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Digital Audio Module

Introduction

What is Digital Audio and how has it changed the way we work and play? Digital audio is allaround us – on our computers, stereos, tvs, and MP3 players. The purpose of this module is toprovide students with the opportunity to create and edit original digital audio files from music toradio broadcasts and podcasts.

As students work through the module, they will be required to document any problems orchallenges they face in a journal or logbook. Students will also be required to write theirresponses to any exercise questions in this journal. The students may choose to use eitherWordPerfect to create their journal or create an online journal in the form of a blog.

Outcomes

Students will be expected to:

1. produce a work plan that outlines the possible criteria for choosing resources formanufacturing a product (AUD1)

2. identify and clearly state audio problems (AUD2)

3. collaborate to identify strategies for completion of project (AUD3)

4. explore alternate solutions to problems (AUD4)

5. identify and utilize specific tools and resources to solve problems (AUD5)

6. utilize safe practices when using resources (AUD6)

7. demonstrate how CIT is used to help create new knowledge (AUD7)

8. demonstrate digital communications principles and technologies (AUD8)

9. use language and terminology of audio technology (AUD9)

10. understand the basic elements of the audio production process (AUD10)

11. become familiar with basic audio production equipment (AUD11)

12. develop skills in audio recording (AUD12)

13. develop criteria to evaluate content and design of audio product (AUD13)

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Assessment

Part 1 (Introductory Activities)

Intro to Sound Recorder 5%

Audacity 10%

Hardware etc 10%

Part 2 (Students must complete any 1 activity)

Final Projects 40%

Audio Journal 20%

Peer evaluation (students can choose 1 project to be evaluated by their peers) 5%

Self-evaluation 10%

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Part 1: Introduction to Digital Audio

Exercise 1: Digital Audio Overview

The Internet provides tutorials on a variety of technology topics. You also know that web sitescome and web sites go. This means that without notice, sites could be removed from the WorldWide Web.

Following is a site that will be used for the first activity.

Students and teachers may find alternative sites to use for this activity if they wish.

Nortel Networks (http://nortellearnit.org/technology) site will be used in this first activity.

Scroll down the site and under the heading “Technology Topics”, you will find two videotutorials. One is “Digital Audio” and the other is “Digital Ethics”.

What do you already know about Digital Audio? Where does it come from? How is it created?

To get you thinking about Digital Audio, your first exercise is to access the website and watchthe two videos. The first video provides a short overview of “How to create digital audio.” Themain tool that the videos use is the tool that you will be using: Audacity. The second discussesCopyright issues. If you’re unsure of the definitions of some of the words in the videos, checkthe Glossary at the back of this module for more information.

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Exercise 2: Recording a Simple Audio File with Sound Recorder

The Windows Operating System comes with built in software to record audio. All you need is asound card in your computer and an inexpensive microphone.

Using Sound Recorder, you can:

• Record audio

• Add sounds to a file

• Delete part of a sound file

• Change the playback speed, volume and direction

• Change or convert the sound file type

• Add an echo

NOTE:

If you have a Windows computer at home, you can access Sound Recorder byfollowing the steps below.

To Open Sound Recorder:

1. Go to the Start Button2. Click on Programs3. Click on Accessories4. Click on Entertainment5. Click on Sound Recorder

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Sound Playback and Sound Recording Settings

If Sound Recorder does not record audio, check the Audio Properties to see the recording sourceand playback source. This can be found under the Edit menu.

In the Audio Properties window, you can change the options for Sound Recording andPlayback.

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The Sound Recorder Window

• In the centre of the window is a flat, green line.As you speak into the microphone, or as youplay a sound, you will see this green lineoscillate to represent the sound. These areSound Waves.

• The Position Indicator (on the left) isrepresented in hundredths of a second

• The total Length of the sound file is shown inseconds (on the right)

• The Slider shows where the sound file isplaying, relative to its overall length. You candrag the slider to move through the sound file.

• Below the Slider, you will see the symbols for:

Rewind

Fast Forward

Play

Stop

Record

Tip s fo r R eco rd in g

T Speak in a clear steady voice.

T Keep the microphone close to your

mouth, but not too close.

T Don’t move while recording.

T Don’t touch the microphone/ headset.

T Try to keep an even volume level

when speaking.

T Avoid speaking too loudly as this will

produce a harsh effect known as

d is to r t ion .

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Record an Audio File:

1. Use the microphone to record a short audio clip (between 30 and 60 seconds) introducingyourself. Before you begin recording, you must write out your script. The script should beincluded under the heading Exercise 2 in your Audio Journal. Include the followinginformation in your recording:� name� age� grade� hometown� hobbies that you may have� any other information that you would like to include

2. When you’re ready, press the Record button and wait 5 10 seconds before youbegin speaking into the microphone.

3. As you speak into the microphone, you will see the green line move up and downrepresenting the sound waves. The louder you speak, the higher the waves, butremember...speaking too loudly can damage the equipment and your hearing!

