The Power of the Press
How can investigative journalism be utilized as a powerful tool to inspire positive change?
Seventh-grade students at Burke’s explored this essential question in a dynamic unit led by Ms. Sawyer and Ms. Neves. Over several weeks, students stepped into the role of investigative journalists, selecting timely and thought-provoking topics they were curious about—from social media overconsumption and animal testing to homelessness in the Bay Area and women’s rights in Pakistan. They then transformed their research into compelling expository newspaper articles.
Each piece centered on a driving question, inviting readers to explore the complexities of contemporary issues through multiple perspectives. Students developed evidence-based arguments supported by research from credible institutions, expert insights, and community voices.
To deepen their reporting, students also designed data visualizations and graphs illustrating key trends, such as the gender pay gap in World Cup sports, the number of animals used annually in U.S. research, and temperature anomalies linked to climate change over time.
Through this process, students strengthened their skills in research, synthesis, writing, and source citation—while also sharing meaningful insights with the broader Burke’s community.
Burke's mission is to educate, encourage and empower girls. Our school combines academic excellence with an appreciation for childhood so that students thrive as learners, develop a strong sense of self, contribute to community, and fulfill their potential, now and throughout life.
Burke's admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.