Feature story

Definition

A feature story is a detailed narrative that goes beyond the basic facts of a news event, aiming to provide depth, context, and insight into a particular topic or individual. Unlike standard news articles that focus on who, what, when, where, and why, feature stories engage readers by offering a more immersive experience through storytelling techniques, vivid descriptions, and human interest elements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Feature stories often follow a specific structure, including an engaging lead, body that expands on the topic, and a strong conclusion that ties everything together.
2. These stories can cover a wide range of topics, from profiles of interesting people to explorations of social issues or cultural phenomena.
3. The use of quotes and anecdotes is crucial in feature stories, as they help to personalize the narrative and make it relatable to the audience.
4. Feature stories often require extensive research and interviews, allowing journalists to gather diverse perspectives and create a well-rounded narrative.
5. Effective feature stories evoke emotions and provoke thought, aiming not just to inform but also to inspire or challenge readers' viewpoints.

Review Questions

• How does a feature story differ from a standard news article in terms of structure and purpose?
  • A feature story differs from a standard news article primarily in its structure and purpose. While news articles focus on delivering essential facts about an event quickly and succinctly, feature stories are structured to engage readers through narrative elements. They delve deeper into the subject matter, providing context, emotion, and storytelling techniques that allow for a richer reading experience.
• Discuss how narrative techniques enhance the impact of feature stories compared to traditional reporting methods.
  • Narrative techniques enhance the impact of feature stories by allowing journalists to weave together facts with storytelling elements like character development, dialogue, and vivid descriptions. This approach creates an emotional connection with readers and makes complex issues more accessible. By transforming raw data into compelling narratives, feature stories can effectively communicate the significance of an issue while keeping the audience engaged.
• Evaluate the role of human interest elements in feature stories and how they contribute to the overall effectiveness of investigative reporting.
  • Human interest elements play a vital role in feature stories by bringing attention to personal experiences and emotional narratives that resonate with readers. By focusing on individuals affected by broader issues, these stories foster empathy and understanding, enhancing the effectiveness of investigative reporting. This connection not only captures reader interest but also encourages them to consider the implications of the reported issues on real lives, ultimately driving engagement with critical social topics.

Related terms

Narrative Journalism: A style of journalism that uses storytelling techniques to present news events and issues in a compelling way, often blurring the line between factual reporting and creative writing.

In-depth Reporting: A comprehensive examination of a specific issue or event that goes beyond surface-level facts, providing detailed analysis and background information.

Human Interest: A type of journalism that focuses on personal stories and emotional experiences of individuals to connect with readers on a more personal level.