Structure of a News Story

Headline: 
All stories have a headline, which gives the reader an idea of what the article is about. Tabloid headlines often use puns or other techniques, such as alliteration, to captivate their audience. 

Introduction: 
The contents tells the reader in detail what the article is about. If the introduction is not interesting most people will not continue reading the article. The first paragraph is often known as a stand-first and is printed in a bold font. 

Elaboration: 
The next few paragraphs tell the reader more about the story that is outlined in the introduction. They inform readers about the following: 

• What
• Why
• When
• Where
• Who

Quotes:
Almost all new stories have comments from those involved or from voyeurs (onlookers) It makes the article more objective by keeping a balanced viewpoint. Alternatively, they can make the article more subjective by sensationalizing the reaction of the public and can indicated bias. 

Projection: 
Many stories might tell the reader what might happen next in relation to the event or people in the report. This might include a comment from a police officer, an MP, a family member or a general prediction of an outcome.