Anecdotal Leads in Journalism

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the primary function of an anecdotal lead in feature writing?

  • To present statistical data and factual information upfront.
  • To summarize the entire story in a concise manner.
  • To draw the reader into the story through a short, engaging narrative. (correct)
  • To introduce the writer's personal opinions and biases.

What is the role of the 'nut graf' in feature writing, particularly after an anecdotal lead?

  • To introduce a secondary, less important theme.
  • To provide a visually appealing graphic element.
  • To directly explain the main point of the story, encompassing the 5Ws and H. (correct)
  • To offer a contrasting viewpoint to the lead anecdote.

In the structure of a feature story using an anecdotal lead, where should a strong quote ideally be placed?

  • In the middle of the story to break up long paragraphs.
  • Before or after the nut graf to emphasize the anecdote. (correct)
  • Only at the beginning to grab the reader's attention.
  • Only at the end of the story as a concluding remark.

What is the purpose of the 'kicker' ending in a feature story?

<p>To provide a resolution or final thought that loops back to the lead. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following elements is most crucial in a 'contrast lead'?

<p>Vivid imagery and irony (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to 'bring out the people' in feature stories?

<p>To make the story more relatable and engaging for the reader. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should a writer consider when developing an idea for a feature story?

<p>Whom they need to interview, what questions to ask, and what research is required. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should a writer use quotes in a feature story to maximize impact?

<p>Use the best quote early and save a strong one for the ending. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of the lead in a feature story?

<p>To capture the reader's attention and draw them into the story. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a feature story is about a complex issue, how can the 'nut graf' help the reader?

<p>By providing a clear and concise explanation of the story's central point. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In feature writing, what is the significance of creating an outline after completing the research and interviews?

<p>It helps organize the information and identify the best elements for the lead and ending. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the use of anecdotes contribute to the effectiveness of a feature story?

<p>They personalize the story, making it more relatable and memorable. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one potential drawback of using a hard news lead in feature writing?

<p>It may not capture the reader's attention as effectively as other types of leads. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why should feature writers be mindful of their story's ending?

<p>The ending gives the reader a final impression and something to contemplate. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does a feature story differ from a hard news report in terms of structure and style?

<p>Feature stories allow for more creative writing and in-depth exploration of a topic. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of descriptive writing in setting the scene for an anecdotal lead?

<p>It can create a vivid picture in the reader's mind, making the story more engaging. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the potential impact of opening a feature story with a dull or uninspired lead?

<p>It may cause the reader to stop reading, regardless of the rest of the content. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can using statistical data in the 'nut graf' enhance a feature story?

<p>It provides factual support for the lead and gives the story credibility. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of circling the 'best quote' when outlining a feature story?

<p>It helps to highlight a quote that would make a strong lead or reinforce key points. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key element to consider when crafting the body of a feature story, particularly after the 'nut graf'?

<p>Developing the points outlined in the 'nut graf' with supporting evidence, quotes, and anecdotes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Lead

The most important element of a story that draws the reader in.

Anecdotal Lead

A short story that leads the reader into the main point.

Nut Graf

Embodies the who, what, where, when, why, and how of the story. It directly tells the reader what the story is about.

Feature Story Structure

A story structure that includes an anecdotal lead, a quote, the nut graf, supporting points, and an ending.

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Narrative Style

A story structure with a beginning, middle, and end.

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Contrast Lead

Plays on words and uses irony to set off two contrasting images.

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Kicker Ending

An ending that loops back to your lead, providing a sense of closure.

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Study Notes

  • The lead is the most important story element because it draws the reader in.

Anecdotal Leads

  • The anecdotal lead, a mainstay of feature writing, is a short story that introduces the main point.
  • An anecdotal lead draws a picture of what the story is about.
  • It's often followed by a quote that emphasizes the anecdote.
  • After the anecdotal lead and quote, the writer presents the story's thesis in a nut graf.
  • The nut graf embodies the who, what, where, when, why, and how of the story, directly telling the reader what the story is about.

Example of Anecdotal Lead

  • In a New York Times article, the author began with an anecdote about Clarise Middleton, a Black woman, who was accused of fraud at a Wells Fargo branch.
  • The anecdote humanizes the situation and is followed by a quote.

Anecdotal Lead with Quote Placement

  • An anecdote about a police officer escorting an 8-year-old to school who wouldn't get out of bed was used.
  • In this instance, the quote followed the nut graf.

Developing the Story

  • Transition into your best quote before or after the nut graf when using an anecdotal lead.
  • Back up the story with more quotes, facts, and anecdotes following the nut graf.
  • Use the nut graf to signal points you want to emphasize.

Story Structure

  • Anecdotal Lead
  • Quote
  • Nut Graf
  • Point or Example 1
  • Point or Example 2
  • Point or Example 3
  • Ending

Scene-Setting Lead

  • A story about a proposed highway was humanized by focusing on a person who lived in the canyon.
  • Descriptive writing shows the contrast between canyon life and suburban life.

Writing Features

  • Bring out the people in your story
  • End with a good quote or a point that loops back to the lead to give the reader something to think about.
  • Structure stories in a narrative style, with a beginning, middle, and end.

Contrast Lead

  • Plays on words and uses irony to set off two contrasting images

Story Structure Tips

  • Develop an idea of the story, research, interview, and formulate questions
  • Once the story is completed, make an outline, circle best quotes, and think of the lead that will be used
  • Write the lead
  • Use the best quote high in the story and save the second best for the ending if needed
  • Use a kicker ending that can be a quote, anecdote or information that loops back to the lead.

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