Analysis of broadcast news

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By Donna Baeck

I analyzed an ABC News broadcast that was released on Saturday, April 4. The report covers New York State attempting to combat the spike in coronavirus cases.

The COVID-19 pandemic is heartbreaking to read about regardless of the medium. However, readers miss out on all the visuals and sounds that only a television broadcast can offer. In general, people have less time to read a lengthy article and consume information more quickly through video and audio.

In the ABC News broadcast, the audience hears the reporter narrating the details of New York State's struggle to obtain more personal protective equipment and ventilators. As the reporter is talking, a b-roll of medical staff in hazmat suits pushing patients in beds is played. Another b-roll of newly built coronavirus treatment centers with empty beds is also played. The audience is able to see the b-roll and understand the severity of the epidemic in New York without needing to hear the reporter.

The broadcast also plays press conferences with Gov. Andrew Cuomo of New York when he talks about the apex of the virus in his state. It also plays a press conference of President Trump when the reporter talks about the new recommendation for Americans to wear masks.

In a news article, it's easier to lose the attention of the reader. An article could describe the details more descriptively, but it wouldn't be able to fit all the images and clips a b-roll in a TV broadcast could. The visuals and audio act powerfully in this broadcast to show the measures being taken to fight the virus in New York State.

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