year 11 english (general)
feature articles
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What is a feature article?
A feature article is an article written to give more depth to topical events, people or issues. Written by an expert or a journalist, these texts provide background information on a newsworthy topic as well as the writer’s personal slant or experience.
What's the difference between a news and feature article?
Example of a news article
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Tillett, A. (2009, July 9). Young indigenous hit by 14pc homeless rise. The West Australian, p. 4.
Example of a feature article

​​Evans-Butler, B. (2018). Compassion and effective care. The West Australian, p. HEA19.
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News Article
Feature Article
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A news story reports the facts about an event.
A feature story explains the significance of an event. It offers analysis.
Timing
A news article is time-sensitive and of immediate interest. e.g. results of a football match results
A feature article can be published at any point. The topic is usually of interest for a long period of time.
Content
A news story reports the facts: who, what, where, when, why, and how. It is usually written in a straightforward, short reporting style.
A feature article is a human interest story about a person, event, or place. Rather than simply summarizing the subject, a feature article highlights one aspect or significance of the story. This kind of content gives you the chance to go in-depth on a story or at least one angle of that story. Its less formal style may take an odd twist or heartwarming angle at the end.
Length
News articles are short, averaging 100–400 words depending upon the type of news and where it is placed in the publication. They are meant to be digested quickly.
Feature articles are longer and dig more deeply into the topic. Length varies for each publication, but a typical feature word count runs between 1,000–2,000 words.
Structure
A news story is structured in the upside-down pyramid​ with key facts at the beginning of the article. This way the reader can get basic information in the first sentence or two.
A feature article uses a diamond structure where very few facts are presented.
Source: Medium
Where can I find examples of features articles?
Use the following sites to find examples of feature articles:
Here are some examples of feature articles on specific topics:
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What does a feature article look like?
Source: Stress Less Tutoring
Masthead
The logo or identifying emblem located at the top of the page of the company you are writing the article for.
Headline
The title of the article itself. It should be punctual and compelling as to grab the reader’s attention.
Subheading
The subheading is under the headline and is smaller in size as compared to the headline. It is typically a short word, phrase or sentence that gives a brief introduction or ‘sneak peek’ into your article.
By-line
The by-line identifies the author of the article.
Hook
The hook is the first sentence of your introduction and should entice the reader to want to learn more about the topic being discussed.
Image and Caption
Photos are effective in quickly conveying a message to your target audience. They must be relevant to your article and should have short captions under them to provide context behind their use. Though they are useful, you should not overshadow your article with images.
Source: Stress Less Tutoring
How do I write a feature article?
What are some design tips for creating a feature article?