Project URL: http://www.teachnet-lab.org/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!

Vivian Nacionales has been an educator for over 8 years. She has taught Spanish, Italian, and Drama. Presently, she is developing a curriculum for a new 3 year Media Talent program at her school, Myra S. Barnes I.S. 24 in Staten Island, NY.

Email Contact: MrsNash106@aol.com

Estimated Class Periods To Complete: 8

Subject: Media Arts, English

Beginning Grade Level: 7

Ending Grade 
Level: 12