Find Your Grind

One of the ways we use verbal communication is when public speaking. This activity has students practice their public speaking skills, build confidence, and develop effective communication techniques through a topic familiar to them.

Begin by discussing the importance of public speaking and its real-world applications. Explain that everyone can become a confident speaker with practice.

Have students select a topic they know a lot about and are comfortable speaking on. It could be a hobby, a personal experience, a current event, or a favorite book or movie. The idea is that they don’t have to do any additional research, they can just jump right in.

Guide students in writing some main bullet points for their speech. It should be no longer than 5 minutes.

1. Start with a strong introduction that grabs the audience's attention.
2. Organize their ideas logically and use clear and concise language.
3. Use transitions to connect their ideas smoothly.
4. End with a strong conclusion that summarizes their main points.

1. Eye contact: Maintaining eye contact with the audience helps to build rapport and credibility.
2. Body language: Use gestures and posture to emphasize key points and engage the audience.
3. Vocal variety: Vary your tone, pace, and volume to keep the audience interested.

Create a safe and supportive environment for students to deliver their speeches. Encourage them to speak confidently and clearly.

Have students reflect on their performance. They can consider questions such as:

1. What went well?
2. What could I improve?
3. How did I feel while speaking?
4. What did I learn about public speaking?

1. Begin by discussing the importance of public speaking and its real-world applications. Explain that everyone can become a confident speaker with practice.
2. Have students select a topic they know a lot about and are comfortable speaking on. It could be a hobby, a personal experience, a current event, or a favorite book or movie. The idea is that they don’t have to do any additional research, they can just jump right in.
3. Guide students in writing some main bullet points for their speech. It should be no longer than 5 minutes.
   1. Start with a strong introduction that grabs the audience's attention.
   2. Organize their ideas logically and use clear and concise language.
   3. Use transitions to connect their ideas smoothly.
   4. End with a strong conclusion that summarizes their main points.
4. Discuss the importance of:
   1. Eye contact: Maintaining eye contact with the audience helps to build rapport and credibility.
   2. Body language: Use gestures and posture to emphasize key points and engage the audience.
   3. Vocal variety: Vary your tone, pace, and volume to keep the audience interested.
5. Create a safe and supportive environment for students to deliver their speeches. Encourage them to speak confidently and clearly.
6. Have students reflect on their performance. They can consider questions such as:
   1. What went well?
   2. What could I improve?
   3. How did I feel while speaking?
   4. What did I learn about public speaking?

Introduction

Instructions