This whole thread seems to have taken a wrong turn somewhere. I'm not opposed to public speaking or assignments involving public speaking in elementary school. I do feel its a skill that one needs to learn. What I am objecting to is the way this particular school is going about it. No practice under actual "speech" conditions, no use of prompts or cue cards, just get up there, for the first time for many of them on a stage, let them walk out there without a clue how to handle a microphone, what it feels like to be on stage, what effect stage lights, have, etc., then deliver a perfect speech. While I'm at it, why don't I just throw my daughter into the deep end so she will learn to swim? Why bother with lessons, etc? Sure, she won't drown, she'll figure out someway to get out of the pool, and now she knows how to swim, right?
All I'm suggesting is that her school could do more to prepare her for the actual event, including rehehsals under actual conditions, use microphone, etc. And, yes, allow her to use some sort of notes or other prompts or memory aids. Every public speaking class I've ever had (yes, I've had many), always encourages the use of notes, etc. What's she supposed to do if she freezes and loses her place? Just stand there, feeling humiliated? That's not a peoper introduction to public speaking, in my opinion. I feel public speaking is a skill that can (and should) be taught. But that's just my point--teach it, don't expect the kid to wing it.
To those who have given good suggestions I thank you. For those who want to pick apart my posts, well.................. :
Lets just consider this thread closed. I've gotten some good suggestions and I'm really not interested in the opinions of those who feel the need to "attack" me. Bye
All I'm suggesting is that her school could do more to prepare her for the actual event, including rehehsals under actual conditions, use microphone, etc. And, yes, allow her to use some sort of notes or other prompts or memory aids. Every public speaking class I've ever had (yes, I've had many), always encourages the use of notes, etc. What's she supposed to do if she freezes and loses her place? Just stand there, feeling humiliated? That's not a peoper introduction to public speaking, in my opinion. I feel public speaking is a skill that can (and should) be taught. But that's just my point--teach it, don't expect the kid to wing it.
To those who have given good suggestions I thank you. For those who want to pick apart my posts, well.................. :
Lets just consider this thread closed. I've gotten some good suggestions and I'm really not interested in the opinions of those who feel the need to "attack" me. Bye
