How to Give a Stellar Speech (When You'd Rather Hurl!)

       So, expect that sometime in middle school, you will have to make that dreaded speech.  We're not going to lie. The art of elocution can be a harrowing experience. But, if you view it as a test of your character, resolve, and fortitude, you will succeed.

       Follow our speech tips and you’ll do fine (and hopefully avoid the need to hurl).

How to Talk Your Way to an A:

*Tongue train: Don’t think you can get up there and wing it, especially if you have the nervies. Try practicing your speech in front of a mirror at first; then, test out your parents and maybe a sibling or two.

* Jitter bennies: Work your jitters to your advantage. A little stress is a good thing. It will keep you sharp and energetic.

*Fake it till you make it: Okay, you’re a Nervous Nellie, but no needs to know it. Take a series of deep, slow breaths to release your fear. Wiggle your toes in order to channel excess energy. No one will know what you’re doing, and it’ll keep you from fidgeting while speaking.

*Eye up: Make eye contact but with certain exceptions—don’t look at your best friend, worst enemy, or the handsome hottie you’re crushing on. You could easily lose your concentration.

*Prop out: Use cool props, like a PowerPoint or decorative poster. This will make you more at ease since everyone will be looking at it, and not you.

*Filler fighters: Fight the urge to “um” and “ah” your way through the speech. Ums and ahs are pesky little fillers that can be distracting to the listener.

*Hold up: Don’t be a speed racer. Annunciate any key words, and speak slowly. Pause between main points, and speak as if everything is of extreme importance—kind of like Yoda did when instructing his younglings at the Jedi temple. 

*Gear up: Wear something you love. If you look confident, you’ll feel confident.

*Grin and bear it: Your smile is your secret weapon. It will put you and your throng of listeners at ease.

Helpful Hint: If you’re feeling supernervous, talk to your teacher about it. He or she may tend to be easier on you when calculating your grade. Also, ask to go last. At this point, no one’s really listening, and you’ll be more at ease. Either way, we're sure you're going to rock it!