Revision history for LegislativeWrapUps
Additions:
1) Provide enough information so the reader knows **[[ObjectiveOne "Why did Vote Smart select **this** bill?"]]**
1) **[[ObjectiveThree Avoid bias language (or language that could be perceived as bias)]]**
1) **[[ObjecttiveFour Promote content from the Vote Smart website]]**
1) Be sure to **[[ObjectiveTwo cite the other sources]]** you use in your Wrap Up
1) **[[WrapUpResearch Familiarize yourself and research the activity in your state]]**
1) Form an outline, we have **[[WrapUpOutline created a template to help get you started]]**
1) Write your wrap-up! Make sure to fulfill the “Objectives and Guidelines” listed above and we also have compiled **[[WrapUpWriting a few writing tips and suggestions]]**
1) **[[ObjectiveThree Avoid bias language (or language that could be perceived as bias)]]**
1) **[[ObjecttiveFour Promote content from the Vote Smart website]]**
1) Be sure to **[[ObjectiveTwo cite the other sources]]** you use in your Wrap Up
1) **[[WrapUpResearch Familiarize yourself and research the activity in your state]]**
1) Form an outline, we have **[[WrapUpOutline created a template to help get you started]]**
1) Write your wrap-up! Make sure to fulfill the “Objectives and Guidelines” listed above and we also have compiled **[[WrapUpWriting a few writing tips and suggestions]]**
Deletions:
1) [[ObjectiveThree Avoid bias language (or language that could be perceived as bias)]]
1) [[ObjecttiveFour Promote content from the Vote Smart website]]
1) Be sure to [[ObjectiveTwo cite the other sources]] you use in your Wrap Up
1) [[WrapUpResearch Familiarize yourself and research the activity in your state]]
1) Form an outline, we have [[WrapUpOutline created a template to help get you started]]
1) Write your wrap-up! Make sure to fulfill the “Objectives and Guidelines” listed above and we also have compiled [[WrapUpWriting a few writing tips and suggestions]]
Additions:
----
[[CategoryKeyVotes Key Votes Homepage]] | [[UTInternTraining Training Guide]] | [[SummaryWritingGuide Summary Writing Guide]] | [[VoteEnteringGuide Vote Entering Guide]] | [[CongressGuide Congress Guide]] | [[StatusUpdateGuide Status Update Guide]] | [[WebCheckGuide Web Check Guide]]
[[CategoryKeyVotes Key Votes Homepage]] | [[UTInternTraining Training Guide]] | [[SummaryWritingGuide Summary Writing Guide]] | [[VoteEnteringGuide Vote Entering Guide]] | [[CongressGuide Congress Guide]] | [[StatusUpdateGuide Status Update Guide]] | [[WebCheckGuide Web Check Guide]]
Additions:
======Legislative Wrap-Up======----
Deletions:
============
No Differences
Additions:
======Legislative Wrap Ups======
============
============
Additions:
1) Be sure to [[ObjectiveTwo cite the other sources]] you use in your Wrap Up
1) Write your wrap-up! Make sure to fulfill the “Objectives and Guidelines” listed above and we also have compiled [[WrapUpWriting a few writing tips and suggestions]]
1) Edit your wrap-up for grammar and content. Fill out a “Edit Guide” within the resources folder the Google Drive
1) Write your wrap-up! Make sure to fulfill the “Objectives and Guidelines” listed above and we also have compiled [[WrapUpWriting a few writing tips and suggestions]]
1) Edit your wrap-up for grammar and content. Fill out a “Edit Guide” within the resources folder the Google Drive
Deletions:
1) Edit your Wrap Up for grammar and content. Fill out a “Edit Guide” within the resources folder the Google Drive
Additions:
1) Write your Wrap Up! Make sure to fulfill the “Objectives and Guidelines” listed above and we also have compiled [[WrapUpWriting a few writing tips and suggestions]]
1) Edit your Wrap Up for grammar and content. Fill out a “Edit Guide” within the resources folder the Google Drive
1) Edit your Wrap Up for grammar and content. Fill out a “Edit Guide” within the resources folder the Google Drive
Deletions:
1) Edit your wrap-up for grammar and content. Fill out a “Edit Guide” within the resources folder the Google Drive
Deletions:
Additions:
Each fall the Legislative Research Department will wrap up each state’s legislative session with a 1-2 page summary that is posted to our website. Unlike our bill summaries, these wrap-ups are more creative in nature and you may utilize more of your own personal writing style. Each wrap up will discuss 3-4 major issues in detail that were addressed during the legislative session. We will also need to provide background information because we do not want to assume that every reader will know the basic information about his or her state legislature.
Before you begin, it will be helpful to get an idea of what the finished product looks like. Review the examples we have within our Google Drive folder “Legislative Wrap Ups” -> Resources Folder -> Previous Wrap Ups
Now that you have a general idea of what a legislative wrap up looks like, lets cover what is needed in each wrap-up. You have the flexibility to insert your own writing style and format into your wrap-up, but they must meet the following “Objectives and Guidelines”.
Be sure to keep these Objectives and Guidelines in mind as you begin to write your Wrap Up. The next steps will help you research, outline, and write your wrap up.
Before you begin, it will be helpful to get an idea of what the finished product looks like. Review the examples we have within our Google Drive folder “Legislative Wrap Ups” -> Resources Folder -> Previous Wrap Ups
Now that you have a general idea of what a legislative wrap up looks like, lets cover what is needed in each wrap-up. You have the flexibility to insert your own writing style and format into your wrap-up, but they must meet the following “Objectives and Guidelines”.
Be sure to keep these Objectives and Guidelines in mind as you begin to write your Wrap Up. The next steps will help you research, outline, and write your wrap up.
