This document discusses World War II propaganda posters and their use of persuasive techniques. It defines propaganda and its goal of persuading audiences. Key techniques identified include emotional appeals, symbolism, repetition, bandwagon appeals, and invoking fear or justice. Students are then assigned the task of designing their own propaganda poster for an important cause, utilizing several of these techniques to promote awareness and action. Their posters will be graded on design, use of techniques, promoting their cause, and overall effort.

1. Analyzing World War II Propaganda posters

2. Definition: Propaganda Information provided to the public by a particular group or organization. The goal is to induce the reader to agree with the issuer’s point of view.

3. Definition: Propaganda Propaganda is a tool. It is neither good nor evil; although the word “propaganda” carries with it a negative connotation.

4. The Bottom Line Propaganda is a tool of persuasion .

5. Definition: Persuade To induce a target audience to undertake a course of action (or to embrace a point of view) through argument, reasoning, or entreaty.

6. Definition: “Target Audience” 1) A group of people that share similar characteristics. 2) Propaganda issuers “target” these groups and make different types of posters, radio commercials, ads, etc. that would appeal to them.

7. Terms to Know Basic Message: The base idea of what the advertiser is saying. Visual Image: Objects and pictures that the advertiser uses to get your attention.

8. Terms to Know Catchy words: Words or phrases used to catch your attention. Slogans: The title or catchy phrase that is used as the primary message in a series of advertising campaigns.

9. Analyzing WWII Posters Persuasive Techniques

10. Emotional Appeal: Poster that made the viewers feel a particular emotion. Examples: happy, sad, enthused, proud, hopeful, etc. Symbolism: American Patriotism

11. Repetition: Posters repeat words or images to help the viewer remember its message. Repetitive use of “United” Repeating visual of guns. Position of the viewer (looking at the barrels from the bottom)

12. Bandwagon: Challenges the viewer to join everyone else as part of a team. Who is called? We are! What group are we to join? The civilian corps. Non-combatants who support the military and its fighters…

13. Fear: Using fear of the worst to influence the viewers. What do you see on their faces? Fear and uncertainty. This is a call to the adults to protect their own. Children looking up and behind to indicate stalking of the “shadow” What are the positions of their faces?

14. Justice: Appealing to the viewer to do the right thing Use of slogan: “Above and Beyond…” Position of face: Looking up Burning Ships of Pearl Harbor Medal of Honor and memoriam Emotions of integrity and pride What elements suggest that the viewer should make the ultimate sacrifice?

15. Now its your turn! Think of a real cause or charity that is important to you Design a propaganda poster to promote awareness and action Use several of the persuasive techniques that were presented Make a colorful and impacting poster to motivate your viewers

16. How you will be graded Overall design Evidence of persuasive techniques– several used Poster promotes awareness and action Colorful and eye-catching artwork Mastery of word choice and/or other literary devices such as alliteration Evidence of effort, forethought, and planning

17. Directions You will be given two class days to work on your poster. Use part of the first day to consider your topic and to brainstorm ideas You may bring in material for use on the second day. Students who are uncomfortable with drawing, may trace a photo or magazine clipping.