Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) Practice Test

What term describes writing that conveys factual, objective information, especially in news reporting?

1. Editorial writing

2. Journalistic writing

3. Persuasive writing

4. Poetic writing

The correct answer is: Journalistic writing

The term that describes writing which conveys factual, objective information, particularly in the context of news reporting, is journalistic writing. This style focuses on delivering information clearly and concisely, adhering to ethical standards of accuracy and impartiality. Journalistic writing aims to inform the public about events and issues without the influence of personal opinion or bias, prioritizing facts to maintain credibility and trustworthiness. In contrast, editorial writing incorporates the writer's perspective and opinions, aiming to persuade readers about certain viewpoints or actions. Persuasive writing is designed specifically to convince the audience to adopt a particular belief or take a specific action, explicitly including emotional appeals. Poetic writing, on the other hand, uses artistic language, rhythm, and metaphor to express emotions or ideas rather than straightforward facts. Therefore, journalistic writing stands out for its commitment to expressing objective information in a clear, accessible manner.