KNPR “State of Nevada” Program Instructions and Grading Criteria
The topic is KNPR’s (88.9 FM Radio) “State of Nevada” program. Listen to at least 15 minutes of the “State of
Nevada” program, which is broadcast from 9-10am and 7-8pm Monday through Friday. From time to time, an
alternative program airs in its place: Be certain you are listening to the “State of Nevada.” Previous days’
programs are available on streaming audio online (start at www.knpr.org and listen only to a “State of Nevada”
program). You will also find additional information on each program at that site, including the names of the
guests. The segment you write on must be related to Nevada government. It may not, for example, be sports or
entertainment-related. Write a summary of what you heard. Be sure to address the following:
What was the topic being discussed? Provide background.
Who were the participants? Be sure to name all.
What were the specific issues or controversies discussed?
What were the positions or points made by the participants? Were there opposing opinions?
Grading of the writing assignment will be based on the following:
Your paper must be a minimum of 700 words (excluding your name, date, course, and the title). Shorter papers
will have points deducted. Your assignments will be graded on content as well as style. You should answer the
questions thoroughly and thoughtfully and your assignment should be grammatically correct with no misspelled
words.
Points will be deducted from your paper as follows:
1) Discussion of topic: Content & style: 0-50 points off
2) Wrong topic: 100 points off
3) Program other than KNPR’s “State of Nevada:” 100 points off
4) Plagiarized: 100 points off and additional administrative penalties
5) Poor grammar, spelling: Between 5 and 50 points off
6) Less than 700 words:
a. 650-699 words: 10 points off
b. 600-649 words: 20 points off
c. 550-599 words: 30 points off
d. 450-549 words: 40 points off
e. <450 words: 60 points off
