Unit 2. Media. How to Write a News Article

How to Write a News Article


Style:
You will be writing in a different style than you are used to in class. Newspaper articles generally contain sentences and paragraphs that are short and direct. Most paragraphs in news articles contain a maximum of three sentences.

Format:
Newspaper articles should contain the following items:

a) Headline - An attention-getting phrase at the top of the article.
b) Byline - By [your name]
c) Lead Paragraph - Start with a strong, interesting sentence to get the reader engaged. Include the 'who', 'what', 'when', 'where', 'why' and 'how' as appropriate.
d) Explanation and Amplification - This section will include several brief paragraphs explaining the details surrounding your photograph.
e) Background Information - This section will include several brief paragraphs explaining events leading up to the picture, related national stories, etc.

Bias:
Newspaper articles should be written without bias. In other words, you should report the facts objectively - don't give opinions in your news article.

Works Cited:
You also need to create a Works Cited list that includes at least two sources. This must be in correct format.

* Adapted from: Sebrank, Patric, Verne Meyer, and Dave Kemper. Write source 2000. (1995). Wilmington: MA: Houghton Mifflin Company.