2. Documentaries
Each of the 5 terrestrial channels has
documentary output and slots .
There are specific documentary channels on
cable and satellite.
Documentaries can be feature length and
shown at the cinema.
Documentaries can also be categorised into
types.
On Television they tend to last between 30-60
minutes.
3. Lifestyle Programmes
Tend to feature issues relating to homes and
better living.
On the main channels they tend to be shown in
the daytime or early evening
Again there are specific channels devoted to
this kind of programme.
Difficult to come up with an original idea within
this category.
4. Current Affairs
Tend to follow a recent issue or news story and
show more in depth analysis.
Scheduling tends to take place in the evening
but check the channels.
Examples include Panorama on BBC 1 and
Dispatches on Channel 4.
5. Magazine Programmes
Look at many issues surrounding a central
theme.
Can be consumer, lifestyle or regionally themed.
Usually consist of several specific inserts linked
by studio based or main location set-up.
6. Light Entertainment
Studio-based usually with audience present.
Main presenter/presenters often with dominant
personality.
Can be interview or quiz based.
Scheduling takes place at all times but LE
features strongly at peak times.
7. Children’s Television
Can incorporate all of the above but is
specifically aimed at a certain age range
between 0-18.
Production values should be as high as for adult
programming.
Scheduling usually early morning and between
3.00-5.30.
Specific channels only showing children’s
television although most somewhat limited in
their factual output
8. Factual Drama
Based on or inspired by fact.
They can be true, based on truth or inspired by
truth.
There are many forms of factual drama
including biography, issue based, historical,
including ‘real’ people.
9. The Process of Writing and Research
What is involved in the this process.
What are the basic rules of research?
What will we be covering in this module.
