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.
