A news bulletin is a piece of recorded sound that gives information about current events. It is usually read on air by a professional newsreader, although in some countries journalists prepare bulletins too.
During a bulletin, listeners expect to hear a mix of stories, some serious and others lighter, about major political issues as well as other important aspects of life. This balance helps to build trust in the broadcaster as an accurate and impartial source of information. It also helps to keep the audience interested and active, rather than passively listening.
It is a good idea to use an opening theme to announce the bulletin and occasionally a short music insert between different sections (these are called stabs). The special theme should not be so long that it interferes with the newsreader’s reading of the story, but it must be dramatic enough to grab attention. It is also possible to use a separate opening and closing theme for television news bulletins.
Actuality grabs – short segments of real sound – are a good way to add variety to a bulletin, especially if they come from the voice of someone listeners know. Using the actual voice of a politician, for example, makes your announcement more authoritative and credible. It is also a good idea to include a grab or two of people speaking in their own voice, if you have the opportunity, as listeners often like to hear their own voices on radio.