Infomercial Project

Take a look at the RUBRIC so you have an idea of what is expected of you!

Project Description

To work on your literary analysis and argument skills, you will be using the design process to create a product for a character in your independent reading book. Then, you will create an infomercial to advertise that product and write a review of that product. Don’t know what an infomercial is? No worries; we’ll watch some examples in class.

Day 1

By now you have already chosen a character and started thinking about their perspective (aka empathizing). Today we will DEFINE the problem your character is facing and come up with solutions for them.

First we will work together to come up with a Problem Statement for Katniss Everdeen. Then you will use the same process to define your character's problem.

Now let's brainstorm some potential solutions for Katniss. Enter the code to answer.

Before you start brainstorming for your character, let's take a TOUR of the Makerspace. Keep an eye out for materials you may want to use. This will help you in the next step...

BRAINSTORMING: Start coming up with potential ideas for your product. Use your notes from the Empathy and Definition steps to come up with ideas specific to your character's problem. The more ideas the better! You will have time later to narrow them down. Use the second page of the Problem Document.

Day 2

Wow, you've already put a lot of thought into your product! Now it's time to start designing your prototype. You have three tasks today:

1. Look at your Problem Document from last time. Decide which of the inventions you are going to make!

2. Complete a DETAILED sketch of your product. You may want to add notes or labels indicating things like what kind of materials you will use. Not a natural artist? No worries! It's totally fine to do a little Internet research to find similar products you could use for sketching inspiration.

3. Start making your prototype! Gather any materials you will need and start creating. Have fun!

Day 3

Wrap up your product and figure out how to sell it! Start working on your script for your infomercial. Here are some sample infomercials and tips for writing your script!

Day 4

Lights, camera, action! By now your product is finished and it's time to sell it!

Here's your checklist for today:

1. Finish your script! If you're still struggling to write it you can use the following resources: Infomercial Madlib Persuasive Techniques

Infomercial Rubric

2. Film! How you shoot your infomercial is up to you. You could simply record it on your phone and then edit it in iMovie or another app. Or if you want to try using the green screen, we can help you with that in the Lab!

Before recording with the green screen you will need to do the following:

  • Download the app Chromavid

  • Find any background photos you will want to use and save them to your phone.