Writing about Science for General Audiences
http://www.stc.org/confproceed/2001/PDFs/STC48-000077.PDF

Samson, Donald C., Jr.
STC Proceedings
2001

Abstract:

This presentation distinguishes science writing from scientific and technical writing. It offers suggestions for writing articles about science and technology for beginning freelancers and for students: choose timely subjects; focus on what’s new; clarify how the information is important; consider the audience’s knowledge of the subject; use a good hook; place the technical explanation carefully; control statistics and technical terms; control the pace of the article; cite local experts in regional publications; include graphics or concepts for illustrations; and write a convincing submittal letter.