Project URL: http://teachersnetwork.org/teachnet-lab/is24/vnacionales/psa.htm
How it works:
"This is your brain. This is your brain on drugs. Get the picture?"
Who could ever forget that commercial? Students are introduced to this and other
Public Service Announcements ("PSA") on videotape in this program.
Students brainstorm for other PSA topics that they will eventually be asked to
write about and produce into a PSA on video. Students are encouraged to use the
Internet, a valuable source of statistics and information they will need to
complete the research on their PSA video.
Standards addressed:
Learning Standards for the Arts at Three Levels (6, 7
and 8)
Standard 1: Creating, Performing and Participating in the
Arts
Standard 2: Knowing and Using Arts Materials and
Resources
Standard 3: Responding to and Analyzing Works or Art
Standard 4: Understanding the Cultural Dimensions and
Contributions of the Arts
Materials used:
Computers with Internet access, television, VCR, videos of PSAs, blank
video tapes, video camera, teleprompter
The students
This lesson was prepared for students in Grades 7 and above, however, it may be adapted
for younger students. In the case of younger students, the teacher may have to
assist more in the areas of writing the PSA scripts and conducting research. The topics for
the PSAs could be easier also, like crossing the street safety tips.
Overall value:
This program begins with students turning a critical and non-passive eye on
commercials that are taken for granted, Public Service Announcements ("PSAs").
Students learn how vital these PSAs are to the public and write their own guidelines
for them as outlined in this program. Students must research their
assigned topics using the Internet. Video cameras and computers (used as
teleprompters) are used during final taping of the students' PSAs.
Tips:
Provide quick feedback of scripts written by students. Provide
computer/Internet access whenever possible for students who do not have it at
home. Have fun!
