Newspapers: Codes and conventions of radio news

Recognise that radio news takes a different, more auditory focused format than print or television news. Live reports, pre-recorded interviews, read bulletins, and discussions/comments are common elements of a radio news broadcast.
The order of stories in a radio news bulletin carries significance. Lead stories generally have the most airtime.
Radio news also includes jingles, station identifications, and time signals to provide structure and signal transitions between segments.

In radio news, the headlines are crucial as they may be all a listener hears - they aim to hook the listener, often using rhetorical techniques or emotive language.
The use of language is essential in radio news broadcasts. It is usually designed to be simple and straightforward to ensure understanding by the widest variety of listeners.
Radio news relies heavily on sound bites, background noise, and ambience to help construct a vivid scenario for listeners.

The voice of the broadcaster and interviewees is a significant semiotic resource in radio news - use of tone, pitch, pace, accent can all convey deeper meanings and impressions.
Sound effects and musical cues can set the mood or theme of a news story, offer an introduction or transition, or enhance story’s impact.
The choice of speakers in radio news stories can reflect the broadcaster’s perspective and influence the framing of a narrative.

Like all forms of news media, radio news caters to specific demographics which can influence its choice of stories, reporting style, and language used.
Be aware that radio stations may also hold political affiliations or biases, which can impact the presentation and interpretation of news.
Despite the variety in formats, the central purpose of radio news is to inform listeners, spark debate and potentially shape public opinion.
Given the transient nature of radio listening, radio news often prioritises brief bulletins and snippets that can be easily digested even if listeners tune in part way through.
Be aware of the prevalence of radio phone-ins which give listeners a direct voice and bring audience interaction, adding an interactive dimension.