Audio Scavenger Hunt

For: Groups of Two or Three
Difficulty: Beginner

Objective
Upon completion of this lesson, students will demonstrate the ability to find and record unique sounds as well as everyday sounds for use in video projects.

Points to emphasize

Sounds add texture and help create atmosphere for stories and other projects
Sounds are often overlooked in the process of gathering video

Equipment: One camera, headphones, and external microphone (optional) per group

Assignment

Each group will be given 45-60 minutes to find and record sounds found in the school building or on campus. An external microphone is recommended, but it is fine to just use the built-in microphone on the camera. Groups should find at least 15 separate, distinct sounds, and record each for at least 6-8 seconds. They should write down a description of each sound (“water fountain” or “typing on keyboard”) as they shoot. As a class, have students screen their recordings for the other students to try to identify the sounds.

NOTE: To further emphasize the “sounds” it is recommended that only audio, and no video, is played back in class. Another option is to have the students shoot with the lens covered.

BONUS: For fun, consider giving bonus points for unique sounds no one in the class can identify.

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Relevant Lessons:
Volume 3, Chapter 2: Natural Sound