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Since we are working on a Measurement and Data Unit in Math, we can pose the following question to the children:How can we use data to reduce our families’ impact on the environment? They can then choose what data they want to gather and research. 3rd Grade

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Since we are working on a Measurement and Data Unit in Math, we can pose the following question to the children:How can we use data to reduce our families’ impact on the environment? They can then choose what data they want to gather and research. 3rd Grade

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Provides opportunity of application to skills learned in class.

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Provides opportunity of application to skills learned in class.

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It is a huge investment of time, and requires students to work independently on different tasks at different rates.

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Looking forward to having another PD to compare and contrast.

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It can be provided after a class subject has been to, in providing students with an opportunity to apply a skill learned. 

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It can be provided after a class subject has been to, in providing students with an opportunity to apply a skill learned. 

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Provides students with opportunities to solve real world problems. 

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Provides students with opportunities to solve real world problems. 

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Allows for creativity and other forms of learning to occur.

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Provides opportunities for students to have a voice and incorporate their ideas in the learning. 

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Provides opportunities for students to have a voice and incorporate their ideas in the learning. 

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Brainstorm possible directions with grade team partners.

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It involves time, planning and being able to reassess on the fly and adapt. 

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It involves time, planning and being able to reassess on the fly and adapt. 

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It helps students to connect skills learned into other subject areas  and assist to realize skill usefulness.

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It helps students to connect skills learned into other subject areas  and assist to realize skill usefulness.

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It deepens student learning. Fosters student ownership and independence with their learning. It is a way for the students to see the connection between subjects. 3rd Grade

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It deepens student learning. Fosters student ownership and independence with their learning. It is a way for the students to see the connection between subjects. 3rd Grade

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Time is the biggest factor. How broad or narrow should the PBL unit be....

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Time is the biggest factor. How broad or narrow should the PBL unit be....

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It promotes independence and self regulation. It also encourages students to set goals and monitor growth.  

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It promotes independence and self regulation. It also encourages students to set goals and monitor growth.  

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What is a PSA?

A public service announcement, commonly known by the PSA acronym, is a message spread in the interest of the public. Their objectives are to bring about awareness and change public attitudes, opinions, or even behavior towards an issue. These can be instructional, inspirational, or even shocking to elicit emotion and action.

They are powerful tools that effectively communicate important points. They provide students with an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions, develop their creative skills, and make a positive impact in their communities. Whether you're looking for public service announcement ideas or examples, there is no shortage of compelling topics to address. From promoting road safety to addressing mental health stigma, the range of PSA topics is vast. By utilizing a storyboard template and employing effective writing techniques, students can craft engaging and impactful messages that capture the audience's attention.

Types of Public Service Announcements

1. Narrative: Engage viewers emotionally through storytelling techniques, creating a connection with the message.

2. Animation: Use visuals, characters, and storytelling to communicate important ideas in a creative and engaging way.

3. Testimonial: Feature real people sharing personal stories or experiences to raise awareness and inspire action.

4. Print Ads: In the form of print ads displayed in newspapers, magazines, billboards, and other print media to reach a broad audience.

5. Social Media: Created specifically for online sharing on social media platforms, leveraging the reach and engagement potential of social media users.

6. Educational: Aim to inform and educate about specific issues or topics, often using clear explanations, visuals, and statistics.

Why Have Your Students Create a PSA?

A PSA created by a child can be very powerful way to get others to hear essential facts about a certain issue. Many campaigns have educated the public or contributed to social change. The number of people who smoke cigarettes has decreased dramatically since the 1960s, not only because of legal restrictions, but also because the general public as a whole has become more aware of the severe health risks. Consider the effects of famous characters on your own life such as Smokey the Bear or McGruff the Crime Dog and slogans like, "Don't drink and drive" or "This is your brain. This is your brain on drugs."

The most commonly used media for are video on television and the internet, and audio during radio shows or podcasts, but there are many instances of PSAs in print media. On Storyboard That, you can make a digital public service announcement that you can distribute via email, printed out, or projected during a presentation. You can even record and add audio!

