Instructions

Set Up: Prepare for the Activity

Organize participants into pairs or small groups (3-5 ppl).

Begin by introducing the learning goals of this activity.

Step One: Introduce Monroe’s Motivated Sequence (5 min)

In small groups, introduce a common persuasive “pitch” formula called Monroe’s Motivated Sequence. Participants may recognize this sequence from the format of many television ads and infomercials.

5 Steps (in this order):

• Grab audience’s attention.

• Present the need– Discuss the current situation and why something needs to be done. Appeal to emotions.

• Offer a product/solution that addresses the need.

• Describe how the world will look if this product or solution is implemented, help the audience visualize.

• Call to Action – Ask them to buy or support the product/solution and why they must do it now.

Step Two: Develop a 2-minute Pitch (10 min)

Challenge the groups to quickly come up with a product or idea that will address a public need. Follow Monroe’s sequence to develop a quick 2-minute pitch. Remind the groups to name the product or idea with a catchy name. Explain to them that they will each be playing a part in the commercials they create. Encourage them to have fun with this and think outside the box.

Step Three: Present Pitches to the Full Group (15 min)

Invite each small group to present their pitch with everyone in the group delivering a part. For fun, the full group can vote on the top pitch.

Step Four: Debrief as a Full Group (10 min)

• What did it feel like to do this so quickly? Did you feel like you were free to be playful or silly? Did the format of creating a commercial or infomercial allow you to be less serious?

• How difficult was it to come up with an idea originally?

• Once you had your idea, how easy or difficult was it to develop a pitch to persuade others to buy or support your idea?