Feature article conventions
A feature article differs from a straight news story in several ways. A news story provides information about a (generally current) event or situation. A feature article has more functionality and longevity- it interprets news, adds depth, opinion or entertainment.
Headline:
The headline of a feature article uses bold and descriptive language to draw the attention of the reader.
Also works to construct a vivid image in the mind of the reader.
Headline is always visually appealing: bold and clear.
Can sometimes contain jokes, puns or provocative language to entertain reader.
Can also ask rhetorical questions.
Structure:
Introduction: The introduction entices the reader, whilst clarifying the subject. It establishes the writer’s point of view/thesis.
Uses direct quotations, recounts, questions, descriptions or a personal interest story (the experiences of a person unique to the topic) to encourage readers to read further.
Body: Goes into further detail about the topic.
Answers any unanswered questions raised in the introduction.
Uses direct quotations, expert opinions, interviews, anecdotes, statistics and facts.
Avoids lengthy complex paragraphs as articles are often written in columns.
Conclusion: Closes the topic by making final conclusions.
Maintains the mood of the story.
Language:
The language used in feature articles is persuasive and emotive: intended to create a particular emotional response in the mind of the reader (this could range from sorrow to anger or intrigue depending on the article).
Articles can sometimes use “catch phrases” or a repetitive phrase to trigger a response in the audience.
Selection and omission of detail is significant.
Language can sometimes be bold and exaggerated to create an emotional response: when reading, highlight words with particularly strong connotations.
Makes use of emotive language, inclusive language (we, our), rhetorical questions and a mixture of long and short sentences.
Headline:
The headline of a feature article uses bold and descriptive language to draw the attention of the reader.
Also works to construct a vivid image in the mind of the reader.
Headline is always visually appealing: bold and clear.
Can sometimes contain jokes, puns or provocative language to entertain reader.
Can also ask rhetorical questions.
Structure:
Introduction: The introduction entices the reader, whilst clarifying the subject. It establishes the writer’s point of view/thesis.
Uses direct quotations, recounts, questions, descriptions or a personal interest story (the experiences of a person unique to the topic) to encourage readers to read further.
Body: Goes into further detail about the topic.
Answers any unanswered questions raised in the introduction.
Uses direct quotations, expert opinions, interviews, anecdotes, statistics and facts.
Avoids lengthy complex paragraphs as articles are often written in columns.
Conclusion: Closes the topic by making final conclusions.
Maintains the mood of the story.
Language:
The language used in feature articles is persuasive and emotive: intended to create a particular emotional response in the mind of the reader (this could range from sorrow to anger or intrigue depending on the article).
Articles can sometimes use “catch phrases” or a repetitive phrase to trigger a response in the audience.
Selection and omission of detail is significant.
Language can sometimes be bold and exaggerated to create an emotional response: when reading, highlight words with particularly strong connotations.
Makes use of emotive language, inclusive language (we, our), rhetorical questions and a mixture of long and short sentences.