Feature story

Definition

A feature story is a detailed piece of journalism that explores a particular person, event, or issue, often providing deeper insights, emotions, and perspectives compared to standard news articles. Unlike hard news, which focuses on immediate facts and events, feature stories allow for more narrative depth and creativity, making them an essential tool for engaging readers and telling compelling stories in the sports world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Feature stories often take a longer time to research and write than traditional news articles due to their in-depth nature.
2. They typically incorporate a variety of storytelling techniques, such as vivid descriptions, character development, and quotes from interviews.
3. The goal of a feature story is to engage readers emotionally, offering them a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
4. These stories can cover a wide range of topics, from athlete profiles to significant events in the sports community.
5. Feature stories are usually placed in sections of publications that allow for more creative expression, such as lifestyle or sports features.

Review Questions

• How does a feature story differ from traditional news articles in terms of structure and purpose?
  • A feature story differs from traditional news articles mainly in its structure and purpose. While traditional news focuses on delivering immediate facts and essential information concisely, feature stories prioritize depth and narrative elements. They often include detailed descriptions, personal anecdotes, and quotes to provide readers with a richer emotional experience. The purpose of a feature story is not only to inform but also to engage and resonate with readers on a personal level.
• Discuss the various storytelling techniques used in feature stories and their impact on reader engagement.
  • Feature stories employ various storytelling techniques such as vivid imagery, character development, dialogue, and emotional appeal. These elements work together to create an immersive experience for the reader. By painting a picture of the subject matter and allowing readers to connect with the individuals involved emotionally, these techniques enhance engagement and make the content more relatable. This connection can be especially powerful in sports storytelling, where the triumphs and struggles of athletes resonate deeply with audiences.
• Evaluate the importance of feature stories in sports journalism and their role in shaping public perception.
  • Feature stories play a critical role in sports journalism by providing context and depth to athletes' lives and significant events. They shape public perception by going beyond scores and statistics to showcase the human side of sports. This can influence how fans relate to athletes and understand issues within the sports community. By highlighting personal journeys, challenges faced, and successes achieved, feature stories create lasting impressions that contribute to the overall narrative surrounding sports culture.

Related terms

Profile: A type of feature story that centers on an individual, highlighting their background, achievements, and personality.

Narrative Journalism: A style of journalism that uses storytelling techniques to present factual information in a compelling and engaging manner.

Human Interest Story: A type of feature story that focuses on the emotional and personal aspects of a topic, often showcasing relatable human experiences.