Write & Present a Radio Commercial | Verbal Communication with Mass Media

Description

Need an opening public speaking activity? Are your students studying mass media? Have students write and present a radio commercial!

I begin every public speaking course by having students write and deliver a radio commercial. Students get to practice timing themselves, writing, and developing strong verbal communication skills without the pressure of speaking in front of a crowd.

We also get to discuss mass media and model how students can participate ethically by writing a commercial.

Overview of this radio commercial activity:
√ Students will create and write a :30 radio commercial for a nonprofit that is hosting a fundraiser.

√ They will need to include a call to action for their audience, while persuading listeners with their tone, message, and overall presentation.

This may seem like a simplistic activity, but students have opportunities to practice numerous skills.

Included in this radio commercial activity:
→ Detailed lesson plans.
→ A goal setting sheet. This allows students to choose the area they should improve upon so they can take ownership of their learning.
→ A rubric that allows the teacher to choose the amount of points that each component is worth.
→ A set of questions to help students develop their radio commercial. I have provided a sample with answers to guide you in class discussions.
→ A final broadcast copy. This is the final copy that students should hand to you. Again, I included a final copy of my commercial as an example.

I use this activity at the start of every public speaking course. Students can “ease into” public speaking because they are only focused on writing and presenting verbally. They do not yet have to focus on standing or hand gestures.

The lesson plan contains common questions and concerns students have, as well as ideas for differentiation and extension activities.