Thursday, April 26, 2012

Keeping Calm During Presentations

Hi guys,

Here's my reflections on the rest of your questions. Hope it helps. And here's a link to a good, simple morning yoga routine. Yoga's a great way to get yourself centred for the day, both physically and mentally. You are in control. I'm excited to hear the rest of your speeches, we're off to a great start!



Questions:
Can we have a sheet (cue cards)?
Is it better to memorize your speech?

A: Yes, you can use cue cards, but no full-page printouts of your speech. A big part of this activity is practicing the act/art of memorization. Learning to create and use cue cards effectively will benefit you greatly in high school. Visit the link in the post below for a how-to on making cue cards.


Questions:
What's the best way to start a presentation?
What are some tricks to public speaking that could make standing in front of a crowd less nerve-racking?
How do you find a place to look at so it's like you are looking at the audience but not in their eyes so it's not awkward?
How do you look up from your notes when talking? How do you become comfortable with the speech?

A: The best way to start a presentation is to take a deep breath. Breathe into your diaphragm, through your nose (just like in singing! And long-distance running. And cross-country skiing. And...). After that begin with your opening line. Some people use a question, some make a bold statement to get people thinking. Take a small pause after your first sentence, let people think about it then continue.

As you speak, use your cue cards to remind you what comes next. Keep them held at about a mid-waist level, it'll be easy to go from looking at the cards to looking at your audience. When looking up at your audience, move your eyes from one side of the room to another, just glance at people then move on, no long eye contact necessary. Remember to pause occasionally for a breath.  


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