This study analyzed the rhetorical structures of selected feature articles printed in local and national newspapers. The study employed the qualitative research method which focused on the textual and interpretative analysis of the data. The texts were analyzed to determine the dominant rhetorical structures employed by the writers. These six texts were representatives of the different types of feature articles namely: human interest story, travelogue, personality sketch, entertainment, informative, and practical guidance. It is revealed that varied techniques were utilized in the introduction and the conclusion. The travelogue and entertainment articles had the same introductory technique while the personality sketch and the informative article had the same concluding technique. Description was the most common method used in developing the body of these articles, although purposes and topics were varied. As to rhetorical structures, in writing the different feature articles, there were many techniques and methods that can be employed in order to achieve effective writing. Moreover, the descriptive method in writing was found to be dominant in the representative features, which suggests that more activities along descriptive writing be given emphasis in the language classrooms. It was also found out that the scope, purpose and style employed in feature writing were remarkably varied as reflected in the techniques and methods used by the writers. This suggests a degree of freedom on the part of the students to choose their topics which are suited to their purpose. This also leads to the idea that writing essays could be easier if learners adhere to the guidelines and suggestions advocated by writing experts and authorities.

rhetorical structures, feature articles, national and local papers