News is information about current events. It can be conveyed verbally, in print, by broadcasting, or electronically. The concept of news is derived from the word “new”, meaning something that has just happened or is in the process of happening. The origin of news dates back to the earliest days of communication with the use of oral traditions, then later on in written and printed form.
A national news story is an article concerning the actions of a nation or its government. It can also be a story that affects many citizens of a country such as a war, disaster, or governmental scandal. In the United States, there is often a blurred distinction between world news and “national” news when the subject concerns directly the national government or institutions such as multilateral organizations in which the nation is a member.
The selection of stories by a news organization is based on a number of factors. The most popular stories are those with dramatic impact or controversy. These include crime, politics, and scandals. The proximity of a story to the reader is another factor in its popularity and influence. Familiarity with the people involved in a story adds to its appeal and makes it more relatable. The models of news making help to determine which stories are selected and how they are presented.
Many local newspapers and television channels focus on regional news. For example, Canadian commercial television networks such as CTV have a regional morning news show and there is a bloc in the late afternoon dedicated to regional news. In addition, Finland’s public broadcaster YLE has an eight-minute regional news bulletin every weeknight at 18:21 Eastern European Time on YLE1. The bulletins from all regions are then replayed the following day starting at 10:50 Eastern European Time on YLE1.