My social butterfly wings had me SOARING this past weekend, and it just made me even more excited for what the new school year has in store! If you’re in the U.S., did you celebrate Labor Day?Â
Here’s something that might be a hot take for you: if you want to capture your students’ attention and guide them to writing captivating articles, you can’t just be a passive observer. 
This is not the field of dreams; your students won’t just become amazing writers by simply sitting in your classroom.
You have to be one part teacher and one part social butterfly to connect with your students and paint the transformation for them. Today, I want to share some tricks and tips for writing killer newspaper lead paragraphs that will grab readers from the get-go.
What Makes a Great Lead?
A lead paragraph is the gateway to your article. It’s the hook that grabs your readers’ attention and makes them want to read more. Here are some key elements of a strong lead:
- Conciseness: A good lead is brief but packed with information. It should give readers the essentials without overwhelming them.
- Clarity: Your lead should be clear and easy to understand. Avoid jargon and complex sentences.
- Relevance: Make sure your lead is directly related to the main point of your article.
- Intrigue: A touch of mystery or a compelling fact can pique readers’ curiosity.
Tips for Writing Captivating Leads
1. The Five W’s and H
Start with the basics: who, what, when, where, why, and how. This classic formula ensures that your lead is informative and sets the stage for the rest of the article.
Example: “On a sunny afternoon in May, local hero Jane Smith saved a child from drowning at the community pool, drawing praise from neighbors and officials.”
2. Use a Hook
A strong hook can be a surprising fact, a provocative question, or a vivid description. It grabs the reader’s attention and pulls them into the story.
Example: “Imagine diving into a pool to save a stranger’s life—Jane Smith did just that, becoming an unexpected hero in her small town.”
3. Start with a Quote
A compelling quote can be a great way to start an article. It provides a personal touch and immediately involves the reader.
Example: “‘I just did what anyone would do,’ said Jane Smith, moments after pulling a child from the deep end of the pool.”
4. Set the Scene
Paint a picture with your words. Describe the setting vividly to draw your readers in.
Example: “The sun was setting, casting a golden glow over the bustling community pool when Jane Smith noticed a small child struggling in the water.”
5. Pose a Question
Engage your readers by asking a thought-provoking question that your article will answer.
Example: “What drives an ordinary person to become a hero? For Jane Smith, it was instinct and a deep sense of duty.”
Final Thoughts
Crafting a compelling lead paragraph is crucial for any writer. It sets the tone, hooks the reader, and provides a solid foundation for the rest of the story. By using concise, clear, and intriguing leads, you can capture your audience’s attention and draw them into the narrative. Whether you’re teaching students or writing yourself, remember that a strong start can make all the difference. Embrace these tips and tricks to help your budding journalists master the art of the perfect lead, ensuring their stories are engaging and impactful from the very first sentence.
Let’s make this year the best one yet!