4. Press the Stop button when you are finished.

5. Save your file as exercise2.wav. Sound Recorder saves files in WAV (.wav) format(you’ll learn more about audio file formats in a later exercise).

NOTE - Increasing Maximum Recording Time

Sound Recorder has a default maximum time of 60 seconds of continuous recording time. If you stop

recording at any point before reaching the 60 second limit, you can then continue recording and have

another 60 seconds of continuous time before Sound Recorder automatically stops. Repeating this start-

stop routine will provide you with more recording time if it is required.

Use the following steps to increase your record time before you begin.

1. Make sure your microphone is muted so it will not pick up sound.

2. Press the Record button and then let Sound Recorder run for 60 seconds (recording silence)

3. After Sound Recorder stops recording, click Save As on the File menu, and name the file

Blank.wav

4. You can now use this file to increase the maximum recording time in Sound Recorder.

5. To increase recording time, click the Edit menu and select Insert File.

6. Locate the Blank.wav file you saved in step 3. When you do this, the maximum recording time

is increased by 60 seconds.

7. Repeat the previous step for each additional minute of recording time you need.

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Exercise 3: Editing a File

The editing tools are located under the Edit menu. After you edit a file, click Play to listen toyour changes. If you like what you hear, click Save As and give your file a new name so youdon’t save over your original file. If you don’t want to keep the changes, and you haven’t savedthe file, click on the File menu and choose Revert to restore the file to its previous state.

Removing Unwanted Audio:

1. Open your file exercise2.wav that you created in the previous exercise.2. Move the slider so it is positioned at the beginning of where you started speaking (we

want to delete the 10 seconds of silence).3. Under the Edit menu, select Delete Before Current Position - this deletes the audio

from the beginning of the file to the current position (getting rid of the dead air)4. Move the slider toward the end of your file.5. Select Delete After Current Position - this deletes the audio after the cursor.6. If you are satisfied with the results, save your file as exercise3a.wav7. This method can also be used to select portions of an audio file. For example, if you only

wanted 10 seconds in the middle of a 35 second clip, then you could delete the audiobefore and after it.

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Mixing & Inserting Files:

In the next part of this exercise, you will be working with free .wav files that can be found on avariety of sites on the Internet. The site below has several Techno sound files. Check out the siteand save any 5 different sounds with which you would like to work. When saving the file, youmust Right Click on the link and select Save Target As. Make sure you save the sounds intoyour folder.

http://bigsamples.free.fr/

Once you have your 5 wav files saved, follow the instructions below to learn how to combinesounds to create new files.

Insert File

This inserts an entire sound file anywhere into the current file. An inserted file will increase thelength of the sound file.

1. Open any one of your sound effects. 2. Use the slider to scroll to the middle of your sound.3. Select Insert File from the Edit menu. The Insert File dialog box appears. 4. Select one of your other saved wav files. 5. Click OK. 6. Click the Play button to listen7. Remember, if you want to save the file, save it with a new name. (You don’t want to save

over the original file.) 8. Save the file as exercise3b.wav

Mix With File

This mixes a second file with the original file and you will hear both files at the same time.

1. Choose one of the sound files that you saved previously. 2. Move the slider to a spot where you would like to mix in a new sound. 3. Select Mix with File from the Edit menu.4. In the Mix with File dialogue box, select one of your other wav files. 5. Click OK. 6. Choose 3 more wav files and mix them to create a new audio file.7. Play back your file and if you are happy with it, save this mixed file as exercise3c.wav

NOTE:Inserting and Mixing Files only works with uncompressed sound files. If you do not seethe green line in Sound Recorder, the file is compressed and you cannot modify it.

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Exercise 4: Adding Sound Effects

1. Open your exercise1.wav file2. Click on the Effects menu3. Apply each of the effects to your file to see how each one

alters that sound file.4. In your journal, answer the following questions under the title

“Exercise 4: Sound Effects”.

a. Describe how each effect changed your sound file.

b. When would you use the Add Echo effect?

c. Describe a situation in which you could use the Increase Speed effect.

d. How could you use the Reverse effect?

NOTE:

If you only want part of your file to have a special effect, you would have tomake a copy of your sound file, cut it into portions, apply the effect to thedesired portion and then combine the files into a new audio file.

