Regan Lindsay, a public speaking teacher and competitor from San Jose, California, came to Mount Olive for seven weeks to better Grace Christian School’s public speaking skills. While she is a 17-year-old high school student, she has ample wisdom on this activity. Regan at- tended nationals in 10 events over the past five years. She went to finals at nationals with 5 of the 10 events. In May 2017, she will return to nationals with 5 more events.
While she was here, she taught twice a week to each classroom. The students learned basic principles such as implementing gestures into their speeches and using articulation as they speak. Further, the students were stretched as they learned interpretative speaking, platform speaking and impromptu speaking, Interpretative speaking is bringing another person’s words to life. This skill expands a student’s creative thinking skills, confidence level, and memorization skills. Platform speaking is a student’s own words on a particular topic. This speech requires a student to expand his vocabulary, research his topic, and possibly add humor to keep the audience engaged. Lastly, impromptu speaking requires a student to respond to a prompt or a question with only two minutes to prepare. This speech enhances critical thinking skills, appearing confident with limited preparation time, and voicing their opinion in a modest way.
Public speaking is a necessary skill set to learn as it will assist them in job inter- interviews, college interviews, presentations, and even normal conversation. The students with a public speaking background will stand out against any competitor looking for the same job or position. This knowledge will further their opportunities in life.
While Regan taught, she remarked that the highlight of her experience was watching the older kids research and talk about issues that were important to them. Two of the students researched the good and bad effects of drugs and alcohol. Regan was impressed that two 11-year-olds chose to do research, and present a speech about important subject matters in today’s society. Another highlight for Regan was watching Kindergarten through 2nd grade memorize their speech a week after it was given to them. The excitement level to present their speech was evident as they begged to practice the same speech over and over again.
Public speaking is the number one fear in America for a reason. These kids are overcoming obstacles at a young age that adults struggle with daily. In almost every job environment, public speaking will be required. Ethan, a fourth-grade student, commented that “I was taught to talk more clearly and professionally using diction so when I go into a job interview, I’ll have a better chance of getting that job.” Laila, a fellow fourth grader, added, “If I go on TV for a commercial or interview, or if I go very high up in the government, then I’ll be able to use articulation, the neutral position, and watch my volume and tone.” Grace Christian School thanks Regan for the impact she has made on our students.