WA2: FEATURE PITCH LETTER
In media, “pitch” means to propose an idea for a story to an editor or producer. Writing a pitch is useful in helping you refine your idea into something specific and engaging. Before pitching a story, you should ideally conduct informal interviews and background research in order to be as detailed as possible in your pitch. For example, if you are pitching a personality profile, you must include why that person is compelling. You should not merely say you want to profile Jane Doe. Instead, include why Jane would be interesting, such as she fled from an abusive relationship or served in the Army in Iraq.
In a one-page professional letter, pitch an idea for your feature profile story. You have the option of writing a profile on a person, place or event. An example pitch is provided under Course Resources.
In your pitch, I will be looking for the following:
A focus statement, or clear and concrete idea for your story (not merely a topic).
Background research that frames your idea
A statement of relevancy, or how your story will connect with readers
Potential questions to be answered in your reporting
Potential sources (at least one preliminary interview completed)
Your letter should be addressed to:
Dr. Felicia Harris
Editor-in-Chief
Gator Communications
1 Main Street
Houston, TX 77002
