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, High School Journalism by Homer L. Hall