Feature stories

Definition

Feature stories are in-depth articles that explore a particular topic, person, or event with a focus on storytelling and human interest. Unlike traditional news reports, feature stories often emphasize narrative structure, character development, and rich detail to engage readers emotionally and intellectually. They allow journalists to go beyond the basics of who, what, when, where, and why, providing context and a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Feature stories often include personal anecdotes, interviews, and descriptive imagery to draw readers in and provide a richer experience.
2. These stories can cover a wide range of topics, including profiles of individuals, cultural events, social issues, and historical retrospectives.
3. Feature writing allows journalists to use creative language and literary techniques, making it distinct from hard news writing.
4. The goal of a feature story is not only to inform but also to entertain and evoke emotions in the reader.
5. Feature stories may take longer to research and write compared to typical news articles due to their depth and complexity.

Review Questions

• How do feature stories differ from traditional news articles in terms of structure and content?
  • Feature stories differ from traditional news articles by focusing on storytelling elements rather than just presenting facts. While news articles typically follow the inverted pyramid structure with key information first, feature stories prioritize narrative flow and character development. This allows for a more engaging exploration of topics through detailed descriptions, personal anecdotes, and emotional connections that draw readers into the story.
• Discuss the importance of observation skills in writing effective feature stories.
  • Observation skills are crucial in writing effective feature stories because they help journalists capture details that enhance the narrative. By closely observing their subjects and surroundings, writers can uncover unique insights and nuances that enrich their storytelling. These skills allow journalists to create vivid imagery and convey emotions that resonate with readers, making the story more impactful and memorable.
• Evaluate how the use of narrative journalism techniques can elevate feature stories and what impact this might have on audience engagement.
  • The use of narrative journalism techniques can significantly elevate feature stories by transforming straightforward reporting into immersive experiences. Techniques such as scene-setting, character development, and thematic exploration engage audiences on a deeper level, encouraging them to connect emotionally with the subject matter. This heightened engagement can lead to increased readership and a greater understanding of complex issues as audiences are drawn into compelling narratives that reveal the human side of news.

Related terms

Inverted Pyramid: A writing style commonly used in journalism where the most important information is presented first, followed by supporting details in descending order of significance.

Lead: The opening sentence or paragraph of a story that captures the reader's attention and summarizes the main point or angle of the article.

Narrative Journalism: A style of journalism that combines factual reporting with storytelling techniques to create engaging narratives that reflect the complexity of real-life events.