Download the Lessonotes Mobile Liberia app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
Subject: English
Semester: 1
Period: 3
Week: 17
School Name:
Teacher’s Name:
Subject: English Language
Grade Level: Grade 6
Date: Week 17
Lesson Duration: 45 minutes
Week & Period: Week 17, Period 3
Topic: Public Speaking Skills and Dramatic Reading
Sub-topic: Elements of Public Speaking and Poem Recitation
Learning Objectives
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
Explain elements of public speaking: eye contact, body language, diction, presentation
Apply speaking skills to recite or dramatize poems
Use tone, gesture, and confidence in delivering short speeches
Previous Knowledge
Students already know poetry reading and basic composition skills
Instructional Materials
English Language textbook for Grade 6, sample poems, markers, chart paper
Lesson Development – ABC Model
A – Anticipation (Warm-up / Starter)
Time: 5–10 minutes
Discuss experiences of speaking in front of the class and what makes presentations engaging
B – Building Knowledge (Main Lesson Body)
Time: 25–30 minutes
👩🏽🏫 Teacher Explanation & Demonstration (10–12 minutes)
🔍 What Makes Public Speaking Effective?
Public speaking is not just about words; it is about connecting with the audience using both your voice and body.
📌 Four Key Elements:
- Eye Contact
- Look at different people in the audience to keep them engaged
- Avoid staring at the floor or your notes the entire time
- Example: While reciting a poem, glance up every few lines to connect with listeners
- Body Language
- Use gestures (hand movements, facial expressions) to emphasize your points
- Stand or move confidently, avoid fidgeting or closed-off postures (e.g., crossed arms)
- Example: When saying “The wind whispered,” gently wave your hand to mimic wind movement
- Diction
- Speak clearly, pronouncing each word fully
- Avoid mumbling or rushing
- Practice difficult words beforehand
- Example: Pronounce “resilience” slowly and clearly during your speech
- Presentation
- Vary your tone to express emotions (happy, sad, excited)
- Control your pace — slow down for important points, speed up for excitement
- Show confidence by standing tall and using a strong voice
- Example: In a poem about a storm, raise your voice for thunder, then soften for rain
🎭 Demonstration: Dramatic Reading
- Teacher reads a short poem with expression and gestures
- Highlight how tone, pauses, eye contact, and body movement make the poem come alive
- Encourage learners to notice how these elements change the meaning and impact
👩🏾🎓 Learners’ Activities (Expanded – 13–15 minutes)
- Poem Recitation Practice (7 minutes)
- Choose a short poem or passage (can be from previous lessons)
- Practice reading aloud individually or in pairs
- Focus on:
- Maintaining eye contact with partner or small group
- Using expressive gestures to match words
- Clear pronunciation of words
- Varying tone and pace appropriately
- Short Speech or Recitation (5 minutes)
- Prepare a 1–2 minute talk or poem recitation on a simple topic (e.g., “My Favorite Season,” “Why I Like Reading”)
- Deliver it to a small group or the whole class
- Incorporate all four elements of public speaking
- Encourage learners to stand confidently and use natural gestures
- Peer Feedback and Self-Assessment (3 minutes)
- After presentations, peers give positive feedback and one suggestion for improvement, e.g.:
- “I liked how you looked at us while speaking.”
- “Try to speak a little slower so we understand better.”
- Learners also reflect briefly on what they did well and what they want to improve next time
✅ Assessment Checks
|
Skill/Criteria |
Observations to Make |
|
Use of eye contact during speech |
Looks at audience regularly, not just notes |
|
Effective body language |
Gestures match speech, posture is confident |
|
Clear diction and pronunciation |
Words are articulated, no mumbling |
|
Varied tone and pace |
Uses changes in voice to keep audience interested |
|
Overall confidence and engagement |
Stands tall, speaks loudly enough, holds attention |
|
Peer and self-feedback participation |
Provides constructive comments, reflects honestly |
🗒️ Notes (Expanded & Detailed)
🔹 Why These Elements Matter
- Eye contact creates a connection and shows confidence
- Body language helps express emotions and keeps the audience engaged
- Diction ensures your message is understood
- Presentation style (tone, pace) keeps the audience interested and helps communicate feelings
🔹 Tips for Teachers
- Model the behavior frequently before asking learners to try
- Encourage a safe, supportive environment to reduce speaking anxiety
- Use videos of great speakers or famous poem recitations for examples
- Give positive reinforcement and specific suggestions for improvement
🔹 Common Challenges & Solutions
|
Challenge |
Solution |
|
Avoiding eye contact |
Practice with a small group or one partner first |
|
Speaking too fast or quietly |
Practice breathing and pacing exercises |
|
Nervousness or shaking voice |
Encourage deep breaths, and remind it’s okay to pause |
|
Limited body movement |
Suggest simple gestures or using hands naturally |
C – Consolidation (Conclusion & Assessment)
Time: 5–10 minutes
Summary: Learners can apply public speaking skills and dramatize poems with expression
Evaluation Method (Expanded):
Exit slip/quiz: Recite a short poem using at least two elements of public speaking
Teacher will collect slips and provide oral feedback
Assignment (Expanded):
Prepare a two-minute poem recitation incorporating body language, tone, and eye contact
Follow-up Activity:
Peer presentation and constructive feedback
Differentiation / Inclusive Strategies
Allow group practice, peer support, and oral rehearsal before presentation
Teacher’s Reflection (After Class)
What worked well? ___________________________________________
What needs improvement? ____________________________________
Students’ engagement level: ☑ High ☑ Medium ☑ Low