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8 ways we can improve schools today for a better future tomorrow.

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Can we change the trajectory of school?

Right now, most school districts are trying to develop an effective plan for their returning students in the fall. Preparing for the unknown in school is no easy feat to undertake.

As a mom and teacher quietly watching from the sidelines, education has been an essential part of my life.

Education has an impact on everything we see, do, and believe in our world. From the basics of reading and writing to entrepreneurship and the economy, school is more than a home for academics.

Schools Today

In traditional schools (when we're not in a pandemic), students typically attend a regular school day according to age, grade-level, test score outcomes, and unique learning needs. Academically, a typical pattern of learning content, memorizing it, and taking standardized tests, for the most part, is still the way we run schools today.

Following this traditional way of teaching is no fault of educators. Many factors impact a child's education, from state and federal requirements to school boards and funding. Educators unfortunately, do not have a significant voice at this table.

We also have four generations of educators in the classroom today—those who grew up without a computer, and those who held the world in their pocket. The differences in each generation is so great, it can be difficult to get everyone on board with massive changes. Taking small steps in changing curriculum outcomes is always a good start.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, making small changes can lead to large results.

In effective schools, especially at the high school level, students have the opportunity to build long lasting relationships among their peers and educators. They learn and grow together. They can discover their passions, and take classes that suit their interests. They have a chance to grow, boost their talents, focus on career choices, shadow industries, have access to career guides and mentors, problem-solve, learn to question, debate, and discuss critical topics. They also learn how to work together and independently—while developing essential social and emotional skills.

Finally, an effective school sees each student as a whole child, and emphasizes positive developmental growth without the worry of constant grades and testing.

All of these experiences listed above help young adults become engaged and active citizens, and contributes to the world in meaningful ways. 

Learning is a life-long journey that should never end.

The Economy

Education has a tremendous impact on the economy. According to  Investopedia , "A country's economy becomes more productive as the proportion of educated workers increases since educated   workers can more efficiently carry out tasks that require literacy and critical thinking. 

In this sense, education is an investment in human capital, similar to an investment in better equipment."

However, we must ask, “What type of education do our students need today for a strong economic future?”

Education In 2020

It is now the second half of 2020, and although we don't have to change everything about education, we have a unique opportunity to look outside of the traditional school walls, and bring in some new ideas that can change the future for the better.

Mental Health First

If we took this time right now, here are a few suggestions on how we could potentially make school a better fit for the times ahead.

Social and Emotional —Before anything, we must put Maslow's Theory in practice before Bloom's Taxonomy when students come back to school.

Institutions should provide social and emotional support immediately to ensure all teachers, staff, and school administrators are getting the help they need during such a stressful time—and this support should always continue regardless of the situation.

Before the pandemic, depression and suicide rates were already exploding. When students return, they are going to need more emotional and social support than ever. Nobody will know what our kids went through during this time of absence. Schools must acknowledge, understand, and support students to their best potential. 

Maslow's pyramid of needs.

Planning for the Future in Education: How We Can Improve Academic and Better Career Outcomes Now

Create Work and Business Relationships— Create high school and local business partnerships programs. Include input from high school juniors and seniors and have them assist in the design of a program. Listen to their voices and passions. Provide students with opportunities to shadow different industries, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs. Put students in the driver's seat and work with them as a listener, learner, and guide. Mentor students and show them how to become mentors to underclassmen. 

Exemplify Entrepreneurship —We are facing unusual days ahead, and the future is unknown. Teach kids how to think for themselves and show them it’s alright to ask questions. Innovate with them, and help them to change the world through their ideas. Most students don't believe in themselves because society has been telling them what to do, how to behave, and what’s right or wrong. Without the ability to think and question for themselves, students cannot live up to their full potential. Engage them in their creative side, and show them it’s okay to fail, get up, and build again. They may look at you oddly at first, but the future wins can be immeasurable.

Encourage Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills— Teachers can create lessons that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills with almost any given content area or topic. Challenge students to rise above the bar because you know they can do it. 

Understand Students' Personalities— Introvert, ambivert, and extroverted personalities all have distinctive characteristics, and different areas of comfort when it comes to attending school.

When I went through all of my years of teacher training, I didn’t learn about students' personalities until my last class during my M.Ed. I didn’t realize how every educator had a significant impact on a student's learning experience when they didn’t understand the differences among personalities. Teachers must know their students' characteristics, unique learning needs, and plan accordingly to fit their learning styles best.

Focus on Careers —For older students, teach them how to focus on careers with their hearts and their heads. This type of teaching means helping students make smart decisions when it comes to college, careers, and future planning. Passion is critical, but we want our students to land a job in a field where we expect growth to occur.

The College Narrative— Our society has changed rapidly, but the college narrative has stayed the same for many years. It is important to let students know they have many choices. College is not the best fit for everyone and is not the only path—and that’s okay. Also, going to college today does not guarantee a great job right after graduation. Learning is a never-ending journey that doesn’t stop. College can be critical especially for certain trained skills and potential future earnings, but it is not the single journey to success today. 

The college story should match the world we live in today—one filled with options, different ways to learn, and work-study programs that can benefit students and leave them without debt. Our students need to start above the ground—they should not come out of college at such a young age with piles of debt, stress, and worry.

Learn with Students —When you learn with your students, you can connect with them. You are showing vulnerability, and that can help raise a child's self-esteem. Grow with your students, listen to their world—hear their stories.

What else would you add to this list?

For more articles about education, please sign up for my emails here (below), and follow me on Twitter and LinkedIn . I share many interesting conversations on LinkedIn, and would love to see you there.

Robyn D. Shulman

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My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

224 School Speech Topics for All Grades [High School, Middle School, Elementary]

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Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

In this article:

High School

Middle school, elementary school, school speech topics checklists, list of school speech topics.

school speech topics

  • Girls are under more pressure in high school.
  • Schools must not sell unhealthy foods.
  • Cyberbullies should be suspended from school.
  • Peer pressure will help students grow.
  • Parents must not pay kids for good grades.
  • Students don’t spend enough time reading books.
  • Class sizes make a big difference.
  • Schools must get involved with obese students weight issues.
  • All students should join the gym.
  • Schools should offer rewards for good test scores.
  • Cheerleading isn’t a sport.
  • The media is to blame for the pressure of girls wanting perfect bodies.
  • Mass-shooting in schools can be prevented.
  • 16 is an appropriate age to start dating.
  • The in crowd is usually the most insecure group.
  • Failing is a blessing in disguise.
  • Students do not know how to live in the moment.
  • Fashion isn’t all that important.
  • The methods used to deal with bullies are not effective.
  • Private schools are not better than government schools.
  • Co-ed schools are better than single-gender schools.
  • Recess time must be extended.
  • Standardized tests are not a measure of a students ability.
  • Textbooks shouldn’t be replaced by technology in high schools.
  • Students shouldn’t be graded for gym.
  • Birth control should be available at schools.
  • Cheating at school is getting worse.
  • Sugary drinks should not be sold at school.
  • Healthy school lunches are a lost cause.
  • Boys hide their body image pressure.
  • Smoking makes students outcasts.
  • ‘Name and shame’ does not change teenage behaviour.
  • Bystanders must be held responsible for not intervening when there is trouble at school.
  • Gay students need older gay role models.
  • It should be illegal for under 21’s to buy cigarettes.
  • Grouping students by ability only benefit the smartest ones.
  • Students are less religious than their parents.
  • It is important to have a mix of friends to socialize with.
  • Kids purposely make parenting hard.
  • Helping a friend isn’t always good.
  • Not every teacher has the ability to inspire students.
  • High school kids don’t need helicopter parents.
  • High schools don’t recognize a student’s full potential.
  • Class sizes should not exceed 20 students.
  • Extra online classes are worth it.
  • School should be all year round.
  • Parents embarrass their kids too much.
  • Attractive students have an advantage over others.
  • Students have no interest in government matters.
  • Hard work is more important than talent.
  • The morning after pill shouldn’t have an age restriction.
  • Group work in class should be kept small.
  • The best way to learn is alone.
  • Teachers don’t use technology to its full potential.
  • Dropping out of high school should be an illegal offense.
  • The racial make up of a school is important.
  • Outings to museums have no educational value.
  • Creativity isn’t something that can be taught.
  • Students have too much workload.
  • Untidy handwriting is a sign of intelligence.
  • Student’s interests will change in high school.
  • It is important to take career assessment tests.
  • Students do not have to get involved with everything in high school.
  • Weekend jobs make students more responsible.
  • It is important that students volunteer in fields of interest.
  • Students must know their place in the classroom.
  • Teachers want to create leaders.
  • Tutors are necessary even with good grades.
  • Locker room talk is demeaning to female students.
  • Driving must be taught in High School.
  • Plagiarism is getting out of hand.
  • The importance of not being a follower.
  • Students should focus school work ahead of a social life.
  • Students should leave a team if they are never chosen to play.
  • Leaving high school with no clear career path isn’t a bad thing.
  • Students should always have condoms with them.
  • Never shrug off small assignments.
  • High school should be treated as if it were a job.
  • Web filters at school are not restrictive enough.
  • There is too much focus on sports in high schools.
  • All students should get involved in exchange programs.
  • Group projects only cause conflict.
  • Teachers should be allowed to refuse problem students in their classes.
  • Principals don’t help develop teachers enough.
  • Corporal punishment is abuse.
  • Robotics now and in the future – is it helpful in the daycare business?
  • Your most embarrassing moment at school and the way you saved your face, solve and fix the awkward situation.
  • Amazing discoveries or facts you have never heard of before and like to introduce to your class.
  • Adventure racing and famous heroes on motorbikes – so-called off the road movie clips could be nice video aids Such as Steppenwolf.
  • Astronomical signs and their meanings. Make it personal by asking a volunteer to give all the info you need.
  • Nursing your parents when they get older. Lots of young people do that in their spare time, and they do not often speak about it. Take a chance and show them the world of voluntary care by friends, children, and neighbors.
  • Islands in Oceania, in the tropical Pacific Ocean region. There where the date line starts.
  • Railroads and trains from 1850, and great train builders and engineers is a high school speech topic to work out.
  • How to visit and enjoy an art museum with an audio guide tour on your ears.
  • Strange experiences in a restaurant or bar and the moral lesson you draw after that.
  • Hurricanes, how they start and their international accepted standards for name giving (boys and girls names from a to z).
  • Food photography is much difficult than you think.
  • A narrow escape from trouble …
  • How to organize surprise parties.
  • Why are television soaps popular – did you know a whole team of scenarists writes the storylines – often three per edition?
  • I want a new law on … Well feel free to repair and remedy abuses.
  • What do you think about often when you enter the school?
  • What have you always wanted to do and did not have the courage to ask or really act?
  • What would you like to change and why? This one is especially good as graduation input and output.
  • Things we can’t understand.
  • What are your community activities?
  • Suggestions for a school field trip in the autumn.
  • Dream explanation, ask for dreams, explain them. Consult dream reading professional and keep away from the shabby occult business.
  • Rhetorical questions, Socratical debating techniques.
  • Great places to go in the world.
  • Hiking trails nobody knows and you want to share.
  • See Europe in seven days after high school!

Middle school speech topics for public speaking and oral writing assignments from outdoor activities to Greyhound racing and Rodeo riding to sports games. I have brought into being several themes, suggestions and easy to develop ideas for school:

  • My hobby and pet peeves.
  • Free time activities that you can recommend.
  • What brands or products are popular in this school and why?
  • Unusual experiences in the last year.
  • Outdoor activities, and indoor activities on a rainy day.
  • Why we are no longer kids but are called young adults.
  • Suggestions for fun weekends.
  • Animation characters and their voices.
  • Antarctica research of penguins.
  • Aviation pioneers.
  • Celebrities, actors, and actresses.
  • Computer games are great middle school speech topics if you have an interested audience who likes to game at home.
  • Flying discs tricks on the beach side.
  • Foreign flags and their story – perhaps you should play the anthems too for a full picture.
  • Reasons to abandon grounding rules.
  • Rodeo riding: how to survive more than 30 seconds on the riding machine 🙂
  • Strange world records set in history.
  • Skateboarding tips and tricks, safe on the sidewalks.
  • Greyhound racing and the bet systems that are used.
  • The world would be a better place if … (fill in your highest dreams)
  • Environmental problems in our community.
  • Fashion trends in the last century.
  • Pen pals or email pals; how traditional patterns have changed.
  • My favourite sports games on television.
  • My checklist for if you move to another town.
  • Kid cooking is cool – if you know how to prep recipes 🙂
  • My trip abroad to Europe or Latin-America.
  • Monitoring butterflies in the field outside and in our garden.
  • Aztec masks and their amazing stories and secrets hidden inside.
  • Mythological monsters such as the Minotaur and Nymphs.
  • How to organize a fun weekend for the whole family.
  • If I was born hundred years ago, I would be …:
  • African masks and their meaning in holy rituals.
  • Ancient Chinese emperors and their interesting uniform and dress looks.
  • The Ice Age; when, how and the causes are good K-6 subjects to come across.
  • Pollution sources in our world, and what to do about them in a cost-friendly way at home.
  • A Day In the life of a kid in Ancient Rome, compare it with your own modern life.
  • Discovering caves are cool grade 6 speech topics to tell something more and show them the work of speleologists.
  • Traditional fairy tales from around the world – remember the thick book of the Grimm Brothers?
  • Puppets and their funny looking but indeed very serious theatrical performances from Java, Indonesia.
  • The Diary of Anne Frank (book or movie) and the meaning today.
  • My penpal or better: email-pal from the other side of the world.
  • The secrets of the Egypt King Tutankhamun.
  • If I was a journalist, I should investigate …
  • If I won one million dollars, I would …
  • When I am grown up I want to become a / an …
  • Last weekend I was at …
  • The funniest thing that ever happened to me this month or year.
  • Things that make you happy right away if you have the power to buy or dictate.
  • Ways I use to relax.
  • Favorite sports moments.
  • The character I want to be in a movie the hero with heroic courage / or the villain who gets the worst of it in the end.
  • My most memorable vacation trip till now.
  • The best summer camp games I have ever played and enjoyed very much.
  • My favorite spot in the woods near our cabin.
  • Your most favorite memories are also great grade 6 speech topics too to talk about in school.
  • When you take a walk in the woods, you can see more than you might think …
  • Recipes for kids, orally like your favorite meals and food.
  • Cool home computer games I like to play, criticize, review and share in class.
  • The day I was sick and I must see the doctor.
  • Pot and care for a plant or small vegetable ishard labor and needs patience.
  • How to make a marionette puppet – a grade 8 speech topic for the artistic
  • Birds in our backyard, you’re perplexed about the miles they flew to get there.
  • Oceans of the world: Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Southern, and Arctic gulf streams.
  • A ride in a truck for transporting heavy objects.
  • What is a decent dress code for a serious dinner at official moments:
  • My musical instrument and the lessons I take.
  • Why giraffes have long necks.
  • Animals I should take in Noah’s Ark – and the philosophy behind it.
  • Why I like to dance my favorite dance.
  • I cope with fear of public speaking for this grade 8 speech by … (secret tactic)
  • Magic tricks with simple playing cards for every unexpected occassion.
  • Exotic fruits and vegetables in grocery stores; look up where they come from.
  • Best 3D paper models: cars, robots, spaceships, airplanes, buildings.
  • Things to expect when your mother is pregnant.
  • Birds, bears and rabbits spend the winter by sleeping, why?
  • My first visit to a dentist: the correct way to brush and floss your teeth.
  • Family members I admire: uncles, aunts, nieces or nephews.
  • Music festivals and the big logistics puzzle of the organizing parties involved.
  • History of the Panama Canal, and the way the pilotage handle very big ships.
  • How does global warming affect the icebergs?
  • If I was my father or mother for one day.
  • My favorite era in history.
  • What’s in my room at home.
  • The school field trip I would like to make.

Elementary school speech topics on animal keeping, favorite things to do at home or the playground and specific hints that lead to innumerable variations:

  • What makes me happy.
  • Our last vacation trip.
  • Fairy tale characters you would like to talk with.
  • Magic tricks you can show.
  • Funny things my pet has done. A great quantity of this special theme is to be sorted out of animals and keeing them at home. Do consult your atending if you may bring an animal in class. In case of hesitation – do not cross this line:
  • My favorite family story.
  • Oceans in the world.
  • My neighbourhood.
  • Funny Halloween costumes, inspires to lots of funny elementary school speech topics.
  • A visit to the doctor, dentist.
  • How does it feel to wake up an being a giant?
  • Places I lived.
  • Why I want to travel in space to the interstellair universe.
  • The best paper airplanes withput less folding work.
  • How boomerangs return to their sender.
  • Circus clowns in all sorts and characters.
  • My one-day internship at the fire department.
  • Fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
  • The best fishing spots.
  • My best birthday ever.
  • I am good at …
  • This is the song I like to sing every day is: …
  • Making puzzles of thouands pieces and the tricks I have learned.
  • Police uniforms or fire department attire outfits.
  • What can you see in the zoo?
  • Musical instruments in an full orchestra.

School speech topics tips for verification and 1-2-3 step checking at the secondary middle, high and elementary public speaking homework assignments on teaching skills. In a nutshell: they are easy to answer questions to make a better choice for creating the best result.

Also on this page, you will discover tips to concrete communication issues and education resources. They lead you in the right direction; you only have to use your fantasy.

Let the imaginary juices flow in your brains!

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

Read all my checks for writing subjects and after you have completed that task follow all secure education idea links to the online education lists I have shaped and modified in class education material:

More aggravated lists of themes and valuable information regarding different subjects for future generations education are below. As well as a summary of the implications and / or requirements of what you have found, and school speech topics you could analyze in class.

You can sort out any ideas you like to talk about in oral lessons, scan the possible suggestions and think about what your audience like to hear you talking about: cite short passages and quotation excerpts from well-known experts in the field of research, or refer to good knowledge illustrations and sustainable proof.

Learn to gather material from outside sources about your thread for grades 9 through 12 learning, and deliver your opinion strongly and concisely. Give plain reasons for something you believe. Foster support for your solution, theory or device.

This is principally beneficial for achieving higher education institute assertiveness when you are on stage and put two or more views together, and provide a reason for putting them together by logical reasoning. Another method is approaching the subject matter in both positive and negative lights.

Tracing how something has induced artificially from an earlier state to its current form could welcomed by higher pedagogic instructors.

Next tip: workout extensive information on indoor and outdoor recreation activities to tempt your public to explore other activities than dating, dancing and drinking in a local bar.

Sports is a candidate for finding senior graded school speech topics. E.g. sport as profession to earn a living. With a scientific twist you make it more sophisticated, and because you’re highly qualified and have an actively learning attitude you are able to get their thesis commitment.

Some moves that matter in lower classes are the so-called critize teaching skills, often described as asking and wondering through critical inquiry:

You can help your teacher and fill her or him with enthusiasm by going extracurricular in proposing a particular judgment on a certain top topicality and examen the validity of the arguments by criticizing. This has been in practice in the late seventies – when things went the old-fashioned and more severe way 🙂 – but this technique has made a terrific comeback and is now used in grades 5 through 8 homework assignments.

Many of my visitors look for sixth grade inspiration, or class 6 if you live in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, Primary 5 or 6 in Singapore, and 6ГЁme in France for example. Anyway, in what country you are right now does not matter; all school speech topics are created for children in the range of eleven and twelve years old.

The same holds good for class conversations of (usually) thirteen to fourteen years old who try to cover explanations of various objects and their meaning in the accustomed world of the eight grade population.

Children speak the truth, is often said 🙂 And that saying is more than true. Give them something to chew on in public – from colouring plates to planting and caring for trees – and it is so easy, a younger persons can do it 🙂

More for girls and boys – although it depends on the specific age or progress of the pupils – can be found at this index number two. Help them to be able to get to know the material, and to make the first steps on the path of learning the rudimentary public speaking skills (that are valuable for their whole life).

I have shaped a list that also contains some reference information for nursery and primary and kindergarten material.

10 Tips to Write the Best High School Valedictorian Speech

Ceremonial Speech Topics

9 thoughts on “224 School Speech Topics for All Grades [High School, Middle School, Elementary]”

The topics are 1: the worst day in my life 2: how can we take care of our elders at home. 3: good qualities about your classmates. 4: how I learnt cycling. 5: if you are alone at home and a stranger enters what would you do.

My topic ideas are: Why I hate speeches (for middle school or elementary school) My favorite type of music (for elementary school) Why parents shouldn’t spank their children and better ways to punish children (for elementary school)

The key to success is positive thinking

My favorite holiday

Wow. Just wow.

mental health is an important issue

“Prayer should be compulsory”…that’s my suggestion of a topic

At school there should be a free period where you can do anything you want

Why is the canteen so expensive?

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How to Write a Student Council Speech

Last Updated: April 24, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Patrick Muñoz . Patrick is an internationally recognized Voice & Speech Coach, focusing on public speaking, vocal power, accent and dialects, accent reduction, voiceover, acting and speech therapy. He has worked with clients such as Penelope Cruz, Eva Longoria, and Roselyn Sanchez. He was voted LA's Favorite Voice and Dialect Coach by BACKSTAGE, is the voice and speech coach for Disney and Turner Classic Movies, and is a member of Voice and Speech Trainers Association. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article has 127 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 2,039,628 times.

Being a member of the student council can help you help your school. However, it takes hard work to get into the student council . You need to craft a good speech that gives your classmates incentives to vote for you.

Your Student Council Speech

Use a strong, attention-grabbing opening. Discuss your qualifications briefly, then move on. Focus your speech on your passion and present a blueprint to achieve your goals. Close with a strong summary and call to vote for you.

Sample Speeches

a speech about what your school needs most

Writing the Introduction

Step 1 Find an attention-grabbing opening statement.

  • Do not merely start by saying, "My name is ___ and I'm running for student council." Your classmates will already know as much and this is not really a unique statement. There will be time to state the basic information after you've got the class's attention. [1] X Research source
  • You can open with a question. Something like, "If there was one thing you could change about this school, what would it be?" Or a question that adds some humor , like, "I know what you're thinking. Why should I listen to this person?" and then proceed to lay out your credentials. Quotes on leadership, power, and guidance would also make good openings. However, make sure to double-check your sources and especially if you're finding quotes online. Many online quote databases, like Quote Garden or Brainy Quote, sometimes attribute quotes to the wrong sources. [2] X Research source
  • If you're stuck, look up and read famous speeches. You can find many speeches from presidents, world leaders, civil rights activists, and others online. Pay attention to how they opened their speeches and ask yourself, "Was this interesting? Do I want to keep reading/listening? Why?" [3] X Research source

Step 2 State the basics.

  • State your name and grade in school. This may feel somewhat unnecessary if you go to a small school, but it's considered a formality. If you're missing this part of the speech, you may end up looking sloppy in comparison to other students. [5] X Research source
  • State what you want. That is, what you're running for. Do you want to be the president , vice president , treasurer, secretary? Even if you think most students are aware of what position you're running for, make sure you state it here to remind them. [6] X Research source
  • Try to keep this section brief as it's not as important as your qualifications and plans to improve the school . Even one sentence would suffice. For example, "My name is Ramona Hart, I'm in the 11th grade, and I'm running for treasurer of the student council."

Step 3 List your qualifications.

  • Any accomplishments relevant to the position warrant mentioning here. If you're running for secretary, for example, talk about your summer job filing papers in your uncle's law firm. If you're running for student council president, talk about your leadership experience being captain of the swim team. [7] X Research source
  • While this section is important, try to keep it minimal. A couple of sentences laying out your qualifications is enough as the body of your speech is where you should spend the most time. For example, let's go back to the above example. From there, we could say, "I am currently enrolled in advanced placement algebra and I have been an honor roll student for three years. This knowledge of numbers and diligence qualifies me to have responsibility for finances for our student council." [8] X Research source

Writing the Body of the Speech

Step 1 State your main ideas on how to improve the school.

