Key Genres in Journalism: Information, Opinion, and Mixed Styles

Information Genres

These genres prioritize the objective reporting of facts.

1. The News

   This is the most characteristic genre of journalism. It is a report of a recent event of public interest. The journalist should reflect what happened objectively, without expressing personal opinions on the facts.

   Structure:

   • Headlines: Includes top title, main title, and subtitle.
   • Lead or Intro: Answers the six key questions (Who, What, When, Where, Why, How), often presented in italics.
   • Body: Presents information in descending order of importance.

2. Reporting

   Relates facts about a topic of current interest. It is an expanded form of news that allows for a more personal style, as it typically includes the author's signature. It adds depth through research and documentation related to the reported event. Usually includes interviews, data, graphics, photographs, etc.

3. The Interview

   A specialized report that allows for detailed knowledge of the perspectives and ways of thinking of different individuals.

   Three Types:

   1. Statements Interview: Focuses on a character's views on a topic of general interest. Presented in dialogue format, revealing little about the interviewee's personality.
   2. Personality Interview: Focuses on the personality of the respondent, alternating between narrative and dialogue.
   3. Formulaic Interview: The respondent answers a predetermined set of questions briefly. It can resemble a psychological test.

Opinion Genres

In these genres, commentary and interpretation predominate over factual reporting.

1. The Editorial

   Published in a prominent section, it sets forth the newspaper's official stance on an issue. The content is the responsibility of the newspaper's editor or editorial board. It is published unsigned and addresses a topical issue.

2. The Opinion Piece

   An article where the writer gives their personal view on any issue. The writer is usually an external contributor or a recognized personality who signs the article and is responsible for its content.

3. The Column

   A signed commentary on a topical issue that consistently appears in the same location within the newspaper and typically occupies a column's width. Columnists are often prestigious writers who contribute regularly to the publication.

Mixed Genres

These genres combine characteristics of both information and opinion writing.

1. Chronicles

   A personal elaboration of an informative event, written by someone who witnessed it. It includes elements of personal assessment, greater detail, and subjective interpretation. Chronicles are sometimes written in the first person and support descriptions of settings, characters, and anecdotes.

   Depending on the topic, they can be grouped into:

   • Local events
   • Sports
   • Bullfighting
   • Society
   • Parliamentary
   • Travel

2. Cultural Criticism

   Reports on and provides a review of events and works within the world of culture and entertainment. Cultural criticism offers commentary on developments concerning cultural life. Specialists typically write these pieces, focusing on distinct fields such as film, music, or theater.