g. The parentheses. Material in parentheses is normally not meant to
be read aloud. Parenthetical material includes notes to narrators such as
pronunciation guides, reading rates, etc.
NOTE:
In script writing, simple words say it best.
Use
words that everyone will understand, the narrator as
well as the listener.
Don't ignore colorful and
descriptive words. Colorful and descriptive words add
life to your copy.
Keep in mind, however, the
broadcast copy, especially hard news, must be clear,
concise and correct.
h. Contractions.
In day-to-day conversations, contractions are used
rather liberally; therefore, you should consider using contractions whenever
possible because it will add to the "conversationality" of your narrator. A
definite exception to this rule is the "it will" contraction "it'll" which
is awkward when you're trying to read it into a microphone.
i. Pronouns. There is a danger in using personal pronouns. When using
he, she, or they, make certain there can be no doubt in the listener's mind
as to whom you're referring.
The ear can't go back and pick up the
identification. Repeat the noun if there is any question.
j. Alliterations:
Beware of alliterations.
When you compose a
sentence consisting of several words beginning with the same vowels or
consonants, you have alliteration and the narrator has a problem.
Example: The westerly wind whistled wildly, or the lively little
lasses laughed loudly.
k. Hissing sounds.
Beware of too many sibilants ..."is" and "sh"
sounds. They tend to create a hissing sound when read aloud.
Example: The six soldiers stood shoulder to shoulder as Secretary
of State Shepard Shelton...
l. Homonyms. Watch out for homonyms, words which sound alike but have
different meanings.
The ear can't tell the difference between "won" and
"one" or "bear" and "bare."
m. Here and there. Where is "here" and "there" when they're heard by
listeners scattered over a wide area? Make "here" and "there" taboo words
when you must refer to a location. "Here" in reference to a location could
be any place it's heard.
n. Not "not". Avoid the use of the word "not" in your script. "Not"
can easily be dropped out of your script inadvertently and leave the
listener wondering if he heard "not" or not.
30
Previous Page