Deletions:
Before you begin, it might be helpful to get an idea of what the finished product looks like. Review the examples we have within our Google Drive folder “Legislative Wrap Ups” -> Resources Folder -> Previous Wrap Ups
Now that you have a general idea of what a legislative Wrap Up looks like, lets cover what is needed in each Wrap Up. You have the flexibility to insert your own writing style and format into your Wrap Up, but they must meet the following “Objectives and Guidelines”.
Be sure to keep these Objectives and Guidelines in mind as you begin to write your Wrap Up.
The next steps will help you research, outline, and write your Wrap Up.
Additions:
The next steps will help you research, outline, and write your Wrap Up.
Deletions:
No Differences
No Differences
Additions:
Be sure to keep these Objectives and Guidelines in mind as you begin to write your Wrap Up.
The next steps will help you research, outline, and write your wrap up.
The next steps will help you research, outline, and write your wrap up.
Deletions:
Additions:
Each fall the Legislative Research Department will wrap up each state’s legislative session with a 1-2 page summary that is posted to our website. Unlike our bill summaries, these Wrap Ups are more creative in nature and you may utilize more of your own personal writing style. Each Wrap Up will discuss 3-4 major issues in detail that were addressed during the legislative session. But we will also need to provide background information because we do not want to assume that every reader will know the basic information about his or her state legislature.
Now that you have a general idea of what a legislative Wrap Up looks like, lets cover what is needed in each Wrap Up. You have the flexibility to insert your own writing style and format into your Wrap Up, but they must meet the following “Objectives and Guidelines”.
Now that you have a general idea of what a legislative Wrap Up looks like, lets cover what is needed in each Wrap Up. You have the flexibility to insert your own writing style and format into your Wrap Up, but they must meet the following “Objectives and Guidelines”.
Deletions:
Now that you have a general idea of what a legislative wrap up looks like, lets cover what is needed in each wrap up. You have the flexibility to insert your own writing style and format into your wrap up, but they must meet the following “Objectives and Guidelines”.
Additions:
1) Write your wrap-up! Make sure to fulfill the “Objectives and Guidelines” listed above and we also have compiled [[WrapUpWriting a few writing tips and suggestions]]
1) Edit your wrap-up for grammar and content. Fill out a “Edit Guide” within the resources folder the Google Drive
1) Print out your finished wrap-up and submit it to a staff member for initial feedback
1) Edit your wrap-up for grammar and content. Fill out a “Edit Guide” within the resources folder the Google Drive
1) Print out your finished wrap-up and submit it to a staff member for initial feedback
Deletions:
1) Edit your wrap up for grammar and content. Fill out a “Edit Guide” within the resources folder the Google Drive
1) Print out your finished Wrap Up and submit it to a staff member for initial feedback
Additions:
Each fall the Legislative Research Department will wrap up each state’s legislative session with a 1-2 page summary that is posted to our website. Unlike our bill summaries, these wrap ups are more creative in nature and you may utilize more of your own personal writing style. Each wrap up will discuss 3-4 major issues in detail that were addressed during the legislative session. But we will also need to provide background information because we do not want to assume that every reader will know the basic information about his or her state legislature.
Now that you have a general idea of what a legislative wrap up looks like, lets cover what is needed in each wrap up. You have the flexibility to insert your own writing style and format into your wrap up, but they must meet the following “Objectives and Guidelines”.
Now that you have a general idea of what a legislative wrap up looks like, lets cover what is needed in each wrap up. You have the flexibility to insert your own writing style and format into your wrap up, but they must meet the following “Objectives and Guidelines”.
Deletions:
Now that you have a general idea of what a legislative wrap up looks like, lets cover what is needed in each Wrap up. You have the flexibility to insert your own writing style and format into your Wrap Up, but they must meet the following “Objectives and Guidelines”.
Additions:
1) Form an outline, we have [[WrapUpOutline created a template to help get you started]]
Deletions:
Additions:
Each fall the Legislative Research Department will wrap up each state’s legislative session with a 1-2 page summary that is posted to our website. Unlike our bill summaries, these wrap ups are more creative in nature and you may utilize more of your own personal writing style. Each Wrap Up will discuss 3-4 major issues in detail that were addressed during the legislative session. But we will also need to provide background information because we do not want to assume that every reader will know the basic information about his or her state legislature.
Before you begin, it might be helpful to get an idea of what the finished product looks like. Review the examples we have within our Google Drive folder “Legislative Wrap Ups” -> Resources Folder -> Previous Wrap Ups
Now that you have a general idea of what a legislative wrap up looks like, lets cover what is needed in each Wrap up. You have the flexibility to insert your own writing style and format into your Wrap Up, but they must meet the following “Objectives and Guidelines”.
**Objectives and Guidelines**
1) Provide enough information so the reader knows [[ObjectiveOne "Why did Vote Smart select this bill?"]]
1) [[ObjectiveTwo Be creative]]
1) [[ObjectiveThree Avoid bias language (or language that could be perceived as bias)]]
1) [[ObjecttiveFour Promote content from the Vote Smart website]]
Be sure to keep these Objectives and Guidelines in mind as you begin to write your Wrap Up. The next steps will help you research, outline, and write your wrap up.
1) [[WrapUpResearch Familiarize yourself and research the activity in your state]]
1) Form an outline, we have [[WrapUpOutline created a template to help get you started
1) Write your wrap up! Make sure to fulfill the “Objectives and Guidelines” listed above and we also have compiled [[WrapUpWriting a few writing tips and suggestions]]
1) Edit your wrap up for grammar and content. Fill out a “Edit Guide” within the resources folder the Google Drive
1) Print out your finished Wrap Up and submit it to a staff member for initial feedback
Before you begin, it might be helpful to get an idea of what the finished product looks like. Review the examples we have within our Google Drive folder “Legislative Wrap Ups” -> Resources Folder -> Previous Wrap Ups
Now that you have a general idea of what a legislative wrap up looks like, lets cover what is needed in each Wrap up. You have the flexibility to insert your own writing style and format into your Wrap Up, but they must meet the following “Objectives and Guidelines”.
