Speech and Oral Presentations

The process of preparing an oral presentation is similar to the writing process, but the audience makes a difference. Students who might hand in an indifferent essay may be motivated to try a little harder when they know their peers will see their efforts. Here are presentation activities to try in the classroom:

• Actions Speak Louder than Words
  Students practice volume, stress, pacing, and pronunciation. Includes an audio model by baseball great Nolan Ryan and a checklist of desirable speaking behaviors.
• Express Yourself: Crafting Social Location Maps and Identity Monologues
  Students map their social locations, reflect on their identities and the dramatic purpose of monologue, and craft speeches that explore defining aspects of their lives. Includes links to models. Designed for secondary students, might work with middle school.
• Five Presentation Tips for a Pecha Kucha or Ignite Presentation
  Both text tips and models for these presentation styles. Scott Berkun's video may not be appropriate for class but will provide teachers with some great tips.
• Has the Cat Got Your Tongue?
  Students work to improve their enunciation skills and to communicate effectively by taking part in a tongue-twister speaking competition. Then they write tongue twisters all their own! Designed for grades 3-5.
• Ten Simple Rules for Making Good Oral Presentations
  From "Talk to the Audience" to "Provide Appropriate Acknowledgments," good advice for speakers of all ages.
• Check here for more Speech and Debate activities.