NOVEMBER is ………………… PUBLIC SPEAKING CONTEST Step 1 – Planning 1. Decide on a Topic -Select something that you like -Select something that you can find information about -Select something that 4-H can be included into 2. Decide on a Purpose -to entertain, inform, stimulate, or persuade 3. Brainstorm Ideas for your Topic -write out ideas on notebook paper -research – info from Extension office, libraries, internet, interviews, etc. Step 2 – Organization A Hamburger has three main parts, a top bun, the meat and a bottom bun, so your speech should have three main parts: *Introduction *Body *Conclusion Introduction - catches peoples attention, introduces topic Body - all the information in your speech, the details Conclusion - wraps up the speech, summarizes your speech Be creative (lettuce, tomato, etc.) use descriptive words, visual theme, expressions, etc. Step 3 -- Practice, Practice, Practice There are several good ways to practice your speech. The more you practice the better your speech will be. Some of the best ways to practice are: *Practice in front of a mirror *Practice in front of friends and family *Record yourself speaking Step 4 -- Giving Your Speech Now you are ready for the speech contest. Here are a few pointers to make your speech a success! *Relax - take a deep breath before your speak, just have fun with your speech *Appearance - stand up straight, don’t lean on stand *Notes - use your notes, but don’t read them off, don’t hold them in front of your face *Eye Contact - be sure to look at your audience, see if they’re really listening to you *Voice - make sure you speak in a loud and clear voice

RULES: 1. All 4-H members can participate. 2. Topic – You may choose any topic for your speech, but you must include 4-H in the speech. 3. All contestants will receive participation ribbons. 1^st,2^nd & 3^rd place winners will be selected in club contests. 4. Support your classroom, have a 100% participation & receive a club plaque. 5. Club winners will be invited to represent their club at the County Public Speaking Contest. County winners in grades 5-8 will participate in the Area Contest and winners in grades 9-12 will participate in the Regional contest. 6. The length of speeches should be: 4^th grade 1-3 minutes 5^th-6^th grades 2-5 minutes 7^th-8^th grades 3-7 minutes 9^th-12^th grades 3-7 minutes HELPFUL HINTS: · Select a topic that is interesting to you. · Gather info from different sources. · Organize your information · May use note cards if speech is not memorized. NO props or visual aids are allowed for speeches. · Make eye contact with your audience while giving your speech. · Stand with a good posture · Speak loudly and clearly Practice! Practice! Practice! Suggested Topics for 4-H Speeches