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Today we will begin working on the drafting of our scripts for our audio essays. We will also do a hands-on activity that will help us practice audio composing. And there is a reading assigned for today.
1) Prepare to work on your script. Here are the steps for getting started on the scripts:
Review the script assignment (Feeder 2.2).
Complete today's reading assignment
Next, look over this short video:
Finally, look over these samples (sample 1) and (sample 2) to see some of the kinds of edits that are often made to scripts in order to tighten language and keep things conversational.
You should have a clear sense of how to go about drafting the script. When ready use a word processor to begin composing. You will submit the script before class on Wednesday morning.
2. Learn more about composing with audio. Next, we will conduct an exercise in using Audacity. (You can also use an alternate editor if you prefer.)
The easiest way to complete this task, is to watch this video, and then replicate the steps using your own laptop:
For reference, here are the steps:
If you haven't already done so, download and open Audacity.
Next, download these two sound clips. Right click (hold down control key and click on a Mac) too download.
http://altscholarship.com/digwriting/sites/default/files/2018-10/pencil1.wav
http://altscholarship.com/digwriting/sites/default/files/2018-10/pencil2.wav
Bring the first clip "pencil1.wav" into Audacity (File > Import). Listen to the clip. Pick a short segment of the clip that you find interesting (aim for around 10 seconds of less. Cut the clip so that only that part remains.
Quickly think of a short statement that can serve as an introduction to the clip, something like, "we don't often realize the importance of the pencil."
Use the record function in Audacity to add your statement after the introductory clip. Use the Time Shift tool to adjust the timing of the clips.
Next, bring the second clip into Audacity and identify another small segment of the audio. Cut the clip down to that segment. Sketch out a short statement that will serve as a transition into the second clip. Record the second statement and adjust its placement.
Add a closing statement and record that.
Use the time shift tool to adjust the placement of these clips.
To adjust the volume of any clips as needed, use the cursor tool to highlight the audio, and then go to Effects > Amplify to change the volume.
Next, download, this file: http://altscholarship.com/makelit/sites/default/files/2019-02/no_train_today.mp3, bring it into audacity, and cut it to create a short intro and outro for the piece.
Finally, use the Envelope tool and the volume level adjustments to even things out. Do some final editing before moving on.
When finished, you will need to export the file (File > Export Audio > Export as mp3). Once you have a file exported, use the Improv Audio Link type to upload your piece to our web site.
Finally, you will want to save your Audacity project.
If you have time and are interested, you can explore some sound effects and start thinking about other sonic materials you can include. I recommend starting with the link at the bottom of this page:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Free_sound_resources
And here is a link that has good resources for ambient music:
For homework, complete the Audio improv task above and the reading before class; you can also work on your script draft.