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Exercise 5: Audio File Formats

The purpose of this module is to give you a brief introduction to digital audio. There’s so muchmore to learn! Access the resources provided or simply do a search using Google, and answer thefollowing questions in your journal under the title “Exercise 5: Audio File Formats”.

http://www.nch.com.au/acm/formats.html

http://www.w3schools.com/media/media_soundformats.asp

http://www.webopedia.com/DidYouKnow/Computer_Science/2005/digital_audio_formats.asp

1. What is the difference between an .mp3 file and a .wav file?

2. When should you use an .mp3 file? A .wav file?

3. What other types of audio files are available?

4. What does “compression” mean in relation to audio files?

5. Define “lossy”.

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Exercise 6: Morning Announcements

Using your knowledge of Sound Recorder, create and record morning announcements for yourschool that would grab the attention of your classmates. Your announcements must:

1. Include a written script showing all spoken audio as well as any special effects/soundeffects to be included. This script should be written in your Audio Journal.

2. Be approximately 1 minute in length

3. Include at least 1 effect (ex. A bell sound to start the announcements)

4. Demonstrate an understanding of mixing/inserting files by combining audio from at least2 sources. For example, to make your announcements realistic, you could add a‘background office noise’ sound effect. Use Google or Dogpile to search for these soundeffects. Note that in Dogpile, you have the option of just searching for audio files. Youcan also include “wav” and “free” in your search criteria.

5. Save your file as exercise6.wav

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Introduction to Audacity

Sound Recorder allows you to create and edit simple digital audio files in .wav format. There areseveral other audio applications that allow you to create audio files. These applications range inprice from free to several hundred dollars. In this section of the module, you will be workingwith Audacity, which can be downloaded for free from http://audacity.sourceforge.net/ .Audacity has more capabilities than Sound Recorder. It allows you to create audio files withmultiple tracks and has a wide variety of effects that can be applied to enhance your audio file.

Over the lessons included here, students have the opportunity to produce a variety of audioprojects using Audacity. Once they have demonstrated an understanding of how this softwareworks, students will be expected to learn how a mixing board and other recording equipmentworks and how it can enhance their recording experience.

Following these experimental activities, the second part of this module allows students to puttheir new skills to work by creating an original audio project. Five suggested activities areincluded, demonstrating how digital audio can be used in a variety of different settings.

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Exercise 7 – The Audacity Window

1. Open Audacity2. Record an audio file approximately 60 seconds long describing your favourite

activities/foods/movies/singers etc.

3. Save your file as Exercise7. Audacity saves in .aup format. To play your audio fileoutside of Audacity, you would have to export your file as a .wav or .mp3 file. You willlearn how to export your files in a later exercise.

4. Try each of the buttons outlined below to examine their purpose.

Selection tool: used to select or highlight parts of therecording

Envelope tool: allows you to change volume over time

Zoom: Use the buttons to zoom in and out on the recording tohelp you select sections of the file more accurately

Audio Control Bar: Play/Record/ Pause/StopRewind/FF

TimeShift Tool: Allows you to click on a wave form and dragit left or right to move it earlier or later in your timeline

Cursor: shows you where you are in the recording

Cut/Copy/ Paste/Trim: Using the Selection tool to highlight aportion of your audio track, you can cut, copy and paste aselection into other tracks or other projects. You can alsosilence a selection or cut outside the selection

Undo/Redo: Undo or redo the last operation that wasperformed.

NOTE: Make sure you have the correct INPUTsource selected. This will probably be set toMICROPHONE. If Audacity does not record, go toEDIT > PREFERENCES and check the recordingand playback sources.

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Mixer Toolbar

The Mixer Toolbar allows you to select your Input Device, as well as set the volume levels, bothfor playback and for the input device

Meter Toolbar

The Meter Toolbar monitors input and output levels, allowing you to see if your recording istoo loud. The brighter parts of the bars shows the average audio levels and the darker parts showthe maximum audio level reached. These levels should be monitored to avoid Clipping.

If the volume is set too high, the tops of your audio signals get “clipped” off generating extrahigh-frequency noise in your speakers, which sounds like pops, clicks and noise. To fix thisproblem, you need to adjust your volume levels. Distortion occurs when you've turned thevolume up too high.

If you would like a more detailed overview of the Audacity tools available, check out:

http://audacity.sourceforge.net/manual-1.2/toolbar.html

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Exercise 8: Audacity Effects

Audacity comes with several different effects that can be applied to your audio file. To apply aneffect, use the Selection tool to highlight the section of audio to which you wish to apply theeffect. Then choose the desired effect from the Effect menu. Unlike Sound Recorder, the effectdoes not have to be applied to the entire file.

1. Open your Audacity Exercise7 file.

2. Apply each effect listed below to different parts of your file. These can be found underthe Effects menu.

3. In your journal, create a table similar to the one shown below to describe how each ofthese effects alters your sound file and an example of a situation in which the effect couldbe used.

Effect Description Potential UseAmplifyChange PitchBass BoostChange TempoFade inFade outWahwahEchoChange SpeedReverse

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NOTE:

There are several other effects that can be downloaded and added to theAudacity Effects menu.

