Public Speaking will help the youth: · acquire and relate subject matter knowledge · learn to organize their ideas in a clear mann · develop self-confidence about their abilities and skills · develop and display physical skills · develop specific public speaking skills | Lit. 843 4-H V olunteer D evelop m ent S eries P ublic S peaking Purpose of Public Speaking Public Speaking will help the youth: • acquire and relate subject matter knowledge • learn to organize their ideas in a clear manner • develop self-confidence about their abilities and skills • develop and display physical skills • develop specific public speaking skills Public Speaking for Younger Youth As a child begins to develop their public speaking abilities emphasis should be on gaining self-confidence and sharing with others. Encourage participation; don't push. Let them see it is fun. Sometimes a reminder that show-n-tell is a form of a demonstration can be reassuring. In the beginning you will need to lead them through the steps in preparing an oral presentation: 1) selecting a topic 2) researching the subject 3) collecting any necessary materials or equipment 4) organizing subject matter 5) writing the introduction and conclusion 6) presentation Have youth answer these questions when selecting a topic to present. Can I do it in four to six minutes? Am I interested in it? Is it a part of my project work? Is it useful to others? Does it have enough action? Can I do it well? (See brochure - "Preparing My 4-H Presentation"). Be sure that the topic is suitable for the member's interests and abilities. 1 As the 4-Her begins to research the subject it is important that they choose viable sources supported by research. This process teaches the child to become an educated and critical consumer of reliable information and its source. Being able to site the source in the presentation adds credibility to the information. Encourage a lot of practice as a way of building confidence. Have them practice for teen leaders, friends and family before presenting to their club members. Public Speaking for Older Youth When 4-H'ers are in their teens, you need to find different ways of working with them and helping them to mature. Teenagers will require almost total freedom to plan and .
