Chapter 4

A summary lead is the opening of the story that sums up the main points.
Main characteristics:
1. Be Specific- provide important details
2. Avoid Backing Up- start off strong (start with subject)
3. Be Concise- focus on one point
4. Use Active Voice- write so that the subject undertakes an action

Three Examples:

1. Two people died in a single-vehicle crash in Parkville about 2:30 a.m. on Joppa Road near Pershing Avenue, police said. By Gus Sentementes

-I think this is a good example because it tells you who,what,where, and when.
-The lead also starts with what everyone wants to know. When a reader views the picture of the crash the first thing they want to know is how many people died.

2. A worker at the Domino Sugar factory in Baltimore died this morning in a forklift accident -- Maryland's first case of an industrial workplace fatality this year, authorities said. By Gus G. Sentementes

- It is to the point and provides the most important details.
- It is specific
- Avoids backing in

3. WASHINGTON - President Barack Obama signed a bill today extending health coverage to 4 million uninsured children, a much-needed win a day after he lost his nominee to lead his drive for sweeping health care reform. By Kevin Freking

- Specific about what the bill will do
- Gives the who, what, when



All stories taken from Baltimore Sun