Kicker

Definition

A kicker is a brief, catchy phrase or sentence that introduces or summarizes a feature story, grabbing the reader's attention and setting the tone for the piece. It serves as a hook that entices the audience to read further by hinting at the story’s angle or emotional impact. A well-crafted kicker not only conveys the essence of the story but also connects with the underlying themes and elements that make it compelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kickers can vary in style, ranging from quotes to playful phrases, and they are often used in features to create intrigue.
2. An effective kicker sets the emotional tone of the story, making readers feel a connection before they even start reading.
3. Kickers are not just decorative; they serve a functional purpose by guiding readers into the narrative and establishing expectations.
4. In feature stories, a kicker often reflects the unique angle or theme that differentiates it from hard news stories.
5. Writers may spend considerable time crafting a kicker, as it plays a crucial role in making a lasting first impression on readers.

Review Questions

• How does a kicker enhance the overall appeal of a feature story?
  • A kicker enhances the overall appeal of a feature story by providing an engaging entry point for readers. It captures attention and sets up expectations for what follows, allowing writers to establish mood and tone right from the start. By effectively summarizing or hinting at key elements of the narrative, kickers draw readers in, making them more likely to continue reading.
• Discuss how a kicker relates to other structural elements like leads and nut grafs in a feature story.
  • A kicker works in tandem with other structural elements like leads and nut grafs to create a cohesive narrative. While the lead presents key information and grabs attention initially, the kicker serves as an engaging introduction that entices further reading. The nut graf follows up by providing essential context and significance to the story. Together, these elements create a smooth flow, making it easier for readers to understand and connect with the content.
• Evaluate the impact of an effective kicker on reader engagement and how it can influence their perception of a feature story's value.
  • An effective kicker significantly impacts reader engagement by immediately capturing interest and setting expectations for what they will learn or feel while reading. This first impression shapes their perception of the story's value, determining whether they perceive it as worthy of their time. A strong kicker can evoke emotions, provoke thought, or even entertain, thereby enhancing its relevance and connection to readers' lives, leading to deeper engagement with the overall narrative.

Related terms

lead: The opening paragraph of a story that provides the most important information and engages the reader.

nut graf:

A paragraph that explains the significance of the story and provides context for the reader.

headline: A brief, attention-grabbing title that summarizes the main idea of an article or feature story.