**Objectives and Guidelines**
1) Provide enough information so the reader knows [[ObjectiveOne "Why did Vote Smart select this bill?"]]
1) [[ObjectiveTwo Be creative]]
1) [[ObjectiveThree Avoid bias language (or language that could be perceived as bias)]]
1) [[ObjecttiveFour Promote content from the Vote Smart website]]
Be sure to keep these Objectives and Guidelines in mind as you begin to write your Wrap Up. The next steps will help you research, outline, and write your wrap up.
1) [[WrapUpResearch Familiarize yourself and research the activity in your state]]
1) Form an outline, we have [[WrapUpOutline created a template to help get you started
1) Write your wrap up! Make sure to fulfill the “Objectives and Guidelines” listed above and we also have compiled [[WrapUpWriting a few writing tips and suggestions]]
1) Edit your wrap up for grammar and content. Fill out a “Edit Guide” within the resources folder the Google Drive
1) Print out your finished Wrap Up and submit it to a staff member for initial feedback
Deletions:
As each state's legislative session ends, the Key Votes Department typically has wrapped up the session in a brief, 1-2 page article that was posted on our blog. Going forward we will also be performing historical wrap ups, where our interns and staff perform this work for legislative sessions going back to 2006. This will help us account for all Key Votes in our database, as 2006 was the year the Project Vote Smart started the state Key Votes Program. Unlike our bill summaries, these wrap-ups are more creative in nature and you may utilize more of your own personal writing style. They will not contain bulleted highlights, but will be written in paragraph format in the same manner as a news article. Keep this in mind as you write.
Wrap Ups should be created using a similar process as a bill summary. However, the folder will only contain each version of the wrap up as it advances throughout the check process, rather than each successive version.
**4 Steps To Creating a Wrap-Up**
1. Collecting Legislative Background Information indicated at the top of the State Legislative Summary Sheet Template (this section refers to all of the factual details like Governor, Number of Bills Passed, and Number of Vetoes. For names, use preferred name + last name, as listed on the [[http://votesmart.org/officials/NA/G/national-gubernatorial#.UmV6YBCfjqI full list of officials for that particular office]]). This step requires leg work, so take your time to get it right. Some resources to use:
-Check state legislative website; BEST resource to find legislation introduced, passed, etc.
-votesmart.org;
-Ballotpedia, Open Secrets, Etc.
2. Indicating all resources checked, used, or referenced in the "Links Checked/Used" portion of the State Legislative Summary Sheet Template
3. When linking in the body of the report, use votesmart.org links where possible
4. Working on the Body and Conclusion:
-Compare issues to other states and national trends;
-Read the bills from other states;
-Bring in press files to expand on the arguments surrounding the issues.
**Each wrap-up should contain the following sections:**
1. An introductory paragraph which identifies major themes or key issues that were addressed by the legislature during the session (i.e. authorizing same-sex marriage, addressing certain federal regulations, rescinding budget appropriations).
2. Optional: A paragraph with session information (this will require some outside research, as well as extensive research on votesmart.org):
• Were there any changes in the partisan breakdown from the beginning of the session to the end of the session; or
• Any other information you think might be interesting or relevant.
3. 3-5 paragraphs containing:
• Descriptions of bills that were introduced during the session to address the key issues that you identified in the introduction.
- Focus on the Key Votes that we’ve selected and summarized, but on occasion you may use bills that are not included on our website. Do so judiciously.
- Bring in the issue positions so that a reader may put the bills in that year's context. You may use direct quotes for legislators that you find in news articles.
- Make sure to tie the votes/issues/bills in with any national, regional, or state specific trends from past or current sessions. How do these bills differ from each other and how are they similar.
- You may also include ballot initiatives, if any. These can be found on our website here: http://www.votesmart.org/elections/ballot-measures.
- Don’t forget to check the Public Statements section of our website: if any elected officials have talked about bills or issues publicly, you may quote them and link to their statement on our website.
4. A concluding paragraph that summarizes major actions. In addition to bills that passed, were signed by the Governor, and will go into effect after adjournment, you may also want to mention major bills that died and will be taken up next time, or bills that were vetoed.
You are free to use any sources that you like to find information including, but not limited to:
- The PVS website
- The state legislature’s website,
- Our press files (talk to a staff member if press files are not on Box for that year)
- [[http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/lnacademic/?verb=sf&sfi=AC00NBEasySrch LexisNexis Academic]]
- [[TrackingGuide Tracking links on the wiki for your state]], and any other relevant news articles that you can find.
- To find relevant articles for a bill that is considerably old, try retrieving them by using a special google search with julian dates: Use this [[http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/JulianDate.php julian date converter]] to find the julian start date and end date of the date range you are looking for. Note: google will not accept julian decimal points so you would have to round. Your google search should look something like this: "Michigan HB 400 daterange:2456627-2456637". This should help in retrieving more relevant articles. For more information: http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-10165_7-6206764-2.html?
Try to use sources of information that may reasonably be considered accurate and legitimate.
**A few other guidelines**:
• Link to other areas of our website as much as possible. To add links, select the bill number (or other appropriate text), right-click, and select “Hyperlink...†from the menu. We’d prefer that you do this rather than muddying the text with a long link, or adding footnotes/endnotes:
- If you mention a Key Vote in your wrap-up, then you will link to its summary on our website.
- If you mention a specific official in your wrap-up you will link to that official’s biographical page so that our readers will easily be able to access that person’s information if they don’t know who he or she is.
