Creating a slideshow presentation for a speech can be very useful because it can…

  • make speeches more interesting
  • make speeches easier to understand
  • make you appear more dedicated and professional

However, a slideshow presentation is only helpful if it is strong. If you have many mistakes, it can be confusing or distracting. Follow the rules below to make a strong presentation.

1. Find good pictures Pictures should be clear, appropriate, and connected to the topic. Think about how you want your audience to feel. If they should feel sad, don’t choose a cute cartoon. If they should laugh, choose a funny picture
2. Write important words Include your title, name, topic, main points, and new or difficult vocabulary words.
3. Make pictures and words big Everyone in the room should be able to see and understand the words and pictures.
4. Don’t write everything on the slideshow A slideshow is not a book. Your audience should be listening to you, not just reading. Try not to write more than 20 words on a slide.
5. Watch the audience Don’t watch the slideshow. You should have good eye contact with your audience.
6. Use a notecard If you use a notecard, you won’t have to turn around to look at the screen. This way, you can always face your audience.

There are many programs you can use to make slideshow presentations.

There are other, free programs you can use, including:

  • Google Docs: In your Google Drive, click “Create.” Choose “presentation.”
  • Prezi: Click “Learn” at the top of the page to watch a video that explains how to use the website.

Exercise

Please open the exercise to continue.

Exercise

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