Student Writing Handbook Fifth+Edition

Scripts / 359

Certainly, this list is too long for a ten-minute documentary; still, too many ideas are
better than too few. Stop now and make your own list.

STEP 2: Prewriting—Planning the Video

Begin thinking about what kind of video elements will enhance your subject. You
may ask questions such as the following:

• What images will best show the aspects of the subject I hope to emphasize?


• What objects or which people should appear?


• Will I need still-life photographs to illustrate past events? If so, how can I make
  them look less static and more like film?


• How can I get the best action shots? Should I stage mock situations or shoot
  live on location?

Begin developing your list of video elements. Consider the following example for
some general ideas, and then apply your creativity to your own list:

interview with speech coach

interview with award-winning debate-team members

interview with award-winning speech-team members

segments from a debate meet

segments from a dramatic interpretation event

footage from the all-school awards assembly

shots of trophies and plaques

interview with debate- or speech-meet judge

interview with graduate participant

interview with novice speech-team member

segments from practice/coaching sessions

shot of team member working with coach

Again, this list is too long for a ten-minute documentary. However, an extensive list
allows you later to choose the most suitable and successful ideas.

So, complete your list now.

STEP 3: Writing—Developing the Audio Script

Once you have on paper what you hope to accomplish, begin writing the audio
script. The following suggestions can help you get started:

• Begin with an attention-getting device. For instance, in the forensics
  documentary, you could show the excitement of winning a divisional speech
  tournament, make a startling statement about the impact of the program on
  individual students (scholarships, friendships, career opportunities), or provide