• If you choose to draw upon the press file or other news sources, you *MUST* cite your source using a hyperlink. This must be done in the case of direct quotations AND when you are using information that has been paraphrased from the press. There are absolutely no exceptions to this rule, unless the information is clearly common knowledge (e.g. “Rick Perry is currently the Governor of Texasâ€).
• Before you get started, review our general blogging guidelines on the Wiki, here: http://wiki.votesmart.org/Guidetospeakeasyblog.
Additions:
As each state's legislative session ends, the Key Votes Department typically has wrapped up the session in a brief, 1-2 page article that was posted on our blog. Going forward we will also be performing historical wrap ups, where our interns and staff perform this work for legislative sessions going back to 2006. This will help us account for all Key Votes in our database, as 2006 was the year the Project Vote Smart started the state Key Votes Program. Unlike our bill summaries, these wrap-ups are more creative in nature and you may utilize more of your own personal writing style. They will not contain bulleted highlights, but will be written in paragraph format in the same manner as a news article. Keep this in mind as you write.
Deletions:
Additions:
- Our press files (talk to a staff member if press files are not on Box for that year)
Deletions:
No Differences
Additions:
- To find relevant articles for a bill that is considerably old, try retrieving them by using a special google search with julian dates: Use this [[http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/JulianDate.php julian date converter]] to find the julian start date and end date of the date range you are looking for. Note: google will not accept julian decimal points so you would have to round. Your google search should look something like this: "Michigan HB 400 daterange:2456627-2456637". This should help in retrieving more relevant articles. For more information: http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-10165_7-6206764-2.html?
Deletions:
Additions:
- To find relevant articles for a bill that is considerably old, try retrieving them by using a special google search with julian dates: Use this [[http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/JulianDate.php julian date converter]] to find the julian start date and end date of the date range you are looking for. Note: google will not accept julian decimal points so you have to round. Your google search should look something like this: "Michigan HB 400 daterange:2456627-2456637". This should help in retrieving more relevant articles. For more information: http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-10165_7-6206764-2.html?
Deletions:
Additions:
- To find relevant articles for a bill that is considerably old, try retrieving them by using a special google search with julian dates: Use this [[http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/JulianDate.php]] julian date converter to find the julian start date and end date of the date range you are looking for. Note: google will not accept julian decimal points so you have to round. Your google search should look something like this: "Michigan HB 400 daterange:2456627-2456637". This should help in retrieving more relevant articles. For more information: http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-10165_7-6206764-2.html?
Deletions:
Additions:
- To find relevant articles for a bill that is year old, try retrieving them by using a special google search with julian dates: Use this [[http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/JulianDate.php]] julian date converter to find the julian start date and end date of the date range you are looking for. Note: google will not accept julian decimal points so you have to round. Your google search should look something like this: "Michigan HB 400 daterange:2456627-2456637". This should help in retrieving more relevant articles. For more information: http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-10165_7-6206764-2.html?
Deletions:
Additions:
- The PVS website
- The state legislature’s website,
- Our press files (talk to a staff member if press files are not on webspace for that year)
- [[http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/lnacademic/?verb=sf&sfi=AC00NBEasySrch LexisNexis Academic]]
- [[TrackingGuide Tracking links on the wiki for your state]], and any other relevant news articles that you can find.
- To find relevant articles for a bill that is year old, try retrieving them by using a special google search with julian dates: Use this [[http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/JulianDate.php]]julian date converter to find the julian start date and end date of the date range you are looking for. Note: google will not accept julian decimal points so you have to round. Your google search should look something like this: "Michigan HB 400 daterange:2456627-2456637".
- The state legislature’s website,
- Our press files (talk to a staff member if press files are not on webspace for that year)
- [[http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/lnacademic/?verb=sf&sfi=AC00NBEasySrch LexisNexis Academic]]
- [[TrackingGuide Tracking links on the wiki for your state]], and any other relevant news articles that you can find.
- To find relevant articles for a bill that is year old, try retrieving them by using a special google search with julian dates: Use this [[http://aa.usno.navy.mil/data/docs/JulianDate.php]]julian date converter to find the julian start date and end date of the date range you are looking for. Note: google will not accept julian decimal points so you have to round. Your google search should look something like this: "Michigan HB 400 daterange:2456627-2456637".
Deletions:
-the state legislature’s website,
-our press files (talk to a staff member if press files are not on webspace for that year)
-[[http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/lnacademic/?verb=sf&sfi=AC00NBEasySrch LexisNexis Academic]]
-[[TrackingGuide Tracking links on the wiki for your state]], and any other relevant news articles that you can find.
Additions:
-Check state legislative website; BEST resource to find legislation introduced, passed, etc.
Deletions:
-[[http://www.statenet.com/resources/session_statistics.php?state=AK&session_id= State Net]];
Additions:
1. Collecting Legislative Background Information indicated at the top of the State Legislative Summary Sheet Template (this section refers to all of the factual details like Governor, Number of Bills Passed, and Number of Vetoes. For names, use preferred name + last name, as listed on the [[http://votesmart.org/officials/NA/G/national-gubernatorial#.UmV6YBCfjqI full list of officials for that particular office]]). This step requires leg work, so take your time to get it right. Some resources to use:
Deletions:
Additions:
-[[http://www.statenet.com/resources/session_statistics.php?state=AK&session_id= State Net]];
Deletions:
Additions:
**A few other guidelines**:
Deletions:
Revision [10169]
Edited on 2013-10-18 14:07:18 by DarrenMcDivitt [added links and improved formatting]Additions:
You are free to use any sources that you like to find information including, but not limited to:
-the PVS website
-the state legislature’s website,
-our press files (talk to a staff member if press files are not on webspace for that year)
-[[http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/lnacademic/?verb=sf&sfi=AC00NBEasySrch LexisNexis Academic]]
-[[TrackingGuide Tracking links on the wiki for your state]], and any other relevant news articles that you can find.
