UNIT 1: PRESENTATION OVERVIEW

Unit Objectives

In this unit the learner will:

Learn about the importance of in-class presentations today.
Be introduced to the structure of a presentation: introduction, main part, and conclusion.
Apply techniques to engage the audience.
Apply techniques to deal with nervousness.

In-class Presentations Today

In-class presentations are often seen as an essential part of the curriculum, especially, in middle and high schools across the country. The English Language Arts Common Core State Standards Initiative (2010)^[1] for K-12 students was designed to promote better verbal and interpersonal communication skills. When these standards are implemented, students are assessed on their ability to effectively present their knowledge and on their performance, that is, their ability to engage with the audience. A recent survey carried out by the Association of American Colleges and Universities^[2] states that oral communication is one of the most sought-after skills in the workplace, with over 90 percent of hiring managers saying it is important.

When students are taught public presentation skills, they learn how to creatively produce memorable presentations. They are helped to achieve smooth transitions, the right tone of voice and speed, to manage the length of the presentation, as well as to show the right body language. When public presentations are emphasized in school, even the youngest students acquire improved communication skills, increased self-esteem, planning and preparation experience, and the power of persuasion^[3].

In-class presentations can sometimes be an added source of stress and pressure, especially for students with high levels of anxiety, or those with disabilities^[4] ^[5] ^[6]. It is worth mentioning that many students have been requesting to make in-class presentations optional, since they argue that presentations can be discriminatory towards students with social phobia or students with disabilities. However, with the right techniques, proper practice, and the necessary accommodations, all students can benefit from giving presentations^[7].

How is a Presentation Organized?

So, let's have a closer look at a presentation structure. All presentations, formal and informal, have three main parts and follow this simple structure^[8]:

Tell the audience what you are going to say! = INTRODUCTION
Say it! = MAIN PART
Tell them what you said! = CONCLUSION

TIP: These three main parts are usually subdivided into three smaller sections!

In the following units we are going to elaborate on these parts. However, before you begin preparing your presentation it could be very useful to learn some techniques about how to deal with nervousness and how to engage the audience by making them interested in what you are going to say!

Nervousness and Audience's Engagement During the Presentation

Activities

1) Think about different ways you know to deal with nervousness. You are encouraged to discuss them with colleagues.

2) Think about different ways you know to engage the audience and catch their attention. You are encouraged to discuss them with colleagues.

Let's see what experts have to say!

Read the following articles and watch a video to see how much you know and learn new techniques to teach to your students. You will have some activities to test your understanding before we conclude Unit 1.