Writing a News Report

Format• News reports are usually divided into at least

three (short) paragraphs.

Headline

• When writing your headline, keep it simple and make sure it relates to the topic.• Grab the reader’s attention.

Remember: “Dog bites man” is boring, but “Man bites dog”- now there’s a story!

1st Paragraph

• In your first one or two sentences tell who, what, when, where, and why. • Try to hook the reader by

beginning with a funny, clever, or surprising statement.

2nd Paragraph

• Give the reader the details. • Include one or two quotes from people

you interviewed. • Write in the third person (he, she, it,

they).• Be objective -- never state your opinion.

Use quotes to express others' opinions!

Quotes can be...

• Direct: “I’d never seen a cuter baby” said amazed onlooker Celia Smith,32, of Oshawa.

• Indirect: Amazed onlooker Celia Smith, 32, of Oshawa, said she had never seen a cuter baby.

• Use both styles, and always have at least two quotes.

3rd Paragraph and Beyond

• After you’ve written about the 5 Ws and included all your quotes, you can offer some additional information to really round out your story.• This could be more details on the

story, or a source to contact for further information.

Sample 1st Paragraph

Local Toddler Wins Talent Search (headline)Bruce Crowther, a two-year-old resident of Courtice, (who) won last night’s (when) “Durham’s Got Talent” competition (what) at the Oshawa Center (where). The tough toddler entered with a martial arts demonstration, performing a series of flawless kicks and punches. He ended his routine by breaking a concrete cinder block with his bare fist. (how) Bruce has been studying martial arts since 2010, and was excited to show off his skills. (why)

Sample 2nd ParagraphShoppers looked on in awe as the youngster went through his moves. “I was just out looking for a plunger when I heard all the applause and saw this incredible kid” said Sherman Petrie, a plumber from Bowmanville. (direct quote) Amazed onlooker Celia Smith, 32, of Oshawa said she had never seen a cuter child. (indirect quote)The competition was sponsored by Oshawa This Week and the shops at the Oshawa Center. “Our goal was to spotlight community talent and remind people that the Oshawa Center is a great place to shop and spend time,” stated Marlon Sparrow, who has been the head of promotions at the Oshawa Center for the past six years. (direct quote)

Sample Additional Information

Bruce took home a $500 gift card for the Oshawa Center. His parents say he’ll probably spend it on toys and books. The runner-up prize, a $200 gift card, was awarded to Gus Maitland, who performed a dance to M.C. Hammer’s ‘Can’t Touch This’. To see a video of the top performances or to learn about next year’s show, visit www.shoposhawa.com.