To download these files:

� Go to the Audacity website http://audacity.sourceforge.net/� Click on the Download link� Select the Windows link� Click on LADSPA plugins 0.4.15 installer� Run the file. The effects should be added to your Effects menu

Due to restrictions on the network, you may need to ask your teacher to addthese effects for you.

Once these new effects are added, experiment with them to see how theycan alter a sound file. Remember, you can apply effects to just portions ofyour audio file by simply selecting it using the Selection tool.

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Exercise 9: Working with Tracks and the Project Menu

Sound Recorder only allowed you to work with a single or MONO track. Mono means that theaudio is played out of only one speaker or CHANNEL, or it is played out of both the left andright speakers equally.

Audacity has the ability to create STEREO tracks. So what’s the difference between Mono andStereo? Simply put, it’s the difference between One track and Two tracks. Sound can be movedback and forth in the stereo spectrum, giving the illusion of movement. The Top track representsthe left speaker or channel and the Bottom track represents the right speaker or channel. Whentracks are joined as a stereo pair, all edits will apply to both tracks.

Opening tracks:

! When starting a new file in Audacity, clicking the Record button will automaticallycreate a new mono track.

! If you already have an audio file with which towork, you should go to the File menu and select Open. NOTE:

Always give your track a nameby clicking on the Trackpopdown menu.

Options to mute , delete , oradjust volume are available oneach track.

Track popdown menu

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The Project Menu allows you to add tracks to your current audio fileor import audio from another file.

If you have .wav or .mp3 audio files to add to your project (such assongs ripped from a CD or sound effects downloaded off the Web), usethe Import Audio command. This will automatically insert these newsounds onto new audio tracks.

To record original audio, on a separate track, select the New Audio orStereo Track.

1. Open chimes.wav (C:/Windows/Media)

2. Click on the Project menu

3. Click on Import Audio

4. Locate chord.wav

5. Click on the Track pop-down menu on chimes

6. Select Split Stereo Track.

7. Chimes should now show as 2 separate tracks.Splitting the Stereo track will allow you to editeach track independently.

8. Use the Selection tool to highlight a portion

of one of your tracks.

9. Click on the Copy button to make a copy of the highlighted section.

NOTE:

The following exercise will allow you to practice combining more than oneaudio file to create a new project. This exercise is done with the Windowswav files that you hear when you start your computer, but other wav filescould be substituted.

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10. Place your cursor in another track and Paste your selection.

11. Use your editing skills to combine these files into a new original project. Useany Effects you wish and experiment with the commands under the Generatemenu.

12. Take note that you can move tracks up and down within your Audacity project.

13. When finished, use the Quick Mix command under the Project menu to combine yourtracks permanently and cut down on playback noise.

14. Save your creation as exercise9.aup

Exercise 10: Exporting Audio Files

If you simply saved your audio project as an Audacity file, you wouldn’t be able to listen to yourwork on an mp3 player or on a webpage. Your file must be exported into a more common fileformat such as an mp3 or wav file.

1. Open exercise9

2. Click on the File menu

3. Select Export as MP3

4. Your first time exporting as an mp3, Audacity will ask you where the LAME encoder canbe found.

5. Now export the same file as a wav file.

6. How do the sizes of these 2 types of files compare? Which one is bigger? Record youranswers in your journal.

NOTE:

Before you can export your .aup file, you must install the LAME MP3 encoderthat can be found on the Download page of the Audacity website(http://audacity.sourceforge.net/) .

Click on the LAME MP3 encoder and save the file to a location that you willremember. The next time you try to export as an mp3 file, Audacity will askyou where this file is stored. This only needs to be done once.

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Exercise 11: Creating a Sound Bank

Now that you have had the opportunity to work with Audacity, your next project is to createsound effects that you could potentially use in future projects. Your sound effects will becombined with those of your classmates to create a class sound effect bank that can be shared andused by you and your peers. For this project you must:

T Create a sound bank with a minimum of 5 effects, exported as wav files.

T Save each sound effect with a descriptive name

T Include effects that are appropriate, versatile, and justifiable

Look around you...what items could you use to make sound effects? What could you use to makerain? Thunder? Doors closing? Keys jingling?

BE CREATIVE!

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The Hardware

Session 1- Introduction to Hardware (AUD11)

Before you begin working with the mixer, ensure that you know how to properly connect thehardware (mics, cables, mixer, headphones etc) to the computer.

CAUTION!

Loud noise can result in permanent hearing damage. DO NOTrecord loud noises or listen to audio playback at high levels.

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8 Channel Mixer:

You must be familiar with proper terminology. Use Google to locate explanations for thefollowing terms and include them in your journal.

