Public speaking is a vital skill that can open doors to success in various aspects of life. For 4-H’ers, it offers an opportunity to hone their ability to articulate ideas, organize thoughts, and present information effectively. The 4-H Public Speaking program is designed to provide participants with valuable experience in preparing and delivering speeches related to 4-H topics.

Participants in the 4-H Public Speaking contest are tasked with recognizing, organizing, and presenting information on a given topic within a specified time frame. Speeches must be original and directly related to 4-H in a demonstrable way. While the entire speech doesn’t have to focus solely on 4-H, contestants must incorporate 4-H and its relevance to the topic at some point during their presentation.

To excel in the competition, 4-H’ers must learn to speak convincingly in public, expressing ideas with poise and confidence. Speech times vary based on age and category, ranging from 3 to 10 minutes. It’s essential for contestants to adhere to the specified time limits and ensure they reference 4-H appropriately throughout their speech to avoid penalization by judges.

Participating in the 4-H Public Speaking program not only develops crucial communication skills but also fosters confidence and self-assurance in young individuals. It’s an excellent opportunity for 4-H’ers to showcase their talents, share their knowledge, and make a positive impact within their communities.

Here are some tips to help be successful at public speaking:

1. Know Your Material: Be thoroughly prepared and familiar with the content of your speech. Practice delivering it until you feel confident and comfortable.
2. Connect with Your Audience: Engage your audience by making eye contact, using gestures, and speaking clearly and audibly. Tailor your message to resonate with them and address their interests and concerns.
3. Organize Your Thoughts: Structure your speech with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Use bullet points or a logical sequence to guide your audience through your main points.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice: Rehearse your speech multiple times before the actual presentation. Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself, or enlist the help of a friend or family member for feedback.
5. Manage Nervousness: Feeling nervous is normal, but don’t let it overpower you. Take deep breaths, visualize success, and focus on the message you want to convey rather than your anxiety.
6. Use Visual Aids Wisely: Visual aids like slides or props can enhance your presentation, but don’t rely on them too heavily. They should complement your speech, not distract from it.
7. Be Authentic: Be yourself and let your personality shine through. Authenticity builds trust and credibility with your audience.
8. Be Flexible: Be prepared to adapt to unexpected changes or challenges during your presentation. Stay calm and composed and continue delivering your message with confidence.
9. Engage Your Audience: Encourage interaction by asking questions, sharing anecdotes, or incorporating multimedia elements. Make your presentation memorable and interactive.
10. Seek Feedback: After your presentation, ask for feedback from peers, mentors, or audience members. Use constructive criticism to improve your public speaking skills for future presentations.

Use this link to view the 4-H Public Speaking Scoresheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bdAxVpUkfC3wFRCq1II8OuClgPpqzLEy/view

0