The Power of Christmas: Analyzing Moving Commercials

 

Persuasive Techniques

Before we watch the commercials, let's review some common persuasive techniques used in advertising:

• Humor: Making the audience laugh to create a positive association with the product or brand.
• Nostalgia: Evoking feelings of longing for the past, often using images and music from childhood.
• Emotional Appeals: Triggering strong emotions such as happiness, sadness, joy, or fear to persuade the audience.
• Celebrity Endorsements: Using famous people to promote a product or brand.
• Scarcity: Creating a sense of urgency by suggesting that the product or offer is limited or time-sensitive.

Analyzing Christmas Commercials

Watch the following Christmas commercials and take notes on the persuasive techniques used:

Questions to Consider:

1. What emotions did the commercial evoke in you?
2. Which persuasive techniques were used most effectively? Why?
3. Who is the target audience of this commercial?
4. What is the main message of the commercial?
5. How does the commercial use music and sound effects to create emotion?
6. Do you think the commercial is manipulative or inspiring? Why?
7. How does this commercial compare to Christmas commercials in your own culture?

Additional Questions for Discussion

• What is the role of consumerism in Christmas celebrations?
• How do Christmas commercials influence our expectations of the holiday season?
• Are there any ethical concerns about using emotional manipulation in advertising?

Group Work

1. Form small groups and choose one of the commercials you watched or another famous Christmas commercial.
2. Analyze your chosen commercial in detail, considering the following:
   • Target audience
   • Main message
   • Persuasive techniques used
   • Emotional impact
   • Cultural context
3. Prepare a short presentation to share your findings with the class.