Conventions of a radio news

bulletin.By Sadie Quinn.

Define convention…

• The literal definition of the term ‘convention’ is ‘a way in which something is usually done’- things that we expect to see in a media text.

• For example, in a radio bulletin we expect an opening “jingle” and an introduction from the presenter/s.

The conventions of radio news

• Around six to eight stories, with the most significant being placed first, the soft stories are typically left until last to lighten the mood- these can include entertainment, local or sports news.

• Embedded clips of other journalists or interviewees, for example.

• A main ‘newsreader’ who typically would not have a strong accent that differs to that of the local environment and they usually have a clear, direct voice.

A jingle

• A news bulletin is usually introduced with a familiar ‘jingle’- a short, catchy piece of music familiar to the audience.

• It is played before the newsreader begins talking.• It usually includes the name of the radio station.

Introduction

• This is when the main newsreader introduces themself to the audience. This usually includes a greeting, a time check and the newsreader’s name.

• It will, on occasion, include headlines to entice the listener into continuing listening to the news bulletin.

Copy stories

• This is the most basic form of news story- it is usually around four lines long, all of which summarise the event that has or will take place.

Cue and…

• Clip.• Voicer.• Vox pop.• Two-way.• Wrap.

O.B.

• ‘O.B.’ stands for ‘outside broadcast’. • Some radio stations have an OB truck that they use to

travel directly to the scene of an event that is unfolding. • This means they have the equipment available to do live

broadcasts but they could also be pre-recorded.• The background audio, as a result of being there, sets the

scene for the audience and allows the listener to visualise the event that is occurring.

Stab (sting)

• A shortened version of the original jingle.• These are used to separate different sections of the news

bulletin, for example when they are moving onto sports.

‘Bed’

• This is music without lyrics that plays under the newsreader whilst they are speaking.

• It typically has a fast-paced, intense beat- which keeps the captivation of the listener.

• Usually used on stations who have typically younger audiences.

S.O.C.

• This means ‘Standard out cue’.• Essentially the conclusion to the news bulletin- it signifies

that it has ended.• It normally ‘signposts’ the audience to visit your website

or informs them as to when the next bulletin will occur.