Trim, Channel, fader, mute, solo, pan, input, output (AUD9)

U-Control Audio CODEC (USB connection from mixer to computer):

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Follow the instructions below to learn how to use the Mixer:

1. Open Audacity

2. Click on File

3. Select New

4. Make sure the Mixer is plugged in

5. Set level on master volume.

6. Plug mic into mixer channel - make sure the levels are turned all the way down beforeyou plug in the mic (If the mic has a switch, make sure it is turned off)

• Set individual channel volume level using the knobs. (NOTE: It is best to setlevels at 12 o’clock to start and then go from there)

• Experiment with pan, EQ, midrange, low buttons, trima microphone is atransducer which converts sound energy into electrical energy

• The Trim knob controls how much the signal is amplified. If you set the trim toohigh, you are increasing the distortion level as the input stages have to operatedtoo closely to their maximums. Once your signal is distorted, you can't undo it.In general, if you set your trim so that you get the signal to constantly hit between0db and +3db, you will be in the right area.

NOTE:

Once all cables and hardware are connected, if you have not done so, change theSound Recording source to USB Audio CODEC.

1. Click on Edit2. Click on Preferences3. Recording Device should show USB Audio CODEC.

Also note that if you wish to playback the audio over speaker or headphones connectedto the U-Control USB device, you must change the Sound Playback setting also in thePreferences window to USB Audio CODEC. Make sure your speakers or headphonesare plugged into the U-Control USB device.

These settings can also be changed in Sounds & Audio Devices in the Control Panel.

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7. Test voice with mic (Someone will need to be the “engineer” and operate the software,while another student checks the mic levels)

• Record the sound check with the software

• Analyze the levels checking for volume, distortion, etc

• Experiment with “pad”, mute (unmute), reverb, echo and other effects

• Add EQ to add tone .(This will have to be done for different speakers aseveryone’s voice is different and has different frequencies. No set EQ applies toeveryone.) (AUD-5)

8. When listening for levels, keep the volume low for critical listening

• Check the proximity of the speaker’s voice to the mic (Make use of thewindscreen for proximity)

• Proper placement of the microphone will help to ensure the best potential of thevoice.

TO DO: Demonstrate to your teacher that you understand the role of the hardware by identifyingthe components of the audio system, explaining how it is assembled and explaining the majorfunctions of the equipment. (AUD11)

More Tips for Working with Mixers

1. Use multi-tracking2. Set up proper input levels (microphone levels (-60 to -40

decibels), instrument levels (-30 to -20 decibels)3. Write down levels (master, channel, etc) so that they can be reset

properly for the next time, avoiding another sound check. Thisinformation should be recorded in your journal

4. Audio equipment is very sensitive, so care must be taken.Equipment must also be properly maintained

5. When learning about a piece of equipment, it is important to referto any manuals

6. Use headphones to replay sound check (both for speaker andengineer) if working area is not separate from rest of classroom

7. Allow flexibility for background noises in product

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Exercise 12: Creating a Radio Commercial

Record the following script into Audacity. Use both the Mixer and effects from Audacity toadjust the audio. Then add sound effects where stated. You can create your own sound effects,but it must sound professional and you must use at least 1 sound effect found online usingGoogle or Dogpile.

STEPS:

1. Read through script and decide on necessary sound effects and music to set tone ofcommercial

2. Locate Appropriate Sound Effects

You need 3 required sound effects. (You may make your own sound effects or use previouslycreated effects)

3. Record Your Narration

Follow the script. You can adlib, but you must use everything from the script. You will be gradedon the clarity and how convincing your voice is.

4. Arrange your files

Put all your files in order. Be sure to adjust volumes so everything goes together seamlessly.Also, drop in your sound effects so that they are in the correct place. Be sure your music is nottoo loud!

5. Add Effects

Highlight sound clips and use the Effect menu as needed to achieve the desired special effects.Also, be sure the music fades in and out so that it doesn’t sound odd.

6. Test and Export

When you are satisfied with your work, test it, retest it, and then, when ready, export it as anmp3.

See next page for script...

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Zap Breakfast Cereal Script

(Faint music playing in the background)

(Stomach Growling Sound Effect)

Voice One: (add echo) Your name?

Voice One: (LOUDER with stomach growling effect) Your name??

Voice Two: Who said that??

Voice One: (ECHO) It’s me…your stomach!

Voice Two: My stomach??

Voice One: (ECHO) A little food would help here…what’s for breakfast?

Voice Two: ...but I don’t have time, I’ll be late for school!

Voice One: (ECHO and overlap previous) School?? How can you possibly expect to performwhen your stomach is empty?? You NEED to eat breakfast! It’s the most important mealof the day!

