Immediacy is another concept that must be foremost in a broadcast writer’s mind. The writer must consider what is the latest bit of important information he or she has. That is the information that must come first, or must be emphasized, in a broadcast news story.

Broadcast writers must remember that their writing is meant to be read aloud, often by someone other than themselves. Therefore, they need to write with the utmost consideration for the person who will be reading their copy.

A short, simple sentence -- this is the chief tool of the writer of broadcast news. The writer tries to keep punctuation to a minimum.

The major points of the lecture are:

• Broadcast copy is written to be spoken.
• Stories should be constructed in the dramatic unity format.
• Writing and construction of the story should be as simple as possible.
• Use the present tense when appropriate.
• Speak properly -- it’s good practice for writing properly.
  

More lecture notes, etc.

Readings

Read Chapter 7 of Writing for the Mass Media. Make sure you understand all of the concepts and practices discussed there.

Reading room

Broadcast writing examples. Analyzing and imitating the writing that you find here is a good way of learning how to write in this form. Notice the short sentences and absence of detail in these examples. Also notice any weaknesses you find in these examples, and try to answer the questions that go along with them. We will probably watch the video of these stories during the Monday lecture.

Turned off by Shakespeare? You might go to one of his plays (because it’s required or you’re getting extra credit), but you’d rather be buried in a toxic waste dump than be caught reading his stuff. It’s obscure, opaque, convoluted. (more)