Working with the Media

Working with the Media

Earth Science Week offers special opportunities to increase the public's awareness of the importance of Earth science. In order to reach the general public, you will have to get media coverage, and the more media coverage you can generate for Earth Science Week, the better. Anyone can help boost awareness by taking a few simple steps:

  • Pitch a story about your Earth Science Week activities to local news organizations.
  • Prepare a detailed press release to alert the media about your Earth Science Week activities.
  • Write letters to the editor and op-ed pieces for print in local newspapers and magazines.
  • Hold a special event to draw attention to your Earth Science Week activities and the important work that geoscientist do.
  • Use the available Earth Science Week materials in promoting awareness.
  • Show how your activity is aligned with the National Science Education Standards.
  • Enlist the broadcast media to run public service announcements, or PSAs.
  • Ask your governor, mayor, or city council members to support Earth Science Week with an official proclamation.
  • Prepare fact sheets for the media for background information.

Rules for Writing Press Releases

  • Keep it short.
  • Put the most important news first.
  • Keep sentences and paragraphs short.
  • Tell readers the significance.
  • Include a source of additional information.
  • Try to release during slow news times.

Adapted from GeoMedia, AGI, 1988