Film a 30 second field report
Plan and film a 30-second field report using a phone or tablet: choose topic, write short script, record footage, and practice clear speaking.
Step-by-step guide to film a 30-second field report
How to Write a Report Step-by-Step | Easy & Complete Guide for Students & Professionals
Step 1
Pick a topic you care about like your pet a favorite place or a cool fact.
Step 2
Write a short script of three sentences: an opening a main fact and a closing that will fit into about 30 seconds when spoken slowly.
Step 3
Choose a spot to film that matches your topic such as a backyard a room or a park area.
Step 4
Gather any props or a costume piece that make your report more fun and place them nearby.
Step 5
Plan two shots: one wide shot to show the scene and one close-up for your main lines.
Step 6
Set your device on the tripod or stack of books and frame the wide shot so you and the background fit.
Step 7
Move to a spot with good light and low noise so your voice will be clear on camera.
Step 8
Practice reading your script aloud twice while timing yourself and focus on speaking slowly and clearly.
Step 9
Record the wide shot first and then record the close-up while following your script.
Step 10
Watch your recording once and note any parts you want to improve.
Step 11
Re-record only the parts that need better wording clearer speaking or timing until you are happy.
Step 12
Share your finished field report on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can I use instead of a tripod if I can't find one?
If you don't have a tripod, use the suggested stack of books, clamp your device between a mug and a book, or lean it against a stable surface so you can still frame the wide shot and close-up.
My voice is hard to hear and the video is shaky — what should I check?
Follow the step to move to a spot with good light and low noise, reframe and stabilize the device on your tripod or stack of books so you and the background fit, then re-record only the parts that need clearer speaking or timing.
How do I change the activity for younger or older kids?
For younger kids, simplify the 'write a short script of three sentences' step to one sentence and let an adult help set up the device and press record, while older kids can expand by adding an extra fact or practicing extra takes during the 'practice reading your script aloud twice' step.
How can we make the field report more creative or polished?
Enhance the report by using the gathered props or a costume piece for personality, filming extra B-roll beyond your planned two shots, and adding a quick title or background music before sharing the finished field report on DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to film a 30-second field report
The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Report (Easy & Effective!) - Chapter 1
4 Videos
The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Report (Easy & Effective!) - Chapter 1
Lesson 9: Writing Technical Reports (Survey, Scientific, and Field Reports) | EAPP
How to write a Field Report
how to make field Report /EAPP
Facts about video production for kids
⏱️ A 30-second script is usually about 60–80 words, so timing your practice helps you stay on track.
🗣️ Clear speaking, a steady pace, and looking at the lens (like eye contact) make short reports feel professional.
🎤 Field reports are built around the 5 Ws — who, what, when, where, why — to tell a quick, clear story.
🎬 Mobile journalism (MoJo) is a growing trend where reporters film, edit, and upload stories using just a phone or tablet.
📱 Modern smartphones can record high-quality, stabilized video, which is why many reporters shoot with phones.
How do I help my child make a 30-second field report?
What materials do I need to film a 30-second field report?
What ages is a 30-second field report activity suitable for?
What are the benefits and safety tips for kids filming a short field report?
One subscription, many ways to play and learn.
Only $6.99 after trial. No credit card required