PSA: Earth Month - writercize #32 (A to Z 16)

PSA = Public Service Announcement.  A public service announcement is generally delivered over the radio or on the TV.  It is essentially a free advertising spot to get the word out about an educational idea, concept or event that is important public knowledge.

A few nationwide public service announcements have become so familiar that their message itself has become an inherent part of our vernacular, open to SNL-type satires and talk show discussions.  To be effective, they are generally simple and direct.

Famous PSA Examples:  

"This is your brain.  This is your brain on drugs.  Any questions?" (voice-over an image of a whole, then frying egg - anti-drug campaign) 

"Only you can prevent forest fires." (Smokey the Bear, telling people not to leave smoking fires or matches while hiking or camping)

"Take a bite out of crime." (encourages people to stand up and report crimes)

"Friends don't let friends drive drunk."

April 22 marks Earth Day, which in many communities has been extended to an Earth week or even Earth month.  It is the time that schools and community groups highlight the virtues of the three R's: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and organize events to plant trees, clean the beach, reduce pollution, discuss water and energy conservation, etc.  For today's writercize, I'd like you to tap into Earth month themes for inspiration.

writing exercise:  Pick a lesson of Earth Day and write a short, catchy Public Service Announcement (PSA) to educate the public.

(Click "read more" for writercizer sample response.)

writercizer response:

This evening, when it's time to turn down the sheets, remember:

Turn off the water.  Turn down the lights. 

Turn yourself on to candlelit conversation and conservation.