Hidden Histories: Planning Examples
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It’s important to be clear from the outset what you are going to produce: If you do not already have a specific plan already, such as a blog article, short film or display. You might like to look through some of the examples below for ideas and inspiration!
This page provides examples of each format listed. Tips for producing them can be found on the create page.
Keep in mind that your project doesn’t have to fit into just one of these categories. Many of these formats feed into each other, overlap, or can be used to complement each other. These are just here as a guide.
Writing
There are many types of written projects that you could produce. Written projects are one of the clearest and simplest ways to share information.
Equally, you might like to take a bit more artistic license with your writing. Creative non-fiction is a popular mode of storytelling and allows you to use literary techniques to tell true stories.
BlogBlogs are a popular online method of sharing content. You have a lot of freedom with how formal you wish to make it, and what angle to approach your project from. |
Feature ArticleFeature articles discuss a particular topic in depth. If you have a specific destination in mind for your article, you may want to check the conventions of the specific publication before you start. |
News ArticleSimilar to a feature article but slightly less flashy, a news article focuses on the facts. |
Study EssayWhether it’s for a qualification or just for your own interest, a study essay is an effective way to explore a topic in depth. Don’t forget to check which referencing system to use with your education provider. |
Literature ReviewIf you want to examine existing material on a topic, you can produce a review of what’s out there. |
ScriptScripts can lead to plays, films and even podcasts. Famously, Shakespeare took historical events to create many of his plays. Even if you don’t already have a team of actors, your script could be picked up and performed. |
Short storyShort stories can be an entertaining way to tell a snapshot of history. You can collect these together in an anthology, either on your own or as a group. |
PoetryPoetry is a flexible genre that comes in many different forms. These can also be assembled into a collection. |
Art
Art has been a way of telling stories throughout history, all the way back to cave paintings.
PhotographyWhether you’re using a flashy camera or your phone, photos are a valuable historical resource. You can show these off in a portfolio, or in a display. |
MusicWhile this can be an intimidating format to approach, it’s also one that can stick in the mind of your audience really well. |
3D ArtYou can use any materials to create 3D art representing your event. Sculptures, pottery and papercraft are all popular examples. |
2D ArtWhether it’s pen, pencil, paint or collage, you can find any art style to suit your skillset. |
PosterPosters are an eye-catching and decorative way of displaying information. |
Digital
In the digital age that we live in, there are many opportunities to share information. You may want to consider which platform your project is destined for before you start, as this may dictate the conventions you need to follow. You can find examples of platforms on the share page.
A good place to start is a storyboard or script. When recording for a project, you can end up with many different clips, so going in with a clear plan can help you stay organised. You can use our template to create a storyboard.
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Digital storyThere are many methods of digital storytelling, but perhaps the most basic is a slideshow. |
VlogAs the name suggests, a vlog is essentially a blog in video form. |
Short filmA short film can be as short as seconds long, depending on the purpose. You can find out more about the different platforms on the share page. |
PodcastPodcasts have risen in popularity recently. An audio file that can be streamed or downloaded, you can produce it as an individual or a group. |
AnimationIf you have the software required, computer-generated animation is a popular and entertaining way to tell a story. Even if you don’t, stop-animation can be produced frame by frame. |
InfographicThese are incredibly sharable images that summarise a topic very succinctly. |
WebsiteIf you have a lot of material, you may want to put together a whole website, either on your own or collaboratively. |
Events and Attractions
An event can be an effective way to engage an audience with your story.
Play or theatrical performanceThis pairs well with the ‘script’ section above. There have been many popular plays and musicals based on historical events. |
ExhibitionIf you can find a place to display it, an exhibition can explore a specific topic in depth. |
LectureYou could put together a lecture to share your findings. This can then be delivered in person or shared online. |
WorkshopAnother way to share your findings in an interactive way is a workshop. |
Peace TrailThere are multiple peace trails throughout Wales that explore stories while giving visitors an entertaining day out. |
Peace GardenAnother attraction you could produce is a peace garden. |