Our first unit will involve group presentations re: stereotypes about the Middle East and Islam (see post below). Here are the essentials of good public speaking (see rubric I will use for grading these–click here). A clear thesis, organization and evidence are important elements–much like writing an essay. The visuals and the actual speaking can sometimes trip people up, particularly in front of a large group. Let’s take a look at 5 ways to prevent these problems.
- Simple is better, part I. After researching a topic, formulate a thesis statement: a clear one-sentence overview of your key point. Support your thesis with well organized evidence and examples. Short sentences and numbered points are especially helpful when communicating ideas orally–in other words, a simple organizational structure is best.
I call this the Miles Davis approach. Take a look.
Now compare the sparse and simplified approach of Miles Davis to a free jazz performance.
Let’s search YouTube for Ornette Coleman
- Simple is better, part II, visuals. Avoid slides cluttered with too many words. Diagrams and pictures help convey information clearly and quickly. Here is an example of a good powerpoint:
2. Pace yourself. Slow down, put space or pauses between words and phrases. Listen to President John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address from 1961 as an example:
3. Take breaths–big breaths at the end of each sentence. Then push the words out with force and loud enough for everyone to hear you.
4. Finish the end of your words. Word ends in “d,” for example; make sure the audience hears that. Frank Sinatra was considered a master of annunciation. Notice that he takes big breaths and finishes each word: Let’s search YouTube for Frank Sinatra
5. Make sure to pronounce words correctly–especially names and terms. Use an on-line aid such as pronouncewiki to help to get it right (click here for an example).
World History 
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