" 'Tis all a great show, the world that we're in--None can tell when 'twas finished--None saw it begin. "
-- Jones Very
Unit(s) : Communication Process/Public Speaking
Purpose:
To demonstrate how changes in voice and posture can improve communication skills
Objective:
Students will observe the distractions of poor communication skills
Materials:
- Podium
- Gum
- Papers
Procedure:
- On the first day of class I do a "How NOT to give a speech" speech by doing many of the things you should Not do during a speech.
- During my introduction of myself I:
Chew Gum
Fumble with papers
Look at ceiling
Say "uh uh" between every three words
Lean on Podium- The idea is to look convincing but don't over do it where they know it is an "act."
- I continue this for about a minute until they have given up hope for speech class and then I straighten up show them how I really speak.
- Students are usually amazed at how a few changes in voice and posture can truly make a difference.
- They will see how distracting and ineffective bad speech skills can be and how they will benefit from the class, both speaking and acting.