Voice Two: Alright…you win…what would you like? Toast? Pancakes? Cereal? …

Voice One:(ECHO) Yeah, cereal…but not just any cereal….we need the one that energizes us!

(Shock effect here)

Voice Two: (interrupts voice one) Oh…You mean ZAP!...

Voice One: Right, right…that’s it...ZAP...shocks the life into you!.

(sound of milk being poured)

http://www.soundsnap.com/taxonomy/term/2302 (sound effects)

http://www.totse.com/en/ego/no_laughing_matter/zelda.html

Voice One: Now we’re ready to start the day…let’s go!

(Sound of footsteps running...)

Voice Three: Don’t let your hunger slow you down…get ZAPPED today!

(Music fades out)

Don’t forget to save your work!

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Part 2: Suggested Activities

Prerequisite: Students must complete the three components of Part 1 prior to beginning Part 2(Suggested Activities)

There are 5 suggested activities included with this module. Students are expected to completeany 1 of these activities in the time allotted. However, students are encouraged to try out otheractivities if time permits.

Activity 1: Podcast

Activity 2:Reader’s Theatre

Activity 3: Radio Show

Activity 4: Music Mashup or Movie Mix

Activity 5: Original Musical Creation

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Activity 1: Podcast

Now that you have had some time to experiment with audio software and hardware, you have theskills necessary to create a variety of audio projects, one of which is a podcast.

Introduction to Podcasting

At the core, a podcast is an audio file that is automatically received from the internet and thensynced to your mp3 player. The files are received by subscribing to what's called a podcast feedor an RSS feed. You’ve probably seen the small orange RSS icon on webpages already. Youdon’t need to know how the feed works to subscribe. You just need to know that you cansubscribe to a podcast feed to get the latest shows when they are released. You don’t have toremember to check for new shows. You don’t have to download it. It's done for you. You canthink of a podcast as being like a magazine because you subscribe to it and receive new contentregularly.

Creating a podcast involves 2 parts. In part 1, you create your audio file by researching, writingand recording your podcast. The second part of podcasting involves posting your podcast to theWeb. Part 1 should be very simple for you to do now because you know how to create mp3's.Posting your podcast to the Web might be a little more challenging. Follow the instructionsbelow carefully! Anyone can make a podcast!

Part 1 - Creating the mp3

1. Choose a topic

2. Research your topic and write your script.

a. Complete this step in your Audio Journal.

b. Use Audacity and the Mixer to Record your script, including background music forthe introduction and closing, and any special effects if necessary.

c. Cite all sources - Creating a podcast may require you to conduct some research on thetopic of your choice. If this is the case, you must cite all the sources from which youreceived your information.

3. Export your project in mp3 format.

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Part 2 -Creating Your Podcast (Add your Audio file to RSS 2.0 Feed)

Anything that is viewed on the Web must be written in a special language. Regular webpages arewritten using Hypertext Markup Language (HTML code). Podcasts are also created based on anextension of this language called XML. In this exercise, you don’t have to know how to code; allyou have to do is replace the areas highlighted in BOLD.

1. Open Notepad

2. Click on File

3. Click on Open

4. Locate the file called podcast.txt from the Multiuse drive. The text should be the same as shown below.

T Change each of the areas highlighted in bold to match your information.

T Make sure you know the location of your mp3 file - FILE MANAGEMENT is keyto creating a successful podcast (otherwise your links won’t work!)

<?xml version="1.0" encoding="iso-8859-1"?>

<rss version="2.0">

<channel>

<title>your podcast title goes here </title>

<description>Write a brief description of your podcast.</description>

<link>http://www.yourURL.com</link>

<language>en-us</language>

<copyright>Copyright 2008</copyright>

<lastBuildDate>Mon, 11 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0500</lastBuildDate>

<pubDate>Mon, 11 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0500</pubDate>

<docs>http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs>

<webMaster>yourname@yourURL.com</webMaster>

<item>

<title>your episode title goes here </title>

<link>http://www.yourURL.com/episodename.mp3</link>

<description>Enter a description for this episode.</description>

<enclosure url="http://www.yourURL.com/episodename.mp3" length="10469449" type="audio/mpeg"/>

<category>Podcasts</category>

<pubDate>Mon, 11 Feb 2008 21:00:00 -0500</pubDate>

</item>

</channel>

</rss>

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6. Save your file as yourtopic_yourname.xml . Make sure you include the .xml extension inyour file name.

7. Both the .xml file and your .mp3 file must be uploaded to a webserver. Ask your teacher tohelp you with this.

8. Make sure you check your podcast to make sure it works. Use the following validationwebsites:

T rss.scripting.com

T validator.w3.org

9. Download your podcast to your mp3 player.

Did it work?

