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!
(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:
Requirements:
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.
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.
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.
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..."
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.