The story I chose for analysis is based on a survey organized by the department of agriculture on cropland use in the coming season compared to statistics of past years.
The numbers used in the article are often given in relation other statistics to show relative change or to help give them value. Most percentage values are given to one decimal place. I think this is necessary because fractions of percents are more important when the values are small. Rates of change have been calculated.
The numbers of acres planted each year are very large and are difficult to grasp. Percentage change helps visualize this change.
The article appears to say that increased consumer cost of food is the overall news value. But, the majority of the article explains predictions of land use and possible effects on grain prices. It appears to be meant for an audience that may be more directly affected by this.
One improvement that I think would help: give information on recent fluctuations in grain prices, and not just give one set that implies reactions to the survey results. Explain relationship to oil.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123850608441073585.html?mod=googlenews_wsj