Teens in this class will learn how to strengthen their public speaking confidence by (1) practicing public speaking skills such as volume, eye contact, and body language, (2) preparing a speech by using an outline for each specific speech, and (3) participating in conversation.  Through conversation, students become more comfortable with one another in a safe environment that is free of judgment or criticism.

Teens will use the outline to develop a variety of speeches including a demonstration, informational, and motivational speech.  Speeches are typically 1 - 4 minutes long.  Students also learn how to develop an outline for delivering presentations.  I encourage students to participate and turn their cameras "on" so they can gain speaking confidence with one another.

This class runs in 10-week cycles.  It is not necessary for students to attend these classes in order.  Students may also take this class more than one time to practice different types of speeches and public speaking skills.

Great speakers are prepared speakers.  Their speeches always include (1) a clear introduction, (2) main points that support a topic, and (3) a strong conclusion with a call to action.  Every speech provides students with opportunities to practice different speaking skills:

Speech #1:   "All About Me" Speech / Create an Outline
Speech #2:  "Someone I Admire" Speech / Inspiration
Speech #3:  Demonstration Speech / Organize Your Speech
Speech #4:  Storytelling / Vocal Variety
Speech #5:  Report / Using Facts to Support Your Topic
Speech #6:  Debate Skills / Using Facts to Support Your Opinion or Position
Speech #7:  Motivational Speaking / Storytelling & Inspiration
Speech #8:  Impromptu Speaking  / Imagination & Acting Skills
Speech #9:  Persuasion / Using Words to Influence Others
Speech #10: SMART Goals / Using a Process to Pursue a Goal

As this is an ongoing class, additional classes will be added if students wish to stay enrolled in this course for more than 10 weeks.

Students will use an outline to guide their thoughts and help them prepare their speeches.  The speech outline will be posted in the Outschool classroom every week and can be downloaded as a PDF or Word document.  A sample outline is available and can be downloaded for enrolled learners and parents to review before our first class begins.

As students practice public speaking skills, they will receive positive feedback and encouragement to boost their speaking confidence.  

*** 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.  Please contact me if you have any questions about this public speaking class. ***

*** NOTE:  You may want to consider enrolling your teen in "Create an Awesome OUTLINE for a Speech, Presentation, or Report" BEFORE he or she signs up for this course. ***

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