1. Public Service announcements (psa)

2. What is a PSA
Short messages produced on film, videotape, DVD, CD, audiotape, or as a computer file and given to radio and television stations

3. Advantages of Using PSAs
Generally inexpensive
Most places allow designer to include a telephone number for listeners/viewers to get more info
Tend to be really effective at encouraging the audience to do something
Can raise awareness in your issue

4. When to use them Nonprofit organization Specific announcement to make
Time and place of a meeting/event
Clear and easy-to-understand issue
Requesting a specific action
Going to be part of a larger media campaign

5. Before Writing a PSA Decide upon clarity and purpose of PSA
What are your goals here?
What do you want to accomplish?
Survey your media outlets to best reach the audience
Prioritize your media outlets
Is your audience more likely to turn on a station that show: sports or prime time drama, country or rap, etc.
When will your audience be most likely to tune into these stations

6. Writing a PSA Language should be simple and vivid
Content should have the right “hooks”
Phrases or words to grab audience attention
Should request a specific action
Choose points to focus on
Brain storm
Check your facts
Identify a “hook”
Funny
Catchy Music
Shocking statistic
Emotional Appeal

7. Guidelines 10 seconds = 20-25 words 15 seconds = 30-35 words

8. Sample Radio Station PSA Script
Use: Immediate: TFN* Time: 20 seconds Agency: Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation Title: “Day of Compassion” Main Point: Day of Compassion will be held June 20 Fifteen years ago, most people thought it couldn’t happen to them. Today we know better. AIDS has taken more than 320,000 lives nationwide. It could happen to someone you love. Turn on your radio or TV on June 20th and experience a Day of Compassion. It could save lives. Be aware. Be safe. Be compassionate. ### TFN – Until Further Notice

9. Lets look at some PSA’s http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqDkDtvw6VI
connects-psas/
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