Try to use sources of information that may reasonably be considered accurate and legitimate.
-the PVS website
-the state legislature’s website,
-our press files (talk to a staff member if press files are not on webspace for that year)
-[[http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/lnacademic/?verb=sf&sfi=AC00NBEasySrch LexisNexis Academic]]
-[[TrackingGuide Tracking links on the wiki for your state]], and any other relevant news articles that you can find.
Try to use sources of information that may reasonably be considered accurate and legitimate.
Deletions:
Revision [10168]
Edited on 2013-10-18 14:05:45 by DarrenMcDivitt [added links and improved formatting]Additions:
You are free to use any sources that you like to find information including, but not limited to, the PVS website, the state legislature’s website, our press files (talk to a staff member if press files are not on webspace for that year),[[http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/lnacademic/?verb=sf&sfi=AC00NBEasySrch LexisNexis Academic]], [[TrackingGuide Tracking links on the wiki for your state]] and any other relevant news articles that you can find. Try to use sources of information that may reasonably be considered accurate and legitimate.
Deletions:
Additions:
1. Collecting Legislative Background Information indicated at the top of the State Legislative Summary Sheet Template (this section refers to all of the factual details like Governor, Number of Bills Passed, and Number of Vetoes. For names, use explicit name given in PVS biographical page). This step requires leg work, so take your time to get it right. Some resources to use:
Deletions:
Additions:
1. Collecting Legislative Background Information indicated at the top of the State Legislative Summary Sheet Template (this section refers to all of the factual details like Governor (use explicit names given in PVS biographical page), Number of Bills Passed, and Number of Vetoes). This step requires leg work, so take your time to get it right. Some resources to use:
Deletions:
Additions:
1. Collecting Legislative Background Information indicated at the top of the State Legislative Summary Sheet Template (this section refers to all of the factual details like Governor (use explicit name given in his/her PVS biographical page), Number of Bills Passed, and Number of Vetoes). This step requires leg work, so take your time to get it right. Some resources to use:
Deletions:
Additions:
**4 Steps To Creating a Wrap-Up**
2. Optional: A paragraph with session information (this will require some outside research, as well as extensive research on votesmart.org):
• Were there any changes in the partisan breakdown from the beginning of the session to the end of the session; or
3. 3-5 paragraphs containing:
• Descriptions of bills that were introduced during the session to address the key issues that you identified in the introduction.
- Focus on the Key Votes that we’ve selected and summarized, but on occasion you may use bills that are not included on our website. Do so judiciously.
- Bring in the issue positions so that a reader may put the bills in that year's context. You may use direct quotes for legislators that you find in news articles.
- Make sure to tie the votes/issues/bills in with any national, regional, or state specific trends from past or current sessions. How do these bills differ from each other and how are they similar.
2. Optional: A paragraph with session information (this will require some outside research, as well as extensive research on votesmart.org):
• Were there any changes in the partisan breakdown from the beginning of the session to the end of the session; or
3. 3-5 paragraphs containing:
• Descriptions of bills that were introduced during the session to address the key issues that you identified in the introduction.
- Focus on the Key Votes that we’ve selected and summarized, but on occasion you may use bills that are not included on our website. Do so judiciously.
- Bring in the issue positions so that a reader may put the bills in that year's context. You may use direct quotes for legislators that you find in news articles.
- Make sure to tie the votes/issues/bills in with any national, regional, or state specific trends from past or current sessions. How do these bills differ from each other and how are they similar.
Deletions:
2. A paragraph with basic session information (this will require some outside research, as well as extensive research on votesmart.org):
• How many legislators are in each chamber;
• What is the party breakdown;
• How long was the session (from start date to end date)
• Was there a special session(s) called;
• How many bills were introduced/passed/signed by the Governor (if you can find this information easily); and
3. 2-3 paragraphs containing:
• Brief descriptions of bills that were introduced during the session to address the key issues that you identified in the introduction.
- You do not need to only address the Key Votes that we’ve selected and summarized, but you should try to include these whenever possible.
Additions:
You are free to use any sources that you like to find information including, but not limited to, the PVS website, the state legislature’s website, our press files,[[http://www.lexisnexis.com/hottopics/lnacademic/?verb=sf&sfi=AC00NBEasySrch LexisNexis Academic]], and any other relevant news articles that you can find. Try to use sources of information that may reasonably be considered accurate and legitimate.
Deletions:
Additions:
4. A concluding paragraph that summarizes major actions. In addition to bills that passed, were signed by the Governor, and will go into effect after adjournment, you may also want to mention major bills that died and will be taken up next time, or bills that were vetoed.
Deletions:
Additions:
-http://www.statenet.com/resources/session_statistics.php?state=AK&session_id= State Net;
-votesmart.org;
-votesmart.org;
Deletions:
Additions:
-http://www.statenet.com/resources/session_statistics.php?state=AK&session_id= State Net
Deletions:
Additions:
-<< http://www.statenet.com/resources/session_statistics.php?state=AK&session_id= State Net>>
Additions:
1. Collecting Legislative Background Information indicated at the top of the State Legislative Summary Sheet Template (this section refers to all of the factual details like Governor, Number of Bills Passed, and Number of Vetoes). This step requires leg work, so take your time to get it right. Some resources to use:
-Check state legislative website;
-Ballotpedia, Open Secrets, Etc.
-Compare issues to other states and national trends;
-Read the bills from other states;
-Bring in press files to expand on the arguments surrounding the issues.