How to Make a Public Service Announcement

They are for the benefit of the public, and usually contain a message that you should take away. What do you want to say? Should you tell a story or make a bold statement? Storyboard That offers storyboard templates for you to choose from. Here are a few steps on how to write your own storyboard.

1. Choose an Issue

Select a topic or issue that would benefit the public. A vital topic may address social or environmental issues such as bullying, littering, or industrial pollution, but also might be on a smaller scale like "push in your chair" or "cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze." Think about what you want to get across and to whom you are directing it.

2. Hook Your Audience

Good PSA topics will be noteworthy for at least one reason. Maybe it will grab attention because of its comedy, shock value, emotionality, or importance to the audience. Make use of the various character positions and expressions to demonstrate an array of emotions. Use eye-catching images in your storyboard cells from the Storyboard That library and Photos For Class, and try not to leave much empty white space. Use dialogue bubbles or other text boxes to explain your point. A very different, but effective, strategy is to limit the text to a single word or slogan, or to leave text out entirely.

3. Get Your Facts Straight

It is vital to research the topic as necessary. If you have incorrect information, your message will quickly lose its credibility. Make sure the factual information that you present, such as statistics examples, is correct and relevant. Use a blend of figurative language, images, and jokes to prove a point, but be sure that you are not insinuating untrue things. Choose appropriate scenes, characters, and items that enhance your message.

4. Be Straightforward

Your project should be clear and concise. Get your point across without dawdling. If you choose to make a more thought-provoking message to your targeted audience, you still want your audience to understand after a moment of consideration, rather than spend time puzzling over the higher meaning.

How Can I Use PSAs in the Classroom?

Use storyboards as an introduction to a unit on persuasive writing. They usually do not have legitimate opposing stances, but many public service announcements want to persuade the audience in some way. Making a storyboard can help students think about their passions, important issues in our society, and convincing reasons to back up claims.

Make storyboards to understand and address contemporary issues in your school, town, country, or world. They can cover numerous serious topics like racism, sex trafficking, drunk driving, drugs, but also smaller concerns in modern life. Here at Storyboard That, we love seeing what the next generation is thinking and how they are going to tackle the problems they are actively inheriting.

Use storyboards as a means of planning for video assignments. PSAs are great templates for advertisements, and often occur alongside commercials on TV, on radio, or in print. Storyboarding is very useful when planning for the needs of filming: set, actors, props, etc. The Fridge and The Arrest storyboards above are two examples of storyboards that could be easily turned into a video.

You or your class can create and PSA infographics to hang in the classroom or in the halls of the school to start a movement, like encouraging recycling or reminding their peers about bullying or peer pressure. Often these types of have a clear statement and call to action, and are made with vibrant, eye-catching colors.

Example PSA Activities

Follow-Up Discussion Questions

Showcase or present a public service announcement storyboard. Discuss the effectiveness of the various elements. Use some of these questions to guide the discussion.

1. What message should you take away? Is the message presented explicitly or implicitly?

2. Who is the intended audience? Where would you post or present this public service announcement?

3. Do you believe it? Do you understand why you should [follow the message]?

4. Do you have an emotional reaction or a personal connection? What in the PSA makes you feel that way?

5. How else could you present the same message in a different way? (i.e. use comedy as opposed to emotional connection) Which approach is more effective?

PSA Activity Ideas

1. Digital Ideas Campaign: Task the class with designing a digital campaign using social media platforms. They can create engaging posts, videos, or images that highlight the issue, encourage discussion, and prompt action, aiming to create awareness and reach a wide audience.

2. Poster Design: Ask students to design eye-catching posters that will talk about and explain a particular cause or issue. Provide them with information on effective design principles and direct them to incorporate persuasive language and visuals to capture the audience's attention. Some topic examples include taking a stand against bullying, diseases such as cancer, health organizations, and kids helping the environment.

3. Podcast: Have students produce a PSA in the form of a podcast episode. They can research and discuss the issue, interview experts or individuals affected by the issue, and present solutions or actions that listeners can take, effectively creating awareness and encouraging people to take action.

