Part of Lesson Plan: Intro to Public Speaking

Activity Overview / Details

Public speaking must be conquered on two levels: Development and Delivery.

First, we'll focus on the development of the speech.

Lead a discussion of the proper structure of an English paper: Intro, Body, Conclusion.

Discuss the purpose of each of those sections: Intro is to engage and preview, body is to provide supporting information and closure is to summarize and end with impact.

The same format applies to speeches. Have them copy down the correct English paper/speech format on their papers.

That's development. now there's delivery.

Have students brainstorm a list of techniques they know that makes good public speakers. Have them share with the class.

Delivery is conquered in a few areas:

Voice: fluctuations in tone, changes in rhythm, appropriate volume

Body: posture, hand gestures, eye contact

Face: Smile when appropriate, enjoy yourself

Come up with some "rules of thumb" for effective public speaking techniques. Have students copy down the rules of thumb. There are a million websites that have public speaking tips. Check out the attached one for some good rules of thumb.