# Cover a Scouting Event

Part of the Journalism Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/journalism/guide/index.md)

*3. Storytelling and Interviews*

> **3d.** Attend a Scouting event and write a 200-word article (feature or hard news) about the event. Use either the inverted pyramid style or the chronological style. Review the article with your counselor, then submit it to your community newspaper or Scouting America local council or district newsletter for consideration.

This option is the closest thing in the badge to a real assignment from an editor. You have a specific audience, a short word count, and a requirement to send your work out when you are done.

## Pick the Right Structure

The **inverted pyramid** puts the most important facts first. This is best for hard news.

The **chronological style** tells the story in the order events happened. This often works well for a feature or event recap.

Because you only have 200 words, every sentence has to earn its place. Focus on one clear angle: what happened, why it mattered, and one or two details that help the reader picture it.

## What to Gather at the Event

- the exact name of the event
- the date and location
- how many people attended, if available
- one or two quotes
- a few vivid details that show the mood or action
- why the event mattered to Scouts or the community

> **Be Prepared! If your first draft is too long**
>
> Cut repetition first.
>
> - **Keep the best quote:** One strong quote is better than three average ones.
> - **Trim background:** Include only the context readers truly need.
> - **Shorten weak openings:** Start closer to the real news.
> - **Check every sentence:** If it does not add fact, context, or voice, cut it.

Submitting your story matters because journalism is meant to be read, heard, or seen by other people. Even if the publication does not use your article, you will have completed the full reporting cycle from assignment to submission.

Next, you will attend a public event and choose another way to cover it — in writing, broadcast style, or photos.

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