THE BASICS
Preparation
Be clear
about the requirements of the task
Familiarise
yourself with the marking criteriaIdentify a clear topic area for your research
Construct a thesis and a title
Do relevant research
Create a list of bullet points
Put the points in a relevant order
Create a set of speaking notes – not a script
Rehearse the presentation a few times – don’t learn the presentation by heart
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.
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
Right volume – don’t shout don’t whisper
Right pace – when people are nervous they speak too quickly, slow your delivery down
Full intonation – clear and fully articulated words
Appropriate register – natural, conversational, formal side of informal
Be passionate and enthusiastic in your tone of voice
Your body
Don’t fidget
Stand up throughout the presentation
Don’t move around the room
Use body language to enhance the presentation - using hand and arm gestures can do this
Make eye contact with as many people as you can
Your body should support your enthusiasm for the subject
Key Points to Remember
Make relevant, detailed and consistent arguments / observations based on evidence from the text
Make sure the presentation is structured
Use language accurately
Speak using an appropriate register
