Writing Feature Articles

Writing Feature ArticlesPart 2 WritingSteps To SuccessGrab the reader's attention.Keep that attention.Leave an impression.Be selective of graphics

Grab the readers attentionCatchy image Catchy title (eg. pun, question)Enticing write offAppealing colours and fonts

Create curiosity, interest and appeal!

Note: Its very important to think of your target audience when selecting these

Keep that attentionYour lead or introduction is your second step towards sealing the deal!

A successful lead will:Attract the reader.Give the reader the central idea.Lead the reader into the story.

The lead should define the topic, establish context, explain why the subject is interesting or notable, and summarize the most important pointsincluding any prominent controversies

Types of LeadsDESCRIPTION What it feels like; the sights, sounds, textures, tastes and smells that evoke clear images in the mind of the reader.

DIRECT ADDRESS Asking questions or asking the reader to imagine something; as though the writer is expecting a direct response from the reader. SHOCKING STATEMENT [aka the teaser]. A shocking or striking statement that will produce a strong response in the reader. It may challenge a belief, or be provocative (cause a stir). NARRATIVEA short story piece, often from the writers own experience. Also descriptive, but is more like retelling an event that took place. QUOTATIONA relevant and effective quotation can introduce the reader to the theme of the article. The quote should compel the reader to go further into the story.Note: Do not frame your lead as an overall question. It will not entice your reader. However you can use rhetorical questions within your lead. So the lead..outlines the topic or issue.

The lead may also:Provoke the reader's interest by making an unusual statement.Provide any necessary background information.Invite the reader to take sides by making a controversial statement.Create a relationship between the writer and the reader.

BodyThe body consists of a number of paragraphs that expand the main topic of the article into subtopics. The usual components are:Subheadings.Facts and statistics which support the writer's opinion.Personal viewpoints.Opinions from authorities and experts.Quotes and interviews.Anecdotes and stories.Specific names, places and dates.Photographs, tables, diagrams and graphs.

Leave an impressionThe concluding paragraph should leave a lasting impression by:Reminding the reader of the article's main ideaSuggesting an appropriate course of action.Encourage a change of attitude or opinion.

Note: Use personal pronouns, action verbs (persuasive techniques)Use of languageA personal tone is created through the use of informal, colloquial (slang) and first person narrative.Relevant jargon (topic related slang) adds authenticity to the information and opinions.Anecdotes (brief stories, personal encounters) help to maintain reader interest.Facts validate the writer's viewpoints.Rhetorical questions help to involve the reader.Emotive words are used to evoke a personal response in the reader.Effective use of imagery and description engage the reader's imagination.The use of direct quotes personalises the topic.