You have read the passages “The Good Work of Public Service Announcements” and “PSAs: Not Worth the Cost” and have answered some questions about what you have read. Now write your argumentative essay in the space provided.
Writing Task
Public service announcements are “used to display a message to the public.” Some feel they are beneficial, while others feel they are not worth the cost.
Weigh the claims on both sides, and then write an argumentative essay in which you argue whether public service announcements are beneficial to teens or simply not worth the cost and why.
Be sure to use evidence from BOTH passages in your argumentative essay. Write your response in the space provided.
Before you write, be sure to:
• think about ideas, facts, definitions, details, and other information and examples you want to use;
• think about how you will introduce your topic and what the main topic will be for each paragraph;
• develop your ideas clearly and use your own words, except when quoting directly from the source texts;
• be sure to identify the sources by title or number when using details or facts directly from the sources.
Now write your argumentative essay in the space provided. Be sure to:
• introduce your claim;
• support your claim with logical reasoning and relevant evidence from the texts;
• acknowledge and address alternate or opposing claims;
• organize the reasons and evidence logically;
• use words, phrases, and clauses to connect your ideas and to clarify the relationships among claims, counterclaims, reasons, and evidence;
• establish and maintain a formal style;
• provide a concluding statement or section that follows from and supports the argument presented; and
• check your work for correct grammar, usage, capitalization, spelling, and punctuation.
Please use two line spaces (using the "enter" key twice) between each paragraph.
Public service announcements (PSAs) are a common tool used to display a message to the public. While some argue that PSAs are beneficial and worth the cost, others claim that they are not worth the investment. After reading the passages “The Good Work of Public Service Announcements” and “PSAs: Not Worth the Cost,” it is clear that PSAs are indeed beneficial to teens and are worth the cost.
One argument in favor of PSAs is that they educate and inform teens about important issues. In “The Good Work of Public Service Announcements,” the author states that PSAs help raise awareness about topics such as drug abuse, safe driving, and mental health. These are critical issues that directly impact teens, and PSAs serve as a valuable resource for spreading information. For example, a PSA about the dangers of texting and driving could potentially save lives by influencing teens to prioritize safety over distractions.
Furthermore, PSAs have the power to influence behavior and inspire positive change. In the same passage, the author mentions a study that showed a significant increase in condom use among teenagers after exposure to a PSA campaign. This demonstrates the effectiveness of PSAs in promoting healthier habits. By addressing issues like substance abuse or sexual health, PSAs empower teens to make better choices and take control of their lives.
On the other hand, opponents argue that PSAs can be costly and may not always lead to the desired outcomes. In “PSAs: Not Worth the Cost,” the author highlights the financial burden that PSAs impose on organizations and businesses. However, it is important to consider the potential long-term benefits that come from investing in such campaigns. Preventative measures and education can lead to significant savings in the healthcare system or reduced social issues that require costly interventions.
Additionally, while some PSAs may not achieve the intended impact, this does not negate the overall value of these campaigns. Each individual responds differently to messages, but even if a small percentage of teens benefit from PSAs, it is still worth the investment. The potential to positively impact even a few lives is invaluable, and PSAs provide a platform to reach a wide audience and initiate change.
In conclusion, public service announcements are beneficial to teens and are worth the cost. PSAs educate and inform individuals about important issues, influencing behavior and promoting positive change. While critics argue that PSAs can be costly and may not always achieve the intended results, the overall impact of these campaigns cannot be disregarded. Investing in PSAs is an investment in the future, giving teens the knowledge and empowerment to make informed decisions and lead healthier lives.