| Journalism: Tips and Tools |
Different Kinds of Feature Stories
Human interest
Involves persons rather than things. Students who win an award or who do something significant such as scoring 1600 on SAT or qualifying for Olympic Games. Retiring teacher.
Interviews
Usually done with prominent persons. Can be either an informational or a personal profile feature. Informational interviews deal with an authority whose opinions on certain subjects, facts about things or comparison are of significant value. Personality interviews are interesting because of the individual rather than the subject matter.
Informational features
Of historical, social, practical interest. Basic purpose is not to entertain but to inform. History of the school. How-to-do-it features, such as "how to buy a good stereo" or "what to do if you're arrested or in an accident."
Personality sketch
Develops a total picture of the person. Gets facts from the person himself. Attempts to reveal personality through anecdotes. Looks at mannerisms, actions, dress, experiences. Talks to other people about the subject.
If you're writing about a person, here are some facts readers will want to know.
- Name
- Personality
- Background
- Physical appearance
- Environment
- Hobbies
- His influence on others
- Anecdotes/observation
Featurettes
What we used to ball "Brites." Also called "mini-features." Clever. Attention-getting beginning with events told in chronological order. Conclusion - often a surprise - told quickly.
BY BOBBY HAWTHORNE
Former Director, Interscholastic League Press Conference
Please see that Bobby Hawthorne and the ILPC are appropriately credited.
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