Activity Overview
Perfect for fictional summaries or school newspapers, a newspaper project lets students get creative while recounting events. They're easily adapted to fit any subject, from Science to Social Studies to ELA!
Using one of the newspaper templates, students will create the front page of a newspaper. This example uses events from the popular novel, To Kill a Mockingbird but this project could be used for any book or topic! Like this example, students could recount a particular event in a book for ELA, but they could also create a newspaper project about a current or historical event for Social Studies or a new discovery or innovation for Science class. Students could even create a front page news story from their own imagination!
For additional templates to include in this assignment, check out our Newspaper Poster and Newspaper Worksheet templates!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create the front page of a newspaper to recount an event.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Create a title for your newspaper and a catchy headline for the main story.
- Use appropriate scenes, characters and items to create "photographs" for your article.
- Include captions for "photographs".
- Write the accompanying text for the main story, and any other articles on the front page.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Requirements:
- Headline
- Minimum 2 pictures with captions
- Minimum 3 paragraphs to describe the event
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 7 Points | Emerging 4 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headline and Descriptions | Students include a catchy headline for the front page as well as detailed descriptions for each event illustrated that explain what happened in a minimum of 3-5 sentences. | The headline and/or the descriptions for the events can be understood but it is somewhat unclear or too brief. | The front page is missing either the headline or descriptions of each of the events depicted. |
| Illustrations | The illustrations represent the events using appropriate scenes, characters and items. It is clear the student took time and care in creating the illustrations. | The illustrations partially relate to the events but they are difficult to understand or appear rushed. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the key events of the story. |
| Spelling, Grammar, Punctuation | Final product is free of spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors. | Final product contains up to three errors in spelling, punctuation, or grammar that do not alter the meaning of the text. | Final product contains more than three errors in spelling, punctuation, or grammar. |
Activity Overview
Perfect for fictional summaries or school newspapers, a newspaper project lets students get creative while recounting events. They're easily adapted to fit any subject, from Science to Social Studies to ELA!
Using one of the newspaper templates, students will create the front page of a newspaper. This example uses events from the popular novel, To Kill a Mockingbird but this project could be used for any book or topic! Like this example, students could recount a particular event in a book for ELA, but they could also create a newspaper project about a current or historical event for Social Studies or a new discovery or innovation for Science class. Students could even create a front page news story from their own imagination!
For additional templates to include in this assignment, check out our Newspaper Poster and Newspaper Worksheet templates!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create the front page of a newspaper to recount an event.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Create a title for your newspaper and a catchy headline for the main story.
- Use appropriate scenes, characters and items to create "photographs" for your article.
- Include captions for "photographs".
- Write the accompanying text for the main story, and any other articles on the front page.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Requirements:
- Headline
- Minimum 2 pictures with captions
- Minimum 3 paragraphs to describe the event
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 7 Points | Emerging 4 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Headline and Descriptions | Students include a catchy headline for the front page as well as detailed descriptions for each event illustrated that explain what happened in a minimum of 3-5 sentences. | The headline and/or the descriptions for the events can be understood but it is somewhat unclear or too brief. | The front page is missing either the headline or descriptions of each of the events depicted. |
| Illustrations | The illustrations represent the events using appropriate scenes, characters and items. It is clear the student took time and care in creating the illustrations. | The illustrations partially relate to the events but they are difficult to understand or appear rushed. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the key events of the story. |
| Spelling, Grammar, Punctuation | Final product is free of spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors. | Final product contains up to three errors in spelling, punctuation, or grammar that do not alter the meaning of the text. | Final product contains more than three errors in spelling, punctuation, or grammar. |
How Tos about Newspaper Project
How to Scaffold a Newspaper Project for Younger Students
Break down the assignment into smaller, manageable tasks. Start by modeling each section—headline, photo, caption, and article—so students see clear examples of expectations. Use graphic organizers or checklists to help students keep track of their progress, making the project less overwhelming and more accessible for grades 2–8.
Guide students to brainstorm topics before writing
Encourage students to list possible events or stories they might cover. This helps them focus their ideas and ensures their newspaper page is relevant and engaging. Use mind maps or group discussions to spark creativity and help students select a topic they are excited about.
Provide sentence starters and templates
Offer sentence starters for headlines, captions, and article openings. This supports students who struggle with getting started and ensures their writing fits the newspaper style. Share blank templates so everyone has a consistent format to follow.
Incorporate peer review and feedback sessions
Set aside time for students to share their work with classmates. Peer feedback helps students improve their articles and build confidence in their writing skills. Provide simple feedback forms with prompts like "One thing I liked..." and "One suggestion..."
Celebrate and display finished newspapers
Showcase student work on a bulletin board or in a class newspaper showcase. This public recognition motivates students and gives them pride in their accomplishments. Consider sharing digital versions with families or the school community.
Frequently Asked Questions about Newspaper Project
What is a newspaper project for high school students?
A newspaper project is a creative assignment where students design a newspaper front page to summarize an event, story, or topic. It helps students practice writing, summarizing, and visual storytelling across subjects like ELA, Science, or Social Studies.
How do you create a front page for a classroom newspaper project?
To create a classroom newspaper front page, choose a topic or event, write a catchy headline, add at least two pictures with captions, and write three paragraphs describing the event. Use templates to structure your page and include relevant scenes or characters.
What are some creative ideas for newspaper projects in ELA or Social Studies?
Creative newspaper project ideas include retelling a novel’s key event, reporting on a historical moment, covering a recent scientific discovery, or inventing a fictional news story. Students can also create character interviews, editorial columns, or feature articles for variety.
Why are newspaper projects effective for student engagement?
Newspaper projects boost engagement by allowing students to use imagination, practice real-world writing skills, and visually present information. They encourage critical thinking, teamwork (if done in pairs), and make learning more interactive and fun.
Are there free templates for classroom newspaper assignments?
Yes, many free newspaper templates and worksheets are available online for classroom use. These templates help students focus on content creation and layout, making assignments easier and more organized.
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