Preparing for presentations

One of the most important factors everyone must remember when demonstrating your writing materials is presentation.  Reading your work aloud is the key to connecting with the audience.  It is a way to show your work, images and to ensure the topic is understood.  Everyone must present to others all of the time.  There are authors, guest speakers, performers, teachers, students for school projects, scientists, business people, people during an interview and even the president.  Did you ever see one of President Obama's speeches on TV?  Notice that when he presents himself, he is wearing a formal suit and speaks in a clear voice so his message is shared with the country and indicated as an important topic.  During an interview for a job or volunteer opportunities, look sharp and neat, answer questions in a positive voice and stick to the topic, so your new boss can see a confident and serious person whom will work hard if they receive the job.   It is the same thing when presenting a simple piece of literature or a school project, look calm and presentable, while speaking clearly to the audience, demonstrating your work and yourself.


Sometimes, it becomes terrifying to stand in front of a crowd, almost feeling like you are going to faint.  There are times the words are stuttered and mumbled through your mouth, your hands start to shake, and your forehead is sweating due to the heat of the artificial light and nervousness.  Don’t worry about it; everyone gets stage fright when presenting their work.  I get nervous too before presenting.  Here are some tips obtained from today’s activities.

1. Keep track of time
   
   
2. Project your voice and be clear (enunciate)
   
   
3. Pay attention to what your body is doing while you read aloud
   
   
4. Don’t put your paper in front of your face
   
   
5. Read with expression
   
   
6. Breathe, don’t read too fast
   
   
7. Have Fun!!!
   
   

I am sure the students of the Young Writer’s Camp will be excited and less scared for their presentations on Friday.  They have worked real hard these last few days.  Some are already practicing on what they will present.  Practice, of course, makes prefect.  To make sure you know what you are saying, making some flashcards, practice in front of the mirror and use a recorder to hear yourself and ensure on what the audience will see on your big day.


So don’t get worried or start freaking out.  Be calm and confident as you stand on that stage.  This is your moment to shine and bring your stories to life.  Let's not forget - you want to be presentable when you say your thank you speech at the Tony Awards for Best Performance or Script Writing.