How to Write a Radio Serial Drama for Social Development- PDF

Chapter Eight: Scene Development 123
Episode 12 Episode 14 Episode 20
SCENE 1:
Main Plot
Main Plot
Sub-Plot B
SCENE 2:
Sub-Plot B
Sub-Plot B
Sub-Plot A
SCENE 3:
Main Plot
Sub-Plot A
Sub-Plot C
SCENE 4:
Sub-Plot B
Main Plot
Sub-Plot B
In various episodes of Too Late, Too Bad, the scenes were
arranged as shown above.
2. Establish the purpose of each scene. Generally, the
purpose will be one or two of the following:
• Furthering the action of the plot and presenting part of
the message;
• Furthering the action or dramatic conflict of the plot
without involving the message;
• Reviewing or repeating part of the message while
advancing the action;
• Contributing some new action or complication to one of
the plots;
• Demonstrating one of the Steps to Behavior Change (see
Prologue); and
• Providing or explaining the link between the main plot
and another sub-plot.
Guidelines for Scene
Development
1. Allow 4 scenes per 20
minute episode.
2. Determine the purpose
of the scene.
3. Open the scene with a
hook.
4. Provide subtle links
between scenes.
5. Advance the action and
the dramatic conflict.
6. Keep the action simple.
7. Identify the emotion of
the scene.
8. Pace the scene to
increase momentum
towards the end.
9. Maintain real time within
the scene.
10.End the scene on a note
of suspense.
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