Public Speaking: Speak with Confidence (Full-Curriculum Course for Teens)
What's included
8 live meetings
6 in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Students may be asked to engage in short activities or assignments to practice their public speaking skills outside of class. This may include writing speeches, recording practice sessions, or watching and analyzing famous speeches. Homework is designed to take no more than one hour per week.Projects
Students will prepare a final presentation to be presented in the final class. Students are expected to be working on this presentation throughout the duration of the course.Letter Grade
Grades and certificates of completion may be requested by the parent at the end of class. Should a learner need a grade for this class, parents should inform the instructor within the first week.Certificate of Completion
Grades and certificates of completion may be requested by the parent at the end of class.Class Experience
US Grade 9 - 11
Beginner - Intermediate Level
This Public Speaking class will empower students with the skills and confidence needed to effectively communicate in front of an audience. Over the course of 8 weeks, learners will engage in interactive activities designed to improve their speech writing, delivery, and overall presence. The class structure includes live practice sessions, peer feedback, and personalized coaching. Students will get numerous opportunities to present speeches, participate in group discussions, and refine their public speaking techniques. No prior experience in public speaking is required.
Learning Goals
Develop strong public speaking skills, including speech writing and delivery.
Gain confidence in speaking in front of an audience.
Syllabus
8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to Public Speaking
Overview of the importance of public speaking, basic concepts, and goals.
45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Speech Structure and Organization
Understanding how to organize thoughts and structure speeches effectively.
45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Presentation Anxiety and Tools
Techniques for managing anxiety and building confidence.
45 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Vocal Variety and Body Language
Exploring the use of voice, gestures, and body language to enhance speeches.
45 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
No sensitive content will be covered in this class. All materials and activities are designed to be age-appropriate and supportive. However, students will be given the opportunity to present on a topic of their choosing in the final class. While students are encouraged to select school-appropriate final presentation topics, parental guidance is suggested for selecting a final presentation topic.
Supply List
Students should be prepared to create a slides presentation with the creation tool of their choosing (Canva, Google Slides, PowerPoint, etc)
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Teacher expertise and credentials
4 teachers have a Bachelor's degree
Bachelor's Degree in Theatre Arts from Rutgers University
Bachelor's Degree in Theatre Arts from Hunter College
Bachelor's Degree in Theatre Arts from Temple University
Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from Temple University
CHRISTIE DAVIS:
As an actor, Christie has performed professionally as a wide array of characters in various genres, from musical comedies to dramatic straight plays and new works. Some favorite credits include The Fairy Godmother (Cinderella), The Narrator (Joseph), Beth March (Little Women), Winnifred the Woebegone (Once Upon a Mattress), and Jennie Mae Layman (The Diviners), a role for which Christie received a nomination for ‘Best Supporting Actor in a Play’ in the 2023 Regional Broadway Awards. Backstage, Christie has managed everything from sound, microphones, sets, and costumes to help produce the best show possible. In her hometown of Jacksonville, Florida, Christie developed and directed an after-school theatre program for middle schoolers that instructed and guided students in theatrical performance and professionalism. She feels that fine arts education programs are essential for all to practice creativity and explore our shared humanity. She is grateful for the opportunity to do such socially valuable work and help curate an environment that encourages students to embrace their individuality as integral to their craft.
JACKIE KNOLLHUFF:
Jackie Knollhuff (She/Her) is a New Jersey Freelance Director, Choreographer, and Teaching Artist whose passions include new play development, working with children, and theatre for persons with disabilities. She holds a Master's in Theatre Studies from Montclair State University. She has worked with professional and community theaters.
LUKE HARDT:
Luke, a lifelong theater artist, has decades of experience directing, designing and writing plays for all age levels. As an actor, he has numerous film and stage credits. Luke loves to teach and learn through all things theater and is delighted to engage on almost any creative topic. He holds an M.F.A in Acting from Temple University and has served as Director of Theatre for the University of Montevallo and Bethany College. During his time at the Performing Arts Magnet High School (CCPAC), in Montgomery, his students earned statewide recognition, succeeded in earning significant scholarships, got offers from numerous training programs and for many, went on to successful professional careers. His own career includes directing over 85 plays representing a broad range of genres, age groups, audiences and venues. Luke’s approach to teaching is collaborative, eclectic, physical, and informed by years of study and practice. He is looking forward to sharing his expertise in Acting, Audition Prep, Playwriting, History and Appreciation, and more with the next generation of theatre people through Ferrell Studios/Outschool.
Reviews
Live Group Course
$19
weekly or $150 for 8 classes1x per week, 8 weeks
45 min
Completed by 7 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
2-6 learners per class