4. Community Outreach: Assist the class with organization of a community event or initiative that aligns with their chosen PSA topic. They can create flyers, invitations, or presentations to raise awareness and invite community members to participate, encouraging people to engage and take part in addressing the issue.

5. Storyboard and Animation: Guide the class in making a storyboard and animating their PSAs using digital tools or even simple stop-motion techniques. This allows them to bring their messages to life, capturing the audience's attention and effectively conveying important information in an engaging format.

Social Issues Public Service Announcement Examples

The following activity suggestions present a curated selection of compelling PSA examples that can be applied to illustrate the effectiveness of public service announcements in raising awareness, inspiring action, and creating a positive impact on society.

1. Cyberbullying: Discuss the lasting impact of cyberbullying and encourage kindness and respect online. Use real-life examples and personal stories to engage the audience and emphasize the importance of online empathy.

2. Mental Health: Develop a PSA that aims to reduce stigma around mental health and promote the importance of seeking help and support. Feature interviews with mental health professionals, individuals with lived experiences, and resources for accessing mental health services.

3. Environmental Conservation: Create a visually impactful PSA that highlights the urgency of environmental issues like climate change, deforestation, or plastic pollution. Use compelling visuals, statistics, and call-to-action statements to encourage sustainable practices and emphasize the role of individuals in making a difference.

4. Road Safety: Discuss the importance of responsible driving, seatbelt usage, and avoiding distracted driving through a dynamic campaign. Include testimonials from accident survivors, interviews with traffic safety experts, and reenactments to emphasize the consequences of reckless driving.

5. Healthy Eating: Develop a relatable and informative presentation to promote healthy eating habits. Include practical tips, recipes, and visuals showcasing the benefits of balanced diets. Address the risks of consuming unhealthy processed foods and encourage individuals to make nutritious choices.

6. Anti-Drug Abuse: Make something powerful that emphasizes the dangers of drug abuse and addiction. Incorporate testimonials from recovering addicts, interviews with substance abuse counselors, and information about local addiction treatment resources to encourage individuals struggling with addiction to seek help.

7. Gender Equality: Develop an empowering PSA that promotes gender equality, challenges stereotypes, and encourages equal opportunities for all genders. Highlight success stories of individuals breaking gender barriers and emphasize the importance of inclusive and respectful behavior.

8. Community Service: Create a heartwarming PSA to inspire and encourage individuals to engage in community service activities. Showcase different volunteer opportunities, interviews with volunteers, and the positive impact of community service on both recipients and volunteers.

9. Internet Safety: Raise awareness about online safety, privacy, and the prevention of cybercrimes like phishing and identity theft through an informative and engaging PSA. Provide practical tips for protecting personal information, recognizing online scams, and fostering a healthy digital environment.

10. Literacy Promotion: Develop a captivating campaign that highlights the importance of literacy. Feature children sharing their love for reading, interviews with authors, and information about local literacy programs. Encourage parents, teachers, and communities to support literacy initiatives and make books accessible to all children.

Frequently Asked Questions about creating PSAs

How many visual elements are enough or too much to use on a PSA template?

The number of visual elements to use on a PSA template depends on the message and target audience. Students should be advised that it is recommended to use a balance of images, text, and other design elements to convey the message effectively when creating their own PSA. It is important to avoid overloading the PSA with too many visual elements, which can make it difficult to read and understand.

What are some often overlooked issues that may arise when creating a PSA?

Some often overlooked issues when creating a PSA include ensuring that the message is clear and concise, selecting appropriate images and design elements that complement the message, and considering the cultural and social context of the target audience. Any public service announcement definition revolves around the purposeful dissemination of messages aimed at creating awareness, promoting social responsibility, and fostering positive behavior change within a specific target audience. Therefore, it is important to avoid using language or images that may be offensive or inappropriate and to test the PSA with a small group of students before sharing it widely. It is also important to only use images that are in the public domain or have a Creative Commons license to avoid copyright infringement issues.

Are there any guidelines I should follow when creating a PSA template?

