PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS

21.10 |

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS

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.

B. 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.