  • You should list your ideas and then expand on them later in the body. It might take a bit of research to figure out what you want to change. Ask around the school, talking to students and teachers, and see where there's room for improvement. What are the concerns of the students? What are people happy with regarding the school? What would they like to see change? Asking these questions can help you get a sense of your audience and community.
  • Remember, you should not make promises you cannot keep. Do not say anything just to get elected. While many students might want gum-chewing policies eliminated or for the lunch period to run twice as long, this is probably not necessary or possible. Try to focus on areas that seem important to keep your school running safely and efficiently. Concerns about things like bullying , academic standards, and extracurricular activities should be your concern over fun and games. [10] X Research source
  • A good opening statement for your body would state the causes important to you and what you plan to do about them. For example, if you were running for president, you could say something like, "I understand we need to improve how we handle bullying, increase interest in extracurricular activities, and expand access to AP courses throughout the school. As your president, I would work to bring in speakers to talk about sensitivity in the classroom, increase advertising for basketball games and quiz bowl tournaments, and start a tutoring program to help students struggling with certain subjects." [11] X Research source

Step 2 Find support for those ideas.

  • Using the school library or computers, figure out the best means to tackle certain problems many schools face. How have other schools dealt with bullying? Poor test scores? Low interest in extracurricular activities? What can you reasonably do as a student council member to address these problems? [12] X Research source
  • You do not have to have a point-by-point plan laid out, but a few sentences on some preliminary ideas can help you stand out from your peers. People are more inclined to vote for someone who's thought about how to solve problems in addition to identifying problems. [13] X Research source

Step 3 Keep your ideas short but very strongly worded.

Ending with a Strong Conclusion

Step 1 Reiterate your main points briefly.

  • Do summarize, briefly, your qualifications but do not put the main focus on them. This is where you should sincerely state your passion. Students should not just vote for you because you'd do a good job but because you genuinely care about the school. State your passion for your community and how much you want to see other students succeed. Lots of students have high qualifications. You can set yourself apart by being a candidate who really cares. [16] X Research source

Step 3 Ask the audience for their vote.

  • Research what other student council speeches are like on video websites. This could help give you ideas.

Expert Q&A

Patrick Muñoz

  • Only promise to do things that you really can do. Thanks Helpful 7 Not Helpful 0
  • Practice reading your speech a few times, as you'll likely be nervous before giving it. Thanks Helpful 6 Not Helpful 0

a speech about what your school needs most

  • Even if you write a great speech, understand you may lose. Be prepared to lose graciously and sincerely congratulate the winning candidate. Thanks Helpful 104 Not Helpful 16
  • Unlike in a governmental election, student council candidates should not attack each other, previous leaders, or other students. Otherwise, you could get into trouble and leave a bad impression on voters. Thanks Helpful 78 Not Helpful 16

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  • ↑ http://www.studentcouncilpro.com/student-council-speeches.html
  • ↑ http://www.write-out-loud.com/student-council-speeches.html
  • ↑ Patrick Muñoz. Voice & Speech Coach. Expert Interview. 12 November 2019.

About This Article

Patrick Muñoz

To write a student council speech, start with an attention-grabbing statement such as a question or a powerful quote about leadership. Next, briefly explain who you are, what position you are running for, and why you are running. Then list any relevant qualifications, such as a summer job. In the body of the speech, discuss at least 3 ways to improve the school. For this section, make sure not to make any promises you can’t keep. Finally, end by briefly reiterating your main points and asking for the students’ vote. To learn more about how to support your ideas and research for your speech, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Write a Great Speech for School

If you want to write a speech that will catch your audience in a meaningful and engaging way, you should have some basic things under your sleeve. Speech writing, so to say, offers school students a unique opportunity to present the needed information in the most meaningful and impactful way. It provides them with the rare chance to learn how to convey it in the most persuasive way that leaves them grappling for more. Successful speech should combine a lively narrative with descriptive, persuasive, and explanatory know-how. 

a speech about what your school needs most

Better still, successful ones begin early in their life to develop the most incredible charm in the address. Think of those instances when the teacher or tutor had to call you in front of the class to do one. For most high school students, that is the most trying moment of your life. By all standards, that is also how to create a lasting relationship with the audience. Here, you will begin to develop strong confidence to appeal to the emotions of listeners while still making a logical and engaging talk.

Why You Should Master Speech Writing Early

School students are often assigned oral presentation projects as groups or individually as part of the speech writing skill. Even though your kids may never become known figures or corporate members who must do presentations, at one point in life, they may be required to talk to the masses. They can begin writing by looking at papers that are published at Studydriver.com for free so they get a feel of what a speech looks like. They can even use the samples there for better study. Enrolling them in writing is an important step that may turn out to be an invaluable move in later life.

Tips on Writing a Winning Speech

These are some of them for writing: 

1. The Audience

They are the pillar upon which your talk derives its meaning. Before the project, carry out thorough knowledge of the group of persons you are about to address. For instance, you may be preparing to address the administration on the contemporary issues affecting the student body. The format should be crafted to meet the needs of the immediate audience which is the administration. 

2. A Befitting Topic

Before you open your speech, it is important to get one that is engaging. Public speaking rides on the wave syndrome of your audience. Known figures such as George Washington were men who could drive them into a euphoric mood in a matter of minutes. Your opening remarks should contain the imaginative opener that pulls the crowd. It must be an area that you know strongly about, something that drives you to bring a point. It should carry the logical content that befits the administration. 

3. Research 

Public speaking is not meant to waste people's time. You must thoroughly know your topic or the listeners will get the lack of substance in your content and drift away. Just like formal writing, you must organize the stuff in such a way that it will drive sense and deliver the message. The thesis statement must be clear and carry the weight of the message you want to pass on. For instance, if your message is directed towards the student body , you will need to organize your thoughts in such a way that aligns with those of your target group. 

4. Write Your Speech

silver corded microphone in shallow focus photography

Now that you have your crowd and the three elements to write a good speech, you can now go ahead and draft. It is good to follow the following writing tips in order to produce excellent public speaking skills . 

5. The Outline

The public speaking outline will help you organize your good idea in a way that will cause them to remember the core points and the main theme of your presentation. It is important that the purpose be clear and to the point. There is no better way of achieving that than organizing your feelings with a focused outline.

6. Be Conversational

Your public speaking and tone should not be rigid and too formal. It should be conversational and humorous if it is to endear the hearers. It is not good practice to read in front of your group. Instead, you should note down the key issues to help you remember the content or make a PowerPoint presentation. Good speakers have a way of coining out words that carry visual aids and techniques. Such visual content usually dazzles the imagination of the hearers and leaves them with a lasting memory in their speeches. 

7. Be Specific in your Speeches 

Write precise sentences. Support every point with statistical data from sources that are authentic and authoritative. In this way, you will be able to draw attention, even if you are talking to school students at US colleges with the best financial aid . Check the process to ensure that every word you speak carries the weight of your talk. 

Speeches outlines should contain the following areas:

Introduction: Your introduction must identify one line, be precise and specific. It should describe the aim. The introduction actually summarizes your persuasive speech format without leaving any doubt or question. 

Business or Cause: Describe what you are or do or cover in brief sentences. Let them understand who you are, what you want to stand for and focus on showing the best series of actions.

Let your conclusion drive your listeners to seek help from you. Give it time, keep it short, rich, and authoritative so that they can look to you for more news. If possible, get printouts and hand them out to your crowd. Sample speech writing is the type of art that works when one must gain knowledge in order to be a successful speaker. That is why starting the learning at the lower level is recommended. It will prepare the school students for the challenges ahead. A debate club is a place to start. Therefore, enrolling your children early in this course is highly recommended so you can give and share with the world. 

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How To Talk About Your School In English

How To Talk About Your School In English-min

Table of Contents

Introduction

Talking about your school in English could be a common topic of conversation.

Or maybe part of the IELTS test if you are preparing for that.

But whatever your needs, this guide will show you exactly how to talk about your school in English.

Dive right in…

How To Talk About Your School In English (1)

Vocabulary for Describing Your School — The Basics

First things first.

Let’s look at some basic words and phrases about school and school life.

Below you can find most of the words and phrases you will need to describe your school

All the words and phrases have example sentences below. You should practice these by speaking them out loud.

Do this regularly and you will definitely see improvement in your English speaking skills!

a speech about what your school needs most

Academic Facilities

The academic facilities are the physical spaces that are used in schools by the teachers and students. The buildings and spaces in the school.

Classroom: Noun. A room in a school or educational institution where a teacher teaches and students learn.

Of course, your school has classrooms. These are the rooms where all the classes take place.

Below are some sentences you can use to talk about classrooms in English.

Can you believe how hot it gets in our classroom during the summer?
I always sit near the window in the classroom to get some natural light.
The walls of our classroom are covered with colourful posters to make it more inviting.
Our classroom is a bit small, but we manage to fit all our desks and chairs in.
It’s amazing how technology has changed the way we learn in the classroom.
Hey, do you know where the classroom for the maths test is? I can’t find it anywhere!
I left my backpack in the classroom yesterday, and luckily it was still there when I went back for it.
The classroom was so noisy during the group activity that the teacher had to remind everyone to keep their voices down.
In my school, the classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards and comfortable seating.
In our modern classrooms, each student has access to a personal computer for interactive learning.
The classrooms are equipped with modern chairs and desks and ample natural light, creating an ideal environment for studying.
Our school believes in active learning, so the classrooms are designed to encourage group discussions and collaborative projects.
The art classroom is a vibrant space filled with easels, paints, and sculptures for students to unleash their creativity.
I appreciate how our classrooms are equipped with audiovisual tools, making lessons more engaging through multimedia presentations.

Library: Noun. A place where books, magazines, and other resources are kept for people to borrow, read, or study.

Most schools have a library. You can find many books in this large room.

Now try the following sentences about the word library.

I spent my entire afternoon at the library, reading a fascinating mystery novel.
The library is a great place to study quietly, especially during exam week.
I borrowed a couple of history books from the library to help with my research project.
Do you know if the library is open on Sundays? I need to return these books.
I often lose track of time when I’m exploring the shelves in the library.
Our school library boasts an extensive collection of both fiction and non-fiction books.
The library is a quiet sanctuary where students can immerse themselves in a world of knowledge and exploration.
Our school library offers online databases in addition to physical books, ensuring access to a wide range of resources.
The librarians are always ready to assist students in finding the right materials for their research projects.
During exam weeks, the library extends its hours to accommodate students seeking a peaceful space for focused study.
I love spending time in the reading corner of the library, engrossed in my favourite novels.

Laboratory: Noun. A special room or facility equipped with tools, instruments, and equipment for scientific experiments, research, and practical learning.

The laboratory — or lab for short — is used for science classes. The lab might have more specialised equipment that the teachers and students may need for the physics, chemistry or biology classes.

Practice the examples below.

We conducted an interesting chemistry experiment in the lab today, and it was quite successful.
The lab can be a bit intimidating with all the advanced equipment, but the teacher is really helpful.
I accidentally spilt a chemical in the lab during our chemistry class, but luckily my classmate helped me to clean it up quickly.
Our physics lab requires us to record precise measurements to analyse the data accurately.
Working in the lab allows us to apply the theories we learn in class to real-world scenarios.
I spend a lot of time in the chemistry laboratory, conducting experiments and learning practical skills.
The biology laboratory is equipped with microscopes and specimens for hands-on exploration of living organisms.
In the chemistry lab, we do experiments that not only teach us the concepts of chemistry, but also develop our practical skills.
Our physics lab has advanced equipment that allows us to perform experiments to understand the laws of motion.

Assembly Hall

Assembly Hall: A designated indoor space, often within a school, intended for gatherings, meetings, performances, lectures, and other communal activities.

When I was at school, we had to go to the big assembly hall every morning where the headmaster or other teachers would tell us some important information.

Do you have an assembly hall?

Look at the example sentences below.

Our assembly hall is where we gather every morning for the school announcements.
I like the assembly hall because it’s big and can fit all the students and teachers.
We had a really fun dance performance in the assembly hall last week.
The assembly hall is also used for important meetings with the principal.
I sometimes feel nervous speaking on the stage in the assembly hall.
The assembly hall has comfortable seats, so it’s nice during long presentations.
We had a science fair in the assembly hall, and all the projects were displayed there.
Our school’s talent show is held in the assembly hall, and it’s always so entertaining.
The assembly hall has a big screen where we watch educational videos.
Sometimes we practice for the school play on the assembly hall stage.
The assembly hall is a bit cold, so I always bring a jacket for longer events.

Lecture Hall

Lecture Hall: Noun. A large room or auditorium in an educational institution where a teacher or professor gives lectures to a group of students.

Your school might have a lecture hall. Not all schools have one of these. But if your school does the sentences below may be useful to you.

Try the sentences below.

The lecture hall was packed with students eager to hear the guest speaker’s presentation.
I always make sure to arrive early for my morning classes in the lecture hall to get a good seat.
The acoustics in the lecture hall are excellent, so even students in the back can hear clearly.
Our professor uses a projector and screen in the lecture hall to display important slides.
I find it easier to concentrate during lectures in the lecture hall rather than in smaller classrooms.
The lecture hall is where we attend large group discussions or debates on complex topics.
The lecture hall provides a great space for guest speakers to share their expertise and insights with all the students and teachers.
Our school’s lecture hall is equipped with cutting-edge audiovisual technology to enhance the learning experience.
The lecture halls are also used for panel discussions and debates, to encourage the students to have intellectual exchange.
I find the large lecture hall ideal for subjects that require in-depth explanations and discussions among all the students and teachers.

Now You Try!

  • Can you describe your school and the rooms or buildings it has?
  • What are the classrooms like in your school?
  • Do they have ‘cutting edge technology’?
  • Do you have a library in your school?
  • Is it well-stocked with a wide selection of books?
  • Do you have science classes in a lab?
  • What kind of equipment do the lab classes have?
  • Is there a lecture hall in your school?
  • What happens there?

Use the above example sentences and try to make sentences of your own.

Describe the academic facilities of your school.

Write the sentences down in your vocabulary notebook.

Then practice by speaking them out loud.

Check out my other great guides on the following topics.

How To Talk About The Living Room In English

The Beginner’s Guide To Talking About Books In English

Fast Food — a complete English lesson plan

a speech about what your school needs most

Campus Features

The area where the school is and all the grounds of the school is called a campus. Usually, the school campus provides some other facilities and features for the students to use.

Playground: Noun. An outdoor area designed for recreational activities and play, typically found in schools, parks, or childcare centres.

Usually, a school will have a playground. This is a large area where students can play sports or play games. Or just relax between classes.

Now check out the sentences below about playgrounds.

During recess, the playground is buzzing with kids playing tag and swinging on the swings.
I remember spending countless hours in the playground during my school days.
The new playground equipment they installed last year has made recess time even more enjoyable.
We used to have the best games of soccer in the playground after school.
The playground is a vibrant space where students gather during breaks for games and relaxation.
The playground buzzes with energy during breaks, as students engage in soccer matches, basketball games, and tag.
The playground’s vibrant mural adds an artistic touch to the space, creating a cheerful atmosphere.
During recess, the playground becomes a hub of activity with students playing Frisbee, jumping rope, and socializing.
The swings and jungle gym in the elementary school playground provide a fun and safe environment for younger students.
I often unwind in the serene corner of the playground, enjoying the fresh air and serene surroundings.

Sports Facilities

Sports Facilities: Noun, plural. Physical spaces and amenities designed for various sports and recreational activities.

Some schools these days have excellent sports facilities. Maybe a field for playing football, rugby or cricket.

Or a tennis court for tennis. Maybe a basketball court.

And some schools even have a swimming pool.

What does your school have in terms of sports facilities?

Check out the examples below talking about sports facilities.

Our school’s sports facilities include a gymnasium where we have basketball matches and indoor workouts.
I’m planning to practice my serves at the tennis court this afternoon.
The swimming pool is my favourite spot on hot days at school – it’s so refreshing!
The gymnasium is equipped with treadmills, weights, and exercise machines for a complete workout.
I enjoy playing doubles with my friends on the tennis court after school.
Our school offers state-of-the-art sports facilities, including a gymnasium, tennis courts, and a track.
Our school’s state-of-the-art gym hosts not only basketball games but also fitness classes for students.
The tennis courts are a popular spot for students to improve their racquet skills and engage in friendly matches.
The track around the sports field is where students jog, run, and even organize charity runs for various causes.
Our school’s swimming pool is not only used for physical education classes but also for competitive swimming events.
The multi-purpose sports hall hosts a variety of activities, from indoor soccer matches to dance workshops.

Cafeteria: Noun. A designated dining area in schools, workplaces, or other institutions where people can purchase and consume meals or snacks.

Many schools have a cafeteria. The students need somewhere to eat lunch. Sometimes this place is called a refectory or canteen.

Now try the sentences below.

The cafeteria serves a variety of delicious meals, but I usually go for the pasta.
Let’s meet up in the canteen after class — we can get something to drink and have a chat.
The refectory is a great place to catch up with classmates over lunch. The cafeteria offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options to cater to different preferences.
I like the warm atmosphere in the canteen, especially during rainy days.
The cafeteria serves a variety of delicious meals, and students often socialize there during lunchtime.
The cafeteria’s diverse menu caters to different dietary preferences, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
During lunchtime, the cafeteria buzzes with laughter and conversation as students enjoy their meals together.
The cafeteria’s comfortable booths and communal tables provide a comfortable space for students to gather and relax.
Students appreciate the cafeteria’s efforts to source locally grown produce, promoting sustainability and healthy eating.
The cafeteria staff organizes themed food days, introducing students to cuisines from around the world.

Student Lounge

Student Lounge: Noun. A comfortable and informal gathering space within an educational institution, often furnished with seating, tables, and amenities for students to relax, socialize, and unwind.

Speak out loud all the sentences below.

The student lounge is the perfect spot to relax between classes and play some board games.
I often grab a snack and study in the student lounge – it’s a more relaxed alternative to the library.
The student lounge has comfy couches where you can unwind and chat with friends.
I like the vibrant artwork and comfortable seating in the student lounge.
Our school’s student lounge is a hub of activity, with students socializing and working on group projects.
The student lounge is a relaxed area where we can study, unwind, and interact with fellow classmates.
The student lounge is furnished with comfortable couches and bean bags, making it a perfect spot for relaxation between classes.
The lounge offers a variety of board games, creating a social space where students can unwind and have fun.
During exam weeks, the student lounge transforms into a quiet study area, complete with individual study pods.
The student lounge also hosts club meetings and discussions, fostering a sense of community among peers.
I often spend my breaks in the student lounge, catching up on reading or engaging in conversations with friends.
  • Can you talk about your school campus facilities and features?
  • Is there a playground? Can you describe it?
  • What do people do in the playground?
  • What are the sports facilities in your school like?
  • What kind of sports do the students do there?
  • Can you use the gym after school?
  • How would you describe the cafeteria?
  • Do the students only eat there? Or do other things?
  • Does your school have a student lounge?
  • Can you describe it?

Describe the campus features and facilities of your school.

How To Talk About Your School In English (4)

Staff and Personnel

Of course, the school is not just made up of buildings, rooms and other places.

There are people too.

Many different kinds of people work in your school.

Let’s take a look at the staff and personnel that work in the school.

Teacher: Noun. An educator or instructor who imparts knowledge, skills, and guidance to students.

You can’t have a school without teachers! The teachers are an essential part of the school.

Below are some things you can say to talk about the teachers in your school.

My history teacher is really passionate about the subject, and his classes are always engaging.
The teachers at our school go above and beyond to support students in their learning journey.
Ms Johnson is one of my favourite teachers because she makes learning maths fun and understandable.
The teachers are organizing a special event for Teacher Appreciation Week to celebrate their hard work.
Our school has a team of dedicated teachers who inspire us to reach our goals.
The teachers at my school are dedicated people who go the extra mile to support all of us students.
The teachers at our school create a supportive learning environment by offering extra help and personalized guidance.
Our history teacher’s passion for the subject is evident in the engaging stories and anecdotes they share during lectures.
Teachers actively encourage open dialogue, allowing students to ask questions and express their opinions freely.
I’m grateful to my maths teacher for patiently explaining complex algebra concepts until I can fully understand how to do it myself.
Our teachers’ dedication extends beyond the classroom, as they also organize extracurricular activities and clubs.

Principal (or Headmaster): Noun. The chief administrator or leader of an educational institution, such as a school or college.

The person at the head of the school is often called the principal. Or you may know this person as the headmaster.

Now check out the sentences below.

The principal announced a new initiative during the morning assembly to promote environmental awareness.
Our headmaster is known for his motivational speeches during important school events.
The principal’s open-door policy encourages students to share their ideas and concerns.
Our headmaster has been leading the school with a strong vision for academic excellence.
I had the opportunity to meet the principal when I received an award for my achievements in science.
Our principal is approachable and encourages students to voice their opinions and concerns.
Our headmaster is known for actively participating in school events, showing genuine interest in the students’ achievements.
The principal’s leadership style promotes open communication and transparency between the administration and students.
Our headmaster’s initiatives, such as creating a student suggestion box, demonstrate a commitment to improving the school.
The principal’s motivational speeches during school assemblies inspire students to aim high and pursue their passions.
I admire how the headmaster values student feedback and involves us in decision-making processes that affect the school.

Counsellor (or Counselor): Noun. A trained professional who provides guidance, support, and advice to individuals facing personal, emotional, social, or academic challenges.

Counsellor — British spelling.

Counselor — American spelling.

You see many counsellors in schools today. Does your school have these kinds of teachers? They can be very helpful to you.

Look at the examples below and try to speak them out loud.

The school counsellor provides valuable guidance to students facing academic or personal challenges.
I had a talk with the counsellor about my future career options, and it was really helpful.
Our counsellor organizes workshops to help students develop better study skills and time management.
The counsellor’s door is always open if you need someone to talk to about your concerns at school.
I’m grateful for the counsellor’s support during a tough time — they really listened and offered great advice.
The school counsellor provides guidance and support to students facing academic and personal challenges.
The school counsellor plays a pivotal role in providing emotional support and guidance to students during challenging times.
I regularly meet with the counsellor to discuss my academic goals and receive advice on course selection.
The counsellor organizes workshops on stress management and study skills, enhancing students’ overall well-being.
I appreciate how the counsellor creates a safe space for students to share their concerns and receive confidential support.
The counsellor’s guidance helped me navigate career options and make informed decisions about my future.

Administrative Staff

Administrative Staff: Noun, plural. The personnel responsible for managing and supporting the non-academic aspects of an organization, such as schools, universities, or businesses.

The administrative staff are the people that students usually do not see in the school. They work in the offices.

They are sometimes referred to as administration staff or simply admin staff or just admin.

You can try all the sentences below.

The administrative staff at our school work diligently behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly.
I had to go to the administration office to get a copy of my test results.
The admin staff is responsible for managing student records and enrolment.
The administrative team plays a crucial role in coordinating school events and activities.
I appreciate how responsive the admin staff is when I have questions about scheduling and registration.
The administrative staff efficiently handle tasks such as enrolment, scheduling, and record-keeping.
The administrative office is where students can obtain information about upcoming events, deadlines, and school policies.
The administrative staff’s friendliness and willingness to assist make the school environment welcoming and inclusive.
I’m impressed by how the administrative staff coordinates school trips and extracurricular activities, adding excitement to our daily lives.
  • What kind of staff and personnel do you have in your school?
  • What do they all do?
  • What kind of teachers do you have?
  • What subjects do they teach?
  • What do you think of the principal?
  • Does the principal talk to the students often?
  • Does your school have a school counsellor?
  • How does this person help the students?
  • What other kind of staff does the school have?

Describe the staff of your school.

How To Talk About Your School In English (5)

Subjects and Courses

We go to school to learn.

And we learn different kinds of subjects and courses while we are at school.

Let’s look at the different kinds of subjects we can learn at school.

Mathematics (Maths): Noun. The systematic study of numbers, quantities, shapes, patterns, and relationships using logic and abstract reasoning.

