Introduction to Public

Speaking
TRAINING OF TRAINERS 2016
What is public speaking?
Definition of public speaking
Purpose of public speaking
Why public speaking is one of the most important skill in debating
Elements of a good public speaking
Body language, gesture, and eye contact
Tips: know the objective of your public speaking:
◦ Persuasive, descriptive, or narrative
◦ What you want to do with your audience;
◦ Know your audience: in debating, audience is the main actor you are trying to
protect.
How to be in control with your public
speaking
Be mindful of your language: do not be offensive
◦ What is an offensive speech: generalization, using derogative terms and slurs.

Use appropriate and relevant diction. For example: if the motion is

about medical, try to use medical terminology.
Observe your audience’s mood and atmosphere
How to encourage students to speak
publicly
Start with topics that students are familiar with:
◦ start with the latest news and issues, their hobbies and talents
◦ Allow students to speak about anything and do not attack their opinion
◦ After that, teacher can gradually expose students with heavier materials

Be sensitive to children’s personality and needs:

◦ for some students, public speaking is not something they are good at;
◦ equip students with positive reinforcement such as feedback and compliment
their courage to speak publicly.
Let’s take a look at
some examples!
 Q&A
1) Michael Sandels’ style in debating  use analogy during rebuttal?
2) Suggestion  students need role models of good public speakers!
3) What are recommended strategies to improve public speaking of debaters? (minimize gap
fillers, no undertime?)`