-Check state legislative website;
-Ballotpedia, Open Secrets, Etc.
-Compare issues to other states and national trends;
-Read the bills from other states;
-Bring in press files to expand on the arguments surrounding the issues.
Deletions:
-Compare issues to other states and national trends
-Read the bills from other states
-Bring in press files to expand on the arguments surrounding the issues
Revision [9964]
Edited on 2013-10-08 11:17:19 by NatashaRoberts [continuing to improve instructions]Additions:
3. When linking in the body of the report, use votesmart.org links where possible
4. Working on the Body and Conclusion:
-Compare issues to other states and national trends
-Read the bills from other states
-Bring in press files to expand on the arguments surrounding the issues
4. Working on the Body and Conclusion:
-Compare issues to other states and national trends
-Read the bills from other states
-Bring in press files to expand on the arguments surrounding the issues
Deletions:
4. Working on the Body and Conclusion
Additions:
3. When linking in the body of the report, use votesmart.org links where possible.
4. Working on the Body and Conclusion
4. Working on the Body and Conclusion
Deletions:
Revision [9962]
Edited on 2013-10-08 08:30:41 by NatashaRoberts [Changing process for writing the report]Additions:
2. Indicating all resources checked, used, or referenced in the "Links Checked/Used" portion of the State Legislative Summary Sheet Template
Deletions:
Revision [9961]
Edited on 2013-10-08 08:29:50 by NatashaRoberts [Changing process for writing the report]Additions:
1. Collecting Legislative Background Information indicated at the top of the State Legislative Summary Sheet Template (this section refers to all of the factual details like Governor, Number of Bills Passed, and Number of Vetoes)
2. Indicating all resources checked, used, or referenced in the "Links Used" portion of the State Legislative Summary Sheet Template
2. Indicating all resources checked, used, or referenced in the "Links Used" portion of the State Legislative Summary Sheet Template
Deletions:
2. Creating a Press File
Revision [9639]
Edited on 2013-08-21 15:33:23 by DarrenMcDivitt [Changing process for writing the report]Additions:
**3 Steps To Creating a Wrap-Up**
1. Collecting Legislative Background Information (this section refers to all of the factual details like Governor, Number of Bills Passed, and Number of Vetoes)
2. Creating a Press File
3. Working on the Body and Conclusion
1. Collecting Legislative Background Information (this section refers to all of the factual details like Governor, Number of Bills Passed, and Number of Vetoes)
2. Creating a Press File
3. Working on the Body and Conclusion
Revision [7778]
Edited on 2013-02-20 10:27:46 by NatashaRoberts [Changing process for writing the report]Additions:
You are free to use any sources that you like to find information including, but not limited to, the PVS website, the state legislature’s website, our press files, and any other relevant news articles that you can find. Try to use sources of information that may reasonably be considered accurate and legitimate.
Deletions:
• ++Include your name at the top of the entry and a brief bio of yourself at the end. For example: “Jane Doe is a student at Harvard University majoring in Ceramics and a current intern with Project Vote Smart. For more information on internship opportunities with Project Vote Smart, contact us at intern@votesmart.org or by calling 1-888-VOTE-SMART.â€++
Revision [7777]
Edited on 2013-02-20 10:27:06 by NatashaRoberts [Changing process for writing the report]Additions:
3. 2-3 paragraphs containing:
• Brief descriptions of bills that were introduced during the session to address the key issues that you identified in the introduction.
- You do not need to only address the Key Votes that we’ve selected and summarized, but you should try to include these whenever possible.
- You may also include ballot initiatives, if any. These can be found on our website here: http://www.votesmart.org/elections/ballot-measures.
- Don’t forget to check the Public Statements section of our website: if any elected officials have talked about bills or issues publicly, you may quote them and link to their statement on our website.
• Link to other areas of our website as much as possible. To add links, select the bill number (or other appropriate text), right-click, and select “Hyperlink...†from the menu. We’d prefer that you do this rather than muddying the text with a long link, or adding footnotes/endnotes:
- If you mention a Key Vote in your wrap-up, then you will link to its summary on our website.
- If you mention a specific official in your wrap-up you will link to that official’s biographical page so that our readers will easily be able to access that person’s information if they don’t know who he or she is.
• If you choose to draw upon the press file or other news sources, you *MUST* cite your source using a hyperlink. This must be done in the case of direct quotations AND when you are using information that has been paraphrased from the press. There are absolutely no exceptions to this rule, unless the information is clearly common knowledge (e.g. “Rick Perry is currently the Governor of Texasâ€).
• Brief descriptions of bills that were introduced during the session to address the key issues that you identified in the introduction.
- You do not need to only address the Key Votes that we’ve selected and summarized, but you should try to include these whenever possible.
- You may also include ballot initiatives, if any. These can be found on our website here: http://www.votesmart.org/elections/ballot-measures.
- Don’t forget to check the Public Statements section of our website: if any elected officials have talked about bills or issues publicly, you may quote them and link to their statement on our website.
• Link to other areas of our website as much as possible. To add links, select the bill number (or other appropriate text), right-click, and select “Hyperlink...†from the menu. We’d prefer that you do this rather than muddying the text with a long link, or adding footnotes/endnotes:
- If you mention a Key Vote in your wrap-up, then you will link to its summary on our website.
- If you mention a specific official in your wrap-up you will link to that official’s biographical page so that our readers will easily be able to access that person’s information if they don’t know who he or she is.
• If you choose to draw upon the press file or other news sources, you *MUST* cite your source using a hyperlink. This must be done in the case of direct quotations AND when you are using information that has been paraphrased from the press. There are absolutely no exceptions to this rule, unless the information is clearly common knowledge (e.g. “Rick Perry is currently the Governor of Texasâ€).
