FORMAL PRESENTATIONS
THE BASICS
Preparation
· Be clear about the requirements of the task
· Familiarise yourself with the marking criteria
· Identify a clear topic area for your research
· Construct a thesis and a title
· Do relevant research
o Create a list of bullet points
o Put the points in a relevant order
o Create a set of speaking notes – not a script
· Rehearse the presentation a few times – don’t learn the presentation by heart
Key Points to Remember for IB Presentation
· Select the relevant text[s] to base your presentation on
· Know the text well
· Link key episodes used to the broader context of the text
· Make relevant, detailed and consistent arguments / observations based on evidence from the text
· Use literary analysis – identify features – comment on effects
· Develop an independent and original perspective
· Select good quotations
· Make sure the presentation is structured
· Make observations embedded in the text
· Use language accurately
· Speak using an appropriate register
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The presentation
The most important person in your presentation is your listener. Everything you say and do should enable your listener to have a positive, engaging and enjoyable experience. There are many ways you can make this experience enjoyable for the listener. For example
· chose a topic that you know well and a topic you are interested in.
· DO NOT consider this a tick box exercise. Treat it seriously. Your final IB mark may depend on this presentation.
· Communicate your enthusiasm and interest in the topic chosen.
· Present a thesis that comes out of your own reading and reflection to the text.
· Give a clear, well ordered and logically structured presentation.
· Don’t assume your listener knows the text or extract in detail.
· When you make complex points break these down into shorter and simpler points – build up to complex points.
· Your voice
o Right volume – don’t shout don’t whisper
o Right pace – when people are nervous they speak too quickly, slow your delivery down
o Full intonation – clear and fully articulated words
o Appropriate register – natural, conversational, formal side of informal
o Be passionate and enthusiastic in your tone of voice
· Your body
o Don’t fidget
o Stand up throughout the presentation
o Don’t move around the room
o Use body language to enhance the presentation
o Make eye contact with as many people as you can
o Your body should support your enthusiasm for the subject
