TEL T211
Section 4465
Writing for Electronic Media
John Harrell

Course Description (as stated in the COAS Bulletin): “Style, form,
and preparation of Written materials for electronic media.”

Prerequisites: None

Course Objectives: T211 is a course designed to allow student to
develop/improve/hone the skills of writing for electronic
communications.  T211 is an introduction  to, an overview of, and
practical experience in writing for electronic media.  It focuses on
writing skills, including organization of ideas, expression,
grammar, and spelling, as they apply to writing for radio,
television, and developing media.  The class covers several forms of
broadcast writing such as advertising,  promotions, news, broadcast
campaigns, features, etc.  It also considers expository writing as
used by persons in the electronic media industries.

Course Format: T211 is interactive in nature – both in class and
through assignments.  The class uses a combination of lecture and
discussion.  Students are assigned definite writing exercises – some
in class and some as outside work.  Active participation and daily
preparation are required.  A “final project” involves researching
and writing a short program-insert for possible broadcast on WFIU.

Requirements fulfilled by the course: T211 fulfills a course
requirement in the TEL Design and Production sequence as well as a
requirement in the HPER Sports Communication major.

Required Texts:
Berner, R. Thomas, Language Skills for Journalists, Second Ed.
(specially printed).
Meeske, Milan D., Copywriting for the Electronic Media, Fourth Ed.,
Wadsworth.
Strunk, William, Jr. and E.B. White, The Elements of Style, MacMillan

Recommended Text:

Hacker, Diana, A Pocket Style Manual, Third Ed., Bedford/St. Martins

Meeting Times:
Spring, 2004
Section 4465 – MW 11:15am – 12:30pm