High School Presentation

[Eva Elisabeth]

Hi Michael,

These are some general (not subject-related) suggestions based upon what I (try to) "train" my students (all "secondary education" grades) to do when they give presentations. Please, even if worded quite the imperative way, see all the following as suggestions of which you may find something suitable, or not.

- My first thought was why doesn't your son present with your help in preparation, but wow - 55 minutes is quite something to fill for a "beginner"! What about involving your son - at least as "assistant"? It is usually easier for two to "entertain" over such a long time, it's livelier, and your son will sure benefit.

- Laurie said "I would advise you to prepare your own presentation because you will be much more comfortable with it." I totally agree! And it's yours! (Please forgive me if I put the following that bluntly- and yours is what I guess you have been invited for.)

- Give a brief and simple overwiew in the beginning, maybe write the keywords (for young students maybe each illustrated with a symbol) on a poster that's permanently visible (you can refer to it during the presentation).

- Speak as freely as possible (e.g.from keywords). Reading entire prepared sentences will make you too fast and less comprehensible as written sentences usually carry highly concentrated information! And reading tends to make it boring, especially if you do a PP presentation. Also the students won't need your help to (only) read the sentences on the slides - try to say and explain them (additionally) in your own words.

- Re: Laurie's "...allow enough time at the end of the presentation for the students to throw questions at you. I would hold their questions to the end also, or else they may throw you off base." Additional hint: Ask them to notice their questions, or they might forget until you have finished.

- You can also ask them (in advance!!!) to find and notice one or two questions (and the answers!) to ask their classmates afterwards (works amazingly well). It's an excellent repetition, involves the students, will make them more attentive, and it will relieve you from filling all the time alone.

- Despite "slide show pictures" try to bring "realia" - something "real" to pass around and touch! Even if just two, three interesting books (like "20 Days"). Or a stovepipe hat, a CDV, whatever. Think of the best "timing" to "throw them in" (as they might distract when you go on speaking).

Good success!