Say it Out Loud: Presentations Unlock Confidence and Skills

Learning to speak a new language is often considered the most useful but hardest skill to develop. It’s not easy to formulate quick responses and thoughts in a new language. One way that students work on fluency is by doing presentations in the target language. As students build confidence in using it as a tool to express themselves, they also learn what it takes to effectively convey information to an audience.

In Middle School French and Spanish classes, speaking projects are built into the curriculum. The presentation framework is typically based on a 8-10 sentence script. Although scripts vary in content, the beginning of each sentence is fixed, and the required details of the presentation are the same for each student. This way, they better understand what their classmates are saying and their listening improves. The script is relatively short and revised several times. There is ample time, in and outside of class, for students to memorize and practice their script and demeanor. I remind them to practice the way that they will present — out loud, standing up, looking up and moving their body as they speak.

Through doing presentations students learn to pace themselves, pause, avoid filler words such as “um,” vary the tone of their voice and be upbeat. I remind them that there is usually a direct correlation between their attitude about what they are saying and audience engagement. They understand how eye contact and mannerisms bolster audience understanding. They also come to realize that they must understand every word of their script in order to memorize and present it authentically. If students make a small error, they know that it is okay to think on their feet and correct their wording. Their presentations often have visual support in the way of a Pic Collage or a map. Students develop their ability to simultaneously point to images, look at their audience and speak in a natural way. Finally, they learn that solid preparation is key to a good presentation. 

In 7th grade French and Spanish, students research a French and Spanish-speaking country. Their script requires them to state basic information about the country. For example, where it is in the context of a world map and details about the flag and capital city. It reinforces grammar concepts such as “I” verb forms, prepositions and adjective agreement. It also includes a description of where they are, how they feel and why. In 8th grade Spanish, students do a presentation about an imaginary trip to a Spanish city. This reinforces their grasp and use of verbs in the preterit (past) tense. While pointing to a map of Spain, they are required to state where their city is located, what dates they left and returned, and what they brought, bought, saw, did and learned. Other examples of Middle School presentations include character monologs and descriptions about one’s activities and daily routine. A presentation about oneself includes basic details such as age, birthdate, likes, dislikes and aspirations. By allowing for original responses to some of the prompts, their presentations are more interesting and often funny. Sometimes students learn to lead through speaking in other ways. For instance, they might present a lesson in class on the board while another student assists as scribe. 

For students learning to find and express their voice, public speaking helps them articulate their ideas clearly, have the courage to share their thoughts in front of other people and strengthen their individual communication styles.