Maths — British English

Math — American English

Maths is usually an essential subject we learn in school. Maths is used often in our daily lives, so we need to have a certain amount of maths skills.

Try the following sentences below.

Maths has always been a challenging subject for me, but I’m determined to improve my skills.
I find solving equations in maths class to be both rewarding and satisfying.
Maths problems can be like puzzles that require logical thinking to solve.
I’m glad I have a patient teacher who takes the time to explain complex maths concepts.
Practising maths regularly is key to building confidence and proficiency in the subject.
Mathematics is challenging for me, but I appreciate the logical problem-solving skills it develops.
While maths can be quite challenging, I find satisfaction in unravelling complex equations and improving my logical reasoning.
Mathematics pushes me to think critically and approach problems methodically, honing skills that extend beyond the classroom.

English: Noun. A school subject focused on the study of the English language, including its grammar, vocabulary, writing, reading, and communication skills.

If you are in a non-English speaking country, you will no doubt have English classes.

There are English classes in English-speaking countries too.

In English, you have to study new vocabulary and grammar. You also have to develop your skills such as speaking, reading, writing or listening.

Try the examples below.

I enjoy reading English novels to improve my vocabulary and language skills.
Learning English grammar rules can be a bit challenging, but practice makes it easier.
Our English teacher encourages us to engage in discussions to enhance our speaking abilities.
English proficiency is often a requirement for international job opportunities and higher education.
Studying English opens doors to a world of literature, culture, and effective communication.
In English class, we explore the nuances of language through reading, writing, and lively discussions.
Mastering English empowers students to express their thoughts confidently and articulately.
English language skills are essential not only for academic success but also for thriving in a globalized society.
Through the study of English, students enhance their vocabulary, refine their grammar, and develop their critical thinking abilities.

Language or Languages

Language (or Languages): Noun, plural. A school subject that involves the study of a specific language or multiple languages, focussing on their grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, reading, writing, and speaking skills.

In school, we may study other languages.

In my school, I had to study French and German.

What languages do you study?

Try the example sentences below.

I’m trying to broaden my horizons by studying a foreign language in addition to my native tongue.
Learning about various languages in school helps students appreciate the diversity of human communication.
Studying languages fosters an understanding of different cultures and traditions.
In language classes, students delve into grammar, syntax, and phonetics to master effective communication.
Language courses encourage students to think beyond their native tongue and embrace multilingualism.
Exploring the intricacies of languages equips students with valuable skills for cross-cultural interactions and global collaboration.

Science: Noun. A school subject dedicated to exploring and understanding the natural world through the subjects of chemistry, physics and biology.

You probably study science in your school. Maybe you have separate classes for chemistry, physics and biology.

Try to say all the example sentences below.

I’ve always been curious about the world around me, so studying science is a natural fit for me.
Chemistry experiments in the lab can be exciting, especially when you see unexpected reactions.
Physics has a way of challenging my mind and making me think about how things work in the universe.
Biology class is like a journey through the intricacies of life — from cells to ecosystems.
Exploring different branches of science, like biology, chemistry, and physics, is like unravelling the secrets of the universe for me.
I remember the first time I mixed chemicals in chemistry class — it felt like I was a scientist in my own mini-lab.
Physics formulas might seem daunting, but as I solve problems, I feel like I’m uncovering the mysteries of motion.
Learning about genetics in biology has given me a new perspective on how traits are passed down in my own family.
My interest in science started when I was young, and now I can’t imagine a world without exploring its wonders through chemistry, physics, and biology.
Dissecting a frog in biology class was both fascinating and a bit gross, but it showed me the complexity of life first-hand.
Doing science experiments is like being a mad scientist, and it’s so fun when things bubble and pop!
Science is like magic that explains how everything, from phones to rockets, actually happens.
Mixing stuff in chemistry makes you feel like a kitchen wizard, creating potions and stuff.
The periodic table is like a cheat sheet to help us understand the secrets of elements.
Learning about light and sound in physics is just fascinating to me.
Physics experiments make me feel like I’m discovering the secrets of the universe.
Biology is all about living things — bugs, animals, plants — you name it!
In biology class, we dive into the world of life and what makes living things exist in the world.
In science classes, we conduct experiments and explore the mysteries of the natural world.
In science classes, we delve into hands-on experiments that ignite curiosity and deepen our understanding of the natural world.
Studying science enables us to uncover the wonders of biology, chemistry, and physics through practical exploration.

Literature: Noun. A school subject that focuses on the study and analysis of written works, including novels, poems, plays, and other forms of creative expression.

Do you study the literature of your country in school? It is often considered an important thing to do. To understand the written word of our respective countries.

You can try using the sentences below. Speak out loud!

Exploring different types of literature allows me to dive into diverse worlds and perspectives.
Reading a captivating novel feels like embarking on an unforgettable adventure.
Poetry has a way of expressing emotions in a condensed and powerful form.
Storytelling through literature helps me connect with characters and their journeys.
I’ve always been drawn to literature because it lets me escape into different realities, whether it’s through novels, poetry, or short stories.
When I read a novel, I become so engrossed in the plot that I lose track of time and feel like I’m part of the story.
Poetry has this magical ability to capture feelings and thoughts in just a few lines, making me appreciate the beauty of language.
Sharing my thoughts about a book with friends is one of my favourite ways to engage in conversations about literature and its impact.
Exploring classic literature has introduced me to different eras and cultures, enriching my understanding of history and society.
From reading bedtime stories as a child to analysing complex texts in literature class, my journey with literature has shaped my love for storytelling and words.
Reading novels is like making friends with characters and visiting different worlds.
Literature helps us understand people’s feelings and thoughts — it’s like a window into their minds.
I’m excited to write my own story for the creative writing assignment in literature class.
Analysing classic literature allows us to gain insights into different cultures and historical periods.
Literature discussions encourage us to think critically, analyse character motivations, and explore underlying themes.

History: Noun. A school subject that involves the study of past events, people, societies, and cultures.

Most schools want the students to learn and study the history of their own country. We need to understand where we came from and how we evolved into modern society.

Try to use the examples below.

Learning about history is like piecing together a puzzle of the past to understand the present.
Exploring significant historical events allows me to grasp the context that shaped our world today.
Studying ancient civilizations transports me to a time before modern technology and gives me a new perspective on human development.
History teaches us valuable lessons from the past that can guide us in making informed decisions for the future.
I’ve always been fascinated by history because it’s like exploring a treasure trove of stories, from wars and revolutions to the everyday life of people from different times.
When I delve into historical events, I can see the connections between different eras and understand how they’ve shaped the societies we live in now.
Ancient civilizations like Egypt and Rome captivate me with their achievements and innovations, making me wonder what life was like back then.
The lessons we learn from history’s triumphs and mistakes are vital for navigating the complexities of our modern world.
From visiting historical sites to reading first-hand accounts of events, my passion for history grows as I engage with its rich narratives.
Discussing historical figures and their contributions in class sparks conversations that show how history is more than just dates – it’s the story of humanity itself.
I love learning about ancient civilizations and the crazy things people did way back then.
Studying history is like piecing together a giant puzzle to figure out how we got here.
History is full of heroes, villains, and mind-blowing events that shaped the world we know.
Studying history helps us understand the events that have shaped our world and society.
Studying history is like unravelling a captivating narrative that helps us comprehend the influences that have shaped human civilization.
History classes provide a window into past cultures, conflicts, and societal shifts, enriching our perspective on the present.

Geography: Noun. A school subject that focuses on the study of the Earth’s physical features, landscapes, environments, and the relationships between human societies and their surroundings.

And just as we study the history of our respective countries, we should also study the geography of the country too. The main cities, the rivers, mountains, seas and lakes.

Try to use the sentences below.

Exploring geography is like embarking on a journey around the world without leaving the classroom.
Learning about different landforms, like mountains and rivers, makes me appreciate the diverse landscapes on Earth.
Reading maps and understanding coordinates gives me a sense of direction and helps me navigate both on paper and in real life.
Geography allows me to explore how geography influences cultures, traditions, and ways of life.
Geography has always fascinated me because it’s more than just maps — it’s about understanding how the world’s features and locations interact with each other.
Studying landforms in geography class makes me feel like an explorer discovering the Earth’s hidden wonders, even if I’m just sitting at my desk.
Reading maps isn’t just about finding locations; it’s about deciphering the stories of places and imagining the journeys that happen there.
Exploring the relationship between geography and culture helps me see how the environment shapes the ways people live and adapt.
From learning about climate patterns to discovering the geographic factors behind historical events, geography offers a holistic view of the world’s complexities.
Discussing global issues in geography class makes me realize the interconnectedness of our planet and the importance of responsible stewardship for its diverse regions.
Geography is like exploring the planet without leaving the classroom — from mountains to oceans!
I’m all about maps, countries, and discovering the coolest places on Earth in geography class.
Learning about different climates and cultures in geography feels like planning a worldwide adventure.
Geography teaches us how the Earth’s surface changes over time — it’s like nature’s time-lapse.
Geography classes involve learning about diverse landscapes, cultures, and global interconnectedness.
Through geography, we gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate relationships between people, places, and environments.

Art: Noun. A school subject dedicated to the exploration of creative expression through visual and artistic mediums.

At school, there is a strong emphasis on creative expression via drawing and painting. This is why we have art classes at school.

You can try to use the sentences below.

Art class is where I can let my creativity loose and turn ideas into colourful masterpieces.
I love getting messy with paints and pencils — art is all about expressing myself.
Art is like a magical realm where my imagination runs wild, and my ideas come to life.
Sculpting in art class feels like shaping my own little world out of clay.
I can’t wait to show off my latest art project — it’s like sharing a piece of my heart with everyone.
The art studio is a haven for creativity, where we experiment with various mediums and techniques.
The art studio is a sanctuary where I can freely experiment with various mediums, channelling emotions and creativity into my work.
Art class ignites my imagination and challenges me to think outside the box, fostering self-expression and originality.

Music: Noun. A school subject centred on the study and practice of musical elements, including rhythm, melody, harmony, and composition.

And as we study art, we may also study music as another form of creative expression. Many students learn to play a musical instrument at school.

Try to speak out the sentences below.

Music class is like a jam session where we learn to play awesome tunes and make melodies.
I’m in love with the beats and rhythms we explore in music — it’s like a language of its own.
Playing an instrument feels like casting a spell that makes everyone around groove to the music.
Music connects people in ways words can’t — it’s like a universal high-five of happiness.
I’m stoked for our upcoming concert — making music with friends is the ultimate coolness!
I play the violin in the school orchestra, and music class allows me to express myself through melodies.
Playing the violin in the school orchestra allows me to communicate emotions through melodies and harmonies, transcending language.
In music class, I explore rhythm, composition, and musical theory, unlocking new dimensions of creativity and self-discovery.
  • What subjects do you study in school?
  • How do you study maths in school?
  • What about English?
  • Or any of the other classes you have?

Describe the subjects you study at your school.

a speech about what your school needs most

Extracurricular Activities

Your school may offer something called extracurricular activities.

These are often things that the students have an active interest in that they can do after school hours.

It could be a sport, drama or a reading club. Or it could be art or photography.

Let’s take a look at the different kinds of extracurricular activities!

Club: Noun. An organized group or activity within a school that is not part of the regular academic curriculum. Clubs provide students with opportunities to pursue specific interests, hobbies, or goals outside of regular classes.

Clubs can be great fun. This is where you can meet up with classmates and pursue an activity that you all enjoy.

Check out the examples below.

Photography Club:

Joining the photography club is like capturing memories in a snap and turning them into art.
In the photography club, we learn to frame the world through a lens and tell stories with images.
Taking photos is like freezing moments in time — it’s like creating our own personal time capsules.
The photography club is where shutterbugs like me gather to share tips and tricks for epic shots.
I can’t wait for our photo exhibit — it’s like showing the world how we see it through our cameras.
I’m a member of the photography club, where we learn about composition and capture stunning images.

Reading Club:

The reading club is where bookworms like me geek out over stories and discuss characters like they’re real.
I’m loving the reading club ’cause we dive into novels and then chat about them like we’re in a secret book club.
The reading club is like a portal to different worlds — I get to explore all sorts of adventures.
Talking about plots, twists, and favourite lines in the reading club is like hanging out with fellow story enthusiasts.
I’m excited about the next reading club meeting — it’s like stepping into a new adventure every time.
The reading club offers a space to immerse myself in literature, share insights, and engage in discussions with fellow book enthusiasts.

Dance Club:

Dance club is where I let loose and groove to the beat — it’s like a weekly dance party!
Dancing with friends in the dance club is like creating our own choreographed adventures.
The dance club is my happy place — it’s where I express myself through movement and music.
I can’t wait to show off our moves at the dance showcase — it’s like sharing our passion with everyone.

Other clubs:

Being a part of the drama club allows me to explore various roles and emotions on stage, enhancing my acting skills and confidence.
In the computer club, I delve into the world of programming, developing apps and websites while expanding my technical knowledge.
Through the gardening club, I connect with nature, learn about plant care, and contribute to the beauty of our school environment.

Sports Teams

Sports Team: Noun. A group of individuals who come together to participate in organized athletic competitions, representing a school, institution, or community.

No doubt your school has a sports team for the national sport of your own country. Could be football, basketball, cricket or table tennis.

Try out the example sentences below.

Football Team:

Playing on the football team is like being part of a tight-knit family that scores winning goals together.
Scoring a goal in a match feels like winning a mini-World Cup right there on the field.
Being on the football team means training hard, but the friendships and teamwork are worth it.
Soccer matches are like adrenaline-fuelled adventures — it’s like we’re writing our own sports story.
I’m psyched for our next match — the football team is all about friendly rivalry and endless fun!
Participating in the football team allows us to showcase our teamwork and strategy on the field, facing off against formidable opponents.

Basketball Team:

Joining the basketball team is like shooting hoops and making slam dunks with my buddies.
Scoring a three-pointer in a game is like hitting the jackpot — the crowd goes wild!
Being on the basketball team means practising dribbles and passes, but the thrill is worth it.
Basketball games are like fast-paced battles where we’re all aiming for victory.
I’m pumped for our upcoming tournament — the basketball team is pure energy and teamwork!
Our school’s basketball team practices regularly and competes against other schools in the region.

Cricket Team:

Playing on the cricket team is like stepping onto the pitch and becoming a star player.
Hitting a six in a cricket match is like sending the ball on a space mission — it’s epic!
Being on the cricket team means mastering batting, bowling, and fielding — it’s like being an all-rounder.
Cricket matches are like strategic battles, where every run and wicket counts toward victory.
I can’t wait for our match against our rival school — the cricket team is all about passion and sportsmanship!

Tennis Team:

Being on the tennis team is like serving aces and playing rallies with a bunch of tennis-loving friends.
Hitting a perfect backhand in a match is like nailing a secret move in a video game.
Tennis matches are like intense one-on-one duels. It’s all about skill, focus — and a bit of luck.
Playing doubles in the tennis team is like forming a dynamic duo to conquer the court.
I’m excited to show off my improved serves and volleys in our next match — the tennis team rocks!
Being a part of the tennis team hones our agility and precision as we engage in exciting matches and build lasting friendships.

Table Tennis Team:

Joining the table tennis team is like battling for supremacy in fast-paced ping-pong matches.
Nailing a tricky spin shot in a game is like pulling off a magic trick — it leaves opponents amazed.
Playing table tennis on the team means practising swift reflexes and honing precision shots.
Table tennis matches are like mini-marathons of agility and concentration — it’s like brain and brawn combined.
I’m eager for our tournament — the table tennis team is all about friendly rivalry and high-speed fun!
The swim team’s rigorous training regimen builds endurance and stroke precision, leading to personal growth and athletic achievement.
In track and field, we push our limits in various events, from sprints to hurdles, cultivating discipline and a sense of accomplishment.

Drama: Noun. An extracurricular activity within a school or community that focuses on theatrical performance, acting, and dramatic arts. Drama clubs provide students with a platform to explore and develop their acting skills, express themselves creatively, and engage in various aspects of theatre production.

If you feel the desire to express yourself on the stage, then the drama club is the place for you!

Do you get involved in school play productions?

Check out the examples below and speak them all out loud.

Drama club is my stage where I get to be someone else for a while and let my inner actor shine.
Acting in the drama club is like taking a magical journey into different characters’ lives.
The drama club is all about creating stories and bringing them to life with emotions and expressions.
Rehearsing for the play in the drama club is like building a puzzle — every line and movement fits perfectly.
I can’t wait to see the audience’s reactions during our performance — drama club is pure excitement!
Participating in school drama productions has helped me build confidence and improve my public speaking.
Through drama, I’ve learned to embody different characters, analyse scripts, and collaborate with fellow actors to create compelling performances.

Debate: Noun. An organized activity or club where participants engage in formal discussions or arguments on various topics, presenting and defending their viewpoints in a structured manner.

Debate clubs are very popular in schools these days. You can improve your public speaking skills and your ability to discuss a wide variety of topics.

You can try all the example sentences below.

Debating is like solving a puzzle of logic and persuasion. I love crafting my case.
The debate club is where we sharpen our minds and stand up for what we believe in.
I’m pumped for the next debate — it’s like a friendly clash of wits and ideas.
In the debate club, we turn conversations into exciting battles of logic and persuasion.
Being in the debate club is like solving a puzzle where words are the pieces that fit perfectly.
Debating is all about being convincing and respectful — it’s like friendly verbal sparring.
I can’t wait for our next debate — the club is like a brain gym where we flex our opinions and thoughts.
The debate club hones our argumentative skills and encourages us to express our opinions eloquently.
The debate club challenges us to construct compelling arguments, listen actively, and express our viewpoints eloquently and persuasively.
Engaging in debates sharpens our critical thinking, teaches us to analyse multiple perspectives, and equips us to engage in constructive discussions.

Music Groups

Music Groups: Noun. Organized clubs within a school that bring together students who share a common interest in creating and performing music. Music groups can encompass various genres and styles, such as choir, band, orchestra, jazz ensemble, and more.

Music club is another creative outlet for students who love music. You could join a band or learn a musical instrument.

Music club is where I jam out with friends and make melodies that lift spirits.
Rehearsing for our performance in the music club is like piecing together a musical puzzle.
Music club is like a sanctuary where notes and chords come together to create magic.
I’m excited to play my part in the music club’s upcoming concert — it’s all about harmony and good vibes.
The school offers various music groups, from choirs to rock bands, catering to diverse musical interests.
The school’s choir provides a harmonious outlet for my love of singing, allowing me to connect with fellow music enthusiasts.
Joining a music group has exposed me to diverse genres and musical techniques, broadening my appreciation for different forms of expression.
  • What extracurricular activities do you study in school?
  • Do you attend any of these clubs or activities?
  • Do you have an interest in dance or art? Do you go to any of the dance or art classes after school?
  • What kind of clubs would you like to see in your school?

Describe the extracurricular activities in your school.

Talking About School — Advanced Level

I have included FIVE more sections here that can help you talk about your school, your school life and how you are developing at school, at a much deeper level.

This is more advanced than in the previous sections!

Let’s take a look right now…

How To Talk About Your School In English (7)

Talking About Your Daily Routine at School

Describing your daily routine at school is a fantastic way to engage in conversations and share insights into your academic life.

You could be asked to do this in an interview or in the IELTS test.

Here’s a comprehensive list of useful phrases and example sentences that English students and teachers can use to discuss your daily routines:

Vocabulary for Expressing Daily Routines

Attend classes

I attend four classes every day.
During lectures, I make sure to take detailed notes.

Participate in discussions

I actively engage in classroom discussions to enhance my understanding.
I set aside time every evening to study and review my notes.

Complete assignments

After classes, I focus on completing my assignments and homework.

Prepare for exams

As exams approach, I dedicate more time to preparing and revising.

Use study breaks

During study breaks, I like to stretch and grab a healthy snack.

Example Sentences:

My typical day starts with attending three classes in the morning, followed by a break for lunch.
After lunch, I participate in the debate club, where we discuss thought-provoking topics and practice persuasive speaking.
I usually take notes on my laptop during lectures to ensure I capture all the important information.
In the evenings, I set aside time to study and complete any assignments due the next day.
On Wednesdays, I have an early morning maths class, which is followed by a study session at the library.
During study breaks, I like to go for a short walk to clear my mind and recharge.
I find it helpful to use study breaks to review my notes and reinforce my understanding of the material.

Additional Phrases for Variation:

In the afternoon, I engage in group discussions with my classmates to exchange ideas.
After classes, I spend time in the library to research and gather resources for my upcoming project.
During our study group sessions, we review each other’s notes and quiz each other on the material.
I prioritize my assignments based on their deadlines, starting with the ones due sooner.
On Fridays, I attend a language club where we practice conversational skills and language exercises.

Look at the questions below. Try to answer them using the terms above and in full sentences.

  • How do you typically start your day at school?
  • What subjects or classes are part of your daily routine?
  • Do you have any strategies for staying organized and managing your schoolwork?
  • How do you manage your time during breaks between classes?
  • Do you have any favourite spots to hang out during these times?
  • How do you handle days when the class schedule is different or when there are special events?
  • What resources do you utilize to ensure you’re up-to-date with assignments and upcoming exams?
  • How do you find a balance between focusing on your studies and taking necessary breaks during the day?
  • Do you have a preferred study routine or location when you need to complete assignments after school?
  • How do you handle days when you find a particular subject challenging or less interesting than others?
  • What role do technology and digital tools play in your daily school routine, if any?
  • How do you wind down and transition from school mode to your personal time in the evenings?
  • How do you ensure you’re maintaining a healthy work-life balance despite the demands of your daily school routine?

How To Talk About Your School In English (8)

Discussing Your Favourite Subjects and Teachers

Engaging in conversations about your favourite subjects and teachers provides a glimpse into your academic interests and the teachers who inspire you.

Here’s an extensive list of phrases and example sentences that you can use to discuss your preferences and share your experiences:

Expressions for Describing Preferences:

  • My favourite subject is…
  • I have a strong liking for…
  • I’m particularly drawn to…
  • One subject I really enjoy is…
  • I’m passionate about studying…
  • When it comes to subjects, I’m most fond of…
My favourite subject is history because I’m fascinated by past events and their impact on the present.
I have a strong liking for mathematics; solving complex problems gives me a sense of accomplishment.
I’m particularly drawn to art and find immense joy in expressing my creativity through various mediums.
One subject I really enjoy is literature; analysing the themes and characters in novels is truly enriching.
I’m passionate about studying environmental science as it aligns with my concern for the planet’s well-being.
When it comes to my favourite school subjects, I’m most fond of music; playing instruments and composing melodies is my way of expressing emotions.

Expressing Admiration for Teachers:

  • I’m inspired by the way my teacher…
  • My teacher’s dedication to the subject…
  • I greatly appreciate my teacher’s…
  • One teacher I admire is…
  • My teacher’s enthusiasm for the subject…
  • I’m grateful for the guidance my teacher…
I’m inspired by the way my teacher connects historical events to current societal issues, making the subject come alive.
My teacher’s dedication to the subject is evident in their engaging lectures and willingness to help us understand challenging concepts.
I greatly appreciate my teacher’s approach of incorporating real-world examples to make the subject more relatable.
One teacher I admire is my English literature professor, who introduces thought-provoking texts and encourages critical thinking.
My teacher’s enthusiasm for the subject is contagious; their passion motivates me to delve deeper into the subject matter.
I’m grateful for the guidance my teacher provides in mathematics; their patient explanations help me overcome difficulties.

Additional Phrases and Prompts:

Use the following phrases and prompts to help you talk about your teachers.

  • I find my chemistry teacher’s teaching style…
  • My history teacher’s knowledge about different eras…
  • What subject do you find most captivating, and why?
  • Can you describe a teacher who has had a significant impact on your learning journey?
  • In your opinion, what makes a teacher effective and inspiring?
  • How has your favourite subject influenced your perspective on the world?

