Req 8b4 — Broadcasting Terms
8b4.
Explain to your counselor at least eight terms used in commercial broadcasting, such as segue, cut, fade, continuity, remote, Emergency Alert System, network, cue, dead air, PSA, and playlist.
You need to explain at least eight of these terms. Here are all eleven mentioned in the requirement, plus a few extras:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Segue (SEG-way) | A smooth transition from one program element to the next without a pause — one song fading into the next, or talk flowing directly into music |
| Cut | An abrupt switch from one audio source to another; also refers to a single song or audio segment (“play that cut”) |
| Fade | Gradually reducing the volume of audio to silence (fade out) or gradually increasing from silence (fade in) |
| Continuity | The flow and consistency of programming — making sure elements connect smoothly and the station sounds cohesive |
| Remote | A broadcast originating from a location outside the studio — a live report from a sports event, concert, or grand opening |
| Emergency Alert System (EAS) | A national system that allows authorized officials to broadcast emergency alerts over radio and TV. Those distinctive alarm tones followed by a weather warning? That’s the EAS. |
| Network | A group of stations that share programming from a central source — NPR, iHeartMedia, and Cumulus are examples. A network affiliate carries some national programming while adding local content |
| Cue | A signal telling the DJ or technician to start an action — play a song, begin speaking, or start a commercial break. “You’re cued up” means ready to go |
| Dead air | Unintentional silence during a broadcast — considered one of the worst things that can happen on radio. Even a few seconds of dead air sounds like a technical failure |
| PSA (Public Service Announcement) | A short message broadcast for the public good at no charge — think anti-drug messages, seatbelt reminders, or community event promotions |
| Playlist | The scheduled list of songs or audio segments to be played during a program or daypart, usually determined by a program director |
Bonus Terms Worth Knowing
- Bumper — A short audio element (music or jingle) played between segments to maintain flow
- Liner — A short pre-recorded statement about the station (slogan, positioning) played between songs
- Daypart — A time segment of the broadcast day (morning drive, midday, afternoon drive, evening, overnight)
- Drive time — Peak listening periods: typically 6–10 AM and 3–7 PM when people commute