook Adviser Resource • page 15