Deletions:
• Link to other areas of our website as much as possible. To add links, select the bill number (or other appropriate text), right-click, and select “Hyperlink...†from the menu. We’d prefer that you do this rather than muddying the text with a long link, or adding footnotes/endnotes.
• If you choose to draw upon the press file or other news sources, you MUST cite your source using a hyperlink. This must be done in the case of direct quotations AND when you are using information that has been paraphrased from the press. There are absolutely no exceptions to this rule, unless the information is clearly common knowledge (e.g. “Rick Perry is currently the Governor of Texasâ€).
• Link to the summaries
Revision [7776]
Edited on 2013-02-20 10:23:00 by NatashaRoberts [Changing process for writing the report]Additions:
As each state’s legislative session ends, the Key Votes Department typically has “wrapped up†the session in a brief, 1-2 page article that was posted on our blog. Going forward we will also be performing historical wrap ups, where our interns and staff perform this work for legislative sessions going back to 2006. This will help us account for all Key Votes in our database, as 2006 was the year the Project Vote Smart started the state Key Votes Program. Unlike our bill summaries, these wrap-ups are more creative in nature and you may utilize more of your own personal writing style. They will not contain bulleted highlights, but will be written in paragraph format in the same manner as a news article. Keep this in mind as you write.
Wrap Ups should be created using a similar process as a bill summary. However, the folder will only contain each version of the wrap up as it advances throughout the check process, rather than each successive version.
1. An introductory paragraph which identifies major themes or key issues that were addressed by the legislature during the session (i.e. authorizing same-sex marriage, addressing certain federal regulations, rescinding budget appropriations).
2. A paragraph with basic session information (this will require some outside research, as well as extensive research on votesmart.org):
• How many legislators are in each chamber;
• What is the party breakdown;
• How long was the session (from start date to end date)
• Was there a special session(s) called;
• How many bills were introduced/passed/signed by the Governor (if you can find this information easily); and
• Any other information you think might be interesting or relevant.
3. 2-3 paragraphs containing brief descriptions of bills that were introduced during the session to address the key issues that you identified in the introduction. You do not need to only address the Key Votes that we’ve selected and summarized, but you should try to include these whenever possible. You may also include ballot initiatives, if any. These can be found on our website here: http://www.votesmart.org/elections/ballot-measures. Finally, don’t forget to check the Public Statements section of our website: if any elected officials have talked about bills or issues publicly, you may quote them and link to their statement on our website. You can also link to that official’s biographical page so that our readers will easily be able to access that person’s information if they don’t know who he or she is.
• Link to the summaries
Wrap Ups should be created using a similar process as a bill summary. However, the folder will only contain each version of the wrap up as it advances throughout the check process, rather than each successive version.
1. An introductory paragraph which identifies major themes or key issues that were addressed by the legislature during the session (i.e. authorizing same-sex marriage, addressing certain federal regulations, rescinding budget appropriations).
2. A paragraph with basic session information (this will require some outside research, as well as extensive research on votesmart.org):
• How many legislators are in each chamber;
• What is the party breakdown;
• How long was the session (from start date to end date)
• Was there a special session(s) called;
• How many bills were introduced/passed/signed by the Governor (if you can find this information easily); and
• Any other information you think might be interesting or relevant.
3. 2-3 paragraphs containing brief descriptions of bills that were introduced during the session to address the key issues that you identified in the introduction. You do not need to only address the Key Votes that we’ve selected and summarized, but you should try to include these whenever possible. You may also include ballot initiatives, if any. These can be found on our website here: http://www.votesmart.org/elections/ballot-measures. Finally, don’t forget to check the Public Statements section of our website: if any elected officials have talked about bills or issues publicly, you may quote them and link to their statement on our website. You can also link to that official’s biographical page so that our readers will easily be able to access that person’s information if they don’t know who he or she is.
• Link to the summaries
Deletions:
Wrap Ups should be created using a similar process as a bill summary. However, the folder will only contain each version of the wrap up as it advances throughout the check process.
1. An introductory paragraph, which identifies major themes or key issues that were addressed by the legislature during their session (i.e. legalizing gay marriage, addressing certain federal regulations, trimming the budget).
2. A paragraph with basic session information: how many state representatives and senators are there, what is the party breakdown, how long was the session (from start date to end date), how many bills were introduced/passed/signed by the Governor (if you can find this information easily), and any other information that you think might be interesting or relevant.
3. 2-3 paragraphs containing brief descriptions of bills that were introduced during the session to address the key issues that you identified in the introduction. You need not limit yourself to our Key Votes that we’ve selected and summarized, but you should try to include these whenever possible and link to the summaries. You may also include ballot initiatives, if any. These can be found on our website here: http://www.votesmart.org/elections/ballot-measures. Finally, don’t forget to check the Public Statements section of our website: if any elected officials have talked about bills or issues publicly, you may quote them and link to their statement on our website. You can also link to that official’s biographical page so that our readers will easily be able to access that person’s information if they don’t know who he or she is.
Revision [7775]
Edited on 2013-02-20 10:10:04 by DarrenMcDivitt [Changing process for writing the report]Additions:
**Each wrap-up should contain the following sections:**
Deletions:
Revision [7774]
Edited on 2013-02-20 10:09:50 by DarrenMcDivitt [Changing process for writing the report]Additions:
Wrap Ups should be created using a similar process as a bill summary. However, the folder will only contain each version of the wrap up as it advances throughout the check process.
Revision [7729]
Edited on 2013-02-19 13:08:33 by DarrenMcDivitt [Changing process for writing the report]Additions:
• Before you get started, review our general blogging guidelines on the Wiki, here: http://wiki.votesmart.org/Guidetospeakeasyblog.
