Links to the Saskatchewan English Language Arts Outcomes:

• CR7.4 View and demonstrate comprehension and interpretation of visual and multimedia texts with specific features (e.g., circle graphs) and complex ideas including the visual components of media such as magazines, newspapers, websites, reference books, graphic novels, broadcast media, videos, and promotional materials.
• CR7.5 Listen critically to understand and analyze oral information and ideas from a wide range of texts (e.g., complex instructions, oral explanations and reports, opinions or viewpoints, messages presented in the media).
• CC7.1 Create various visual, oral, written, and multimedia (including digital) texts that explore identity (e.g., Exploring Thoughts, Feelings, and Ideas), social responsibility (e.g., Taking Action), and efficacy (e.g., Building a Better World).

Brief Overview of the Lesson:

After a discussion about how companies try to entice buyers through effective advertising, the students will be asked to create a radio ad or newspaper ad for a new product.

Estimated Time Required for Implementation:

1–2 class periods

Materials Needed:

A few newspaper ads (tape of a radio ad if possible)

Suggested Implementation Strategy:

• Bring in a few ads for the class to see and or (hear).
• Share the ads with the class by asking questions such as:
  • What they like about the ads, and what does not appeal to them?
  • What message does the ad attempt to make?
  • How does this ad try to lure you into wanting their product?
  • What techniques are used in the ads?
  • Are the claims in the ad believable?
• Tell the class to think about how companies advertise a new product. They are to create and develop an ad to promote a new product, for use on the radio or in a newspaper.

Evaluation:

• Assess the creativity and effectiveness of the ads.

Possible Links to the Home Program:

• Ages 11–13 — Activities: Home – Decisions and Advertising

Extended Learning Opportunities:

• Have the students share their ads with the class and get feedback about the effectiveness of their ads.
• Ask the class to make a poster advertising their product.
• Ask the students to write a jingle or short song, promoting their product.
• Explore the cost of putting an ad in various media forms.