Overview/Purpose:
Students build on their understanding of PSAs by focusing specifically on the persuasive techniques that are used in this genre.
Guiding Questions:
- What makes a PSA compelling?
- How is persuasion used in PSAs?
Recommended Time:
90 minutes
Common Core State Standards:
Technology Required:
Computers with Internet access
Lesson Design:
- In small groups, students watch the same PSAs as they did in the prior lesson, though this time with a much more specific focus on the techniques used to persuade the audience.
- As they view the PSAs, students ask themselves:
1. Where do I see examples of persuasion?
2. How is sound used as a persuasive technique?
- Students track responses to these questions.
- The class reconvenes to discuss and chart responses.
- Some things worth noting:
1. Persuasion can be visually created through:
– Powerful images – video, photographs, artwork
– Expressions on people’s faces
– Use of color vs. black and white
– Use of celebrities
– Use of regular people
– Clear calls to action
2. Persuasion can be created through sound via:
– Play on words
– Repetition
– Humor
– Imperative commands
– Music to create tone
– Lyrics that add to meaning and/or tone
– Tone of actor/narrator’s voices
– Silence
Rock Your World is a program of Creative Visions
Rock Your World is a Program of Creative Visions, a 501(c) (3) organization that supports creative activists - individuals who use the power of media and arts to create positive change in the world.
