Power Language: Show and Tell

Speak Out

Sometimes a show-and-tell seems more like a “bring-and-brag.” This happens when a person talks on and on about a new toy or other possession. When it's not your toy, this can get boring in a hurry. Instead, think of something you can share that helps someone. Has someone ever taught you a neat trick? Have you learned how to do something that other people would like to know about? Does someone interesting live in your neighborhood?

Here are some ideas for a show-and-tell people will remember. Pick one of the ideas. Prepare and give a show-and-tell for your family, class, or other group of people. Make sure you say why you picked your subject, what you like about it, and what you want other people to know about it.

How Does It Work?

Choose a small object that people use every day. Maybe it is as simple as a pencil or a fork. How is it made? How does it work? How long has it been around? Can you think of a way to make it work better? Give a show-and-tell about this object, telling about some of the things you found out.

What Is It?

Pick an object or use a picture of that object. It might be something you have in your room or something you found outside. Put it in a box, bag, or envelope, then mark the outside with a question mark. Think of three clues to give others about your hidden object. For example, (1) it starts with the letter “H,” (2) it is made out of wood and metal, and (3) my dad keeps it in his toolbox. In this case, the hidden object might be a hammer. Let others ask you more questions if they need to. Whoever guesses correctly gets to present next.

Who Am I?

You are never empty-handed when it comes to show-and-tell. Your best topic might be you! But how can you do a show-and-tell about yourself? Here are two ideas: collage and grab bag.

Collage

Collect pictures of things that you like. You might use photographs or pictures you clipped from magazines or other places. Using paper and glue or tape, make a collage that answers the question, “Who am I?” When you are done, use the collage to give a show-and-tell about yourself. Point to each item and explain what it means to you.

Grab Bag

Talk in front of a group of people using a paper bag as your “prop.” Think of three things they probably already know about you. Now think of three things they might not know already. Find a picture or small item that stands for each of these things. Tape or paste the “already know” items on the outside. Hide the “don't know” items on the inside. Here's an example. If you're talking to people in your class, they know what grade you are in. Let's say you're in first grade. You might attach or draw the number 1 on the outside of the bag.

But maybe they don't know that you live in a round house! Put an item representing that fact inside the bag.

To give your talk, start by describing yourself on the outside. Use the pictures on the bag to help you remember. Now tell about yourself on the inside by drawing your items out of the bag.