Favourite Subjects:

  • What subjects do you enjoy the most and why?
  • Can you describe what draws you to your favourite subjects? Is it the content, the way they’re taught, or something else?
  • How do your favourite subjects make you feel engaged or excited about learning?
  • Have your favourite subjects changed over time, or have they remained consistent throughout your school years?
  • Do you have any specific career aspirations that align with your favourite subjects? If so, how do they connect?
  • Are there any real-life applications or experiences that have deepened your interest in your favourite subjects?
  • How do you balance your enthusiasm for your favourite subjects with the need to excel in other areas as well?
  • Have you ever considered participating in extracurricular activities related to your favourite subjects?

Influential Teachers:

  • Could you share a story about a teacher who significantly impacted your learning journey? How did they do so?
  • Have any teachers played a role in helping you discover your favourite subjects or areas of interest?
  • What teaching methods or approaches do your favourite teachers use that make a difference in your learning experience?
  • Do you think your interactions with certain teachers have contributed to your overall enjoyment of school?
  • Have you ever sought advice or mentorship from your favourite teachers beyond the classroom?
  • How do your favourite teachers create a supportive and engaging classroom environment?
  • Have your favourite teachers inspired you to consider pursuing careers or further education in certain fields?
  • Have any particular teachers influenced your choice of favourite subjects?
  • What qualities do you appreciate in a teacher?

Appreciating Qualities in Teachers:

  • What qualities do you value the most in teachers who teach your favourite subjects?
  • How do your favourite teachers make complex topics more understandable and enjoyable?
  • Do you think a teacher’s passion for a subject has an impact on how much students enjoy that subject?
  • How do your favourite teachers encourage active participation and open discussions in the classroom?
  • What approaches do your favourite teachers take to accommodate different learning styles and abilities?
  • Have you noticed any common traits among your favourite teachers that contribute to your positive learning experiences?
  • How do your favourite teachers foster a sense of curiosity and critical thinking in their students?

a speech about what your school needs most

Describing Extracurricular Involvement

Sharing your experiences and engagement in extracurricular activities can provide valuable insights into your interests and personal growth.

Here’s an extensive list of phrases and example sentences that you can use to discuss your involvement in extracurricular activities:

Vocabulary for Discussing Extracurricular Activities:

Join a club: I decided to join the drama club to explore my passion for acting.

Participate in: I actively participate in the debate club to enhance my public speaking skills.

Attend practice sessions: I attend regular practice sessions for the school’s choir, refining my vocal abilities.

Engage in rehearsals: Engaging in rehearsals with the dance troupe allows me to improve my coordination and performance.

Showcase performances: Our music ensemble showcases performances at various events throughout the year.

Contribute to: I contribute to the school newspaper as a writer, covering various topics of interest.

I joined the photography club, and we have regular photo shoots to capture captivating moments around the school.
I’m part of the school’s basketball team, and we have intense practice sessions to improve our teamwork and skills.
Participating in the school’s chess club allows me to engage in strategic gameplay and compete with fellow enthusiasts.
I attend practice sessions for the robotics club, where we work collaboratively to build and program innovative robots.
Engaging in rehearsals for the upcoming drama production is both challenging and exhilarating.
As a member of the environmental club, I contribute to initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability within the school.

Expressing Passion and Growth:

Being a part of the debate club has ignited my passion for public speaking and critical thinking.
Through my involvement in the art club, I’ve honed my artistic skills and discovered new creative techniques.
Joining the school’s science team has allowed me to delve deeper into scientific research and exploration.
The dance team has not only improved my physical fitness, but has also boosted my self-confidence.
I’ve seen significant personal growth since becoming a member of the leadership club; I now feel more confident in leading projects.

Asking About Extracurricular Involvement:

Use these questions to ask your classmates. You can ask each other and practice speaking about extracurricular involvement in your school.

  • What extracurricular activities are you currently involved in?
  • How has your participation in [activity] impacted your overall school experience?
  • Can you describe any memorable experiences or achievements from your involvement in [club/organization]?
  • What motivated you to join [club/organization] and what do you enjoy most about it?

Fulfilling Extracurricular Activities:

  • Could you describe the extracurricular activities that bring you the most joy and fulfilment? What makes them special?
  • How did you initially become interested in and involved with your favourite extracurricular activities?
  • Have your preferences for extracurriculars evolved over time, or have you remained dedicated to certain activities?
  • Do your extracurricular involvements align with any of your academic interests or career aspirations?
  • Have you taken on leadership roles within your favourite extracurricular activities? If so, how has that experience been?
  • How do you balance your academic responsibilities with your commitment to extracurricular pursuits?

Contribution to Overall Development:

  • In what ways do your extracurricular activities contribute to your personal growth and development?
  • How do you think your involvement in these activities enhances your social skills and interpersonal relationships?
  • Have you noticed any positive impacts that your extracurricular activities have had on your academic performance?
  • Do your extracurriculars provide you with a sense of balance and stress relief from your academic responsibilities?
  • How have your extracurricular experiences helped you develop a well-rounded skill set for your future endeavours?
  • Have you ever faced challenges or obstacles in balancing your time between academics and extracurriculars? How did you overcome them?

Skills Gained and Enhanced:

  • What specific skills have you gained or improved upon through your participation in different clubs, teams, or groups?
  • Have your extracurricular activities led to the discovery of talents or passions you might not have otherwise explored?
  • How do the skills you acquire in your extracurricular activities complement the knowledge you gain in the classroom?
  • Have any of your extracurricular involvements introduced you to new perspectives or cultures?
  • Do you believe that the skills you develop through extracurriculars are transferable to your future career or educational pursuits?
  • How do you balance the desire to excel in your chosen activities with the need to try new experiences and broaden your horizons?

a speech about what your school needs most

Sharing School Achievements and Events

Discussing your school achievements and events provides a wonderful opportunity to showcase accomplishments and foster a sense of community.

Here’s a comprehensive list of phrases and example sentences that you can use to share your school’s achievements and upcoming events:

Vocabulary for Discussing School Events and Achievements:

Participate in competitions: I had the privilege of participating in the national science competition.

Engage in tournaments: Our school’s soccer team recently competed in a regional tournament.

Showcase exhibitions: The art department organized a captivating exhibition featuring student creations.

Receive awards: I was honoured to receive the ‘Student of the Year’ award for my academic achievements.

Organize events: Our school is organizing a cultural diversity event to celebrate various traditions.

Host fundraisers: We’re planning to host a charity fundraiser to support a local community initiative.

Our school participated in the robotics competition, and our team designed an innovative robot that earned us first place.
I had the opportunity to represent our school in the debate tournament, where I advanced to the semi-finals.
The science department recently showcased a fascinating exhibition that highlighted experiments and scientific discoveries.
I was thrilled to receive the ‘Excellence in Literature’ award for my dedication to writing and literary analysis.
Our school is organizing a talent show where students can showcase their unique skills and artistic talents.
We’re excited to announce that our school will be hosting a charity fundraiser next month to support a local orphanage.

Sharing Proud Achievements:

Our school’s choir achieved a remarkable feat by winning first place at the statewide singing competition.
I’m proud to have been part of the team that secured the championship title in the Mathematics Olympiad.
The environmental club’s initiatives were recognized, leading to our school receiving an award for sustainability.
Our theatre production received rave reviews, and we’re thrilled about the positive impact it had on the audience.
I’m honoured to have been chosen as the student representative to attend the national leadership conference.

Inviting Participation and Involvement:

We’re inviting all students to participate in the upcoming science fair by showcasing their research projects.
Everyone is encouraged to attend the school-wide art exhibition and witness the incredible creativity of our students.
Join us in the fundraising walkathon to support a local charity and make a positive impact on the community.
We welcome volunteers to assist in organizing the charity bazaar, which will raise funds for underprivileged children.

Asking About Involvement and Interest:

You can use these questions to ask others about any involvement in school achiement or events. You can ask your classmates. And they can ask you.

  • Have you ever participated in any school competitions or events?
  • Which school achievement are you most proud of, and why?
  • Are there any upcoming events or competitions you’re looking forward to?

School Achievements:

  • Can you share some of your proudest academic achievements during your time at school? What did they mean to you?
  • How do you set goals for yourself academically, and what strategies do you use to work towards achieving them?
  • Have there been any specific challenges you’ve overcome on your path to achieving academic success?
  • How do you feel your achievements have shaped your sense of self-confidence and motivation?
  • Have any of your achievements led to new opportunities or experiences beyond the classroom?
  • How do you balance the pursuit of academic achievements with maintaining a healthy work-life balance?

Participation in School Events:

  • What school events or activities have you been actively involved in, and what made those experiences memorable for you?
  • How do you decide which school events to participate in, considering your academic commitments and personal interests?
  • Have you ever taken on a leadership role or contributed to organizing a school event? How did that experience impact you?
  • Are there any particular events that have helped you connect with classmates or build a sense of community?
  • How do school events contribute to your overall school experience and sense of belonging?
  • Have you participated in any events that allowed you to showcase talents or skills outside of academics?

a speech about what your school needs most

Talking About Challenges and Goals

Engaging in conversations about your challenges and goals is a reflective and motivating way to share stories about your personal growth experiences.

Here’s a comprehensive list of phrases and example sentences that you can use to discuss challenges you’ve encountered and your aspirations for the future:

Expressions for Discussing Challenges:

One of the challenges I face is…: One of the challenges I face is adjusting to the higher academic demands of college.

I’m currently grappling with…: I’m currently grappling with time management as I balance my studies and a part-time job.

I find it challenging to…: I find it challenging to maintain a consistent exercise routine during busy school weeks.

I’ve been working to overcome…: I’ve been working to overcome my fear of public speaking through practice and exposure.

A hurdle I’ve encountered is…: A hurdle I’ve encountered is understanding complex mathematical concepts.

Example Sentences—Challenges:

One of the challenges I face is managing my time between school, my part-time job, and spending time with my family.
I’m currently grappling with the transition from high school to college, as the coursework is more rigorous.
I find it challenging to balance my involvement in multiple clubs while maintaining a high academic performance.
I’ve been working to overcome my shyness in group discussions by actively participating and expressing my thoughts.
A hurdle I’ve encountered is adjusting to the new digital learning environment and staying focused during online classes.

Expressions for Sharing Goals:

My goal for this year is…: My goal for this year is to enhance my vocabulary and fluency in English.

I’m working toward…: I’m working toward improving my time management skills to balance studies and hobbies.

I aim to…: I aim to excel in my science courses and pursue a degree in environmental science.

My objective is…: My objective is to participate in a national debate competition and represent our school.

I’m aspiring to…: I’m aspiring to publish an article in the school newspaper to share my insights.

Example Sentences — Goals:

My goal for this year is to improve my grades in maths by seeking additional help from tutors and practising regularly.
I’m working toward enhancing my presentation skills by joining the public speaking club and participating in debates.
I aim to explore different art forms and techniques to broaden my creative repertoire and express myself more effectively.
My objective is to achieve fluency in a second language by consistently practising speaking and writing.
I’m aspiring to create a positive impact in our community by leading a volunteer project to clean up local parks.

Encountered Challenges:

  • What are some of the significant challenges you’ve faced during your academic journey so far? How did they impact you?
  • Have you encountered challenges that were specific to certain subjects or areas of study? How did you navigate them?
  • How do external factors, such as time management or personal circumstances, influence the challenges you face?
  • Have any challenges led you to reconsider your goals or adjust your academic path?
  • How do you think overcoming challenges contributes to your personal growth and resilience?

Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Goals:

  • How do you approach setting academic goals for yourself? What factors do you consider when determining your goals?
  • Can you share an example of a goal you’ve set for yourself and the steps you’ve taken to work towards achieving it?
  • What strategies do you employ to stay motivated and focused when faced with obstacles that could deter you from your goals?
  • How do you balance short-term goals with long-term aspirations, especially when faced with immediate challenges?
  • Have you sought guidance or support from teachers, peers, or mentors to help you overcome challenges and reach your goals?

Strategies for Addressing Challenges:

  • Could you describe a specific strategy you’ve used to address a challenge related to your studies? How did it work for you?
  • How do you approach problem-solving when you encounter academic difficulties? Do you have a step-by-step process?
  • Have you ever tried different study techniques or time management methods to overcome challenges? Which ones worked best for you?
  • How do you adapt your strategies when faced with challenges that require a change in perspective or approach?
  • How do you maintain a positive mindset and resilience when you’re working through challenges in your academic journey?

I know that I have covered a lot of ground in this guide!

I strongly advise you to just look at one section at a time.

Look at one section and try to learn the vocabulary from only that one section. Practice all the sentences and then try to make sentences of your own.

You will see the Now You Try practice sections. This will allow you to use the words and phrases you have learnt and put them to use.

Just try to answer all the questions in these practice sections. Use as much of the vocabulary as you can and use full sentences!

The last five sections are more advanced. But this will help you to discuss and talk about your school life at a much deeper level.

I hope this guide is useful to you!

Keep trying!

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Frantically Speaking

The Ultimate Go-To Guide to Prepare for Your Student Council Speech

Hrideep barot.

  • Public Speaking , Speech Topics

Empower voices, spark change! Together, let's shape our school's future. I'm committed to listening and acting for all. Thank you for your trust

Delivering a compelling student council speech is a crucial opportunity for students to make their voices heard and leave a lasting impact on their school community. The role of the student council is not only to represent the interests of fellow students but also to initiate positive change and contribute towards the overall development of the school.

Crafting an effective student council speech requires careful thought, preparation, and an understanding of what resonates with your audience. In this section, we will explore the importance of a student council speech and provide valuable insights on how to make a lasting impression that captures the attention and support of your peers.

Whether you are running for class president, vice president, treasurer, or any other position within the student council, your speech serves as an opportunity to showcase your leadership skills, articulate your vision for improvement, and inspire others to rally behind you. It is not just about winning votes but about demonstrating your dedication to serving the needs and aspirations of your fellow students.

Throughout this section, we will delve into strategies that can help you deliver a powerful student council speech that stands out from the rest. From crafting a strong opening statement to highlighting relevant experiences and outlining actionable plans for change, we will guide you through each step of the process.

Remember that every word you speak has the potential to influence opinions and shape perceptions. By mastering the art of delivering an impactful student council speech, you can become an agent of positive change within your school community. So let’s dive in and discover how you can make a lasting impact through your words!

  • 1. Understand the Role of the Student Council and Identify Your Goals
  • 2. Research the Audience and Tailor Your Message accordingly
  • 3. Craft a Compelling Opening that Grabs Attention and Sets the Tone
  • 4. Structure Your Speech Effectively with Clear Main Points and Supporting Details
  • 5. Develop Persuasive Arguments and Present them with Confidence
  • 6. Practice Makes Perfect: Rehearse Your Speech to Build Confidence

Step 1: Understand the Role of the Student Council and Identify Your Goals

In order to deliver an impactful student council speech, it is crucial to first understand the role of the student council and identify your goals. By doing so, you can effectively communicate your vision and aspirations to your fellow students.

The student council plays a vital role in representing the student body and advocating for their needs and interests. It is a platform where students can voice their concerns, propose ideas for improvement, and contribute to the overall development of the school community.

When preparing your speech, take some time to reflect on what you hope to achieve as a member of the student council. Identify specific goals that align with your values and address issues that are important to your peers. This could range from improving school facilities and promoting extracurricular activities- to fostering inclusivity and enhancing communication between students and faculty.

By clearly defining your goals, you will be able to convey a sense of purpose and passion in your speech. Your fellow students will be more likely to connect with your message if they see that you have a genuine desire to make positive changes within the school community.

Remember, being part of the student council is not just about holding a position or gaining recognition – it is about making a difference. So take this opportunity to inspire others with your ideas, motivate them with your enthusiasm, and demonstrate how you can contribute positively towards creating an inclusive and thriving school environment.

Step 2: Research the Audience and Tailor Your Message accordingly

When preparing a student council speech, it is crucial to understand your audience and tailor your message accordingly. By conducting thorough research on the interests, concerns, and aspirations of your fellow students, you can create a speech that resonates with them and effectively communicates your ideas and goals.

Understanding your audience allows you to speak directly to their needs and desires. Are they looking for more extracurricular activities? Do they want improvements in school facilities or policies? By delving into these questions, you can craft a message that addresses their specific concerns, making it more compelling and persuasive.

Additionally, tailoring your speech to the interests of your audience helps establish a connection with them. When students feel that you genuinely understand their challenges and aspirations, they are more likely to trust you as a candidate and support your ideas.

Researching the audience also enables you to anticipate any potential objections or counterarguments. By addressing these concerns proactively in your speech, you show that you have taken the time to consider different perspectives and are prepared to address them thoughtfully.

In conclusion, researching the audience is an essential step in crafting an impactful student council speech. By understanding their needs, tailoring your message accordingly, and addressing potential objections, you can deliver a compelling speech that resonates with your fellow students and increases your chances of success.

Step 3: Craft a Compelling Opening that Grabs Attention and Sets the Tone

The opening of your student council speech is your chance to capture your audience’s attention and set the tone for the rest of your presentation. A strong and compelling opening will make a lasting impression and encourage your listeners to pay attention to what you have to say.

Consider starting with a captivating anecdote or a thought-provoking question that relates to the issues you will address in your speech. This will immediately grab your audience’s attention and pique their curiosity. You can also use a powerful quote or statistic to emphasize the importance of your campaign and the changes you hope to bring about.

In addition to capturing attention, the opening of your speech should also establish a rapport with your audience. Share a personal story or experience that demonstrates your understanding of their concerns and shows them that you are genuinely invested in making a difference. This will help create a connection between you and your listeners, making them more receptive to your message.

Step 4: Structure Your Speech Effectively with Clear Main Points and Supporting Details

A well-structured speech is essential for conveying your ideas effectively and ensuring that your audience can follow your train of thought. To achieve this, it is crucial to organize your speech into clear main points and support them with relevant details and examples.

Start by outlining the main ideas or goals you want to communicate in your speech. These could be specific initiatives you plan to implement or broader themes you want to address. Once you have identified your main points, arrange them in a logical order that allows for a smooth flow of information.

For each main point, provide supporting details that substantiate your claims and add credibility to your speech. These could be statistics, personal anecdotes , or expert opinions that illustrate the importance and feasibility of your proposals. Remember to present this information in a clear and concise manner, using language that is accessible to your audience.

Additionally, consider using visual aids such as graphs, charts, or images to enhance your presentation. Visuals can help reinforce your main points and make complex information more digestible for your audience. However, use them sparingly and ensure they complement rather than distract from your speech.

Step 5: Develop Persuasive Arguments and Present them with Confidence

Persuasion is a key element of any successful student council speech. To persuade your audience effectively, you need to develop persuasive arguments and present them with confidence and conviction.

When developing your arguments, consider the needs and concerns of your audience. What solutions can you offer to address these issues? How will your ideas benefit the student body as a whole? By focusing on the needs of your audience and presenting practical and achievable solutions, you can make a compelling case for your candidacy.

To present your arguments with confidence, it is essential to practice your speech thoroughly. Rehearse in front of a mirror or with friends and family, paying attention to your body language, tone of voice, and overall delivery. This will help build your confidence and ensure that you come across as poised and prepared on the day of your speech.

Remember to maintain eye contact with your audience and speak clearly and audibly. Use gestures and facial expressions to emphasize key points and show enthusiasm for your ideas. By exuding confidence and passion, you will inspire trust and captivate your listeners, increasing your chances of winning their support.

Step 6: Practice Makes Perfect: Rehearse Your Speech to Build Confidence

No matter how well-prepared you are, delivering a student council speech can be nerve-wracking. However, practicing your speech can help alleviate anxiety and build the confidence you need to deliver a compelling and impactful presentation.

Start by memorizing the key points of your speech. This will allow you to maintain a natural flow of information and engage with your audience more effectively. However, avoid memorizing your speech word-for-word, as this can make you sound robotic and less authentic.

Instead, focus on understanding the overall structure and flow of your speech. Practice delivering it in a conversational manner, using your notes as a reference rather than a script. This will help you adapt to different situations and respond to audience reactions, making your speech more dynamic and engaging.

Additionally, consider recording yourself during practice sessions. This will allow you to evaluate your delivery, identify areas for improvement, and make necessary adjustments. Pay attention to your pacing, intonation, and body language, and make conscious efforts to improve these aspects.

Lastly, seek feedback from trusted individuals, such as teachers or mentors, who can provide constructive criticism and help you refine your speech. Incorporate their suggestions and continue to practice until you feel confident and well-prepared.

Sample Speech:

“Good morning everyone! I am absolutely thrilled to be standing before you today as a candidate for the student council. This is an incredible opportunity to make a difference in our school, and I am excited to share my vision with all of you. As a student, I have always been passionate about creating a positive and inclusive environment for everyone. I believe that the student council plays a crucial role in representing the voice of the student body and advocating for their needs and interests. Through my involvement in various extracurricular activities and my dedication to academic excellence, I have developed the skills necessary to be an effective leader in this role.

One of my main goals as a member of the student council is to promote student engagement and participation. I want to ensure that every student’s voice is heard and that they feel empowered to contribute their ideas and opinions. By organizing regular town hall meetings and creating platforms for open dialogue, we can foster a sense of unity and collaboration within our school community.

Together, we can work towards making our school an even better place for everyone.”

Another area that I am very passionate about is enhancing the overall student experience. I believe that education goes beyond the classroom, and it is important to provide students with opportunities for personal growth and development. Through organizing workshops, seminars, and events that focus on various aspects of personal development, such as leadership, communication skills, and mental health, we can empower our fellow students to reach their full potential.

In conclusion, I am truly excited about the possibility of representing you all on the student council. With your support, I am confident that we can create a more inclusive, engaging, and supportive environment for every student in our school. Let’s work together to make a positive impact and leave a lasting legacy for future generations. Thank you for your time and consideration.”

Preparing for your student council speech is a crucial step in your campaign journey. By understanding the importance of your speech, tailoring your message to your audience, crafting a compelling opening, structuring your speech effectively, developing persuasive arguments, and practicing your delivery, you can increase your chances of delivering a memorable and impactful presentation.

Remember, your student council speech is not only an opportunity to showcase your leadership qualities but also a chance to connect with your peers and inspire change. By following these steps and putting in the necessary effort, you can confidently deliver a speech that resonates with your audience and convinces them to vote for you. Check out our communication coaching for more tips!

Now, it’s time to put your preparation into action. Take a deep breath, step onto the stage, and deliver a speech that will make a lasting impression on your fellow students. Good luck!

Hrideep Barot

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  • My School Speech

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Speech For Students on My School

Schools are considered as the temple of knowledge for students. Schools prepare the students to be future leaders and help them to face problems without any fear. Schools help students in understanding the importance of discipline and time management. 

Similarly, my school played an important role in shaping my life. The values and the character I developed during my school days helped me in facing the world and understanding the problems. 

Below my school speeches are given, a long speech on my school and a short speech on my school. Students can refer to this speech and prepare for any debate or essay writing competitions. 

Long Speech on My School

Good morning everyone! I would like to give a small speech about my school. As we all know schools are the temples of learning that teach students many things. School provides a balanced education which helps in improving the student’s both physically and mentally growth. Besides academics, there is a wide range of skills learned at school which includes good behaviour, communication skills, responsibility, time management, and sports skills. 

Schools are the first place where we learn new things. It is the place where new friends are made and those friendships sometimes are carried on throughout life. Schools are considered as heaven on earth and it is very hard to imagine the world without schools. 

Schools are the first place where we learn about various new things which help in our growth. Schools help us to learn how to balance life properly. Similarly, my school played an important role in my life. The man I am today is all because of what I learned during my school days. 

I studied in an all-boys school which was established in 1979. It has a very old building which looks like a huge mansion. It is the oldest school in my town. It has a history of producing toppers to the country. It has a  building which stands tall and has a renowned name across the city and  I am sure it will be for many years to come. 

