Understanding Feature Articles

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Questions and Answers

Which characteristic primarily distinguishes a feature article from a standard news report?

  • Features strictly adhere to the 5 Ws, while news reports explore narrative depth.
  • News reports use descriptive language, while features rely on factual reporting.
  • News reports include interviews, while features do not.
  • Features focus on storytelling, human interest, and analysis, while news reports prioritize immediate delivery of the 5 Ws. (correct)

Match the following feature types with their descriptions:

Profile Feature = Story focusing on a person's life and achievements. Human Interest Feature = Emotional stories about people or issues. Investigative Feature = Deep dives requiring extensive research. Trend Feature = Coverage of emerging trends in society.

Which of the following is NOT a typical element of a feature article's introduction?

  • Breaking News (correct)
  • Summary
  • Delayed Drop
  • Anecdote

The 'peg' of a feature article refers to its unique perspective or angle on the topic.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between open and closed questions in the context of interviewing for a feature article?

<p>Open questions encourage detailed answers, while closed questions elicit short, factual responses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the structure of a feature article, the __________ develops the story with facts, quotes, background, and analysis.

<p>body</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should a writer primarily avoid in their writing style for a feature article?

<p>Dry, formal language (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Sensationalism is acceptable in feature writing, provided it attracts more readers.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which action violates ethical considerations in feature writing?

<p>Plagiarism of quotes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name three elements that contribute to a compelling feature, according to the key takeaways.

<p>Peg, Angle, Strong Intro</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the MOST appropriate use of a leading question during an interview?

<p>To guide the interviewee towards confirming a specific viewpoint or sentiment. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Using multimedia elements such as photos and videos is only relevant for print feature articles, not digital ones.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The 'why now?' justification for a feature article is referred to as the _______.

<p>peg</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following steps is crucial during the editing phase of feature writing?

<p>Proofreading multiple drafts for clarity and accuracy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In feature writing, what does 'active listening' involve during the interview process?

<p>Paying close attention to the interviewee, showing genuine interest, and asking follow-up questions for clarification.</p> Signup and view all the answers

A strong feature article conclusion should simply summarize the main points without leaving the reader with any lasting impression or call to action.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When researching for a feature article, what is the role of primary sources?

<p>To offer firsthand accounts, original data, and direct evidence. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The unique perspective or approach a writer takes when covering a topic in a feature article is known as the ________.

<p>angle</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does varying sentence structure enhance the writing style of a feature article?

<p>It creates a dynamic pacing, making the article more engaging. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a 'delayed drop' in a feature article introduction?

<p>To create suspense and intrigue, drawing the reader in by withholding key information until later in the story.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Feature Article

Longer, detailed, engaging stories focusing on storytelling, human interest, and analysis, unlike standard news.

Feature's '5 Ws'

Answers the 5 Ws gradually, building narrative depth.

Profile Feature

Focuses on a person’s life, career, or achievements.

Human Interest Feature

Emotional, engaging stories about people or issues.

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Investigative Feature

Deep dives requiring extensive research.

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Trend Feature

Covers emerging trends in society, culture, or tech.

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How-To Feature

Provides practical advice or guides.

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Travel & Lifestyle Feature

Explores places, cultures, and experiences.

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Reviews

Critical analysis of media or art.

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Compelling headlines

Captivates the reader.

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Introduction in features

Hooks the reader with storytelling.

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Body

Develops the story with facts, quotes, background, and analysis.

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Conclusion

Leaves a strong final thought or reflection.

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Peg

The 'why now?' justification for the feature.

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Angle

The unique perspective or approach.

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Research sources

Use interviews, firsthand experience and expert opinions.

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Open questions

Encourage detailed answers.

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Closed Questions

Short, factual responses.

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Writing Style

Avoid dry, formal language.

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Accuracy & Fairness

Avoid sensationalism.

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Study Notes

  • Features are longer and more detailed than news reports
  • Features use storytelling and analysis
  • Features focus on human interest

Key Differences from News

  • News answers the 5 Ws immediately
  • Features reveal the 5 Ws gradually
  • Features reveal the 5 Ws with narrative depth

Common Elements

  • Features use descriptions, interviews, and narrative structure
  • Features use strong hooks and emotional appeal
  • Features use detailed research

Types of Features

  • Profile features focus on a person’s life or achievements
  • Human interest features are emotional and engaging stories
  • Investigative features are deep dives
  • Trend features cover emerging trends
  • How-to features provide practical advice
  • Travel and lifestyle explore cultures and experiences
  • Reviews are critical analyses of media
  • Interviews are structured Q&As or narrative-driven profiles

Structure of a Feature Article

  • Headline should be captivating

Introduction

  • The introduction should hook the reader
  • Narrative is chronological storytelling
  • Anecdote is a short illustrative story
  • Delayed drop is suspenseful buildup
  • Single statement is a powerful one-liner
  • Summary is a condensed overview

Body

  • The body develops story with facts and quotes
  • Background and analysis are required in the body
  • There should be a logical flow and varied pacing

Conclusion

  • The conclusion leaves a strong final thought

The Peg

  • The peg is the "why now?" justification
  • Examples of a peg are a new study, trending topic, or upcoming event

The Angle

  • The angle is the unique perspective
  • Focusing on "remote work’s impact on Gen Z anxiety" is a good angle for "mental health in workplaces"

Research

  • Use primary sources (interviews and firsthand experience)
  • Use secondary sources (reports and expert opinions)
  • Fact-check rigorously to avoid misinformation

Interviewing

  • Open questions encourage detailed answers
  • Closed questions prompt short answers
  • Leading questions guide toward a specific answer

Best Practices

  • Record with consent and take notes
  • Listen actively and follow up
  • Research the subject beforehand

Writing Style

  • Engaging and readable style
  • Descriptive language paints a vivid picture
  • Facts are mixed with storytelling
  • Sentence structure is varied to keep a dynamic pacing

Ethical Considerations

  • Accuracy and fairness are prioritized over sensationalism
  • Proper attribution is required, never plagiarize
  • Follow laws regarding consent and privacy

Editing

  • Multiple drafts should be made and proofread
  • Check clarity and accuracy
  • Read aloud to check flow

Multimedia

  • Use photos and videos for features
  • Use infographics for digital features
  • Add interactive elements

Key Takeaways

  • Features are narrative-driven, not just factual
  • Peg + Angle + Strong Intro = Compelling Feature
  • Research, interviews, and ethics are crucial
  • Edit ruthlessly and consider multimedia for digital formats

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