Speak with Confidence

Shannon Janovitz

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Speak with Confidence

Build public speaking confidence

This lesson focuses on building students' confidence in public speaking through practice sessions and constructive feedback. Students will learn techniques for effective communication and presentation, which are essential skills for academic and professional success. By engaging in this lesson, students will gain the confidence to express their ideas clearly and effectively in front of an audience.

Audience

11th Grade Students

Time

90 mins

Approach

Build public speaking confidence

Materials

Discussion Questions, Public Speaking Techniques Handout, Feedback Worksheet, and Pens and Paper

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on the importance of public speaking skills in various aspects of life.
Share personal experiences or famous examples of effective public speakers.
Explain the objectives of the lesson and what students will achieve by the end.

Step 2

Public Speaking Techniques

20 mins

Distribute the 'Public Speaking Techniques Handout'.
Discuss key techniques such as eye contact, body language, voice modulation, and structuring a speech.
Encourage students to ask questions and share their thoughts on these techniques.

Step 3

Practice Session

30 mins

Divide students into small groups.
Assign each group a topic to prepare a short 2-3 minute speech.
Allow students time to prepare and practice within their groups, using the techniques discussed.

Step 4

Presentation and Feedback

20 mins

Have each group present their speech to the class.
Use the 'Feedback Worksheet' to provide constructive feedback on each presentation.
Encourage peer feedback, focusing on positive aspects and areas for improvement.

Step 5

Closure

10 mins

Recap the key techniques and feedback points discussed.
Encourage students to reflect on their progress and set personal goals for improvement.
Conclude with a motivational quote or video on public speaking.

0 educators
use Lenny to create lessons.

No credit card needed

Discussion

Discussion Questions

A set of questions to facilitate a discussion on public speaking and its importance.

Why is public speaking an important skill to develop?

Discuss various scenarios where public speaking is essential, such as in school, work, and social settings.

What are some common fears associated with public speaking?

Explore the reasons behind these fears and how they can be overcome.

Can you think of a public speaker you admire? Why?

Encourage students to share examples and discuss the qualities that make these speakers effective.

Reading

Public Speaking Techniques Handout

A handout detailing key techniques for effective public speaking.

Key Public Speaking Techniques

Eye Contact: Engage with your audience by making eye contact. It helps build a connection and keeps the audience interested.
Body Language: Use gestures and movements to emphasize points. Stand confidently and avoid fidgeting.
Voice Modulation: Vary your tone, pitch, and volume to maintain interest and emphasize key points.
Structure: Organize your speech with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Use transitions to guide your audience.
Practice: Rehearse your speech multiple times to gain confidence and improve delivery.

Worksheet

Feedback Worksheet

A worksheet for providing structured feedback on public speaking presentations.

What did the speaker do well?

Focus on strengths such as clarity, engagement, and use of techniques.

What areas could the speaker improve?

Consider aspects like nervousness, pacing, or clarity of message.

How did the speaker engage the audience?

Look for eye contact, questions, or interactive elements.