Write a News Article
Write a news article about a real or imaginary event using the who, what, when, where, why structure — learning informational writing through journalism.
What You'll Need
- 1Paper or computer
- 2Pencil or pen
What You'll Need
Paper or a computer for typing
Pencil or pen
How to Play
Choose a topic: real event or imaginary headline.
Teach the 5 W's: Who, What, When, Where, Why.
Write an attention-grabbing headline in present tense.
Lead paragraph: answer all 5 W's in 2-3 sentences.
Write 2-3 detail paragraphs with quotes and background.
Add a fictional witness quote for authenticity.
Close with a wrap-up paragraph.
Proofread and share — read in a news anchor voice!
Tips
Journalism-style writing is one of the clearest forms of informational writing because its structure is so defined: headline, lead, details, quotes, conclusion. This clarity makes it a great entry point for kids who struggle with essay structure.
The inverted pyramid structure (most important info first) is the opposite of storytelling (build to a climax). Learning both structures makes your child a more versatile writer.
Imaginary news articles are often more engaging than real ones: "Unicorn Escapes Local Zoo" inspires more creative detail than "Family Goes to Beach."
The quote-writing element teaches dialogue punctuation, attribution, and the difference between direct and indirect speech — all in a natural, purposeful context.
Create a family newspaper collecting multiple articles. Different family members write different stories.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 45 min, with 5 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: paper or computer, pencil or pen.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 8-12 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This activity has a moderate difficulty level. It may require some preparation or guidance, but is manageable for most families.
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