They are everywhere: in magazines, in newspapers, on the radio, at the movie theater, and on television. It is important that we protect ourselves from marketing "tricks", which are intended to "hook" the viewers/readers/
listeners. Perhaps the product is cheaply made. Maybe it isn't as it appears. Is it worth the price? Is it something you need? Let's dive right in to a commercial and hone our reading skills along the way.
The commercial below is for a soft drink we all know - Dr. Pepper.
QUESTION How did Dr. Pepper get its name? Who is the cartoon character at the end of this advertisement? What is a "pepper"? PREDICT Dr. Pepper must give people energy to dance. Drinking Dr. Pepper must make people happy. INFER Dr. Pepper has a unique flavor. "Be a Pepper" means... This product can be used to celebrate special occasions (like weddings). | CONNECT Dr Pepper does not taste like Coke or Pepsi. St. Louis is among the locations in the background. The word pepper is similar to the word peppy. FEEL This commercial makes me feel more energetic. EVALUATE The commercial tries to tell us that Dr. Pepper is popular across the country, but the backgrounds are barely visible, and the dancing distracts from that message. The chorus is catchy and memorable. |