Feature story

Definition

A feature story is a type of journalistic writing that goes beyond the basic facts of a news event to provide a deeper, more engaging narrative. It often includes rich details, character development, and emotional elements, allowing the reader to connect with the subject on a personal level. Unlike traditional news articles that prioritize the inverted pyramid structure, feature stories may employ various storytelling techniques and structures to create an immersive experience for the audience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Feature stories often focus on human interest angles, exploring emotions and experiences that resonate with readers.
2. While news articles prioritize getting straight to the point, feature stories can start with anecdotes or vivid descriptions to draw readers in.
3. They can cover a wide range of topics, including profiles of individuals, explorations of events, or analyses of trends, offering depth and context.
4. Feature stories usually have a more flexible structure than traditional news articles, allowing for creative freedom in how information is presented.
5. These stories can include quotes from sources to add personal perspectives and bring the narrative to life.

Review Questions

• How does a feature story differ from a traditional news article in terms of structure and content?
  • A feature story differs from a traditional news article primarily in its structure and content approach. While traditional news articles follow the inverted pyramid style, presenting key information first, feature stories may start with an engaging anecdote or scene that captures readers' interest. Additionally, feature stories delve deeper into subjects, exploring emotions and providing context rather than just reporting facts. This allows for a more immersive reading experience.
• In what ways can narrative techniques enhance the effectiveness of a feature story?
  • Narrative techniques can significantly enhance a feature story by creating an emotional connection between the reader and the subject. By employing elements such as character development, descriptive imagery, and a compelling plot structure, writers can draw readers into the story and make complex topics more relatable. This storytelling approach not only keeps readers engaged but also encourages them to reflect on broader issues presented within the narrative.
• Evaluate the impact of using personal anecdotes in feature stories on reader engagement and understanding.
  • Using personal anecdotes in feature stories can greatly increase reader engagement and understanding by adding relatability and authenticity to the narrative. These anecdotes provide specific examples that illustrate broader themes or issues, making complex topics easier for readers to grasp. By connecting emotionally through personal stories, writers can foster empathy and encourage readers to think critically about the subject matter, ultimately leading to a more impactful experience.

Related terms

Inverted Pyramid:

A writing style in journalism where the most important information is presented at the beginning of the article, followed by supporting details in order of decreasing importance.

Narrative Journalism: A style of journalism that combines factual reporting with storytelling techniques, emphasizing narrative structure and character development.

Lead: The opening sentence or paragraph of a news article that summarizes the most important aspects of the story, often designed to grab the reader's attention.