Get your reporters writing stronger openings in one class period. This bundle brings together a clear mini-lesson, hands-on practice, and an easy rubric so you can teach, reinforce, and assess summary leads with confidence. What’s included Journalism: Introduction to Lead Writing (PowerPoint) Defines what a lead is, clarifies “lede vs. lead,” introduces common lead types, shows real examples from reputable outlets, and includes short practice items and a quick ID mini-quiz.
See it on Teachers Pay Teachers — $8.00
Summary Lead Writing Worksheet (PDF) Two parts: write a summary lead from a fact set that includes extra details, then edit a wordy draft into a tight, one-sentence lead. Summary Lead Writing Answer Key (PDF) Model 25–35 word leads with brief notes on which details are extraneous. Summary Lead Writing Rubric (Word or PDF) Simple 0–2 scale across five criteria, aligned to AP Style basics: news value and focus, essential facts, concision and length, verb choice and tense, AP Style and mechanics.
How it works Teach with the slideshow to introduce or review lead writing and see how professionals do it. Practice with the worksheet so students prioritize key facts and trim extras. Assess with the rubric for quick, consistent feedback that reinforces AP Style. Perfect for Journalism and media classes, student newspaper or broadcast staff training First-week skill building, bell ringer to mini-lesson, or a targeted refresh before deadline File types PowerPoint (.pptx) PDFs (student worksheet and key) PDF for the rubric Everything you need to launch a focused, high-impact lesson on summary leads, from first exposure to graded draft.
Designed for grades 9th – 12th.
Starmaker English and Journalism Tools 
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