by
Introduction
Commercials Work. We know this because companies pay beg money for air time. The question is, How do they work? What tricks do they use to get us interested in their product?
The Task
In groups of four, students will decide how commercials effect our buying choices. After creating a list of elements that commercials have to sell a product. The challenge: to sell a worthless product or something that is already free. An example is the Pet Rock, sand, air or old newspapers. The advertising strategies should be taken from your list.
Resources
Video Cameras, Poster Board, Markers
The Process
To accomplish the task, what steps should the learners go through? Use the ordered list tag (ol) which will automatically number the steps in the procedure. Be sure to put a (li) before each item in the list, and close off the list with a (/ol). (Use angle brackets rather than parentheses). This section should be the major focus of the lesson, so the more detail and care you put into this, the better.
Learning Advice
Take notes during the Socratic Seminar. Look at TV commercials with a critical eye. How are they getting customers? Remember it is not what you sell but the advertising strategies to sell it that matter. If your team is having trouble bring in a fashion magazine and look at the advertising.
Evaluation
The class will showcase their commercials to another class and mock money will be given out. The goal is to be the number one seller at the marketplace.
Creativity is important. Agroup grade is given based on notes, visual effectiveness, neatness and creativity.
Individual grades are determined by a reflection letter written by each member. The letter must include contributions made to the group and discoveries they made by doing this project.
Conclusion
Students will have a better understanding about advertising and how it works. Students will have to think critically about the world and the effect commercials have on their purchases. Studetns will learn how to work in groups to accomplish a specific goal encouraging personal and interpersonal skills.