How to write a newspaper report based on a short story?

Question

I have to write a newspaper report based on the short story "The Skating Party" by Merna Summers. So I was just wondering if anyone can help me by giving simple steps of how to start with a newspaper report. Thanks in advance.

Doctor D · Accepted Answer

It's been a while since I've done newspaper type stories. But let me make a few suggestions. Treat the story as an event that you (or someone) has witnessed. Your newspaper report should tell the reader what happened. The central event, not every little detail. Focus. Reporters are supposed to give you the facts: who, what, where, when, how. (And, if you can, why.)

So, start with the opening. A newspaper report begins with an immediate summary of what happened. That's what the readers want to know. It will also tell you the other facts as quickly as it can. For example:

"Last night (when) a speeding car ran over (what) Jane Doe (who) in the town of East London (where). Witnesses say that the car was veering from side to side as if out of control (how)."

Later, you can add quotations from people who were there (witnesses), along with descriptions of them if you like.
"Mary, a petite blonde who was waiting for a bus, said, 'The car came down the road like a bat out of ****!'"

Finally, you might make some comments as to why the event happened, or what it means, or what will happen next.

"Police Chief George Wilson said, 'We're going to get the drunken driver who did this.' The police are asking anyone who saw a black sports car with blood on the hood to let them know."

I hope this helps.

PrincessDiaspro · Answer

Thank you! This was helpful indeed!

How to write a newspaper report based on a short story?

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