Yes, you should consider the target audience, message, and format of the PSA when designing the template. For instance, when creating PSA templates, it is important to consider the age range of the target audience. PSA topics that are age-appropriate should use language and images that are appropriate for the target age group. It is important to avoid using images or language that may be too mature or difficult for younger students to understand. Additionally, it is important to avoid using PSAs that may be too simplistic or unengaging for older students. It is also important to ensure that the PSA follows ethical and legal guidelines.

What are some factors to consider in terms of instruction and design when developing PSA templates for students with special needs in the classroom?

When considering how to create a PSA template for students with special needs, it is important to acknowledge their individual needs and ensure that the materials are accessible and understandable to them. This may involve simplifying the language used in the PSA, providing additional visual aids or audio instructions, and allowing for extra time or breaks during the design process. It is also important to consider the specific disability or special need of each student and tailor the instruction and design accordingly. For example, students with visual impairments may require braille or large print materials, while students with autism may benefit from visual schedules and clear expectations. Overall, it is crucial to prioritize accessibility and inclusivity when creating PSA examples for students with special needs.

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What is a PSA? - Public Service Announcement Examples & Ideas | StoryboardThat

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Create PSA infographics, posters, & storyboards with your students at ❰StoryboardThat❱ ✩ Find examples and topics as well as some templates to get you started.

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Why we help develop and amplify student voice

Students are filled with curious, innovative, brilliant and thoughtful ideas; we know there is a significant impact when students are not only asked about their passions and perspectives, but when they work to develop and share those ideas to a larger audience. Through this program, students develop both 21st century skills and are better prepared to advocate for the problems of today and the future.

How the program works

The TED-Ed Student Talks program provides free, customizable activities for educators working with students ages 6-18 in a classroom, school, extra-curricular setting or youth/educational organization. When an educator's application is approved, you receive access to a customized virtual learning platform where you will access our our guided activities and resources, which are standards-based and built on TED-Ed's core learning principles; in addition, you will be able to connect with the TED-Ed staff and fellow educators from around the world.

How the application process works

The TED-Ed Student Talks application is open all year round. The TED-Ed team reviews and approves applications on April 1, August 1 and December 1. Once approved, you will receive access to our customized virtual learning platform for 12 months after which you will have to re-apply to renew and continue your access.

Identify the elements of a great idea

Thinking curiously and critically of ideas they learn about

Research, develop, and craft their ideas into compelling, spoken narratives

Gain confidence to share ideas with their peers and community

Give and receive meaningful feedback on each other's ideas

Apply here

Frequently asked questions

How does the program work? Who can get involved? What resources does an approved educator receive? What is the recommended group size? How can districts, larger organizations and networks of schools get involved? Are there resources available in languages other than English?

Students work together to identify, develop and share their creative ideas. Use TED-Ed's free, customizable public speaking activities as a guide and to inspire tomorrow's TED speakers and leaders.

Want to learn more? Dive into the details by downloading this information packet OR take a sneak peek at our activities via the Explorations at a glance found in our Leader Guidebook.

If you work in an administrative role of a school or organization and want to have multiple groups of educators and students involved, you can easily indicate that when filling out your application.

When filling out the "Organization Type" question, please select "A group/network of schools" option. Once approved, our team will follow up with you to help ensure all of the educators in your network gain access to our virtual learning platform.

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Bring TED-Ed Student Talks to Your School

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The TED-Ed Student Talks program helps you claim your voice, share your ideas, and participate in a global conversation. Discover the talk that only YOU can give!

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Explore our growing collection of PBL resources to help you design and implement powerful projects for your students.

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Project Based Learning (PBL) is a great teaching method to engage and excite elementary school students. It emphasizes real-world problem-solving, allowing students to work on projects that are directly relevant to their lives and the world around them.

Project-based learning has many benefits for students. It helps them develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as teamwork and collaboration skills. Additionally, project-based learning can increase student engagement and motivation.

In this blog, we will discuss and provide examples of PBL and how it can be implemented in an elementary school setting, the benefits of PBL, how it works in the classroom, and some of the challenges you may face when implementing it in your organization's curriculum.

What is Project-Based Learning?

