The radio script

This is a simple insight into the basics of script writing for radio

1. The radio script The radio script refers to the written material, which indicates both verbal and non verbal instructions that have to go into a radio program. It tells us what to say, how to say it and when

2. Importance of radio script To ensure technical accuracy of information To ensure continuity of program To maximize airtime

3. Types of scripts T he “type” in this context is defined according to the intended purpose News scripts Interview scripts Magazine scripts Sports/plug Drama scripts Documentary scripts

4. Points to note Type all letters in big letters so the news caster can read them right. Double space type lines and paragraphs All spoken lines should be typed in big and small letters All instructions and non spoken lines should be typed in capital letters Have duplicates for each copy Write page numbers on each paragraph

5. Points to note on scripts cont … Make the script short and simple Do not use hard words to pronounce Break down long sentences for easy readability(each sentence shouldn’t exceed 12 words) Attribute your story either at the beginning or at the end of the story. Use short, ordinary conversational words Avoid sibilant ie words with hissing sounds Do not string together different ideas with “and” sentences be kept short.

6. Sentence structure on scripts Keep subject and verb closer together, use active rather than passive voice for verbs. Round of figures/ Numbers eg change 3.6124 to more that 3 and a half Million. 35.7001% to nearly thirty six percent. Write out symbols and fractions Avoid abbreviations

7. Other marks on the script Provide phonetic spellings of hard to pronounce words Speech has rhythm and should be kept in mind when writing a radio script. A radio script should display an element of now-ness Key repetitive sentences help the listeners to get the messages write

8. Basic steps/process in scripting Get a good briefing about your audience Do comprehensive research about your topic that will feature on your program Prepare content outline Write the first draft Read it loud and time the material Visualize the script Revise for style, accuracy and timing

9. Radio script outline(News) Station id Time check News plug Intro Headline Details E xtro

10. CRITERIA FOR RADIO BRODCAST CRITERIA SCRIPT AND PRODUCTION Application of broadcast journalism principles Broadcast form of writing Clear and logical organization of news scripts DELIVERY AND PRESENTATION Clear presentation of items Modulation, volume and quality confidence STYLE AND TECHNIQUE Creativity and uniqueness PERCENTAGE 40 30 30