Unit 3: Writing Scripts
Structuring a script
- A “ call to action” - make them think about what you have told them.
- A summary of the main points that your have covered . ( vivid and memorable reminder of the most important facts)
- a question - and – answer
- Final summary and graceful finish.
Scriptwriting rules
- have an interesting title
- The more you use examples and case studies the better.
- steer as clear from jargon as you can. If you use acronym, abbreviation or technical term, explain what it means in full the first time you use it.
- Less is always more, it’s no good overloading the audience with too many facts.
- when you move from one subject to the other, put in as introductory sentence to show that your are moving on to another topic.
Style and vocabulary
- never use a metaphor, simile or other figure of speech that you are used to seeing in print.
- never use a long word when a short one will do.
- if it’s possible to cut a word out, always do so.
- never use the passive where you can used the active.
- never use a foreign phrase, a scientific word or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent.
Three parts of preparing your scripts
The beginning
Start with a bang, catch their attention, get them to listen actively.
Introduce yourself and make credibility statement.
Tell them what you are going to tell them.
The middle
Introduce each point in logical order
Use examples, reference site, case studies to illustrate each point
Back up difficult information with a visual
Link each point
Make your language vivid
Keep the pace up
The End
- summarize the important points and point out why they are important
- make a call to action to reinforce their memories
- run the question and answer session
- sign off gracefully and end with a bang
Discussion
In group, discuss about your last presentation and check if there is any point you need to improve your next presentation. Consider the three parts of your script, then share your comments in front of the class.