✍️ How to Write a Top-Mark Feature Article (With Examples & Checklist)
Struggling to write a compelling feature article that gets top marks? This blog breaks down everything you need to know—from research to structure, persuasive hooks to powerful conclusions. Plus, you’ll get a final checklist to make sure your article is HSC-ready.
What is a Feature Article?
A feature article is a form of non-fiction writing that blends factual reporting with creative storytelling. Unlike news reports, which present hard facts in a concise format, feature articles explore a topic or issue in greater depth. They’re often persuasive, highly opinionated, and aim to provoke thought or reflection in the reader.
A top-mark feature article engages the reader from the first sentence to the last, weaving a cohesive narrative while arguing a strong viewpoint. The best pieces leave a lasting impression and call the reader to action—explicitly or implicitly.
🔍 Step 1: Start with Research and Planning
Before you even begin writing, you need to understand your topic inside and out.
- Choose something relevant or personally meaningful. This will make your article more passionate and authentic.
- Gather diverse evidence—quotes, anecdotes, statistics, interviews—anything that adds dimension and credibility to your argument.
- Have a clear stance. A feature article isn’t neutral. Be persuasive and intentional with your point of view.
💡 Tip: Use at least 3 different types of sources to strengthen your credibility.
📰 Step 2: Craft a Compelling Headline
Your title is your first impression—and it matters.
How to Write an Eye-Catching Title:
- Keep it short, snappy, and slightly mysterious.
- Use emotive or powerful language.
- Ask a question to spark curiosity.
- Think about titles you see on news sites or blogs—what grabs your attention?
Bad title: “Climate Change Effects”
Good title: “Is Climate Change Already Rewriting Your Future?”
🎣 Step 3: Hook Your Reader with a Strong Introduction
Once the title gets their attention, your introduction needs to seal the deal.
Your intro should:
- Provide context to your issue.
- Clearly assert your point of view.
- Build a connection with the reader using personal anecdotes, second-person language, or rhetorical questions.
Example Hook: You might think climate change is a distant problem—but what if it’s already knocking on your door?
🧭 Step 4: Structure Your Article Like a Story
Although less rigid than an essay, your feature article still needs structure.
- Use the PEEL method (Point, Evidence, Explain, Link) to organise your paragraphs.
- Subheadings or topic sentences help readers follow your flow.
- Each paragraph should explore a distinct sub-point that supports your overall argument.
- Maintain a sense of narrative — think of your article like a journey, with twists and turns that lead to a strong conclusion.
🧠 Think: Does each paragraph push the narrative or argument forward?
🔚 Step 5: Nail the Conclusion
Your conclusion is more than just a summary—it’s your final pitch.
What to include:
- Recap your main ideas or stance.
- Reinforce your opinion.
- Include a call to action—what do you want the reader to think, feel, or do next?
- End on a strong, lasting sentence.
Example: The climate crisis isn’t tomorrow’s problem. It’s today’s reality—and your move.
✅ Final Checklist: Is Your Feature Article Top-Mark Ready?
Before you hit submit, check the following:
- ✅ Does it explore a current issue or topic in depth?
- ✅ Is there a compelling title and hook?
- ✅ Does it follow narrative conventions (setup, complication, conclusion)?
- ✅ Is your argument persuasive and backed by strong evidence?
If you’ve ticked all four—congrats, you’re on track for top marks!
🧠 Need help writing a top-scoring feature article?
KIS Academics connects you with expert English tutors who’ve been through it all and know exactly what markers are looking for. Whether it’s crafting an argument, perfecting your conclusion, or reviewing your final draft—we’ve got your back.
🎯 Book a FREE trial lesson today and let’s take your writing to the next level.
FAQs
1. Where can I find examples of feature articles?
The best places to find examples of high-quality feature articles are from journalism sites such as the Sydney Morning Herald, The Guardian or The New York Time Magazine. Who better to be inspired by than the professionals? Be sure to check out how they word their titles and introductory hooks but also how they systematically structure their body paragraphs.
2. What is the difference between feature articles and news stories?
A news article reports the facts and follows the 5 part convention of who, what, where, when, why, and how. It is written in a concise and formal reporting style, generally in the third person. A feature article is a non-fiction human-interest story. They present information and research in a narrational (normally first or second-person) manner to inform readers about a particular issue or topic.
3. How do you structure a feature article?
A feature article has four main parts; a headline, an introduction, the main body and a concluding paragraph. The main body should be broken up into sub-points that support the main idea of the text. While the rules on structure are not as strict as on an essay, your information should still be logically presented with the loose use of PEEL (Point, Evidence, Explain, Link).
Want more personalised tips to drastically improve your marks? A private tutor can make the biggest difference!