Public Speaking

Public Speaking & Presentation Skills

Course Description:

This course is designed to equip students with the essential skills for effective public speaking and presentations. Through a combination of theory, practice, and feedback, students will develop confidence, clarity, and persuasiveness in their communication. The course will cover a variety of presentation techniques, including body language, voice modulation, visual aids, and audience engagement.

Course Objectives:

• Develop confidence and overcome public speaking anxiety

• Master effective presentation techniques, including body language, voice modulation, and eye contact

• Create engaging and informative presentations

• Use visual aids effectively to enhance presentations

• Tailor presentations to different audiences and contexts

• Deliver presentations with clarity, conviction, and persuasiveness

Course Outline:

Week 1: Introduction to Public Speaking

• Defining public speaking and its importance

• Understanding public speaking anxiety and overcoming it

• Elements of effective communication: verbal and nonverbal cues

Week 2: Planning and Organizing Presentations

• Analyzing the audience and purpose

• Developing a clear thesis and main points

• Creating an effective outline

• Using storytelling techniques to engage the audience

Week 3: Delivering Your Presentation

• Avoiding common pitfalls

• Body language and posture

• Voice modulation and articulation

• Eye contact and audience engagement

• Handling questions and objections

Week 4: Visual Aids and Presentation Software

• Types of visual aids (e.g., slides, handouts, props)

• Designing effective visual aids

• Using presentation software effectively

• Avoiding common visual aid mistakes

Week 5: Adapting to Different Audiences and Contexts

• Understanding different audience types

• Tailoring your message to specific contexts

• Dealing with unexpected situations

• Impromptu speaking

Week 6 & 7: Special Topics in Public Speaking

• Persuasive speaking

• Informative speaking

• Group presentations

• Online presentations

• Avoiding slander and libel

• Analysis of notable and effective speeches

Week 8 & 9: Practice and Feedback

• Peer reviews and feedback sessions

• Practicing presentations in front of the class

• Receiving constructive feedback

• Take two: further develop, reorganize, revise and refine 

Week 10: Final Presentations and Course Evaluation

• Students deliver final presentations on a chosen topic

• Students receive feedback from teacher and peers