The students gave each other feedback and honed their skills until they were able to stand confidently and deliver in a clear and compelling way. Pretty impressive...most adults have a hard time doing that!

Here are some basic Hot Tips for effective public speaking:

• Prepare
  Have a good idea of what you want to share and plan to make 1-3 good points.
• Plant Your Feet
  Stand firmly, avoid swaying, keep your hands in front of your body and keep those knees slightly bent...so you don't pass out.
• Make Eye Contact
  Make a gentle sweep of the audience and be sure to connect with a few people in each area of the audience.
• Breathe
  Take a good deep breath and expand your stomach while you take air in.
• Project Your Voice
  Aim for the back row and use your breath to help you project without straining.
• Speak at a Normal Pace
  Be very deliberate and enunciate your words. Avoid talking very quickly.
• Pause for Effect
  Periodically pause to let a point settle in. Make eye contact, breathe and go again.
• Hands
  Keep your hands above your waist and make sure they stay visible to the audience.
• Expression
  Use your face to express energy that matches your message.
• End with a Strong Point
  Plan your points so that escalate in importance and end with one that is really clear and creates an effect/reaction.