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An oral report is an opportunity for students to practice their speaking skills, but
other skills may come into play as well. There are presentation skills, such as
making eye contact with the audience, listening skills during a question and
answer session, and the skill of anticipating how to present something in a way
that will be understandable as well as appealing to the particular audience.
Although the report is oral, writing is often involved in the preparation — and
sometimes the actual performance — of the presentation. A student may begin by
creating a rough draft of what he or she will say and try reading it. The next step
might be preparing either notes on a topic or an outline of points.
In preparing for an oral report, a student’s approach will vary somewhat
depending on whether it must be delivered without notes. If the report has to be
memorized, more practice will likely be required. If the student may speak from
note cards or an outline — two popular methods for prompting one’s own
performance — the preparation may focus more on other aspects of the
presentation. Practice will also be shaped by how strict a time limit the student
has been given: preparing a presentation to fall within a range is easier than
trying to meet an exact length.
In today’s fast-paced world, filled with digital communication, social media, and
quick exchanges, the importance of oral presentations cannot be overstated. As
presenters and public speaking experts, you all know the power of a captivating
speech or an engaging story. But it’s time we bring that knowledge to the
forefront, celebrating and emphasizing the significance of oral presentations in
our society.