How to Build Confidence When Speaking in Public

Public speaking is an important skill for 11th graders, especially in English Literature. Being able to communicate well is key! Here are some easy techniques to help you feel more confident while speaking:

1. Practice and Prepare:

   • A study from the National Institute of Mental Health shows that about 74% of people feel nervous when speaking in public. But don’t worry! By preparing well, you can feel less scared. Practicing your speech several times can really help. Research says that if you go over your speech at least five times, you'll have a 50% better chance of doing great!

2. Know Your Tone and Pace:

   • How you speak can show your feelings and keep the audience interested. A study from the University of Southern California found that changing your tone can help people remember more of what you say—up to 60%! Also, speaking at a steady pace helps everyone understand you better. If you talk too fast, people might miss important parts. Slowing down by just a little can make your words clearer.

3. Speak Clearly:

   • Clear speaking is super important. Statistics show that speakers who focus on being clear are seen as more trustworthy. You can practice saying things clearly by doing fun exercises like tongue twisters. They’re a great way to warm up your mouth before a speech!

4. Use Visual Aids:

   • Adding visuals like pictures or charts can help your audience understand and remember better. According to the Cone of Experience, people remember only 10% of what they read, but they remember 65% of what they see and do. Good visuals can support what you’re saying and help ease your nerves too.

5. Connect with Your Audience:

   • Making a connection with your audience can create a friendly vibe. A survey by Toastmasters International showed that 92% of members felt more confident when they interacted with their audience. You can do this by asking questions or sharing relatable stories!

6. Ask for Feedback:

   • After you speak, it’s important to get helpful feedback. A survey from the Public Speaking Association found that people who ask for feedback see a 30% improvement in their speaking skills over six months.

By using these techniques, 11th graders can feel more confident and effective when speaking in public. This is a valuable skill for school and for jobs in the future!