What is News?

News is information about current events that is conveyed to the public quickly and accurately. News is based on a wide range of sources, including letters, investigations, surveys and polls. It can include opinions, but should not contain personal attacks or prejudices.

The definition of news has been disputed by researchers. It is important to note that the same event can be newsworthy in different circumstances. For example, a coup in your own country is going to be bigger news than one in the next country.

To be newsworthy a story needs to meet five criteria: it must be new, unusual, interesting, significant and about people. It is also necessary to have a sense of urgency and a potential impact on society.

For example, if something happens that affects the way we live, such as a drought in your area, it could have an impact on how you grow food or water your plants. Similarly, the death of a celebrity is likely to make headlines, as is a famous person going bankrupt or getting arrested.

People are interested in the lives of other people, so stories about celebrities, royalty and politicians make news. They are also interested in health – so stories about hospitals, clinics, drugs, disease and diet are newsworthy. They are also interested in the environment, so they will pay attention to stories about climate change, pollution and endangered species. People are also interested in culture, so stories about art, theatre and cinema make news.