1. What is Public Speaking?
Public speaking is when you talk to a group of people to share ideas, explain something, or
entertain them. When I talk to others, I’ll make sure to explain things clearly so they can
understand and enjoy the talk.
2. Public Speaking is About Advocacy
Public speaking is also a way to support something important to you and get others to care about
it. I can choose topics I care about, like helping people understand technology, and share them to
make others think about it too.
3. Context, Culture, and Meaning
The way we speak depends on the situation and the audience’s background. Before I speak, I will
think about who I’m talking to and make sure I explain things in a way they will understand.
4. Dealing with Nerves
It’s normal to feel nervous before speaking, but you can calm down by practicing and relaxing.
When I feel nervous, I can take deep breaths and practice my speech to feel more confident.
5. Being Honest and Ethical
It’s important to tell the truth and be respectful when speaking. I will always share true facts and
be honest with my audience, making sure I don’t hurt anyone’s feelings.
References
Brown, B. (2014). The power of vulnerability. TEDTalk.
[Link]
Hauser, C. (2019). Maine just banned Native American mascots. It’s a movement that’s inching
forward. New York Times. [Link]
[Link]
Mitru, G., Millrood, D. L., & Mateika, J. H. (2002). The impact of sleep on learning and
behavior in adolescents. Teachers College Record, 104(4), 704-726.
Nicotera, A.M. (2009). Encyclopedia of communication theory. Eds: Stephen W. Littlejohn and
Karen A. Foss. SAGE. doi:10.4135/9781412959384
The Gale Group. (2002). Culture and communication. Encyclopedia of Communication and
Information. [Link]
and-maps/culture-and-communication
Tompkins, P.S. (2011). Practicing communication ethics. Boston: Allyn & Bacon.
University of Wisconsin-Stout. (2015). Public speaking anxiety.
[Link]