Step 1: Think About Your Subject Matter

To get started, think about what the topic of the conversations will be. You don't need to describe a real patient, but the medical terms should be real. Is there a medical subfield that really interests you? Then, by all means, make the conversation about that.

Step 2: Research Below

Once you've decided on a conversation topic, research terminology related to it. To begin, you can review what you learned in the unit. You can also check reliable websites that are related to medicine. Government agency websites are usually excellent sources, as are sites from the Mayo Clinic and other large medical organizations.

Use a minimum of three medical terms in the first script and three general explanations in the second script. Check a dictionary to make sure you are pronouncing everything correctly. If a term has a common abbreviation, use that in addition to the full name.

Step 3: Find a Conversation Partner

Ask someone to participate in both conversations with you. This can be a classmate, friend, family member, or neighbor. Explain that you'll write out what you want them to say. If you don't have a partner available, it's fine for you to also play both roles.

Step 4: Create an Rough Draft

Start writing down what you plan to say in each conversation. Some students like to write out every word, like in a movie script. Others like to create an outline that lists the medical terms and a few words or phrases they plan to use about each term. You and your conversation partner can each have a copy of the script or outline in front of you as you make the video.

Which option should you choose—script or outline?

The script method takes more time up front, but it can be easier to shoot on video because you each know exactly what you will say. The outline method takes less time to create and can sound more natural. But you may stumble more often and need more retakes. Also, remember that the content of the technical conversation and the general conversation should match. If you write an script for each conversation, it can be easier to match them.

Be prepared to submit your scripts or outlines with your video.

Step 5: Practice Both Conversations

Practice your side (or sides) of each conversation on your own. Then, practice with your partner. Adjust your writing as needed to add detail or clear up confusion. Double-check that you are pronouncing words correctly. Aim for fluent, natural-sounding conversations. You may want to record some of your practice sessions on audio or video and then review them, looking for strengths and weaknesses.

Step 6: Record Both Conversations

Create videos of both conversations with your partner. Review the videos to make sure that each conversation covers the same information, just in different ways. Also, check that audio and video are clear and easy to understand. Submit your scripts or outlines, as well as both videos to the dropbox.