Category: Topics in the syllabus
Elements of a newspaper
1. Name of the newspaper
2. Section
These are titles or labels that indicate the different sections of the newspaper, such as news, sports, entertainment, or opinion.
3. Headline
It sums up the story or article. It’s usually printed in large font at the top of the page to grab the reader's attention.
4. Drophead
It’s a secondary headline that provides additional information about the story.
5. Byline
It's the author of the article. It appears at the beginning of the article.
6. Dateline
It has two elements: the name of the place from where a story originated and the date on which it was written. It usually appears in bold letters.
7. Lead
This is the first sentence or paragraph of the article, which provides a summary of the main points and captures the reader's interest.
8. Body
This is the main content of the article, which provides the details and information on the topic being covered. It’s divided into small paragraphs.
9. Photo
They are used to make a text easier to understand or more interesting. These are visuals that help illustrate the story and make it more engaging for the reader.
10. Caption
These are short descriptions or explanations that accompany photographs or images. It is known as cutline in the US.
Other elements
Masthead
This is the section of the newspaper that includes the publication's name, logo, and other identifying information, such as the publisher, editor, and editorial board.
Table of contents
This is a list of the articles and sections in the newspaper, along with their page numbers, which helps readers navigate the content.
Subheadings
These are smaller headlines that break up the text into smaller sections and provide additional information about the content.
Crossheads
These are subheadings that are placed in the middle of the text to break up long articles and make them easier to read.
Sidebar
This is a smaller article or feature that accompanies the main story and provides additional information or context.
Charts of graphs
These are visual representations of data or information that help illustrate a point or support the article's argument.
Jump lines
These are lines of text that indicate where an article continues on another page in the newspaper.
Editorial
An editorial in a newspaper is a written piece that reflects the opinion or stance of the editorial team or publisher on a specific issue. It aims to inform, persuade, or provoke thought among readers, often addressing current events or social matters.
Quotes
These are direct quotes from people involved in the story, which provide insight and perspective on the topic being covered.
Pull quotes
These are quotes taken from the article and highlighted in larger font to draw attention and emphasize important points.
Guest columns
These are articles written by guest contributors, such as experts or community leaders, that provide unique perspectives on current events or issues.
Advertisements
These are paid messages from businesses or individuals, which are included in the newspaper to generate revenue.
Pagination
This refers to the numbering of the pages in the newspaper, which allows readers to easily find and reference articles.
Pull-out sections
These are special sections of the newspaper that can be removed and read separately, such as a Sunday magazine or a travel guide.
Supplements
These are additional sections that are included in the newspaper on a regular basis, such as a weekly entertainment guide or a special section on a particular topic.
Comics
These are cartoons or comic strips that provide entertainment and humor for readers.
Crossword puzzles and other games
These provide readers with interactive content and a way to engage with the newspaper beyond simply reading the articles.
Horoscopes
These provide astrological predictions for individuals based on their zodiac sign.
Corrections
These are notices that correct errors or mistakes that were previously published in the newspaper.
Online exercise
What have you learned? Here are some exercises. Give it a try!
Worksheets
Extra: Sections of a newspaper