DEFINITION :
A public service announcement is an advertisement that a
television or radio station airs for a cause or a charity.
The objective of a public service announcement is to educate
and create awareness of significant social issues in an effort to change the
public’s attitudes and behaviours and stimulate positive social change.
Public service
announcements (PSA's) can be utilized in three mediums:
- Newspaper (print PSA's);
- Radio (audio PSA's); and
- Television (video PSA's).
Techniques Used in
PSA’s
•
Humour.
Humour tends to catch one’s attention, especially for kids and teens, but
humour may trivialize serious issues. Sometimes irony (or in its extreme,
satire) can be very effective in conveying an important message.
•
Shock treatment. Such campaigns provide a realistic look at an issue, but may
turn people off entirely because of their graphic nature. Also, broadcasters
may be reluctant to broadcast PSA’s they feel may be too controversial.
•
Preaching.
This technique involves an individual or group pleading with an audience for
greater awareness of the issue. Note: there’s a fine line between
earnestness and appearing to be patronizing.
•
Using a celebrity. Celebrities do get favourable attention, but sometimes people are so
distracted by the celebrity they forget the message.
EXAMPLE :
Hey, students! Are you concerned about violence at school? Do
you know of students threatening to hurt or bullying someone? Well, there’s
something you can do about it. Just call 1-866-SPEAK-UP to report a threat. The
call is free and completely anonymous. If you know about a student threatening
violence, don’t take chances, call 1-866-SPEAK-UP. That’s 1-866-SPEAK UP. It
could be the most important call you’ll ever made.
POSTERS
DEFINITION
A posters is an informative and
decorative way to attract the attention to the information it contains. It is
usually displayed in a public place. It is often decorated with designs or
illustrations.
Here are some ways to use posters
in a literacy program :
• To
advertise events or products;
• To
display information or instructions; and
• To
each about some kinds of information
You will create a Public Service
Announcement poster that will address the issue in the following way:
·
The topic is simple and clear.
·
The PSA gets attention and is eye catching.
·
It includes a slogan and a visual that is
memorable.
·
The PSA is creative and entertaining.
·
It provides accurate information on the
topic’s importance.
·
The PSA effectively reaches its target
audience.