For the past 30 years, my school has a track record of producing the highest number of toppers in the board exams, and that’s the reason many students want to get into it. 

The unique quality of my school is that it not only focuses on only academics but also gives a lot of importance to sports. 

When it comes to sports my school has the biggest playgrounds in the city for various sports like badminton, cricket, volleyball, throwball and many more. Because of this reason every year, an inter-level sports competition is held in my school’s playground. Fortunately, I was also part of the badminton team that won 2nd place at the all-school badminton championship. The various competitions held at my school help me realize the importance of fitness in my life and I want to thank my school for that.

In addition to the sports competition, various science competitions were also held annually in my school. Different science projects were presented and the best one was awarded a cash price and a trophy. During these competitions, students’ presentation and public speaking skills were tested. Despite being shy I participated in the competition but lost it as I was not very good at presenting my science project. During that time my teachers helped me and pointed out the mistakes which I made. It helped me a lot in the future as I worked on those mistakes and now I am not afraid. I thank my teachers for that. 

To conclude this speech, all I want to say is that I loved attending my school. It was my second home. A home where my friends were like my family members who cared for and loved each other. I feel lucky to have such friends in my life. It was the place where I felt enthusiastic to learn new things. A place where I learned the skills which helped me in facing the challenges fearlessly. Last but not least I would like to thank my teaching and non-teaching staff who were always polite and helped me whenever I needed them. 

Short Speech on My School

Good morning everyone! Today I would like to give a speech at my school. As we know schools are the temples of learning that teach students many things. Schools provide a balanced education that helps in improving a student both physically and mentally. 

Besides academics, different skills are taught at school that includes sports skill, communication skills, time management, and so on. Similarly, my school played an important role in my life. The man I am today is all because of what I learned during my school days. 

I studied in an all-boys school which was established in 1979. It is the oldest school in my town. It has a history of producing toppers to the country. It has a building that stands tall and has a renowned name across the city.

My school has a track record of producing the highest number of toppers in the board exams. The unique quality of my school is that it not only focuses on only academics but also gives a lot of importance to sports.

My school had the biggest playground in the city and because of that every year an inter-school competition is held in various sports like kabaddi, cricket, volleyball and so on. The winners are handed a trophy and a cash prize. 

Science competitions are also conducted in my school that test the ability of students’ presentation and public speaking skills. The winner of the competition was handed a trophy and a scholarship problem for further studies. 

To conclude this speech, all I want to say is that I loved attending my school. It was my second home. A home where my friends were like my family members who cared for and loved each other. A place where I learned the skills which helped me in facing the challenges fearlessly. Last but not least, I would like to thank my teaching and non-teaching staff who were always polite and helped me whenever I needed them. 

10 Lines on My School Speech In English

Schools are the first place where we learn new things. It is the place where new friends are made and those friendships sometimes are carried on throughout life.

Schools are considered as heaven on earth and it is very hard to imagine the world without schools. 

Schools help in learning new things which helps in the growth of a student.

For many years, my school had a record of producing the highest number of toppers and that’s the reason many students want to get into my school. 

My school was a complete package that taught me the importance of self-discipline in life. 

The teaching and the non-teaching staff at my school are very polite. They are always ready to help students.

My school has the largest playground in the city and that’s the reason every year inter-level sports competitions are held.  

Every year science competitions are held at my school that aims at improving the public speaking and the presentation skill of the students. 

The winner of the science competition is given a cash prize and a trophy. 

I love attending my school and it’s like my second home. A home where my friends are like my family members.

School Speech For Students

A school is one of the only places which act as a temple of education. The place is not only for teaching the students the many facts of life but also to have them develop their brains. With the schools playing an important role in a student’s life, many institutions require the students to write or give a speech on the topic “My School”. This might be introduced at any point of time in a student’s life. They may be asked to do this when they are in the 1st standard or when they are in the 10th standard. The marks, scores, or grading system may vary as per the students who are chosen to participate. 

Students can have a good preparation regarding such speeches which can make them realize their own potential for giving such speeches. These can also build their confidence. 

Teachers - A Helping Hand  

Students might be asked to give a long speech or a short speech. It all depends on the decision that the school has taken. Though it might be a competition among students, the teachers are encouraged to get involved as well. They can most certainly help the students in the whole process.

The duty actually falls onto the English teachers. They are the ones who can help the students more effectively. They can have the students take the step forward on their own and give the best speech without any grammatical or vocabulary errors. 

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FAQs on My School Speech

1. Can the students mention the history of the school in their My School speech?

Yes, the students can definitely mention the history of the school in their My School speech. This is more of practice when they are giving a long speech that requires them to tell all about their school. One thing that they must keep in mind is to not make it boring, but interesting. The students are required to let the speech go in flow, from the very beginning and tell all about the changes and advancements that have happened over the years.

2. What is the best way to learn a My School speech?

Students, who are selected to give a My School speech can do so in an easy manner. They must first mention or take the pointers that must be included in their speech. They can then take the help of their teacher to structure the speech in such a way that it goes with a flow and they can easily remember it. They can also learn the speech in chronologically set lines which can remind them about the topics that were to be followed by another.

3. How can a student prepare for their best My School speech?

There are many approaches to prepare the best My School speech. A student may ask for somebody’s help. They can make a list of the things that must be included, all of which might be about achievements, academic success, the environment, or anything related. They can talk about the marvelous journey of their school as well. The students are, in fact, encouraged to talk about all they get to learn as well as about their teachers and how good they are.

4. Do the students only have to mention the academics of a school in their My School speech?

When it comes to giving a My School speech, it is not always necessary to mention only the academics. A student can also mention the many other things that help them get ahead in their school or just things that they simply like. Students may mention the attitude of the school staff in their My School speech along with the many amenities that they get to enjoy on a regular basis. They can also go forth with mentioning the type of platform that their school provides them.

5. How can one keep their My School speech short?

The students, in order to keep their My School speech short, ask for the help of their teachers. They can do this on their own as well, but it is always a good idea to take their teacher’s opinion. They must make sure that they are talking in the to the point manner that goes a long way in keeping their speech short. They must also ensure that their speech does not contain any unnecessary information that does not help the structure of the whole speech.

a speech about what your school needs most

Planning and Presenting an Informative Speech

In this guide, you can learn about the purposes and types of informative speeches, about writing and delivering informative speeches, and about the parts of informative speeches.

Purposes of Informative Speaking

Informative speaking offers you an opportunity to practice your researching, writing, organizing, and speaking skills. You will learn how to discover and present information clearly. If you take the time to thoroughly research and understand your topic, to create a clearly organized speech, and to practice an enthusiastic, dynamic style of delivery, you can be an effective "teacher" during your informative speech. Finally, you will get a chance to practice a type of speaking you will undoubtedly use later in your professional career.

The purpose of the informative speech is to provide interesting, useful, and unique information to your audience. By dedicating yourself to the goals of providing information and appealing to your audience, you can take a positive step toward succeeding in your efforts as an informative speaker.

Major Types of Informative Speeches

In this guide, we focus on informative speeches about:

These categories provide an effective method of organizing and evaluating informative speeches. Although they are not absolute, these categories provide a useful starting point for work on your speech.

In general, you will use four major types of informative speeches. While you can classify informative speeches many ways, the speech you deliver will fit into one of four major categories.

Speeches about Objects

Speeches about objects focus on things existing in the world. Objects include, among other things, people, places, animals, or products.

Because you are speaking under time constraints, you cannot discuss any topic in its entirety. Instead, limit your speech to a focused discussion of some aspect of your topic.

Some example topics for speeches about objects include: the Central Intelligence Agency, tombstones, surgical lasers, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the pituitary gland, and lemmings.

To focus these topics, you could give a speech about Franklin Delano Roosevelt and efforts to conceal how he suffered from polio while he was in office. Or, a speech about tombstones could focus on the creation and original designs of grave markers.

Speeches about Processes

Speeches about processes focus on patterns of action. One type of speech about processes, the demonstration speech, teaches people "how-to" perform a process. More frequently, however, you will use process speeches to explain a process in broader terms. This way, the audience is more likely to understand the importance or the context of the process.

A speech about how milk is pasteurized would not teach the audience how to milk cows. Rather, this speech could help audience members understand the process by making explicit connections between patterns of action (the pasteurization process) and outcomes (a safe milk supply).

Other examples of speeches about processes include: how the Internet works (not "how to work the Internet"), how to construct a good informative speech, and how to research the job market. As with any speech, be sure to limit your discussion to information you can explain clearly and completely within time constraints.

Speeches about Events

Speeches about events focus on things that happened, are happening, or will happen. When speaking about an event, remember to relate the topic to your audience. A speech chronicling history is informative, but you should adapt the information to your audience and provide them with some way to use the information. As always, limit your focus to those aspects of an event that can be adequately discussed within the time limitations of your assignment.

Examples of speeches about events include: the 1963 Civil Rights March on Washington, Groundhog's Day, the Battle of the Bulge, the World Series, and the 2000 Presidential Elections.

Speeches about Concepts

Speeches about concepts focus on beliefs, ideas, and theories. While speeches about objects, processes, and events are fairly concrete, speeches about concepts are more abstract. Take care to be clear and understandable when creating and presenting a speech about a concept. When selecting a concept, remember you are crafting an informative speech. Often, speeches about concepts take on a persuasive tone. Focus your efforts toward providing unbiased information and refrain from making arguments. Because concepts can be vague and involved, limit your speech to aspects that can be readily explained and understood within the time limits.

Some examples of topics for concept speeches include: democracy, Taoism, principles of feminism, the philosophy of non-violent protest, and the Big Bang theory.

Strategies for Selecting a Topic

In many cases, circumstances will dictate the topic of your speech. However, if the topic has not been assigned or if you are having difficulty figuring out how to frame your topic as an informative speech,the following may be useful.

Begin by thinking of your interests. If you have always loved art, contemplate possible topics dealing with famous artists, art works, or different types of art. If you are employed, think of aspects of your job or aspects of your employer's business that would be interesting to talk about. While you cannot substitute personal experience for detailed research, your own experience can supplement your research and add vitality to your presentation. Choose one of the items below to learn more about selecting a topic.

Learn More about an Unfamiliar Topic

You may benefit more by selecting an unfamiliar topic that interests you. You can challenge yourself by choosing a topic you'd like to learn about and to help others understand it. If the Buddhist religion has always been an interesting and mysterious topic to you, research the topic and create a speech that offers an understandable introduction to the religion. Remember to adapt Buddhism to your audience and tell them why you think this information is useful to them. By taking this approach, you can learn something new and learn how to synthesize new information for your audience.

Think about Previous Classes

You might find a topic by thinking of classes you have taken. Think back to concepts covered in those classes and consider whether they would serve as unique, interesting, and enlightening topics for the informative speech. In astronomy, you learned about red giants. In history, you learned about Napoleon. In political science, you learned about The Federalist Papers. Past classes serve as rich resources for informative speech topics. If you make this choice, use your class notes and textbook as a starting point. To fully develop the content, you will need to do extensive research and perhaps even a few interviews.

Talk to Others

Topic selection does not have to be an individual effort. Spend time talking about potential topics with classmates or friends. This method can be extremely effective because other people can stimulate further ideas when you get stuck. When you use this method, always keep the basic requirements and the audience in mind. Just because you and your friend think home-brew is a great topic does not mean it will enthrall your audience or impress your instructor. While you talk with your classmates or friends, jot notes about potential topics and create a master list when you exhaust the possibilities. From this list, choose a topic with intellectual merit, originality, and potential to entertain while informing.

Framing a Thesis Statement

Once you settle on a topic, you need to frame a thesis statement. Framing a thesis statement allows you to narrow your topic, and in turns allows you to focus your research in this specific area, saving you time and trouble in the process.

Selecting a topic and focusing it into a thesis statement can be a difficult process. Fortunately, a number of useful strategies are available to you.

Thesis Statement Purpose

The thesis statement is crucial for clearly communicating your topic and purpose to the audience. Be sure to make the statement clear, concise, and easy to remember. Deliver it to the audience and use verbal and nonverbal illustrations to make it stand out.

Strategies For Framing a Thesis Statement

Focus on a specific aspect of your topic and phrase the thesis statement in one clear, concise, complete sentence, focusing on the audience. This sentence sets a goal for the speech. For example, in a speech about art, the thesis statement might be: "The purpose of this speech is to inform my audience about the early works of Vincent van Gogh." This statement establishes that the speech will inform the audience about the early works of one great artist. The thesis statement is worded conversationally and included in the delivery of the speech.

Thesis Statement and Audience

The thesis appears in the introduction of the speech so that the audience immediately realizes the speaker's topic and goal. Whatever the topic may be, you should attempt to create a clear, focused thesis statement that stands out and could be repeated by every member of your audience. It is important to refer to the audience in the thesis statement; when you look back at the thesis for direction, or when the audience hears the thesis, it should be clear that the most important goal of your speech is to inform the audience about your topic. While the focus and pressure will be on you as a speaker, you should always remember that the audience is the reason for presenting a public speech.

Avoid being too trivial or basic for the average audience member. At the same time, avoid being too technical for the average audience member. Be sure to use specific, concrete terms that clearly establish the focus of your speech.

Thesis Statement and Delivery

When creating the thesis statement, be sure to use a full sentence and frame that sentence as a statement, not as a question. The full sentence, "The purpose of this speech is to inform my audience about the early works of Vincent van Gogh," provides clear direction for the speech, whereas the fragment "van Gogh" says very little about the purpose of the speech. Similarly, the question "Who was Vincent van Gogh?" does not adequately indicate the direction the speech will take or what the speaker hopes to accomplish.

If you limit your thesis statement to one distinct aspect of the larger topic, you are more likely to be understood and to meet the time constraints.

Researching Your Topic

As you begin to work on your informative speech, you will find that you need to gather additional information. Your instructor will most likely require that you locate relevant materials in the library and cite those materials in your speech. In this section, we discuss the process of researching your topic and thesis.

Conducting research for a major informative speech can be a daunting task. In this section, we discuss a number of strategies and techniques that you can use to gather and organize source materials for your speech.

Gathering Materials

Gathering materials can be a daunting task. You may want to do some research before you choose a topic. Once you have a topic, you have many options for finding information. You can conduct interviews, write or call for information from a clearinghouse or public relations office, and consult books, magazines, journals, newspapers, television and radio programs, and government documents. The library will probably be your primary source of information. You can use many of the libraries databases or talk to a reference librarian to learn how to conduct efficient research.

Taking Notes

While doing your research, you may want to carry notecards. When you come across a useful passage, copy the source and the information onto the notecard or copy and paste the information. You should maintain a working bibliography as you research so you always know which sources you have consulted and so the process of writing citations into the speech and creating the bibliography will be easier. You'll need to determine what information-recording strategies work best for you. Talk to other students, instructors, and librarians to get tips on conducting efficient research. Spend time refining your system and you will soon be able to focus on the information instead of the record-keeping tasks.

Citing Sources Within Your Speech

Consult with your instructor to determine how much research/source information should be included in your speech. Realize that a source citation within your speech is defined as a reference to or quotation from material you have gathered during your research and an acknowledgement of the source. For example, within your speech you might say: "As John W. Bobbitt said in the December 22, 1993, edition of the Denver Post , 'Ouch!'" In this case, you have included a direct quotation and provided the source of the quotation. If you do not quote someone, you might say: "After the first week of the 1995 baseball season, attendance was down 13.5% from 1994. This statistic appeared in the May 7, 1995, edition of the Denver Post ." Whatever the case, whenever you use someone else's ideas, thoughts, or words, you must provide a source citation to give proper credit to the creator of the information. Failure to cite sources can be interpreted as plagiarism which is a serious offense. Upon review of the specific case, plagiarism can result in failure of the assignment, the course, or even dismissal from the University. Take care to cite your sources and give credit where it is due.

Creating Your Bibliography

As with all aspects of your speech, be sure to check with your instructor to get specific details about the assignment.

Generally, the bibliography includes only those sources you cited during the speech. Don't pad the bibliography with every source you read, saw on the shelf, or heard of from friends. When you create the bibliography, you should simply go through your complete sentence outline and list each source you cite. This is also a good way to check if you have included enough reference material within the speech. You will need to alphabetize the bibiography by authors last name and include the following information: author's name, article title, publication title, volume, date, page number(s). You may need to include additional information; you need to talk with your instructor to confirm the required bibliographical format.

Some Cautions

When doing research, use caution in choosing your sources. You need to determine which sources are more credible than others and attempt to use a wide variety of materials. The broader the scope of your research, the more impressive and believable your information. You should draw from different sources (e.g., a variety of magazines-- Time, Newsweek, US News & World Report, National Review, Mother Jones ) as well as different types of sources (i.e., use interviews, newspapers, periodicals, and books instead of just newspapers). The greater your variety, the more apparent your hard work and effort will be. Solid research skills result in increased credibility and effectiveness for the speaker.

Structuring an Informative Speech

Typically, informative speeches have three parts:

Introduction

In this section, we discuss the three parts of an informative speech, calling attention to specific elements that can enhance the effectiveness of your speech. As a speaker, you will want to create a clear structure for your speech. In this section, you will find discussions of the major parts of the informative speech.

The introduction sets the tone of the entire speech. The introduction should be brief and to-the-point as it accomplishes these several important tasks. Typically, there are six main components of an effective introduction:

Attention Getters

Thesis statement, audience adaptation, credibility statement, transition to the body.

As in any social situation, your audience makes strong assumptions about you during the first eight or ten seconds of your speech. For this reason, you need to start solidly and launch the topic clearly. Focus your efforts on completing these tasks and moving on to the real information (the body) of the speech. Typically, there are six main components of an effective introduction. These tasks do not have to be handled in this order, but this layout often yields the best results.

The attention-getter is designed to intrigue the audience members and to motivate them to listen attentively for the next several minutes. There are infinite possibilities for attention-getting devices. Some of the more common devices include using a story, a rhetorical question, or a quotation. While any of these devices can be effective, it is important for you to spend time strategizing, creating, and practicing the attention-getter.

Most importantly, an attention-getter should create curiosity in the minds of your listeners and convince them that the speech will be interesting and useful. The wording of your attention-getter should be refined and practiced. Be sure to consider the mood/tone of your speech; determine the appropriateness of humor, emotion, aggressiveness, etc. Not only should the words get the audiences attention, but your delivery should be smooth and confident to let the audience know that you are a skilled speaker who is prepared for this speech.

The crowd was wild. The music was booming. The sun was shining. The cash registers were ringing.

This story-like re-creation of the scene at a Farm Aid concert serves to engage the audience and causes them to think about the situation you are describing. Touching stories or stories that make audience members feel involved with the topic serve as good attention-getters. You should tell a story with feeling and deliver it directly to the audience instead of reading it off your notecards.

Example Text : One dark summer night in 1849, a young woman in her 20's left Bucktown, Maryland, and followed the North Star. What was her name? Harriet Tubman. She went back some 19 times to rescue her fellow slaves. And as James Blockson relates in a 1984 issue of National Geographic , by the end of her career, she had a $40,000.00 price on her head. This was quite a compliment from her enemies (Blockson 22).

Rhetorical Question

Rhetorical questions are questions designed to arouse curiosity without requiring an answer. Either the answer will be obvious, or if it isn't apparent, the question will arouse curiosity until the presentation provides the answer.

An example of a rhetorical question to gain the audiences attention for a speech about fly-fishing is, "Have you ever stood in a freezing river at 5 o'clock in the morning by choice?"

Example Text: Have you ever heard of a railroad with no tracks, with secret stations, and whose conductors were considered criminals?

A quotation from a famous person or from an expert on your topic can gain the attention of the audience. The use of a quotation immediately launches you into the speech and focuses the audience on your topic area. If it is from a well-known source, cite the author first. If the source is obscure, begin with the quote itself.

Example Text : "No day dawns for the slave, nor is it looked for. It is all night--night forever . . . ." (Pause) This quote was taken from Jermain Loguen, a fugitive who was the son of his Tennessee master and a slave woman.

Unusual Statement

Making a statement that is unusual to the ears of your listeners is another possibility for gaining their attention.

Example Text : "Follow the drinking gourd. That's what I said, friend, follow the drinking gourd." This phrase was used by slaves as a coded message to mean the Big Dipper, which revealed the North Star, and pointed toward freedom.

You might chose to use tasteful humor which relates to the topic as an effective way to attract the audience both to you and the subject at hand.

Example Text : "I'm feeling boxed in." [PAUSE] I'm not sure, but these may have been Henry "Box" Brown's very words after being placed on his head inside a box which measured 3 feet by 2 feet by 2 1\2 feet for what seemed to him like "an hour and a half." He was shipped by Adams Express to freedom in Philadelphia (Brown 60,92; Still 10).

Shocking Statistic

Another possibility to consider is the use of a factual statistic intended to grab your listener's attention. As you research the topic you've picked, keep your eyes open for statistics that will have impact.

Example Text : Today, John Elway's talents are worth millions, but in 1840 the price of a human life, a slave, was worth $1,000.00.

Example Text : Today I'd like to tell you about the Underground Railroad.

In your introduction, you need to adapt your speech to your audience. To keep audience members interested, tell them why your topic is important to them. To accomplish this task, you need to undertake audience analysis prior to creating the speech. Figure out who your audience members are, what things are important to them, what their biases may be, and what types of subjects/issues appeal to them. In the context of this class, some of your audience analysis is provided for you--most of your listeners are college students, so it is likely that they place some value on education, most of them are probably not bathing in money, and they live in Colorado. Consider these traits when you determine how to adapt to your audience.

As you research and write your speech, take note of references to issues that should be important to your audience. Include statements about aspects of your speech that you think will be of special interest to the audience in the introduction. By accomplishing this task, you give your listeners specific things with which they can identify. Audience adaptation will be included throughout the speech, but an effective introduction requires meaningful adaptation of the topic to the audience.

You need to find ways to get the members of your audience involved early in the speech. The following are some possible options to connect your speech to your audience:

Reference to the Occasion

Consider how the occasion itself might present an opportunity to heighten audience receptivity. Remind your listeners of an important date just passed or coming soon.

Example Text : This January will mark the 130th anniversary of a "giant interracial rally" organized by William Still which helped to end streetcar segregation in the city of Philadelphia (Katz i).

Reference to the Previous Speaker

Another possibility is to refer to a previous speaker to capitalize on the good will which already has been established or to build on the information presented.

Example Text : As Alice pointed out last week in her speech on the Olympic games of the ancient world, history can provide us with fascinating lessons.

The credibility statement establishes your qualifications as a speaker. You should come up with reasons why you are someone to listen to on this topic. Why do you have special knowledge or understanding of this topic? What can the audience learn from you that they couldn't learn from someone else? Credibility statements can refer to your extensive research on a topic, your life-long interest in an issue, your personal experience with a thing, or your desire to better the lives of your listeners by sifting through the topic and providing the crucial information.

Remember that Aristotle said that credibility, or ethos, consists of good sense, goodwill, and good moral character. Create the feeling that you possess these qualities by creatively stating that you are well-educated about the topic (good sense), that you want to help each member of the audience (goodwill), and that you are a decent person who can be trusted (good moral character). Once you establish your credibility, the audience is more likely to listen to you as something of an expert and to consider what you say to be the truth. It is often effective to include further references to your credibility throughout the speech by subtly referring to the traits mentioned above.

Show your listeners that you are qualified to speak by making a specific reference to a helpful resource. This is one way to demonstrate competence.

Example Text : In doing research for this topic, I came across an account written by one of these heroes that has deepened my understanding of the institution of slavery. Frederick Douglass', My Bondage and My Freedom, is the account of a man whose master's kindness made his slavery only more unbearable.

Your listeners want to believe that you have their best interests in mind. In the case of an informative speech, it is enough to assure them that this will be an interesting speech and that you, yourself, are enthusiastic about the topic.

Example Text : I hope you'll enjoy hearing about the heroism of the Underground Railroad as much as I have enjoyed preparing for this speech.

