Day Five in the Books

In the Digital Media Lab, sounds of mouse clicks and keyboard clacks rung throughout the room. Clipping together a package is easier than one may think, but slower than initially expected. Seeing the raw footage of my stand up and selecting the best pieces was a tedious but rewarding task. Piecing my package and seeing my work come together slowly was thrilling to say the least. I found myself showing the finished product to my family and friends because I was so proud of the two hours of work, I had put into a one minute video.

Prof. Les Sillars of Patrick Henry University lectured the class on the three key pieces that form good stories. He shared that one must use elements that move the story forward to keep the audience engaged. Plot, characters, and literary devices are the major components, when executed well, to build a good story. At the same time, these very devices are applicable to broadcast and print news alike.

Using the stills taught to us by Prof. Sillars, we went on to write an informative political piece of the reporting done at the meeting held by Sen. Tim Scott. We learned that our lead must contain the latest news and raise questions. If I have learned anything today, it is that we as students must consume copious amounts of news to comprehend structure and good storytelling.


- Valeria Garcia