Public Speaking for Fun!

Michael Gooch

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Public Speaking for Fun!

Build confidence & communication skills

In this lesson, students will build confidence and communication skills through fun public speaking exercises. This lesson is important as it helps students express themselves clearly and confidently, which is crucial for their academic and personal growth.

Audience

Contenders (ages 11-12)

Time

45 mins

Approach

Build confidence & communication skills

Materials

Whiteboard and markers, Public Speaking Activity Worksheet, and Discussion Guide

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Welcome students and briefly introduce the topic of public speaking. Explain the importance of being able to communicate clearly and confidently. Share a personal story or a famous quote about public speaking to set the stage.

Step 2

Warm-up Activity

5 mins

Engage students in a quick warm-up activity: 'One Word At a Time Story.'

Have students sit in a circle.
Each student says one word to add to a story.
The goal is to create a coherent story as a group.

Step 3

Public Speaking Activity

25 mins

Distribute the 'Public Speaking Activity Worksheet'.

Organize students into small groups.
Each group will pick a random topic from the worksheet and prepare a short speech (1-2 minutes).
Provide 10 minutes for preparation.
Each group presents their speech to the class.
Encourage applause and positive feedback after each presentation.

Step 4

Reflection and Discussion

10 mins

Lead a discussion using the 'Discussion Guide'.

Ask students to reflect on how they felt before, during, and after their speech.
Discuss what was challenging and what they enjoyed.
Encourage students to share tips and strategies for effective public speaking.

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Worksheet

Public Speaking Activity Worksheet

This worksheet includes a list of random topics that students can use for their public speaking activity. The aim is to help students practice creating and delivering speeches in a fun and engaging way.

Describe your favorite hobby and why you enjoy it.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

Talk about a memorable vacation you have had.

What is your favorite book or movie and why?

If you could meet any historical figure, who would it be and what would you ask them?

Discussion

Discussion Guide

This guide contains questions to facilitate a reflective discussion after the public speaking activity. It is designed to help students articulate their experiences and learn from each other.

How did you feel before, during, and after your speech?

Encourage students to share specific emotions they experienced.
Discuss how those feelings changed over the course of the activity.

What was the most challenging part of preparing and delivering your speech?

Highlight common challenges such as nerves, coming up with ideas, or speaking clearly.
Ask students to share how they overcame these challenges.

What did you enjoy most about this activity?

Encourage students to focus on positive aspects, like getting applause, working as a team, or the fun of sharing stories.

What tips or strategies do you have for effective public speaking?

Ask students to share any techniques they used or observed that helped with their presentations.
Compile these tips on a whiteboard for the whole class to see.