What is a Presentation

It is a planned demonstration or illustrated talk which explains or illustrates by using examples.  To demonstrate is to teach by showing - learning by doing!  Show someone how to tie his shoes, or his 4-H tie!  Demonstrating is teaching in the clearest and simplest method known. When members are enrolled in 4-H they have a desire to learn.  In giving presentations they share with others their acquired knowledge.  Boys and girls like to "tell others".  This is natural.  They should be encouraged to start by giving a simple presentation and, as they develop, they can do more difficult presentations.

WHY GIVE A PRESENTATION?

Presentations help 4-H members:

• do and learn--learn and do.
• develop an ability to speak before a group.
• share acquired knowledge and skill.
• develop creativity.
• gain experience in team work.
• gain self-confidence, leadership and initiative.
• gain personal recognition.
• have a more interesting and active 4-H project.

Every club and project group should devote time to presentations.  Presentations by 4-H members should be a vital part of every 4-H club program.  A desirable goal for each 4-H club is to have every member give at least one presentation during the year.

HOW TO ORGANIZE IDEAS INTO A PRESENTATION

Study the subject and get all the facts.  Decide on the objective.  Make a simple plan and go through these steps:

1. Introduction
2. Body
3. Summary

Secure the necessary equipment.  Select a "catchy" title which applies to the presentation.  Make it an original and interesting one.

INTRODUCTION - Each time members give their presentations it is helpful if someone else will introduce them, give the title and their club or county.  Start the presentation with an interesting or catchy opening statement, story or question.  The introduction must get the audience interested.  Favorable first impressions are important to the success of the presentation and create interest in the subject.

BODY - You must develop the ideas and points of the presentation into logical order.  Show how and tell why each step is being done.  In team presentations try to share the showing and telling equally.

SUMMARY - Make sure the audience remembers and takes away the main points: 1) leave a favorable impression, 2) restate key points of the presentation, 3) do not bring up new subject matter, 4) provide an opportunity for questions.

HOW TO POLISH THE PRESENTATION

1. Be well groomed; wear neat , clean, appropriate clothing; smile and relax or learn to appear relaxed; stand on both feet with good posture; appear friendly, confident and maintain eye contact with your audience.
2. Arrange equipment and supplies for working convenience and visibility; show skill in use of equipment; use neat, readable visuals, if needed, to explain the presentation; keep working area clear of unnecessary equipment.
3. Be interested and show enthusiasm; know the subject well; don't talk while using noisy equipment; speak loudly and clearly enough to be heard by the entire audience; simplify the job so listeners will be eager to try it; practice before parents, project groups, your club and any other available audience.