Preview the Main Points

The preview informs the audience about the speech's main points. You should preview every main body point and identify each as a separate piece of the body. The purpose of this preview is to let the audience members prepare themselves for the flow of the speech; therefore, you should word the preview clearly and concisely. Attempt to use parallel structure for each part of the preview and avoid delving into the main point; simply tell the audience what the main point will be about in general.

Use the preview to briefly establish your structure and then move on. Let the audience get a taste of how you will divide the topic and fulfill the thesis and then move on. This important tool will reinforce the information in the minds of your listeners. Here are two examples of a preview:

Simply identify the main points of the speech. Cover them in the same order that they will appear in the body of the presentation.

For example, the preview for a speech about kites organized topically might take this form: "First, I will inform you about the invention of the kite. Then, I will explain the evolution of the kite. Third, I will introduce you to the different types of kites. Finally, I will inform you about various uses for kites." Notice that this preview avoids digressions (e.g., listing the various uses for kites); you will take care of the deeper information within the body of the speech.

Example Text : I'll tell you about motivations and means of escape employed by fugitive slaves.

Chronological

For example, the preview for a speech about the Pony Express organized chronologically might take this form: "I'll talk about the Pony Express in three parts. First, its origins, second, its heyday, and third, how it came to an end." Notice that this preview avoids digressions (e.g., listing the reasons why the Pony Express came to an end); you will cover the deeper information within the body of the speech.

Example Text : I'll talk about it in three parts. First, its origins, second, its heyday, and third, how it came to an end.

After you accomplish the first five components of the introduction, you should make a clean transition to the body of the speech. Use this transition to signal a change and prepare the audience to begin processing specific topical information. You should round out the introduction, reinforce the excitement and interest that you created in the audience during the introduction, and slide into the first main body point.

Strategic organization helps increase the clarity and effectiveness of your speech. Four key issues are discussed in this section:

Organizational Patterns

Connective devices, references to outside research.

The body contains the bulk of information in your speech and needs to be clearly organized. Without clear organization, the audience will probably forget your information, main points, perhaps even your thesis. Some simple strategies will help you create a clear, memorable speech. Below are the four key issues used in organizing a speech.

Once you settle on a topic, you should decide which aspects of that topic are of greatest importance for your speech. These aspects become your main points. While there is no rule about how many main points should appear in the body of the speech, most students go with three main points. You must have at least two main points; aside from that rule, you should select your main points based on the importance of the information and the time limitations. Be sure to include whatever information is necessary for the audience to understand your topic. Also, be sure to synthesize the information so it fits into the assigned time frame. As you choose your main points, try to give each point equal attention within the speech. If you pick three main points, each point should take up roughly one-third of the body section of your speech.

There are four basic patterns of organization for an informative speech.

  • Chronological order
  • Spatial order
  • Causal order
  • Topical order

There are four basic patterns of organization for an informative speech. You can choose any of these patterns based on which pattern serves the needs of your speech.

Chronological Order

A speech organized chronologically has main points oriented toward time. For example, a speech about the Farm Aid benefit concert could have main points organized chronologically. The first main point focuses on the creation of the event; the second main point focuses on the planning stages; the third point focuses on the actual performance/concert; and the fourth point focuses on donations and assistance that resulted from the entire process. In this format, you discuss main points in an order that could be followed on a calendar or a clock.

Spatial Order

A speech organized spatially has main points oriented toward space or a directional pattern. The Farm Aid speech's body could be organized in spatial order. The first main point discusses the New York branch of the organization; the second main point discusses the Midwest branch; the third main point discusses the California branch of Farm Aid. In this format, you discuss main points in an order that could be traced on a map.

Causal Order

A speech organized causally has main points oriented toward cause and effect. The main points of a Farm Aid speech organized causally could look like this: the first main point informs about problems on farms and the need for monetary assistance; the second main point discusses the creation and implementation of the Farm Aid program. In this format, you discuss main points in an order that alerts the audience to a problem or circumstance and then tells the audience what action resulted from the original circumstance.

Topical Order

A speech organized topically has main points organized more randomly by sub-topics. The Farm Aid speech could be organized topically: the first main point discusses Farm Aid administrators; the second main point discusses performers; the third main point discusses sponsors; the fourth main point discusses audiences. In this format, you discuss main points in a more random order that labels specific aspects of the topic and addresses them in separate categories. Most speeches that are not organized chronologically, spatially, or causally are organized topically.

Within the body of your speech, you need clear internal structure. Connectives are devices used to create a clear flow between ideas and points within the body of your speech--they serve to tie the speech together. There are four main types of connective devices:

Transitions

Internal previews, internal summaries.

Within the body of your speech, you need clear internal structure. Think of connectives as hooks and ladders for the audience to use when moving from point-to-point within the body of your speech. These devices help re-focus the minds of audience members and remind them of which main point your information is supporting. The four main types of connective devices are:

Transitions are brief statements that tell the audience to shift gears between ideas. Transitions serve as the glue that holds the speech together and allow the audience to predict where the next portion of the speech will go. For example, once you have previewed your main points and you want to move from the introduction to the body of the Farm Aid speech, you might say: "To gain an adequate understanding of the intricacies of this philanthropic group, we need to look at some specific information about Farm Aid. We'll begin by looking at the administrative branch of this massive fund-raising organization."

Internal previews are used to preview the parts of a main point. Internal previews are more focused than, but serve the same purpose as, the preview you will use in the introduction of the speech. For example, you might create an internal preview for the complex main point dealing with Farm Aid performers: "In examining the Farm Aid performers, we must acknowledge the presence of entertainers from different genres of music--country and western, rhythm and blues, rock, and pop." The internal preview provides specific information for the audience if a main point is complex or potentially confusing.

Internal summaries are the reverse of internal previews. Internal summaries restate specific parts of a main point. To internally summarize the main point dealing with Farm Aid performers, you might say: "You now know what types of people perform at the Farm Aid benefit concerts. The entertainers come from a wide range of musical genres--country and western, rhythm and blues, rock, and pop." When using both internal previews and internal summaries, be sure to stylize the language in each so you do not become redundant.

Signposts are brief statements that remind the audience where you are within the speech. If you have a long point, you may want to remind the audience of what main point you are on: "Continuing my discussion of Farm Aid performers . . . "

When organizing the body of your speech, you will integrate several references to your research. The purpose of the informative speech is to allow you and the audience to learn something new about a topic. Additionally, source citations add credibility to your ideas. If you know a lot about rock climbing and you cite several sources who confirm your knowledge, the audience is likely to see you as a credible speaker who provides ample support for ideas.

Without these references, your speech is more like a story or a chance for you to say a few things you know. To complete this assignment satisfactorily, you must use source citations. Consult your textbook and instructor for specific information on how much supporting material you should use and about the appropriate style for source citations.

While the conclusion should be brief and tight, it has a few specific tasks to accomplish:

Re-assert/Reinforce the Thesis

Review the main points, close effectively.

Take a deep breath! If you made it to the conclusion, you are on the brink of finishing. Below are the tasks you should complete in your conclusion:

When making the transition to the conclusion, attempt to make clear distinctions (verbally and nonverbally) that you are now wrapping up the information and providing final comments about the topic. Refer back to the thesis from the introduction with wording that calls the original thesis into memory. Assert that you have accomplished the goals of your thesis statement and create the feeling that audience members who actively considered your information are now equipped with an understanding of your topic. Reinforce whatever mood/tone you chose for the speech and attempt to create a big picture of the speech.

Within the conclusion, re-state the main points of the speech. Since you have used parallel wording for your main points in the introduction and body, don't break that consistency in the conclusion. Frame the review so the audience will be reminded of the preview and the developed discussion of each main point. After the review, you may want to create a statement about why those main points fulfilled the goals of the speech.

Finish strongly. When you close your speech, craft statements that reinforce the message and leave the audience with a clear feeling about what was accomplished with your speech. You might finalize the adaptation by discussing the benefits of listening to the speech and explaining what you think audience members can do with the information.

Remember to maintain an informative tone for this speech. You should not persuade about beliefs or positions; rather, you should persuade the audience that the speech was worthwhile and useful. For greatest effect, create a closing line or paragraph that is artistic and effective. Much like the attention-getter, the closing line needs to be refined and practiced. Your close should stick with the audience and leave them interested in your topic. Take time to work on writing the close well and attempt to memorize it so you can directly address the audience and leave them thinking of you as a well-prepared, confident speaker.

Outlining an Informative Speech

Two types of outlines can help you prepare to deliver your speech. The complete sentence outline provides a useful means of checking the organization and content of your speech. The speaking outline is an essential aid for delivering your speech. In this section, we discuss both types of outlines.

Two types of outlines can help you prepare to deliver your speech. The complete sentence outline provides a useful means of checking the organization and content of your speech. The speaking outline is an essential aid for delivering your speech.

The Complete Sentence Outline

A complete sentence outline may not be required for your presentation. The following information is useful, however, in helping you prepare your speech.

The complete sentence outline helps you organize your material and thoughts and it serves as an excellent copy for editing the speech. The complete sentence outline is just what it sounds like: an outline format including every complete sentence (not fragments or keywords) that will be delivered during your speech.

Writing the Outline

You should create headings for the introduction, body, and conclusion and clearly signal shifts between these main speech parts on the outline. Use standard outline format. For instance, you can use Roman numerals, letters, and numbers to label the parts of the outline. Organize the information so the major headings contain general information and the sub-headings become more specific as they descend. Think of the outline as a funnel: you should make broad, general claims at the top of each part of the outline and then tighten the information until you have exhausted the point. Do this with each section of the outline. Be sure to consult with your instructor about specific aspects of the outline and refer to your course book for further information and examples.

Using the Outline

If you use this outline as it is designed to be used, you will benefit from it. You should start the outline well before your speech day and give yourself plenty of time to revise it. Attempt to have the final, clean copies ready two or three days ahead of time, so you can spend a day or two before your speech working on delivery. Prepare the outline as if it were a final term paper.

The Speaking Outline

Depending upon the assignment and the instructor, you may use a speaking outline during your presentation. The following information will be helpful in preparing your speech through the use of a speaking outline.

This outline should be on notecards and should be a bare bones outline taken from the complete sentence outline. Think of the speaking outline as train tracks to guide you through the speech.

Many speakers find it helpful to highlight certain words/passages or to use different colors for different parts of the speech. You will probably want to write out long or cumbersome quotations along with your source citation. Many times, the hardest passages to learn are those you did not write but were spoken by someone else. Avoid the temptation to over-do the speaking outline; many speakers write too much on the cards and their grades suffer because they read from the cards.

The best strategy for becoming comfortable with a speaking outline is preparation. You should prepare well ahead of time and spend time working with the notecards and memorizing key sections of your speech (the introduction and conclusion, in particular). Try to become comfortable with the extemporaneous style of speaking. You should be able to look at a few keywords on your outline and deliver eloquent sentences because you are so familiar with your material. You should spend approximately 80% of your speech making eye-contact with your audience.

Delivering an Informative Speech

For many speakers, delivery is the most intimidating aspect of public speaking. Although there is no known cure for nervousness, you can make yourself much more comfortable by following a few basic delivery guidelines. In this section, we discuss those guidelines.

The Five-Step Method for Improving Delivery

  • Read aloud your full-sentence outline. Listen to what you are saying and adjust your language to achieve a good, clear, simple sentence structure.
  • Practice the speech repeatedly from the speaking outline. Become comfortable with your keywords to the point that what you say takes the form of an easy, natural conversation.
  • Practice the speech aloud...rehearse it until you are confident you have mastered the ideas you want to present. Do not be concerned about "getting it just right." Once you know the content, you will find the way that is most comfortable for you.
  • Practice in front of a mirror, tape record your practice, and/or present your speech to a friend. You are looking for feedback on rate of delivery, volume, pitch, non-verbal cues (gestures, card-usage, etc.), and eye-contact.
  • Do a dress rehearsal of the speech under conditions as close as possible to those of the actual speech. Practice the speech a day or two before in a classroom. Be sure to incorporate as many elements as possible in the dress rehearsal...especially visual aids.

It should be clear that coping with anxiety over delivering a speech requires significant advanced preparation. The speech needs to be completed several days beforehand so that you can effectively employ this five-step plan.

Anderson, Thad, & Ron Tajchman. (1994). Informative Speaking. Writing@CSU . Colorado State University. https://writing.colostate.edu/guides/guide.cfm?guideid=52

How to Write and Structure a Persuasive Speech

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The purpose of a persuasive speech is to convince your audience to agree with an idea or opinion that you present. First, you'll need to choose a side on a controversial topic, then you will write a speech to explain your position, and convince the audience to agree with you.

You can produce an effective persuasive speech if you structure your argument as a solution to a problem. Your first job as a speaker is to convince your audience that a particular problem is important to them, and then you must convince them that you have the solution to make things better.

Note: You don't have to address a real problem. Any need can work as the problem. For example, you could consider the lack of a pet, the need to wash one's hands, or the need to pick a particular sport to play as the "problem."

As an example, let's imagine that you have chosen "Getting Up Early" as your persuasion topic. Your goal will be to persuade classmates to get themselves out of bed an hour earlier every morning. In this instance, the problem could be summed up as "morning chaos."

A standard speech format has an introduction with a great hook statement, three main points, and a summary. Your persuasive speech will be a tailored version of this format.

Before you write the text of your speech, you should sketch an outline that includes your hook statement and three main points.

Writing the Text

The introduction of your speech must be compelling because your audience will make up their minds within a few minutes whether or not they are interested in your topic.

Before you write the full body you should come up with a greeting. Your greeting can be as simple as "Good morning everyone. My name is Frank."

After your greeting, you will offer a hook to capture attention. A hook sentence for the "morning chaos" speech could be a question:

  • How many times have you been late for school?
  • Does your day begin with shouts and arguments?
  • Have you ever missed the bus?

Or your hook could be a statistic or surprising statement:

  • More than 50 percent of high school students skip breakfast because they just don't have time to eat.
  • Tardy kids drop out of school more often than punctual kids.

Once you have the attention of your audience, follow through to define the topic/problem and introduce your solution. Here's an example of what you might have so far:

Good afternoon, class. Some of you know me, but some of you may not. My name is Frank Godfrey, and I have a question for you. Does your day begin with shouts and arguments? Do you go to school in a bad mood because you've been yelled at, or because you argued with your parent? The chaos you experience in the morning can bring you down and affect your performance at school.

Add the solution:

You can improve your mood and your school performance by adding more time to your morning schedule. You can accomplish this by setting your alarm clock to go off one hour earlier.

Your next task will be to write the body, which will contain the three main points you've come up with to argue your position. Each point will be followed by supporting evidence or anecdotes, and each body paragraph will need to end with a transition statement that leads to the next segment. Here is a sample of three main statements:

  • Bad moods caused by morning chaos will affect your workday performance.
  • If you skip breakfast to buy time, you're making a harmful health decision.
  • (Ending on a cheerful note) You'll enjoy a boost to your self-esteem when you reduce the morning chaos.

After you write three body paragraphs with strong transition statements that make your speech flow, you are ready to work on your summary.

Your summary will re-emphasize your argument and restate your points in slightly different language. This can be a little tricky. You don't want to sound repetitive but will need to repeat what you have said. Find a way to reword the same main points.

Finally, you must make sure to write a clear final sentence or passage to keep yourself from stammering at the end or fading off in an awkward moment. A few examples of graceful exits:

  • We all like to sleep. It's hard to get up some mornings, but rest assured that the reward is well worth the effort.
  • If you follow these guidelines and make the effort to get up a little bit earlier every day, you'll reap rewards in your home life and on your report card.

Tips for Writing Your Speech

  • Don't be confrontational in your argument. You don't need to put down the other side; just convince your audience that your position is correct by using positive assertions.
  • Use simple statistics. Don't overwhelm your audience with confusing numbers.
  • Don't complicate your speech by going outside the standard "three points" format. While it might seem simplistic, it is a tried and true method for presenting to an audience who is listening as opposed to reading.
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  • 5 Steps to Writing a Position Paper
  • How to Structure an Essay
  • Ethos, Logos, Pathos for Persuasion
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  • Definition and Examples of Analysis in Composition
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  • How to Write a Good Thesis Statement

WHAT MY SCHOOL NEEDS – ENGLISH COMPOSITION

                    what my school needs,                                   teacher’s activities.

Activity one (1): Draw out sentences from the pupils about some things they need in school.

Activity two (2): Tell them some things you as a teacher need in the school.

Activity three (3): To guide the pupils in writing a detailed composition about the topic, write and explain the following guidelines on the board.

Activity four (4): Look at, interpret, and explain the example.

                                  GUIDELINES

Paragraph one (1):   Write briefly about your school like it name, location, founded date.

Paragraph two (2):  Write about specific thing your school needs and give reason (s) why it is important.

Paragraph three (3): write about another important thing your school needs and give reasons why it will benefit your school.  

COMPOSITION: WHAT MY SCHOOL NEEDS

    The Name of my school is Infant Scholars School. It is located at 55, Anthony Street, Marry Land, Lagos State. It was founded in 1991 . it is a very good and big school.

    Although my school is the best in town with so many standard facilities, it still lacks some important things. For example, my school does not have a sick bay. Most times, when a pupil fails sick, such a pupil is taken to the hospital for treatment. My school needs a sick bay in order to treat sick pupils at the right time without taking so much time in taking them to the hospitals.

       Also, my school needs one more school bus. The three school buses we have now are not enough for us. We have to wait for a very long time at various bus-stops for our school buses. Buying one more bus will help us to be skillful in these crafts which we could use later in life to make money.    

Pupil’s Activity one (1): Read the example and pay attention.

Pupil’s Activity two (2): Write with care and in details a composition about what your school needs.

Previous Composition : WHY I LIKE SCIENCE

Next Composition: SAMPLE REPORT ABOUT A ROAD ACCIDENT TO A POLICE STATION – FORMAL LETTER

School Reopens After Sallah Break- August 4, 2020

Minimum age for jss 1 students is 12 years for lagos state, civil society groups in nigeria, how i usually spend my nights – english composition.

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16 Public Speaking Tips for Students

Arlin Cuncic, MA, is the author of The Anxiety Workbook and founder of the website About Social Anxiety. She has a Master's degree in clinical psychology.

a speech about what your school needs most

Aron Janssen, MD is board certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry and is the vice chair of child and adolescent psychiatry Northwestern University.

a speech about what your school needs most

Public speaking tips for students aim to reduce anxiety that can interfere with giving presentations or speeches in class. These tips can also be helpful for those with social anxiety disorder (SAD)   who have difficulty speaking in front of a group or telling a story among friends.

Public Speaking Tips

If you have SAD and need to give a speech  in elementary school, high school, college, or university, it helps to be as prepared as possible . Beyond preparation, however, there are strategies that you can use to reduce anxiety and fight the urge to stay home with a fake illness.

Even great speakers practice their speeches beforehand. Practice out loud with a recording device or video camera and then watch yourself to see how you can improve. If you are feeling brave, practice in front of a friend or family member and ask for feedback.

  • Talk about what you know : If possible, choose a topic for your speech or presentation that you know a lot about and love. Your passion for the topic will be felt by the audience, and you will feel less anxious knowing that you have a lot of experience to draw from when other students ask you questions.
  • Concentrate on your message : When you focus on the task at hand, anxiety is less likely to get out of control. Concentrate on the main message of your speech or presentation and make it your goal to deliver that message to the other students in your class.
  • Grab the audience's attention : Most of your fellow classmates will pay attention for at least the first 20 seconds; grab their attention during those early moments. Start with an interesting fact or a story that relates to your topic.
  • Have one main message : Focus on one central theme and your classmates will learn more. Tie different parts of your talk to the main theme to support your overall message. Trying to cover too much ground can leave other students feeling overwhelmed.

Tell Stories

Stories catch the attention of other students and deliver a message in a more meaningful way than facts and figures. Whenever possible, use a story to illustrate a point in your talk.

Being prepared to speak in public can also be important if you have social anxiety disorder. Feeling confident and prepared to give your speech may help lessen your feelings of anxiety. Some of the things that you can do to prepare include:

  • Visit the room : If you have access to the classroom where you will be speaking outside of class hours, take the time to visit in advance and get used to standing at the front of the room. Make arrangements for any audio-visual equipment and practice standing in the exact spot where you will deliver your speech.
  • Rack up experience : Volunteer to speak in front of your class as often as possible. Be the first one to raise your hand when a question is asked. Your confidence will grow with every public speaking experience.
  • Observe other speakers : Take the time to watch other speakers who are good at what they do. Practice imitating their style and confidence.
  • Organize your talk : Every speech should have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. Structure your talk so that the other students know what to expect.

Manage Your Anxiety

Taking steps to deal with your feelings of anxiety can also make public speaking easier. Some of the things that you can do:

  • Tell someone about your anxiety : If you are speaking in front of a high school or college class, meet with your teacher or professor and describe your public speaking fears . If you're in elementary or high school, share your fears with your parents, a teacher, or a guidance counselor. Sometimes sharing how you feel can make it easier to overcome stage fright.
  • Visualize confidence : Visualize yourself confidently delivering your speech. Imagine feeling free of anxiety and engaging the students in your class. Although this may seem like a stretch for you now, visualization is a powerful tool for changing the way that you feel. Elite athletes use this strategy to improve performance in competitions.
  • Find a friendly face : If you are feeling anxious, find one of your friends in class (or someone who seems friendly) and imagine that you are speaking only to that person.

Press Play for Advice on Finding Courage

Hosted by therapist Amy Morin, LCSW, this episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast shares a strategy to help you find courage when you need it the most.

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Maintain Perspective

Remember that other students are on your side. Think about a time when you have been an audience member and the student delivering the speech or presentation was noticeably nervous. Did you think less of that student? More likely, you felt sympathetic and wanted to make that person more comfortable by smiling or nodding.

Remember—other students generally want you to succeed and feel comfortable. If for some reason the audience is not on your side or you experience bullying or social exclusion, be sure to discuss this with a parent, teacher, or guidance counselor.

Be Confident

Sometimes just knowing what makes a good speech can help you feel more confident. Focus on some of the following elements and practice them before you have to speak in public.

  • Develop your own style : In addition to imitating good speakers, work on developing your own personal style as a public speaker. Integrate your own personality into your speaking style and you will feel more comfortable in front of the class. Telling personal stories that tie into your theme are a great way to let other students get to know you better.
  • Avoid filler words : Words such as "basically", "well", and "um" don't add anything to your speech. Practice being silent when you feel the urge to use one of these words.
  • Vary your tone, volume, and speed : Interesting speakers vary the pitch (high versus low), volume (loud versus soft), and speed (fast versus slow) of their words. Doing so keeps your classmates interested and engaged in what you say.
  • Make the audience laugh : Laughter is a great way to relax both you and the other students in your class, and telling jokes can be a great icebreaker at the beginning of a speech. Practice the timing and delivery of your jokes beforehand and ask a friend for feedback. Be sure that they are appropriate for your class before you begin.
  • Smile : If all else fails, smile. Your fellow classmates will perceive you like a warm speaker and be more receptive to what you have to say.

Don't Apologize

If you make a mistake, don't offer apologies. Chances are that your classmates didn't notice anyway. Unless you need to correct a fact or figure, there is no point dwelling on errors that probably only you noticed.

If you make a mistake because your hands or shaking, or something similar, try to make light of the situation by saying something like, "I wasn't this nervous when I woke up this morning!" This can help to break the tension of the moment.

A Word From Verywell

It's natural to feel frightened the first time you have to speak in front of your class. However, if you fear continues, interferes with your daily life and keeps you awake at night, it may be helpful to see someone about your anxiety.

Try talking to a parent, teacher, or counselor about how you have been feeling. If that doesn't get you anywhere, ask to make an appointment with your doctor. Severe public speaking anxiety is a true disorder that can improve with treatment .

