The Format of Radio

Now is the time for us to begin our exciting new module, so hold on to your hats as we enter the world of radio.
The three characteristics of radio, which make it the unique form of media it is, are that it is immediate, intimate and personal.
Radio Journalism:
Headlines: A one line summary of each of the main stories which can either precede a bulletin, or stand alone.
Bulletins: Conventionally a bulletin will be two to five minutes duration and they usually begin with the headlines. They may contain a voice piece where another journalist summarises the story, this is pre-recorded and is around 20 to 30 seconds long.  There may also be a two-way with another reporter who is speaking live. Or audio cuts of interviews, press conferences, expert comment or vox pops.
News Programmes: Often begin with the headlines and/or a short bulletin. These programmes explore the top stories in further detail and include additional stories, which may be related or unrelated to the top stories. They often provide interviews either live or pre-recorded and are filled with debate, comment or commentary.
Magazine Programmes: These may be either niche or have a broad range, but generally they will have a specific remit. They are less likely to include headlines or bulletins, but they may react to the top stories of the day. Often cover issues both topical and timeless, or may use a topical example as a peg on which to hang an otherwise timeless issue. They may also include other features such as phone ins, for listener interaction.
Packages: The cue is read by the presenter, but the introduction and conclusion may be made by the reporter or participant. They can include reporter links either in the studio or at another location, interviewees, vox pops, etc. Which are then all “packaged” together.
Documentaries: These are extended packages or features which explore a specific topic or issue in much greater depth than a news or magazine programme.
Target Audiences: This is defined by age and social demographic, measured by RAJAR (Radio Joint Audience Research Limited). The style and format of a program will be dictated by the target audience to which the station aims its output.