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Activity 2 – Reader’s Theatre

For this activity, students are to write an original story or mini-series, or choose a favourite storyor book (children’s books or fairy tales work well) to record as a reader’s theatre. The studentswill use their knowledge of Audacity and recording hardware to record themselves reading thestory. Once recorded, students will add sound effects where desired. Keep your audience inmind! This activity requires at least 2 students - a sound engineer and a vocalist.

STEPS:

1. Collaborate with your partner and use Inspiration to storyboard your production. Map outall acts and scenes. (AUD-1)

2. Write your script using WordPerfect. Keep the following items in mind:

• script must have at least 3 speaking characters and at least 3 different special/soundeffects

• at least 2 sound effects must be created by students.(AUD-7)

• other effects may be taken from free .WAV or .MP3 files available from the Internet

• materials can be brought from home to create sound/special effects.

3. 2 mics can be connected to 2 different channels. Remember to set levels for thesechannels and record them in your journal so you can quickly reset them each class.

4. Create a new Audacity file and keep the following in mind:

• start recording dialogue.

• sound effects may be added to this track, but for more versatility, effects should berecorded on a new track and then moved to the appropriate place in the maindialogue.

5. If using music in the background*:

• Students using music from a cd as background, select “stereo mix” for the inputsource (or “what you hear” depending on version of software). With the CDplaying (using Windows Media Player), press the Record button in Audacity. Thiswill record music directly from the CD. Check the levels as it records

• make sure to check levels

• save cd track and give it a name

* Be aware of copyright issues if wanting to use recorded music. Use a purchased song and givecredit to your sources.

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6. Utilize effects within Audacity to enhance production (echo, pitch, fade in, etc)

• note that too many effects will detract from quality of production (sometimes“less is more”)

• edit dialogue getting rid of any unwanted text, sounds, etc

• it is always a good idea to edit consonants and not vowels as consonants offeropportunity for “cleanest” edits (hard sounds in consonants as opposed to softsounds in vowels)

• experiment moving dialogue around within the track

7. “Mix” tracks moving effects tracks to appropriate places within main dialogue track.

• use selection tool to highlight sections of tracks to be moved.

• play moved selection with main dialogue track to hear if they fit. Move ifnecessary.

8. Export the finished file as an mp3 (AUD-12)

NOTE: This activity could be used to create audio booksfor visually challenged students or for young children

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Activity 3 – Radio Show

It may be hard to believe...but there was life before television and the Internet! The radio wasactually a very popular form of entertainment for many individuals! Families would gatheraround the radio to hear weekly radio shows produced by companies like the Mercury Theatreand famous personalities like Orson Welles. One of the most famous broadcasts was War of theWorlds in which the aliens were invading the earth. The show caused mass hysteria in the UnitedStates because the broadcast was so realistic that people thought they were really being invaded!

Radio is a very powerful way to spread a message...War of the Worlds is probably one of themost famous radio shows of its time, but there are many others shows available. Take a fewminutes and check out www.mercurytheatre.info to listen to some pre-recorded radio show.You could also do a search in Google to locate other radio shows.

Writing Your Script

Once you’ve taken the time to listen to some pre-recorded radio shows, it’s your turn! In thisactivity, you’re going to write your own radio show script. Your script should not only show thetext that will be read/spoken, but also any sound effects that will be part of your show.

Recording Your Show

Once you’ve shared your script with your teacher, you’re ready to record. Remember, you don’thave to get it all right in one take! You can combine several tracks to create your final radioshow.

� Use 2 of the channels for recording of dialogue. If more than 2 students are going to bereading, they can share the microphones.

� Save and label the tracks with Audacity.

� Add appropriate sound effects/other character voices. (free .wav files may be downloadedand used or you can record your own original effects with Audacity using “stereo mix”.Free sound bites can be downloaded from sites such ashttp://www.newsgeneration.com/services/bite.htm)

� Edit the tracks

� Mix tracks together to create single audio file.

� Export your final show in mp3 format and burn to cd (AUD10)

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Activity 4 – Music Mix or Movie Mix (AUD 10 and 12)

In this activity, you have the option to create a music or movie mix. Choose your favourite musicor famous quotes from movies and combine them in a unique and entertaining way.

Remember, copyright laws are in place to protect the artists and creators. Would you like it ifsomeone took something that belonged to you without asking? This project is for educationalpurposes only and you must use purchased CDs (not burned CDs) that you own. You can alsouse music that is in the Public Domain. This includes works by authors who have been dead forat least 50 years. For example, works by Beethoven or similar classical musicians would fallunder this category.

Windows Media Player or MusicMatch can be used to RIP the song off the CD and convert it tomp3 format. Once you’ve completed this step, then you can use the Import Audio command inAudacity to open the song.

Follow the steps below to create your music mix.

