Life Skill
- Communication
Project Skill
- Evaluating other speakers
Objective
- Improve your public-speaking knowledge by listening to and learning from other speakers.
Success Indicator
- Participant witnesses several speeches or presentations and describes what makes them effective or ineffective.
Message Makers
- Paper
- Pens
Wise Words
- Have you ever wondered what the expression “stump speech” means? Today it refers to a political candidate's basic campaign speech. In the days before microphones, politicians and social activists would stand on things—stumps, tailgates, soapboxes—to elevate them above the crowd. From there, they'd shout their message. When people voice strong opinions, they're said to be “on their soap boxes.”
Power Language: Power Language
Activity 6: Speech Evaluation
Set the Stage
Have you ever been so impressed with a speaker that you wanted to be like him or her? As you work to become a more successful public speaker, you might find inspiration from the words and actions of experienced communicators. You also may notice speakers do and say things you'd never want to imitate. Getting in front of people as often as possible is an important step in becoming a better speaker. But it's also important to keep the audience members' perspective in mind. By watching and listening, you can improve your own delivery.
Speak Out
Attend a function where a speech or presentation will be given. You might visit a public speaking club such as Toastmasters. Also, you might request the 4-H video “Presentations: Are They for You?” or analyze videos of winning presentations from past 4-H competitions. Before you watch or attend the presentations, develop a chart for recording your observations. Take notes and develop a list of dos and don'ts based on what you see and hear.
Here are some sample elements to examine as you make your evaluation:
- Appearance and Physical Mannerisms: Did the speaker appear natural and use gestures and eye contact effectively?
- Organization: Did the speech have logical order? Were transitions smooth? Were there a clear beginning, middle, and end?
- Visuals: Were graphics and slides readable and attractive?
- Content: Was the subject appropriate to the audience? Did the speaker make the topic understandable? How did the speaker handle questions?
4-H has standard score sheets used by judges to evaluate 4-H public speaking contests. You can view one online here.
How does it compare to the evaluation sheet you developed?
Stretch the Message
Locate and view videotapes of historical speeches. Use the same evaluation techniques to analyze these famous speakers.
Open Mike
Share
- What did you learn by watching other speakers?
- How well were you able to make notes and observations while still listening to the presentation?
Process
- How does being a good listener make you a better communicator?
Generalize
- What other opportunities do you have each day to evaluate messages and speakers?
Apply
- What mistakes would you try to avoid when making your own speeches? What positive elements will you incorporate into your delivery?
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