Does your child enjoy speaking or performing in front of others?  This class is for students (ages 9 -14) with ADVANCED public speaking skills.  They will learn about practice public speaking skills such as volume, eye contact, and body language through delivery of different types of speeches. Students develop an outline for delivering speeches.  I provide students with an outline for each speech which includes (1) a clear introduction, (2) main points that support a topic, and (3) a strong conclusion with a call to action:  

Week #1 - ALL ABOUT ME SPEECH /  Learners will skillfully introduce themselves to others and craft a quality speech about themselves.

Weeks #2 & #3 - INTERVIEW SKILLS - Learners will ask and respond to questions as they create and answer interview questions.  They will work in pairs to compose questions and practice interview skills.

Week #4 - STORYTELLING  / Learners will practice speaking with expression and vocal variety skills (including volume, pitch, tempo) by retelling a story with expression using props and gestures.

Week #5 - DEMONSTRATION SPEEECH / Learners will use words and props to explain instructions for others to complete a task.

Week #6 - IMPROVISATION / Learners will speak with expression and use props to decrease use of filler words through improvisation activities.

Week #7 - INFORMATIONAL SPEECH with PowerPoint/Google Slides - Learners will create a fact-based presentation using PowerPoint or Google Slides to share with the class.

Week #8 - MOTIVATIONAL STORYTELLING SPEECH - Learners will practice personal storytelling skills by creating a speech about a personal experience.  

Week #9 - PREPARE A TEDxYouth TALK - Learners will create a speech with an inspiring message.  They will describe a challenge they faced, how they faced a challenge, and what they learned from the experience.  Challenges can include a concern, a problem they want to solve, participation in an event, etc. Their experience will provide helpful tips to inspire others. Learners are not required to submit their video to TEDxYouth.

Week #10 - CREATE A VIDEO - Learners will learn tools to PLAN A VIDEO that can be used as a script. Students are not required to create a video; this lesson will provide skills and information that can be used to make a great video presentation.  
We will NOT record individual videos in class to protect the privacy of each student.  Students can view their presentation by watching the Outschool recording of this class.

As advanced students practice public speaking skills, they will provide and receive positive feedback and encouragement from the teacher and other learners in the class.  Students are encouraged to participate in class with their webcams "on" to develop trust and confidence when they engage in conversations or deliver speeches in this highly interactive class.

*** If your child or teen enrolls in the class after the first meeting, consider enrolling them in "Create an Awesome OUTLINE for a Speech, Presentation, or Report" BEFORE he or she signs up for this course.  The outline class will provide the structure they need to prepare speeches for this class. (optional)

*** NOTE FOR HOMESCHOOL LEARNERS:  Dr. Julie Connor, Ed.D., class instructor, is certified to teach elementary education (K-8) as well as secondary speech/theater and English/language arts (ages 10-18).  Arrangements can be made with the instructor to provide documentation and grades upon request. ***

*** NOTE: This class is not an ideal choice for everyone.  Your child may not enjoy this class if they are encouraged to turn their computer cameras on or engage in conversations with peers.  Students who choose not to participate in class discussions or prepare short speeches for this class will not gain as much out of this class as those who take part in class activities.  Please contact me if you have any questions about this public speaking class. ***

This ongoing 10-week course provides novice speakers with opportunities to gain confidence as they practice new skills and receive encouragement. Experienced speakers will have opportunities to receive evaluative feedback to sharpen their public speaking skills.