1. Choose at least 5 songs/quotes that have a common theme or word

2. Run each song/quote through Audacity and find the section of the song that you want touse (Keep to a maximum of 8 seconds)

3. Highlight and cut or copy the section of the song/movie line you wish to use

4. Paste into a new track

5. Repeat process for other songs

6. Move tracks into the desired order

7. Add effects (eg. Fade in/out)

8. Use the Quick Mix command to mix songs

9. Don’t forget to save your file as you are working!

10. Export your finished file as an mp3

NOTE:

Make sure you review the copyright video athttp://nortellearnit.org/technology/Digital_Ethics

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Activity 5 (For the musicians in the class)

*Singing and/or playing a musical instrument is required for this activity. Due to its nature andpotential length, students may choose this activity in lieu of completing 2 activities.

1. Select a piece of music for recording (You can do your own or a cover, but you must citeyour sources. If you create a CD and decide to sell the CD, royalties must be paid to theartist or writer – SOCAN)

2. Lay down a Guide Track (student must sing/play instrument at the same time)

• If you’re using an electrical instrument (eg. Electric guitar), you must input to thechannel on the mixer.

• If you’re using an acoustic instrument, then you must set up the mic by theinstrument.

3. Make sure you do a practice to check the levels so it’s clear and not distorted.

4. Adjust levels accordingly

5. Create tracks for your vocals and instruments and name them.

6. SAVE your file and then choose which track to record first.

7. Begin recording. Don’t forget to save your work as you go.

8. Add any effects (fade in/out, reverb, echo…)

9. Once all tracks are recorded, delete Guide Track and/or Click track.

10. Play the tracks and make sure all sounds are in the proper location.

11. Note: Any minor mistakes can be minimized by using the effects (eg. Compression) inAudacity.

12. If you’re pleased with the result, then use the QuickMix command to mix your song.

13. Export as mp3

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Glossary terms

acoustics- the science concerned with the production, control, transmission, reception and effectsof sound.

amplifier- a device that will convert a signal with a small amount of energy into a similar signalwith a larger amount of energy

audio mixing- balance the volume, frequency and content of sound sources such as multiplevocals, instruments, etc.

channel-each signal that is input into the mixer has its own channel. Each channel has an XLRinput and/or quarter inch jack line plug line inputs

decibel- level of noise. eg. Normal talking 40-60 db, moving car 60-80 db, hearing damageduring short term 120 db.

echo- reflection of sound usually arriving after the original source of sound.

E.Q.- process of changing the frequency of a sound. Adding E.Q. will add additional energy to achannel. Too much E.Q. will cause “clipping” or too much energy to a channel. This causes adistorted sound.

frequency-measure of sound WAVes within a given period of time measured in hertz(hz) or oneWAVe(cycle) per second

gain-measured by comparing its input to its output. This gain can either be expressed as amultiplier or in decibels.

master controls- main controls often found on the right side of a mixing consol. This controls allchannel outputs.

microphone-an acoustic to electric transducer that converts sound into electrical energy.

microphone (condenser)-highly sensitive microphone containing a pre-amp. that requires an

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additional power source(see phantom power)

microphone (dynamic)-microphone capable of dealing with a wide range of sound. Practicaland rugged for a variety of situations. Does not need phantom power.

multi-track recording- the process of mixing individual sound sources to a single recording.

overload indicator- also known as a Peak Light. Indicates how strong a signal is coming from asource.

pan-can also be used in an audio mixer to reduce or reverse the stereo width of a stereo signal.For instance, the left and right channels of a stereo source can be panned 'straight up', that is sentequally to both the left output and the right output of the mixer, creating a dual mono signal.

phantom power- sends DC current through microphone cables. Usually used to powercondenser microphones.

pitch- the fundamental frequency of a sound- standard pitch is 440 hz, often referred to as “A-440". This is the tuning pitch of most instruments.

reverberations(reverb)-a large number of echos built up. Most noticeable when sound sourcestops and reflections of sound continue.

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Sample Assessment Rubric

PerformanceCriteria

% % %

1. FollowsDirections

1 rarely readsdirections, hasdifficultycompleting task

3 usually reads andfollows directions,has difficulty withcomplex tasks

5 reads and followsdirections,completes task withlittle or nosupervision

2. Content 1 content has littledetail

3 content issomewhat detailed

5 content is verydetailed, coversmajor points

3.Creativity 1 lacks creativity 3 demonstratessome creativity

5 very creative

4.AudioQuality

1 poor quality,garbled, unableto hear

3 acceptable quality,able to distinguishaudio

5 superior quality,lots of attention todetail

5. Knowledgeof Technology(mics,software,etc)

1not comfortableusing tools,repeatedly asksfor assistance

3 somewhatcomfortable withtools, occasionallyasks for assistance

5 confident usingtools, rarely asksfor assistance