custom_index - how to add plugins widgets using script

How do I edit my custom_index page to add more widget plugins?

I need help with coding my index page to add polls, thewire, recent photos and videos. 

What I've discovered is that you probably need to modify the following files:

- mod/custom_index/views/default/canvas/layouts/new_index.php

- mod/custom_index/index.php

I have tried scripting a few different layouts, all resulted in an error. Any help with scripting for these modifications would be very much appreciated. It's been almost a week now without any progress. 

I'd really like some help from this community so I can continue using Elgg, I see it's potential but unlocking it is another story. 

Thanks in advance. 

- Gumba