Public speaking is a large part of the sixth grade studies skills curriculum. For about six weeks of the year, the sixth graders learn about public speaking, choose a topic for their own speech, and prepare to make a speech. Extensive research, writing, and speaking practice are included in the curriculum. Each sixth grader presents a 5-7 minute speech complete with props to their respective studies skills class. The class evaluates the speeches and each class chooses a representative to present their own speech to grades 3 through 6 and invited guests.

This year, five representatives presented speeches on May 25, 2007. Gregory Baron spoke about the Vietnam War and protests. He played timely music in the background, and we all felt transported back to the turbulent 1960s and 1970s. Henry Flugstad-Clarke gave a speech on college mascots. His speech included important facts and figures on mascots and their place in college life. Rachel Lima talked about birth order and siblings. Rachel, the oldest of four, engaged the audience by discussing parents, fighting, sibling competition, and rivalry, while including her younger brother in her presentation.

Edward Molé, as Harry Houdini, had a PowerPoint presentation and performed magic tricks. After lowering his head into a bucket of water, he was handcuffed, covered, and then escaped! Stephanie Wilf did her speech on computer addiction. Stephanie took a survey of computer usage and used charts and graphs to offer comparisons of computer access and time spent at the computer.

All of the speakers and speeches were wonderful! The student body, parents, and invited guests thoroughly enjoyed the presentations and each speaker gained great public speaking experience.



© 2007 The Pingry School