Spence SH, Rapee RM. The etiology of social anxiety disorder: An evidence-based model . Behav Res Ther. 2016;86:50-67. doi:10.1016/j.brat.2016.06.007

By Arlin Cuncic, MA Arlin Cuncic, MA, is the author of The Anxiety Workbook and founder of the website About Social Anxiety. She has a Master's degree in clinical psychology.

Student Council Speech Ideas & Tips to Help You Win

Whether you want to be president or head up PR, we've got you covered with tips and example student council speeches.

Lori personal and professional experiences have helped her cultivate a broad writing portfolio, spanning publications on subjects like education and parenting.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

Kate is an experienced writer who has written hundreds of articles for publication.

Getting involved in student council is an amazing way to have a little extra influence in your school, but you have to win an election to get that influence. If you want to convince people to vote for you, you'll need a great student council speech that they'll remember on election day.

Serving on your school's student council gives you a say in student activities and a voice with the school administration, and that's a pretty big deal. It also looks good on college applications. However, to make it onto the student council, you'll first need to give a speech and gather votes from the other students. We've got you covered with writing tips, examples, and ideas to give you tons of extra confidence (and hopefully that win you want).

Winning Student Council Speech Ideas

You've probably done a little (or a lot) of persuasive writing in your classes, and you can totally build on that to write a great speech. You'll also want to make your speech memorable and fun to listen to since you need these kids to think of you when it's time to vote.

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Use these suggestions to help you craft a speech they'll never forget. It's important that you make sure your speech suits your school and position.

Open With a Humorous Story

Start your speech with something that will make everyone laugh . That can be a joke or a hilarious anecdote — there are no wrong answers as long as you amuse people and don't offend them.

  • Funny Intro Ideas for Student Council Speeches

Tell What You've Done Already

Next, you need to establish your credibility. Why should people vote for you? Why are you awesome at this role already? Show off your leadership experience and your connections to people in the school or community.

Explain the Role You're Running For

At this point in the speech, you want to clearly state what you want people to do. Tell them what student council role you're hoping to get and that you will do well in this position.

Keep your speech short and to the point and be honest about why you'd like the position regardless of whether it's a big or smaller role. For smaller roles, such as sergeant-at-arms, auditors, or public relations, hone in on what qualifications you have and use vivid examples to keep your audience interested.

Clearly Ask for Their Vote

Finally, you need to make sure you clearly ask people to vote for you. Mention the election day specifically. It's also nice if you offer to answer any questions or chat with people one-on-one.

Make Your Student Council Speech Stand Out

While there are certain traits and promises the student body expects from every candidate's speech, they want to choose one person who stands out from the crowd. Even if you're running for a smaller position, such as a PR officer or sergeant-at-arms, you may need to make a great speech as well in order to get elected. Make your speech the most memorable one in the room.

  • Grab a thesaurus and look for synonyms of common words used to describe the position you're running for. When all the other secretarial candidates talk about their attention to detail, you can use words like "meticulous" or "assiduous" to sound different.
  • Include visuals like props, a themed outfit, or specific hand gestures to give your speech a multidimensional feel.
  • Choose a speech theme to structure your presentation like a specific social media platform, a historical event, or a particular sport. Look for a theme that relates well to the role you want.
  • Invent a catchphrase that captures the spirit of your speech to keep the student body talking about it all the way to the polls.
  • Add sound effects, song lyrics, or music to give the speech more life.

Student Council Speech Examples for Each Role

Get inspired to write the perfect speech with these examples for each major role. Whether you're hoping to be president or secretary, these samples can help you get started writing your own speech.

Sample Speech for President

Hello, my name is John Doe and I'm a junior. I'm not the type of student who will lead a senior prank or skip class with you, but that probably isn't what you want in a class president anyway. What I do offer is steadfastness, hard work, and the ability to work with others even during difficult circumstances while still keeping a sense of humor.

Last year, when the cafeteria stopped serving the salad bar, I was able to get it reinstated by starting a petition, having many of you sign it, and taking it to Principal Smith. Because we worked together, we were able to bring the salad bar back, and now it's better than ever.

During the last three years at Sample High School, I've been involved in many activities. I've played basketball, spent a short time in the school band, worked on various committees, and helped tutor students after school. Last year, I was adopted into the National Honor Society and started an after school club for airplane enthusiasts that meets once a week.

As your student council president, I vow to end all homework. Just kidding. I can't do that, but what I can do is be your voice with the school administration and work to make this the best year Sample High has ever had. I will introduce ideas for events, such as dances after high school basketball games, and we'll work together to help the community through volunteer work and showing them just how dedicated the students at Sample High are.

I would appreciate your vote for president. If elected, I will continue to fight for the things that are important to students, no matter how big or small they might be. Let's work together to make our stamp on this community and on the world.

If you're running for the highest role in your class or school, your speech really needs to stand out. This is the most competitive race, so make sure you leave people with a clear idea of who you are and what you want to do.

Vice President Speech Example

Instead of starting with my name and what I'm running for, at which point you'll tune me out and start looking at the smudge on your left shoe, I am going to tell you my favorite memory so far from high school. On my first day at Sample High School, I had no idea how to get to my classes. This school is big, and I was lost.

On top of that, I was rushing around trying to find my class and tripped and fell flat on the floor in front of the cutest guy I'd ever seen. Not only was he nice enough to help me up, but several other students rushed to help me, got me to my classroom, and made me feel better about how goofy I was. That was the moment I fell in love with Sample High School. We all help each other and you don't find that just anywhere.

One of the reasons I'm running for Vice President of the student council is that I want to give back to the high school I love so much. I want to be that friendly face for new students coming in and a defender for students already here.

During the last two years, I've prepared myself to serve as Vice President by taking on extra work organizing a fan club for our football players to cheer them on when they play at home and make sure our school is represented in the stands at every away game. I've spent time as an office aid, learning about the everyday running of the school and silently taking notes on what we as students can do to improve things and how we can work with the administration.

As your Vice President, I will stand beside your president, offering support and stepping in when she is not able to be here or asks for some extra help. I'll sit on the student council and get actively involved in planning prom , graduation, and homecoming. I will always be here to listen to your concerns or to help you off the floor should you fall flat on your face like I did.

I am asking for your vote for VP of the student council. I love this school. I want to be helpful, and I want us all to build memories we'll remember and treasure forever. Now, if I can just get off this stage without falling on my face, I'll be in good shape.

A vice presidential speech needs to be highly effective to gain student confidence. This means you need to grab their attention and keep it throughout the speech, as well as clearly telling your audience what you want to accomplish.

Secretary Election Speech Sample

Today, I want to tell you something about me that you might not know. From the time I was five years old, I've been taking guitar lessons. I don't play in a band and I don't take music classes at school, but every night when I get home, I pick up my Fender and I relieve any stress from the day by playing a few of my favorite classic rock songs.

Learning to play a musical instrument takes a lot of time and stubbornness. There are times when I just wanted to quit because my fingers were raw from trying to learn a new chord or that song just didn't sound right. However, I stuck with it until I overcame the challenge and that is exactly what I'll do as your secretary. If there is an issue that needs to be solved, I won't quit until we figure out a solution. I will bring your concerns to the other council members, and like learning a new chord, I will stick with that concern until we figure it out.

I would like your vote for secretary of the student council. You never know, I may even bring my guitar to a student council meeting or two and just set it by my side as a reminder of why we need to work hard to achieve worthwhile things.

In your secretary speech, explain why you are perfect for the role. Highlight your organizational skills, perseverance, and ability to get along with everyone.

Treasurer Election Speech Example

Those of you who already know me probably know that math is my favorite subject. I'm proud of my inner geek, and I think it makes me perfect for the job of Treasurer. The student council treasurer is in charge of keeping track of money and numbers, so this role is a perfect fit for me and I've decided to run for the position.

I've been a member of Jackson High's Mathletes for the last two years. In case you're not familiar with this group, we are a group of students who love math and go out and compete in events. We've won state twice in the last three years. I also am a member of the orchestra. We perform throughout the school year and at school basketball games.

The student council treasurer has to be good at math to keep track of all those numbers. Vote for me, and I'll make sure our numbers add up. I'll also have fun doing it because I'm just crazy enough to love numbers.

  • Example Student Council Speech for Treasurer & Tips to Write Yours

A class treasurer needs to show his or her trustworthiness and math abilities during the speech.

Example Speech for Any Student Council Role

Many of you probably know me best for tripping over my feet and falling face-first off the stage during prom. Once I got over that embarrassment, I decided I could face you here today.

From the first day I arrived at Sample High School, I knew I wanted to become more involved. From serving on the school newspaper as the Features Editor to helping plan prom last year, I consistently spend time in leadership roles and try to make this school an even better place than it already is. Many of you probably know me from my work with Key Club and the volunteer time I've spent at Sunnyvale Nursing Home and cleaning up our community park.

It probably won't surprise you that I have decided to run for student council for the role of ___________. As student council _________ (role), I will strive to continue to make improvements in the school for every student here at Sample High. The student council works side-by-side with the student body and the administration to ensure student events throughout the year are successful. As _______, I will ensure that you have a memorable year.

Today, I am asking for your vote for me on election day. Should you elect me, I will listen to your concerns and work hard for you. I'm happy to chat with anyone after this event to answer any questions you might have.

  • 9 Science-Backed Ways to Stay Focused on Your Schoolwork

Ways to Add Humor to Your Speech

One of the best election speech ideas for students is to work some humor into your speech. Infusing a bit of humor into your speech can help you better connect with your audience while making your speech really stand out. You can try using silly jokes, sarcasm, or inside jokes that only those who attend your school would get. These ideas might help. 

  • Say in a serious tone, "Settle in, I've got about three hours' worth of material to get through."
  • After your speech, say, "Okay, now for my speech."
  • Use a teacher or principal as a funny example, such as, "I'm as passionate about our school as (insert teacher) and as energetic as (insert teacher) after he/she's finished his/her coffee."
  • Say, "I care about this position as much as (teacher) cares about (insert book, movie, or learning principle that teacher speaks about a lot)."
  • Say, "I was really nervous to give this speech, so I've been practicing a lot in front of my (insert pet). He/she/they said it could use some work, so I guess I'll just give this my best shot."
  • Use self-deprecating humor by saying, "My annoying need to be organized and scheduled would make me a great fit for this position."
  • 65+ "Anything But a Backpack" Day Ideas That’ll Make You a School Legend

Deliver the Speech With Confidence

Once you've prepared your speech, practicing a few times alone and in front of an audience can help you get ready to deliver your speech with confidence. Whether your speech is lighthearted and funny or serious and to the point, there are a few things to keep in mind.

  • Make eye contact with those you are speaking to and don't focus too heavily on one person.
  • If you make a mistake, keep going. No one knows what your speech is supposed to sound like.
  • Practice some deep breathing exercises or mindfulness beforehand to calm nerves. Remember to take deep breaths throughout your speech and speak a bit slower than you normally would, as nerves can cause you to speak more rapidly.
  • Visualize yourself doing your speech well the morning of it.

Make Your Election Speech Memorable

Whether you use one of the samples listed here or write an entirely new speech, be sure to put a personal touch on the speech. By focusing on what makes you unique, your passions, and your skills, you will show confidence in front of your classmates and let them see a side of you they may not have seen before. Whether you win or lose the election, you can hold your head high and know you gave the speech your best.

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How to write a speech that your audience remembers

Confident-woman-giving-a-conference-with-a-digital-presentation-how-to-give-a-speech

Whether in a work meeting or at an investor panel, you might give a speech at some point. And no matter how excited you are about the opportunity, the experience can be nerve-wracking . 

But feeling butterflies doesn’t mean you can’t give a great speech. With the proper preparation and a clear outline, apprehensive public speakers and natural wordsmiths alike can write and present a compelling message. Here’s how to write a good speech you’ll be proud to deliver.

What is good speech writing?

Good speech writing is the art of crafting words and ideas into a compelling, coherent, and memorable message that resonates with the audience. Here are some key elements of great speech writing:

  • It begins with clearly understanding the speech's purpose and the audience it seeks to engage. 
  • A well-written speech clearly conveys its central message, ensuring that the audience understands and retains the key points. 
  • It is structured thoughtfully, with a captivating opening, a well-organized body, and a conclusion that reinforces the main message. 
  • Good speech writing embraces the power of engaging content, weaving in stories, examples, and relatable anecdotes to connect with the audience on both intellectual and emotional levels. 

Ultimately, it is the combination of these elements, along with the authenticity and delivery of the speaker , that transforms words on a page into a powerful and impactful spoken narrative.

What makes a good speech?

A great speech includes several key qualities, but three fundamental elements make a speech truly effective:

Clarity and purpose

Remembering the audience, cohesive structure.

While other important factors make a speech a home run, these three elements are essential for writing an effective speech.

The main elements of a good speech

The main elements of a speech typically include:

  • Introduction: The introduction sets the stage for your speech and grabs the audience's attention. It should include a hook or attention-grabbing opening, introduce the topic, and provide an overview of what will be covered.
  • Opening/captivating statement: This is a strong statement that immediately engages the audience and creates curiosity about the speech topics.
  • Thesis statement/central idea: The thesis statement or central idea is a concise statement that summarizes the main point or argument of your speech. It serves as a roadmap for the audience to understand what your speech is about.
  • Body: The body of the speech is where you elaborate on your main points or arguments. Each point is typically supported by evidence, examples, statistics, or anecdotes. The body should be organized logically and coherently, with smooth transitions between the main points.
  • Supporting evidence: This includes facts, data, research findings, expert opinions, or personal stories that support and strengthen your main points. Well-chosen and credible evidence enhances the persuasive power of your speech.
  • Transitions: Transitions are phrases or statements that connect different parts of your speech, guiding the audience from one idea to the next. Effective transitions signal the shifts in topics or ideas and help maintain a smooth flow throughout the speech.
  • Counterarguments and rebuttals (if applicable): If your speech involves addressing opposing viewpoints or counterarguments, you should acknowledge and address them. Presenting counterarguments makes your speech more persuasive and demonstrates critical thinking.
  • Conclusion: The conclusion is the final part of your speech and should bring your message to a satisfying close. Summarize your main points, restate your thesis statement, and leave the audience with a memorable closing thought or call to action.
  • Closing statement: This is the final statement that leaves a lasting impression and reinforces the main message of your speech. It can be a call to action, a thought-provoking question, a powerful quote, or a memorable anecdote.
  • Delivery and presentation: How you deliver your speech is also an essential element to consider. Pay attention to your tone, body language, eye contact , voice modulation, and timing. Practice and rehearse your speech, and try using the 7-38-55 rule to ensure confident and effective delivery.

While the order and emphasis of these elements may vary depending on the type of speech and audience, these elements provide a framework for organizing and delivering a successful speech.

Man-holding-microphone-at-panel-while-talking--how-to-give-a-speech

How to structure a good speech

You know what message you want to transmit, who you’re delivering it to, and even how you want to say it. But you need to know how to start, develop, and close a speech before writing it. 

Think of a speech like an essay. It should have an introduction, conclusion, and body sections in between. This places ideas in a logical order that the audience can better understand and follow them. Learning how to make a speech with an outline gives your storytelling the scaffolding it needs to get its point across.

Here’s a general speech structure to guide your writing process:

  • Explanation 1
  • Explanation 2
  • Explanation 3

How to write a compelling speech opener

Some research shows that engaged audiences pay attention for only 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Other estimates are even lower, citing that people stop listening intently in fewer than 10 minutes . If you make a good first impression at the beginning of your speech, you have a better chance of interesting your audience through the middle when attention spans fade. 

Implementing the INTRO model can help grab and keep your audience’s attention as soon as you start speaking. This acronym stands for interest, need, timing, roadmap, and objectives, and it represents the key points you should hit in an opening. 

Here’s what to include for each of these points: 

  • Interest : Introduce yourself or your topic concisely and speak with confidence . Write a compelling opening statement using relevant data or an anecdote that the audience can relate to.
  • Needs : The audience is listening to you because they have something to learn. If you’re pitching a new app idea to a panel of investors, those potential partners want to discover more about your product and what they can earn from it. Read the room and gently remind them of the purpose of your speech. 
  • Timing : When appropriate, let your audience know how long you’ll speak. This lets listeners set expectations and keep tabs on their own attention span. If a weary audience member knows you’ll talk for 40 minutes, they can better manage their energy as that time goes on. 
  • Routemap : Give a brief overview of the three main points you’ll cover in your speech. If an audience member’s attention starts to drop off and they miss a few sentences, they can more easily get their bearings if they know the general outline of the presentation.
  • Objectives : Tell the audience what you hope to achieve, encouraging them to listen to the end for the payout. 

Writing the middle of a speech

The body of your speech is the most information-dense section. Facts, visual aids, PowerPoints — all this information meets an audience with a waning attention span. Sticking to the speech structure gives your message focus and keeps you from going off track, making everything you say as useful as possible.

Limit the middle of your speech to three points, and support them with no more than three explanations. Following this model organizes your thoughts and prevents you from offering more information than the audience can retain. 

Using this section of the speech to make your presentation interactive can add interest and engage your audience. Try including a video or demonstration to break the monotony. A quick poll or survey also keeps the audience on their toes. 

Wrapping the speech up

To you, restating your points at the end can feel repetitive and dull. You’ve practiced countless times and heard it all before. But repetition aids memory and learning , helping your audience retain what you’ve told them. Use your speech’s conclusion to summarize the main points with a few short sentences.

Try to end on a memorable note, like posing a motivational quote or a thoughtful question the audience can contemplate once they leave. In proposal or pitch-style speeches, consider landing on a call to action (CTA) that invites your audience to take the next step.

People-clapping-after-coworker-gave-a-speech-how-to-give-a-speech

How to write a good speech

If public speaking gives you the jitters, you’re not alone. Roughly 80% of the population feels nervous before giving a speech, and another 10% percent experiences intense anxiety and sometimes even panic. 

The fear of failure can cause procrastination and can cause you to put off your speechwriting process until the last minute. Finding the right words takes time and preparation, and if you’re already feeling nervous, starting from a blank page might seem even harder.

But putting in the effort despite your stress is worth it. Presenting a speech you worked hard on fosters authenticity and connects you to the subject matter, which can help your audience understand your points better. Human connection is all about honesty and vulnerability, and if you want to connect to the people you’re speaking to, they should see that in you.

1. Identify your objectives and target audience

Before diving into the writing process, find healthy coping strategies to help you stop worrying . Then you can define your speech’s purpose, think about your target audience, and start identifying your objectives. Here are some questions to ask yourself and ground your thinking : 

  • What purpose do I want my speech to achieve? 
  • What would it mean to me if I achieved the speech’s purpose?
  • What audience am I writing for? 
  • What do I know about my audience? 
  • What values do I want to transmit? 
  • If the audience remembers one take-home message, what should it be? 
  • What do I want my audience to feel, think, or do after I finish speaking? 
  • What parts of my message could be confusing and require further explanation?

2. Know your audience

Understanding your audience is crucial for tailoring your speech effectively. Consider the demographics of your audience, their interests, and their expectations. For instance, if you're addressing a group of healthcare professionals, you'll want to use medical terminology and data that resonate with them. Conversely, if your audience is a group of young students, you'd adjust your content to be more relatable to their experiences and interests. 

3. Choose a clear message

Your message should be the central idea that you want your audience to take away from your speech. Let's say you're giving a speech on climate change. Your clear message might be something like, "Individual actions can make a significant impact on mitigating climate change." Throughout your speech, all your points and examples should support this central message, reinforcing it for your audience.

4. Structure your speech

Organizing your speech properly keeps your audience engaged and helps them follow your ideas. The introduction should grab your audience's attention and introduce the topic. For example, if you're discussing space exploration, you could start with a fascinating fact about a recent space mission. In the body, you'd present your main points logically, such as the history of space exploration, its scientific significance, and future prospects. Finally, in the conclusion, you'd summarize your key points and reiterate the importance of space exploration in advancing human knowledge.

5. Use engaging content for clarity

Engaging content includes stories, anecdotes, statistics, and examples that illustrate your main points. For instance, if you're giving a speech about the importance of reading, you might share a personal story about how a particular book changed your perspective. You could also include statistics on the benefits of reading, such as improved cognitive abilities and empathy.

6. Maintain clarity and simplicity

It's essential to communicate your ideas clearly. Avoid using overly technical jargon or complex language that might confuse your audience. For example, if you're discussing a medical breakthrough with a non-medical audience, explain complex terms in simple, understandable language.

7. Practice and rehearse

Practice is key to delivering a great speech. Rehearse multiple times to refine your delivery, timing, and tone. Consider using a mirror or recording yourself to observe your body language and gestures. For instance, if you're giving a motivational speech, practice your gestures and expressions to convey enthusiasm and confidence.

8. Consider nonverbal communication

Your body language, tone of voice, and gestures should align with your message . If you're delivering a speech on leadership, maintain strong eye contact to convey authority and connection with your audience. A steady pace and varied tone can also enhance your speech's impact.

9. Engage your audience

Engaging your audience keeps them interested and attentive. Encourage interaction by asking thought-provoking questions or sharing relatable anecdotes. If you're giving a speech on teamwork, ask the audience to recall a time when teamwork led to a successful outcome, fostering engagement and connection.

10. Prepare for Q&A

Anticipate potential questions or objections your audience might have and prepare concise, well-informed responses. If you're delivering a speech on a controversial topic, such as healthcare reform, be ready to address common concerns, like the impact on healthcare costs or access to services, during the Q&A session.

By following these steps and incorporating examples that align with your specific speech topic and purpose, you can craft and deliver a compelling and impactful speech that resonates with your audience.

Woman-at-home-doing-research-in-her-laptop-how-to-give-a-speech

Tools for writing a great speech

There are several helpful tools available for speechwriting, both technological and communication-related. Here are a few examples:

  • Word processing software: Tools like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or other word processors provide a user-friendly environment for writing and editing speeches. They offer features like spell-checking, grammar correction, formatting options, and easy revision tracking.
  • Presentation software: Software such as Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides is useful when creating visual aids to accompany your speech. These tools allow you to create engaging slideshows with text, images, charts, and videos to enhance your presentation.
  • Speechwriting Templates: Online platforms or software offer pre-designed templates specifically for speechwriting. These templates provide guidance on structuring your speech and may include prompts for different sections like introductions, main points, and conclusions.
  • Rhetorical devices and figures of speech: Rhetorical tools such as metaphors, similes, alliteration, and parallelism can add impact and persuasion to your speech. Resources like books, websites, or academic papers detailing various rhetorical devices can help you incorporate them effectively.
  • Speechwriting apps: Mobile apps designed specifically for speechwriting can be helpful in organizing your thoughts, creating outlines, and composing a speech. These apps often provide features like voice recording, note-taking, and virtual prompts to keep you on track.
  • Grammar and style checkers: Online tools or plugins like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor help improve the clarity and readability of your speech by checking for grammar, spelling, and style errors. They provide suggestions for sentence structure, word choice, and overall tone.
  • Thesaurus and dictionary: Online or offline resources such as thesauruses and dictionaries help expand your vocabulary and find alternative words or phrases to express your ideas more effectively. They can also clarify meanings or provide context for unfamiliar terms.
  • Online speechwriting communities: Joining online forums or communities focused on speechwriting can be beneficial for getting feedback, sharing ideas, and learning from experienced speechwriters. It's an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and improve your public speaking skills through collaboration.

Remember, while these tools can assist in the speechwriting process, it's essential to use them thoughtfully and adapt them to your specific needs and style. The most important aspect of speechwriting remains the creativity, authenticity, and connection with your audience that you bring to your speech.

Man-holding-microphone-while-speaking-in-public-how-to-give-a-speech

5 tips for writing a speech

Behind every great speech is an excellent idea and a speaker who refined it. But a successful speech is about more than the initial words on the page, and there are a few more things you can do to help it land.

Here are five more tips for writing and practicing your speech:

1. Structure first, write second

If you start the writing process before organizing your thoughts, you may have to re-order, cut, and scrap the sentences you worked hard on. Save yourself some time by using a speech structure, like the one above, to order your talking points first. This can also help you identify unclear points or moments that disrupt your flow.

