Writing News Stories for Elementary School Publications

Basic Structure

1. The Headline

• Keep it short and exciting
• Use simple, active words
• Make readers want to learn more
• Example: “School Garden Grows First Vegetables” instead of “Agricultural Project Yields Results”

2. The Lead (First Paragraph)

• Answer the 5 W’s in simple terms:
  • Who is the story about?
  • What happened?
  • Where did it happen?
  • When did it happen?
  • Why is it important?
• Limit to 2-3 short sentences
• Use present or past simple tense

3. The Body

• Put most important information first
• One main idea per paragraph
• Keep paragraphs short (2-3 sentences)
• Use simple transitions like “Then,” “Also,” or “Next”

Writing Style Tips

Use Kid-Friendly Language

DO:

• “The students helped plant tomatoes”
• “The principal was happy with the results”
• “The basketball team won their game”

DON’T:

• “The participants initiated the cultivation process”
• “The administration expressed satisfaction”
• “The team achieved victory in their athletic encounter”

Make It Visual

• Include clear descriptions
• Use comparisons kids understand
  • Example: “The new playground is as big as two classrooms”
• Add relevant quotes from students and teachers

Keep It Active and Direct

Instead of: “The decision was made by the student council to have a pizza party” Write: “The student council chose to have a pizza party”

Final Checklist

• Is the headline interesting and clear?
• Did you answer all 5 W’s in the first paragraph?
• Are all words easy for elementary students to understand?
• Are paragraphs short and focused?
• Did you include quotes from people involved?
• Did you check spelling and grammar?
• Would your classmates want to read this?

Common Topics for School News

1. School Events
   • Sports games
   • Field trips
   • Special assemblies
   • School plays
2. Student Achievements
   • Contest winners
   • Good deeds
   • Special projects
   • Art displays
3. School Changes
   • New teachers
   • Building updates
   • New programs
   • Schedule changes
4. Community News
   • Food drives
   • Fundraisers
   • School garden updates
   • Environmental projects

Story Examples

Good Example:

Copy

New Playground Equipment Arrives!

Our school got exciting new playground equipment yesterday! The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) bought three new swings and a climbing wall for all students to enjoy.

“I can’t wait to try the climbing wall,” said Sarah Chen, a third-grade student. “It looks so fun!”

The new equipment will be ready to use next Monday after safety checks are done.