Project 2 - Satirical PSA
Satirical Public Service Announcement⌗
Overview⌗
Create a 30-second satirical public service announcement (PSA) that parodies a real or fictional social issue. You will practice professional voice-recording, multitrack editing, and sound design while exploring humor and social commentary.
Learning Objectives⌗
- Record clean, intelligible dialogue using proper microphone technique in a professional studio.
- Edit overlapping audio on multiple tracks for precise timing.
- Balance levels and design soundscapes that enhance a satirical narrative.
- Write an engaging script that combines clarity with ironic or humorous impact.
Project Summary⌗
Produce a 30-second audio PSA about an invented or exaggerated public concern—examples include “Save the Imaginary Platypus,” “Adopt-a-Rock program,” or “Emergency Guidelines for Coffee Shortages.” Your PSA should follow a traditional announcement structure while twisting it with absurdity or wit.
Required Process⌗
- Scriptwriting – 75–90 words, clear hook, problem statement, and satirical “call to action.” Add notes for sound effecsts and music.
- Recording – DSU studio required; at least two distinct voices; labeled tracks.
- Editing – Precisely 30 seconds; grid-free editing for natural pacing and comedic effect.
- Sound Design – Minimum of two sound effects plus a music bed that supports the humor without masking dialogue.
- Mixing – Balanced, professional final mix.
Deliverables⌗
- Reaper project folder with an “Media” subfolder containing all source files.
- Final rendered 30-second WAV file.
- Final script in Word or PDF format.
Grading Rubric (45 points total)⌗
| Category | Excellent | Proficient | Developing | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Script & Concept (12 pts) | Clever, well-structured satire; clear hook and flow | Good idea with minor clarity or pacing issues | Message confusing or lacking satire | /12 |
| Dialogue Recording (8 pts) | Clean, well-leveled, no clipping | Minor noise or level issues | Noticeable noise or mic problems | /8 |
| Editing & Timing (7 pts) | Seamless edits; perfect 30-sec runtime; strong comedic pacing | Minor timing or transition issues | Edits rough or ad off-length | /7 |
| Sound Design (7 pts) | Creative, well-integrated effects and music enhance satire | Adequate effects/music with minor balance issues | Minimal or poorly chosen effects/music | /7 |
| Mix Quality (6 pts) | Professional balance and polish; dialogue always clear | Mostly balanced with small issues | Mix obscures dialogue or lacks polish | /6 |
| Professionalism & File Prep (5 pts) | All files properly named/organized; submission as specified | Minor naming/organization errors | Missing or disorganized files | /5 |
Total: ___ / 45