1. Writing Feature Stories Unit 6

2. Definition and Characteristics • Feature stories highlight a specific person, place or thing. • Feature stories are informative and entertaining. • Features play a large role in a high school newspaper.

3. Structure of a Feature Story • A feature story allows more freedom. • Feature stories are timeless so they can be written anytime. • Leads are not written the same as for a news story. • You may begin with an anecdote. • Feature stories allow for creativity.

4. Subjects for Feature Stories • Fellow students and their achievements are often subjects for feature stories. • Feature sections also contain entertainment stories, from music to movies. • Feature stories are the place in the newspaper for the peculiar or the extravagant. • The element of surprise has its place.

5. Types of Feature Stories • Human Interest Features – based on something unusual, intended to affect the emotions of the reader • Sights and Sounds Features – what is happening at a certain place and time • Personality Profile – the life, interests, and accomplishments of an interesting person • Historical Feature – holidays or events

6. Types of Feature Stories • Informative Features – requires research • News Features – linked to a News story • Personal Experience Features – a trip or experience of a student • Photo Features – focus on pictures rather than copy • How-to Features – step-by-step process

7. Types of Feature Stories • Consumer Report – evaluates products, prices, etc. • Other types of Feature Stories include Adventure, Travel, Society, Humor, and Autobiographical

8. Leads for Feature Stories • Descriptive – creates a vivid picture • Narrative Hook – fictional • Question – ask a pertinent question to get the reader involved • Quotation – begins with a quote that summarizes the story • Striking Statement – meant to shock the reader

9. Sources • Some of this information came from a “Start the Press” article written by Auburn University journalism students in 2005. • Other information came from the book, HighSchool Journalism by Homer L. Hall