Objectives
- Students will integrate writing, reading, and oral language.
- Students will become familiar with public service announcements.
Materials
- Writing materials
- Media equipment
- Examples of Public Service Announcements (PSAs)
- Optional: Camera, video camera, or tape recorder to record students' PSAs
Procedures
- Divide the class into groups. Three to six children per group, dependingon the children's talents and the size of the project.
- Model. Allow children to listen to or watch a PSA as a model for the activity they will engage in.
- Brainstorm. What messages does the public need to hear about REDUCING, REUSING, and RECYCLING and protecting wildlife? What are someslogans (such as "Don't Throw It All Away" or "Put Litter in Its Place") thatcan be used?
- Write. Each group creates a "spot" (as broadcasters call them) with astatement of the problem, a suggestion, and a slogan. A writer's workshopapproach with peer conferences to refine and organize is highly recommended.
- "Publish." Videotape or otherwise record the spot. The group may want tochoose their best reader or "turn-read" in which each member takes a portion. The recorded "spots" can be shared with other classes and makegreat presentations at the PTA, PTO, Home-School Association, or openhouse.