1. Advertising Techniques
News Literacy

2. Bandwagon
A technique that gives the impression that everyone else is doing something, so you will be left out if you don’t join in
Example: “Four out of five people interviewed said they prefer Bright toothpaste. What do they know that you don’t?”

3. Sex appeal
A technique based on the implied promise that others will find you more attractive or desirable because you use a product
Example: The scantily clad female holding any product.

4. Emotional appeal
A technique that targets your emotions through specific word choice or imagery, in either a positive or negative way
Example: Life insurance ads that create worry about how a father might care for his family after an untimely death.

5. Transfer
A technique in which ad creators hope that the feelings created in an ad will transfer to the viewer of the ad
Example: A hungry teen searches for Doritos...reminding you that you are hungry, and Doritos sound delicious.

6. Repetition
A simple technique based on repeating ideas or imagery to make stronger connections between product and consumer
Example: The Coke commercials where every scene shows someone different drinking a Coke.

7. Facts and figures
A technique that relies on numbers and statistics to tell you how great a product is
Example: “Whitens teeth in only 7 days!”

8. Expert testimonial
A technique that uses expert statements or visuals to sell you on a product
Example: Michael Jordan eating Wheaties.

9. Urgency
A technique that makes consumers feel like there is an immediate need to have the product
Example: “Hurry, only available in limited quantities!”

10. Stereotyping
Linking a product or desire for a product to a specific group based on general characteristics of that group
Example: Cleaning supplies are often advertised toward women.
STOP HERE to discuss stereotyping further