Here are some examples of project-based learning in action :

Students can learn about the water cycle by creating a model of the water cycle

A Nutrition curriculum might allow students to create a healthy lunch menu

When studying mapmaking students might create a map of their school.

Project-based learning activities can be done in the classroom or at home. They can be done individually, in pairs, or in small groups.

There are a few things to keep in mind when planning project-based learning activities for elementary students.

1. Make sure the project is relevant and interesting to them.

2. The project should be achievable and not too difficult.

3. You should be able to provide support and resources as needed.

12 project-based learning engagements to start using today >>
Why is project-based learning important / Benefits of PBL

Project-based learning has been shown to hold many benefits for elementary students. PBL helps them develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while also teaching them how to work together as a team. Through PBL students become more engaged and motivated in their learning.

Studies show that project-based learning improves academic achievement and higher test scores, and grades than those who haven't participated in PBL.

Project-based learning is an important part of the elementary school curriculum. SmartLabs project-based learning helps students develop the skills they need to be successful in school and in life.

How does project-based learning work in the classroom

When implementing project-based learning in the classroom, it is important to consider the needs of your students, ensuring the project is relevant and interesting to them. Additionally, make sure the project is achievable and matches their abilities. Finally, provide support and resources as needed.

There are many ways to implement project-based learning in elementary schools. Here are a few examples:

1. Field trips: Students can learn about their community by planning and going on field trips, like visiting a local farm, recycling center, or a historical site.

2. Classroom projects: When learning about the ecosystem or mapping, students can work on projects in the classroom such as creating a model of the water cycle or a map of their school.

3. At-home: Parents can support project-based learning at home by helping their child complete a project like helping their child plan and cook a healthy meal.

4. Technology projects: Students can use technology to create their own projects like creating a website or a digital poster.

5. Group/Collaborative Projects: Working together on group projects, students can collaborate on things such as a play or a presentation.

No matter how you choose to implement project-based learning in your classroom, the important thing is that your students are engaged and excited about their learning. Project-based learning is a great way to engage elementary students in their learning.

Helping students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as teamwork and collaboration skills, project-based learning has also been shown to improve academic achievement. If you're looking for a way to spice up your elementary school curriculum, consider incorporating SmartLabs project-based learning into your teaching.
Looking for more advanced PBL engagements? Explore project ideas for high school classrooms >>
Top challenges with implementing project-based learning in elementary schools

While project-based learning has many benefits, there are also some challenges that come with it. Here are a few of the top challenges of implementing project-based learning in elementary school:

1. Getting students engaged: Engaging students and keeping them engaged throughout a project can be a challenge. It can be difficult to keep them on task and motivated throughout the project.

SmartLabs takes pride in curating engaging PBL STEM projects and lessons. All of our curricula is designed to meet current state standards and

2. Managing time: Another challenge with project-based learning is managing time. It can be difficult to keep students on track and ensure that the project is completed on time.

3. Organizing materials: Project-based learning often requires a lot of materials. This can be a challenge, especially if you don't have a lot of storage space.

SmartLabs works with your organization to plan your SmartLabs space. We can customize a solution that fits your space and student needs.

4. Differentiating instruction: When working on a project, it can be difficult to differentiate instruction. This is because all students are working on the same project and may be at different levels.

SmartLabs helps you with differentiation through ongoing professional development, training, and our customized learning platform.

5. Assessing student learning: Measuring progress can also be a challenge with project-based learning. This is because students are often working on different parts of the project at different times.

SmartLabs Learning solutions have incorporated assessment into all of the lesson plans making measuring student progress a part of the project.

Despite these challenges, project-based learning is a great way to engage elementary students in their learning, and Smart Labs Learning solutions make it easy to incorporate into your existing curriculum.

In our next blog, we will address some of the challenges organizations face when implementing project-based learning and how to overcome them to best support their students. Stay tuned for more information.

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Project-Based Learning in Elementary Schools | Creative Learning Systems

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Project Based Learning (PBL) is a great teaching method to engage and excite elementary school students. It emphasizes real-world problem-solving, allowing students to work on projects that are directly relevant to their lives and the world around them. Project-based learning has many benefits for students.