• ++Include your name at the top of the entry and a brief bio of yourself at the end. For example: “Jane Doe is a student at Harvard University majoring in Ceramics and a current intern with Project Vote Smart. For more information on internship opportunities with Project Vote Smart, contact us at intern@votesmart.org or by calling 1-888-VOTE-SMART.â€++
• ++Include your name at the top of the entry and a brief bio of yourself at the end. For example: “Jane Doe is a student at Harvard University majoring in Ceramics and a current intern with Project Vote Smart. For more information on internship opportunities with Project Vote Smart, contact us at intern@votesmart.org or by calling 1-888-VOTE-SMART.â€++
Deletions:
• Include your name at the top of the entry and a brief bio of yourself at the end. For example: “Jane Doe is a student at Harvard University majoring in Ceramics and a current intern with Project Vote Smart. For more information on internship opportunities with Project Vote Smart, contact us at intern@votesmart.org or by calling 1-888-VOTE-SMART.â€++
Revision [7728]
Edited on 2013-02-19 13:07:52 by DarrenMcDivitt [Changing process for writing the report]Additions:
As each state’s legislative session ends, the Key Votes Department typically has “wrapped up†the session in a brief, 1-2 page article that was posted on our blog. Going forward we will also be performing historical wrap ups, where our interns and staff perform this work for legislative sessions going back to 2006. This will help us account for all Key Votes in our database, as 2006 was the year the Project Vote Smart started the state Key Votes Program. Unlike our bill summaries, these wrap-ups are more creative in nature and you may utilize your own personal writing style. They will not contain bulleted highlights but instead will be written in paragraph format in the same manner as a news article. Keep this in mind as you write.
You are free to use any sources that you like to find information including, but not limited to, the PVS website, the state legislature’s website, our press files, and any other relevant news articles that you can find. Try to use sources of information that may reasonably be considered accurate and legitimate, ++even if they are not strictly non-partisan. For example, using an article from Fox News or Huffington Post would be acceptable; using the comments to news articles, personal blogs, and social networking pages is not.++
You are free to use any sources that you like to find information including, but not limited to, the PVS website, the state legislature’s website, our press files, and any other relevant news articles that you can find. Try to use sources of information that may reasonably be considered accurate and legitimate, ++even if they are not strictly non-partisan. For example, using an article from Fox News or Huffington Post would be acceptable; using the comments to news articles, personal blogs, and social networking pages is not.++
Deletions:
You are free to use any sources that you like to find information including, but not limited to, the PVS website, the state legislature’s website, our press files, and any other relevant news articles that you can find. Try to use sources of information that may reasonably be considered accurate and legitimate, even if they are not strictly non-partisan. For example, using an article from Fox News or Huffington Post would be acceptable; using the comments to news articles, personal blogs, and social networking pages is not.
Revision [7725]
Edited on 2013-02-19 11:30:43 by DarrenMcDivitt [Changing process for writing the report]Additions:
• ++Before you get started, review our general blogging guidelines on the Wiki, here: http://wiki.votesmart.org/Guidetospeakeasyblog.
• Include your name at the top of the entry and a brief bio of yourself at the end. For example: “Jane Doe is a student at Harvard University majoring in Ceramics and a current intern with Project Vote Smart. For more information on internship opportunities with Project Vote Smart, contact us at intern@votesmart.org or by calling 1-888-VOTE-SMART.â€++
• Include your name at the top of the entry and a brief bio of yourself at the end. For example: “Jane Doe is a student at Harvard University majoring in Ceramics and a current intern with Project Vote Smart. For more information on internship opportunities with Project Vote Smart, contact us at intern@votesmart.org or by calling 1-888-VOTE-SMART.â€++
Deletions:
• Include your name at the top of the entry and a brief bio of yourself at the end. For example: “Jane Doe is a student at Harvard University majoring in Ceramics and a current intern with Project Vote Smart. For more information on internship opportunities with Project Vote Smart, contact us at intern@votesmart.org or by calling 1-888-VOTE-SMART.â€
Revision [7724]
Edited on 2013-02-19 11:29:33 by DarrenMcDivitt [Changing process for writing the report]Additions:
==State Legislative Wrap-Ups==
As each state’s legislative session ends, the Key Votes Department typically has “wrapped up†the session in a brief, 1-2 page article that was posted on our blog. Going forward we will also be performing historical wrap ups, where our interns and staff perform this work for legislative sessions going back to 2006, which was the year the Project Vote Smart started the state Key Votes Program. Unlike our bill summaries, these wrap-ups are more creative in nature and you may utilize your own personal writing style. They will not contain bulleted highlights but instead will be written in paragraph format in the same manner as a news article. Keep this in mind as you write.
As each state’s legislative session ends, the Key Votes Department typically has “wrapped up†the session in a brief, 1-2 page article that was posted on our blog. Going forward we will also be performing historical wrap ups, where our interns and staff perform this work for legislative sessions going back to 2006, which was the year the Project Vote Smart started the state Key Votes Program. Unlike our bill summaries, these wrap-ups are more creative in nature and you may utilize your own personal writing style. They will not contain bulleted highlights but instead will be written in paragraph format in the same manner as a news article. Keep this in mind as you write.
Deletions:
As each state’s legislative session ends, we will be “wrapping up†the session in a brief, 1-2 page article that will be posted on our blog. Unlike our bill summaries, these wrap-ups will be more creative in nature and you may utilize your own personal writing style. They will not contain bulleted highlights but instead will be written in paragraph format in the same manner as a news article. Keep this in mind as you write.
Revision [7723]
Edited on 2013-02-19 11:25:53 by DarrenMcDivitt [Changing process for writing the report]Additions:
• Before you get started, review our general blogging guidelines on the Wiki, here: http://wiki.votesmart.org/Guidetospeakeasyblog.
