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How to Write Scripts for Educational Programs on Television

In educational television, there's a delicate balance of relevant, correct information and an engaging format. Many writers base their show on pop culture platforms, like sketch shows, news broadcasts, or sitcoms. The right angle and format for a new show to take depends on the show's content and its demographic. Not every educational program is directed at school-age children. There's a lot of pressure in planning and scripting educational programs, but the right formula could keep viewers coming back for more, years after the program is put to sleep.

Things You'll Need

  • Paper
  • Writing utensils
  • Script writing software
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Instructions

  1. Brainstorming

    • 1

      Choose a format for the television show.

    • 2

      Research the topics the show will be covering as thoroughly as possible. Make notes, provide citations and speak to experts on all subjects you might deal with throughout one season of the show.

    • 3

      Collect images, video clips and music files as resources you can refer to during the scriptwriting process.

    • 4

      Compile these references in a folder on your computer and label each one according to what they are a reference for.

    • 5

      Write an outline for each regular character that will appear in the show. Think about names, appearance, habits, or what a day in their life might be like.

    • 6

      Look at a curriculum on the subject you're addressing in the show. Use the curriculum to divide information and individual lessons over about 13 episodes.

    Writing the Script

    • 7

      Use your scriptwriting software to write the skeleton of the script. Include segments that invite the audience to participate, such as pop quizzes and step-by-step demonstrations. Allow the details to be influenced by the references you gathered earlier.

    • 8

      Add dialogue and have characters or hosts speak directly to the audience as much as possible.

    • 9

      Edit the script for consistency, continuity, pace and structure.

    • 10

      Edit a second time for grammar, spelling, dialogue and facts.

    • 11

      Repeat steps 1 to 4 in section 2 for each episode you intend to write.

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