Story Planning Worksheet

Story Planning Worksheet

Use this worksheet before you record anything. Print it or copy the headings into a notebook.

My story in one sentence

Complete this sentence: This story is about ______, and it matters because ______.

(Write your answer here)

My audience

Who will hear or watch this story?

(Write your answer here)

My 3-part outline

Opening hook (1 to 2 sentences - start in the middle of a moment, not with an introduction):

(Write your opening here)

Middle (3 to 5 sentences - the experience, detail, or meaning you want to share):

(Write your middle here)

Closing (1 to 2 sentences - an image, a question, or a return to the opening moment):

(Write your closing here)

Media checklist

Check off what you plan to include:

• Voice narration (required)
• Photos or still images
• Video clips
• Background music (must be Creative Commons licensed - see the References page)
• Sound effects or ambient sound

Cultural and consent checklist

Before recording:

• Have you spoken with everyone who will appear in the story about how it will be used and shared?
• Does your story involve traditional knowledge, ceremonies, songs, or sacred places? If yes, have you spoken with an Elder or knowledge keeper about what is appropriate to record and share publicly?
• If you are recording an interview with someone, will they have a chance to review the final piece before it is published?

Technical checklist

Before you start recording:

• Audacity is installed and your microphone is selected in Preferences
• You have found a quiet recording space
• You have done a 30-second test recording and listened back
• Your recording level peaks between -12 dB and -6 dB (not clipping at 0 dB)