Speaking well is a gift you can practise. When you speak clearly and kindly, people understand you and enjoy listening.
Speak in clear sentences
Say whole sentences, not just single words. Instead of 'dinosaurs', say 'I would like to tell you about dinosaurs.' Take a breath and finish each thought.
Stand tall and look up
Stand up straight with your shoulders back. Lift your head and look at your listeners, not at your feet. A calm, steady body helps you feel brave.
Speak loudly and slowly
Send your voice to the back of the room so everyone can hear. Do not rush. Slow, clear words are much easier to follow than fast, mumbly ones.
Listen politely and take turns
When someone else is speaking, look at them and stay quiet. Wait for your turn instead of jumping in. Good talkers are also good listeners.
First I say hello and my topic,
Then I share three things I know,
I stand up tall and speak out clearly,
And thank them all before I go.
Giving a short talk
Pick a topic you like, such as a hobby, an animal or a place, and practise it out loud a few times first.
Put the steps of a short talk in order:
- Say hello and tell them your topic
- Share three interesting facts
- Say thank you