The Mudhouse: Editing Assignment

VO/SOT

For: Groups of 1-2
Difficulty: Intermediate

Objective
Students will learn how to assemble a VO/SOT (Voice Over / Sound on Tape). This is a stepping stone for learning how to compile an entire news package.

Points to emphasize

  • Write conversationally in a way that sets up the sound bite.

  • Write the voice-over in a way that compliments or “plays to” the selected b-roll.

  • Remember to turn down the natural sound to an appropriate level under the voice-over.

  • Find a quiet place indoors without echo to record the voice over.

Equipment: Computer, editing software, headphones, microphone for recording (use phone or laptop microphone if necessary).

Assignment

Students must select a sound bite (aka SOT) from the raw footage, then use the facts below to write and record a voice-over to introduce it. They must cover their voice over with relevant b-roll that sets the scene and compliments their voice over. Students must end their VO/SOT with “for (insert program name), I’m (insert student name), reporting”. The final video should be between 20 and 40 seconds. Bonus points for students who use a nat sound pop before their voice over starts.

Variation: A fun variation on this assignment is to have students stand at the front of the class and read their voice-over live instead of recording it. One student cues up and plays the project. The other reads the script aloud. This requires coordination and rehearsal.

Facts

It has been very hot lately. The day this was shot, it was 105 degrees outside.

The Mudhouse sells 60% more cold drinks in the summer vs the winter.

Lindsey Smith has worked as a barista at the Mudhouse for 3 years.

John Jenkins (guy in red shirt) is a biology major.

No one knows anything about the lady in the green shirt. She is a complete mystery.

The Mudhouse often hosts local musicians.

The Mudhouse has been in business since 1998.

 

Example VO/SOT

A VO/SOT is a voice over (covered with b-roll) that introduces a sound bite. “SOT” and “sound bite” are two terms that may be used interchangeably.