2. Do your homework

Data strengthens your argument with a scientific edge. Research your topic with an eye for attention-grabbing statistics, or look for findings you can use to support each point. If you’re pitching a product or service, pull information from company metrics that demonstrate past or potential successes. 

Audience members will likely have questions, so learn all talking points inside and out. If you tell investors that your product will provide 12% returns, for example, come prepared with projections that support that statement.

3. Sound like yourself

Memorable speakers have distinct voices. Think of Martin Luther King Jr’s urgent, inspiring timbre or Oprah’s empathetic, personal tone . Establish your voice — one that aligns with your personality and values — and stick with it. If you’re a motivational speaker, keep your tone upbeat to inspire your audience . If you’re the CEO of a startup, try sounding assured but approachable. 

4. Practice

As you practice a speech, you become more confident , gain a better handle on the material, and learn the outline so well that unexpected questions are less likely to trip you up. Practice in front of a colleague or friend for honest feedback about what you could change, and speak in front of the mirror to tweak your nonverbal communication and body language .

5. Remember to breathe

When you’re stressed, you breathe more rapidly . It can be challenging to talk normally when you can’t regulate your breath. Before your presentation, try some mindful breathing exercises so that when the day comes, you already have strategies that will calm you down and remain present . This can also help you control your voice and avoid speaking too quickly.

How to ghostwrite a great speech for someone else

Ghostwriting a speech requires a unique set of skills, as you're essentially writing a piece that will be delivered by someone else. Here are some tips on how to effectively ghostwrite a speech:

  • Understand the speaker's voice and style : Begin by thoroughly understanding the speaker's personality, speaking style, and preferences. This includes their tone, humor, and any personal anecdotes they may want to include.
  • Interview the speaker : Have a detailed conversation with the speaker to gather information about their speech's purpose, target audience, key messages, and any specific points they want to emphasize. Ask for personal stories or examples they may want to include.
  • Research thoroughly : Research the topic to ensure you have a strong foundation of knowledge. This helps you craft a well-informed and credible speech.
  • Create an outline : Develop a clear outline that includes the introduction, main points, supporting evidence, and a conclusion. Share this outline with the speaker for their input and approval.
  • Write in the speaker's voice : While crafting the speech, maintain the speaker's voice and style. Use language and phrasing that feel natural to them. If they have a particular way of expressing ideas, incorporate that into the speech.
  • Craft a captivating opening : Begin the speech with a compelling opening that grabs the audience's attention. This could be a relevant quote, an interesting fact, a personal anecdote, or a thought-provoking question.
  • Organize content logically : Ensure the speech flows logically, with each point building on the previous one. Use transitions to guide the audience from one idea to the next smoothly.
  • Incorporate engaging stories and examples : Include anecdotes, stories, and real-life examples that illustrate key points and make the speech relatable and memorable.
  • Edit and revise : Edit the speech carefully for clarity, grammar, and coherence. Ensure the speech is the right length and aligns with the speaker's time constraints.
  • Seek feedback : Share drafts of the speech with the speaker for their feedback and revisions. They may have specific changes or additions they'd like to make.
  • Practice delivery : If possible, work with the speaker on their delivery. Practice the speech together, allowing the speaker to become familiar with the content and your writing style.
  • Maintain confidentiality : As a ghostwriter, it's essential to respect the confidentiality and anonymity of the work. Do not disclose that you wrote the speech unless you have the speaker's permission to do so.
  • Be flexible : Be open to making changes and revisions as per the speaker's preferences. Your goal is to make them look good and effectively convey their message.
  • Meet deadlines : Stick to agreed-upon deadlines for drafts and revisions. Punctuality and reliability are essential in ghostwriting.
  • Provide support : Support the speaker during their preparation and rehearsal process. This can include helping with cue cards, speech notes, or any other materials they need.

Remember that successful ghostwriting is about capturing the essence of the speaker while delivering a well-structured and engaging speech. Collaboration, communication, and adaptability are key to achieving this.

Give your best speech yet

Learn how to make a speech that’ll hold an audience’s attention by structuring your thoughts and practicing frequently. Put the effort into writing and preparing your content, and aim to improve your breathing, eye contact , and body language as you practice. The more you work on your speech, the more confident you’ll become.

The energy you invest in writing an effective speech will help your audience remember and connect to every concept. Remember: some life-changing philosophies have come from good speeches, so give your words a chance to resonate with others. You might even change their thinking.

Boost your speech skills

Enhance your public speaking with personalized coaching tailored to your needs

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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10 School Prefect Speech Outline Examples (PDF)

The speech outline examples below will guide you to write a good speech as the head prefect of your school. They are sample speech templates I’ve personally used to achieve amazing results with my English essay writing class over the years.

By the time you get to the end of these school prefect speech outline examples, you will be able to download a pdf copy of this post.

Do you teach English Language in a senior high school or even junior high? These speech outline examples will make your work a lot easier.

And if you happen to be a parent who likes to homeschool your child there’s so much you can take from here to assist your ward to write great school prefect speeches.

Without wasting much time, let’s get down to business. We want to know how to write a great school prefect’s speech. This is why the following examples of a school prefect speech outline will be of immense help to you.

HOW TO ANALYZE AN ESSAY TOPIC TO AVOID DEVIATION

Head Prefect Speech Outlines

  • A close friend  has won a scholarship  and is about to go abroad  to study  for three years . You have been invited to make a speech on the occasion  of his / her departure.  Write your speech.

Plan/Outline:

  • Vocatives (Example: Mr. Chairman, Fellow Students, Ladies and Gentlemen.)

2. Opening remarks and congratulations

3. Advice: (i) Study   (ii) Friends / Social life   (iii) Home.

4. How you shall be missed

5. Farewell.

  • Your school is celebrating the fortieth anniversary of its founding. As head prefect you are asked to give a public speech  during the celebrations. Write your speech, outlining the achievements  of the school and your hopes  for the future.
  • Appreciation and opening remarks
  • Achievements (i) Academic   (ii) Infrastructure   (iii) Sports    (iv) Discipline.
  • Hopes for the future derived from present difficulties (i) Student and Staff Accommodation    (ii) Feeding (sch. Farm)    (iii) Bust in memory of founder(s).
  • Closing remarks.
  • The students’ Union  of your district  is organizing a symposium  on the need to preserve the environment  in your area  and you have been chosen as one of the speakers. Write the speech you would give.
  • Opening remarks
  • Bad state of the Environment
  • Why the need for preservation
  • Beauty  (Tourism)
  • For the benefit of future generations
  • Economic – agricultural production

4.  How to preserve: the environment

       (i) Communal labour – clearing

       (ii) Proper waste disposal

Regulation of exploitation of natural resources.

Public education on benefits and ways of preservation

33 Best Business English Online Courses

Lesson One of Christian Religious Studies Textbook for High Schools

  • Your school is celebrating its  speech  and prize-giving day . As the school prefect,  you have been asked to give a speech on the topic: The achievements  of my school in the last academic  year, Write your speech .

Opening remarks & welcome etc.

Achievements: (i) Academic   (ii) Sports   (iii) Discipline   (iv) Agric   (v) Infrastructure   (vi) Staffing.

  • Write a speech  to be delivered during the  minister  of communication’s visit  to your school, offering reasons  why you need an F.M. radio station in your area .

Opening remarks: – welcome etc.

Reasons: (i) Entertainment   (ii) Business and Employment   (iii) Public education   (iv) Participatory democracy.

  • The head  of your school is going on retirement . Write out the speech  you would deliver as the school prefect  at the farewell  party organized for him/her.
  • Opening remarks – welcome etc.
  • How he/she will be missed – achievements and landmarks left behind
  • Advice – active life, continued interest in the school etc.
  •   As the outgoing  senior prefect  in your school, write a speech  for delivery at your speech and prize giving day celebration showing the successes  and failures  recorded during your term of office.
  • Successes: (i) Academic   (ii) Discipline   (iii) Agric (food self sufficiency)
  • Failures: (i) Sports and Games     (ii) Infrastructure    (iii) Rise in occultism  – threat to discipline and security.
  • Fire  has destroyed the health  centre of your locality. As the chairman of the Youth  movement, you have called a meeting to rally  members for communal labour  at the site. Write your speech.  
  • Description of the fire incident and its effects on the locality.
  • Need for concerted and immediate action (i) Good health for all  (ii) Short distance to health centre is an advantage (iii) Employment opportunity for the youth – cleaners, security etc.
  • Estimated costs and time – frame for completion
  • Closing remarks – thanks etc.
  • The Environmental Club of your school has just ended a clean–up campaign in a nearby village. As president of the Club, write the address you will give to the people on the need to keep their surroundings clean.

Plan /Outline:

  • Need to keep the environment  Clean: (i) Health   (ii) Beauty    (iii) Tourism   (iv) Boost in image
  • How: (i) Weeding by Individual households (ii) Proper disposal of waste by Individuals & households (iii) Communal labour   (iv) Public education by opinion leaders.
  •  Closing remarks.
  • You have been asked to give a talk to a group of foreign tourists on the role of traditional healers in your area. Write out your speech.
  • Role (i) Affordable health care (ii) Ready & easy to access health care in the absence of modern health facilities (iii) Effective alternative medicine to  orthodox e.g. fractures (iv) cure of spiritual illnesses
  • Observations (i) Unhygienic conditions 2. Unsubstantiated claims about  multiple healing capabilities  of drugs  (iii) Abuse e.g. chaining of supposed lunatics and molestation of suspected witches
  • Overall Assessment: They are doing well but need to improve.

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a speech about what your school needs most

Ralph Nyadzi

Ralph Nyadzi is the Director of Studies at Cegast Academy. He is a qualified English tutor with decades of experience behind him. Since 2001, he has successfully coached thousands of High School General Arts WASSCE candidates in English, Literature and related subjects. He combines his expertise with a passion for lifelong learning to guide learners from varying backgrounds to achieve their educational goals. Ralph shares lessons from his blogging journey on BloggingtotheMax . He lives with River, his pet cat, in the Central Region of Ghana.

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  • 11 Tips for Giving a Great Speech

a speech about what your school needs most

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Chances are you’ll be asked to give speeches or presentations in classes at school. If you get involved in volunteer groups, brief speeches to open events or thank participants are a must. Then there are the speeches at events such as weddings, as well as speeches that you might have to give in the workplace. That amounts to the average person being required to give quite a lot of speeches, even if they don’t get involved in an area such as politics where the ability to give a good speech becomes even more important. You might also have suffered through quite a number of bad speeches from other people – whether that’s at family events where the microphone squeaks the whole way through or a school presentation where the headteacher can’t quite make the jokes work. If you don’t want to inflict the same sort of experience on others, here are our top tips for giving a great speech.

1. Practise your microphone technique

Correct spacing is key - you want to be heard but don't want to end up deafening your audience!

2. Keep it short

Be strict with yourself when it comes to timing.

Particularly at something like a party or a wedding, no one will be unhappy if your speech runs a little short; it’ll just give them more time to investigate the canapés. If you are giving a speech for a class in school, and it’ll be assessed, you need to prioritise keeping it within the required time limits. But even under these circumstances, if you’ve been tasked – say – with giving a 10-15 minute speech, it’s usually better to come in nearer the 10 than the 15 minute mark. Put simply, even if your speech is terrible, your audience can probably tolerate it for 10 minutes. Much longer, and they’ll be struggling. This shouldn’t limit what you can cover; in the film Up , the whole of Carl and Ellie’s heartbreaking love story is told in under 12 minutes. Do you really need longer to make your points? Achieve brevity by writing out the speech you would give if you had all the time in the world, and then cut anything that seems extraneous or boring.

3. Consider what your audience wants to hear

If you are giving a speech in class because it’s your assignment, what your audience wants to hear is likely to be “the bell ringing for lunch”; you can’t help them there. But under other circumstances, consider what your audience wants to hear and what you want to say, and strive for there to be as much overlap as possible. In the context of a political speech, for instance, what you want to say might be why your party should receive votes; what your audience wants to hear is what your party would do for them, if they won power. Hopefully it should be possible to write a speech that meets both sets of needs, rather than focusing solely on whatever it is that you want to say and leaving your audience disappointed.

4. Pick a theme and stick to it

Beware: digressions ahead.

Here’s a goal for giving a speech: someone sitting near the back, who’s messing around on their phone for at least two-thirds of it and focusing mainly on how long it will be until lunch, should nonetheless be able to give a reasonably accurate answer to the question, “what was it about?” If you’re supposed to be giving a speech in defence of the nuclear deterrent, for example, both the topic and your position on it should be clearly identifiable. This means – to stick with the nuclear deterrent example – not talking for a while about jobs, and then the wider economy, and then the North-South divide, and then Scottish independence, and then Ukraine with a brief digression into South Ossetia before rounding off by squeaking out “and that’s why we should renew Trident!” seconds before you run out of time – no matter how relevant that cornucopia of topics may feel (and they are all relevant, albeit tenuously). It means that even if you do have to take a while to explain a more complex idea, you need to be concise, and bring it back to your theme as quickly as you can.

5. Speak slowly

Most people speak more quickly than they realise when they’re on stage, especially if they’re nervous. But no one will be able to follow your speech if you’re jabbering it out. Thankfully, this one is easy to fix with a little effort and practise. First of all, figure out how quickly you’re actually speaking: do a word count for your speech and then time yourself saying it. A fast speaker will speak at maybe 160 words per minute, a slow speaker at 100 wpm and an average speaker at 130 wpm. For a formal speech, you want to be speaking on the slow side. While this will vary by culture and environment, 120 wpm is a reasonable target to aim for; slow enough that everyone should be able to understand you, and fast enough that you hopefully won’t be sending them to sleep.

6. Tell a couple of jokes

A touch of humour won't go amiss, even if you're not a natural comedian.

This is a tricky tip because there are lots of pitfalls in the world of telling jokes. For instance, there’s the temptation to include an in-joke that three of your friends will understand and find hilarious, that is utterly baffling to everyone else in the room. Avoid this – if you include any jokes, witty references or anything along those lines, make sure they are accessible to everyone present. All the same, if you can manage a joke or two, it can be a useful way to break up a speech and retain the audience’s interest. A little self-deprecation (not too much!) or the use of classic joke formats such as “the scene was chaotic; it looked as if a bomb had hit and we didn’t know where to start on repairs – but that’s enough about the hen party…” work nicely even if you’re not very confident. Don’t turn it into a stand-up comedy sketch if you’re not a comedian, don’t wait for ages for laughter that’s not showing up, and don’t make jokes at the expense of anyone who you don’t know for sure can take it.

7. Don’t be afraid to repeat yourself if you need to

If you follow US or UK politics at all, you’ve probably heard some of these phrases recently: take back control, make America great again, long-term economic plan, son of a bus driver. Three of these have already led the party or people they’re associated with to electoral victory; the fourth remains to be seen. To take the ‘son of a bus driver’ as an example, this refers to Sadiq Khan, now Mayor of London. There can be hardly anyone in London who doesn’t know what their Mayor’s dad did for a living. Meanwhile, many of them probably can’t remember his rival Zac Goldsmith’s name, let alone anything he said during the campaign. The point is that repetition works. In pursuit of point 4, if you want people to remember your key theme, you’re going to have to say it more than once. Don’t assume that everyone will have paid attention to everything you’ve said, unless you’re in a classroom setting where they’ll get told off if they don’t.

8. Only use the visual aids you need

Scratch the notes and speak directly to your audience.

This tip applies to two things: PowerPoints and notes. If you can do without either (and your assignment allows it), then do. Every time you’re glancing over your notes or up at the screen, fiddling with the laptop to get the slide to move on, fighting with a video that isn’t working or struggling to read your own handwriting, is time that you’re not spending engaging with your audience. A well-written, clear speech delivered without notes is always going to be better than someone awkwardly reading aloud the bullet points on their PowerPoint slides. If you must do a presentation – for instance, because there are photos that need to be included – have as little text on it as possible, preferably none. That way, if there are people at the back who can’t really see the screen through the sea of heads in front of them, they’ll still be able to follow what you’re saying.

9. Get a friend to check for awkward mannerisms

Mannerisms that are entirely fine in normal life become awkward and strange when you’re speaking in public. Perhaps you’re inclined to fiddle with your hair or your cuffs, you rock back and forth on the balls of your feet, or you have a habit of reaching your hand to your cheek when you’re talking. No one would notice in everyday conversation, but when you’re on a stage, it’ll become all they’ll see. Some of this is easily avoidable – for instance, if you have long hair that you’re inclined to twirl or otherwise fiddle with, tie it up. For other mannerisms, get the critical friend who helped you sort out your microphone technique to tell you what they are, and do your best to suppress the more annoying ones.

10. Look around the room

Overly intense eye-contact can easily feel intimidating.

Talking about eye contact usually has the effect of making normal eye contact a lot harder, and so does giving a speech. All of a sudden, you’re up on stage, and you have no idea what a normal way to look at a group of people is. Some speakers deal with this by picking a point in the middle distance and speaking to it; others by picking a particular person near to the back and addressing their entire speech at them. This is obviously no fun for that person, who probably spends the whole thing feeling extremely uncomfortable, but it’s not too weird for everyone else. Better still, though, if you can manage it, is to look slowly and steadily around the room, trying to make eye contact with a decent range of people, before returning to the middle distance for a while, rinse and repeat. This needs to be slow and steady, or you give the impression that you’ve just smelled smoke and are casting about for a fire exit before the stampede beings.

11. Don’t be scared of a good reaction

If your speech is genuinely engaging, funny, inspiring or any of the other things you might hope it would be, your audience will react to it. There might be laughter, or applause, or even a bit of cheering depending on the setting. This can be daunting because when you’re practising your speech in front of your bedroom mirror, there’s no way to prepare for it. And it’s where even the best speakers can go wrong, by launching straight into what they were going to say next without waiting for the laughter or applause to stop, or by looking painfully awkward while it’s going on. It’s a pitfall that’s mostly solved by being aware it might happen. If your audience is applauding you or otherwise reacting well, it’s OK to smile, look up, wait for them to stop and then keep going with your speech – it’s as simple as that. You could even throw in a “thank you” before you continue in the knowledge that it’s all going well. Image credits: microphones ; audience ; boy with microphone ; clock ; winding road ; enjoy a joke ; sticky notes ; 

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14.1 Four Methods of Delivery

Learning objectives.

  • Differentiate among the four methods of speech delivery.
  • Understand when to use each of the four methods of speech delivery.

Lt. Governor Anthony Brown bring greetings to the 13th Annual House of Ruth Spring Luncheon. by Brian K. Slack at Baltimore, MD

Maryland GovPics – House of Ruth Luncheon – CC BY 2.0.

The easiest approach to speech delivery is not always the best. Substantial work goes into the careful preparation of an interesting and ethical message, so it is understandable that students may have the impulse to avoid “messing it up” by simply reading it word for word. But students who do this miss out on one of the major reasons for studying public speaking: to learn ways to “connect” with one’s audience and to increase one’s confidence in doing so. You already know how to read, and you already know how to talk. But public speaking is neither reading nor talking.

Speaking in public has more formality than talking. During a speech, you should present yourself professionally. This doesn’t mean you must wear a suit or “dress up” (unless your instructor asks you to), but it does mean making yourself presentable by being well groomed and wearing clean, appropriate clothes. It also means being prepared to use language correctly and appropriately for the audience and the topic, to make eye contact with your audience, and to look like you know your topic very well.

While speaking has more formality than talking, it has less formality than reading. Speaking allows for meaningful pauses, eye contact, small changes in word order, and vocal emphasis. Reading is a more or less exact replication of words on paper without the use of any nonverbal interpretation. Speaking, as you will realize if you think about excellent speakers you have seen and heard, provides a more animated message.

The next sections introduce four methods of delivery that can help you balance between too much and too little formality when giving a public speech.

Impromptu Speaking

Impromptu speaking is the presentation of a short message without advance preparation. Impromptu speeches often occur when someone is asked to “say a few words” or give a toast on a special occasion. You have probably done impromptu speaking many times in informal, conversational settings. Self-introductions in group settings are examples of impromptu speaking: “Hi, my name is Steve, and I’m a volunteer with the Homes for the Brave program.” Another example of impromptu speaking occurs when you answer a question such as, “What did you think of the documentary?”

The advantage of this kind of speaking is that it’s spontaneous and responsive in an animated group context. The disadvantage is that the speaker is given little or no time to contemplate the central theme of his or her message. As a result, the message may be disorganized and difficult for listeners to follow.

Here is a step-by-step guide that may be useful if you are called upon to give an impromptu speech in public.

  • Take a moment to collect your thoughts and plan the main point you want to make.
  • Thank the person for inviting you to speak.
  • Deliver your message, making your main point as briefly as you can while still covering it adequately and at a pace your listeners can follow.
  • Thank the person again for the opportunity to speak.
  • Stop talking.

As you can see, impromptu speeches are generally most successful when they are brief and focus on a single point.

Extemporaneous Speaking

Extemporaneous speaking is the presentation of a carefully planned and rehearsed speech, spoken in a conversational manner using brief notes. By using notes rather than a full manuscript, the extemporaneous speaker can establish and maintain eye contact with the audience and assess how well they are understanding the speech as it progresses. The opportunity to assess is also an opportunity to restate more clearly any idea or concept that the audience seems to have trouble grasping.

For instance, suppose you are speaking about workplace safety and you use the term “sleep deprivation.” If you notice your audience’s eyes glazing over, this might not be a result of their own sleep deprivation, but rather an indication of their uncertainty about what you mean. If this happens, you can add a short explanation; for example, “sleep deprivation is sleep loss serious enough to threaten one’s cognition, hand-to-eye coordination, judgment, and emotional health.” You might also (or instead) provide a concrete example to illustrate the idea. Then you can resume your message, having clarified an important concept.

Speaking extemporaneously has some advantages. It promotes the likelihood that you, the speaker, will be perceived as knowledgeable and credible. In addition, your audience is likely to pay better attention to the message because it is engaging both verbally and nonverbally. The disadvantage of extemporaneous speaking is that it requires a great deal of preparation for both the verbal and the nonverbal components of the speech. Adequate preparation cannot be achieved the day before you’re scheduled to speak.

Because extemporaneous speaking is the style used in the great majority of public speaking situations, most of the information in this chapter is targeted to this kind of speaking.

Speaking from a Manuscript

Manuscript speaking is the word-for-word iteration of a written message. In a manuscript speech, the speaker maintains his or her attention on the printed page except when using visual aids.

The advantage to reading from a manuscript is the exact repetition of original words. As we mentioned at the beginning of this chapter, in some circumstances this can be extremely important. For example, reading a statement about your organization’s legal responsibilities to customers may require that the original words be exact. In reading one word at a time, in order, the only errors would typically be mispronunciation of a word or stumbling over complex sentence structure.

However, there are costs involved in manuscript speaking. First, it’s typically an uninteresting way to present. Unless the speaker has rehearsed the reading as a complete performance animated with vocal expression and gestures (as poets do in a poetry slam and actors do in a reader’s theater), the presentation tends to be dull. Keeping one’s eyes glued to the script precludes eye contact with the audience. For this kind of “straight” manuscript speech to hold audience attention, the audience must be already interested in the message before the delivery begins.

It is worth noting that professional speakers, actors, news reporters, and politicians often read from an autocue device, such as a TelePrompTer, especially when appearing on television, where eye contact with the camera is crucial. With practice, a speaker can achieve a conversational tone and give the impression of speaking extemporaneously while using an autocue device. However, success in this medium depends on two factors: (1) the speaker is already an accomplished public speaker who has learned to use a conversational tone while delivering a prepared script, and (2) the speech is written in a style that sounds conversational.

Speaking from Memory

Memorized speaking is the rote recitation of a written message that the speaker has committed to memory. Actors, of course, recite from memory whenever they perform from a script in a stage play, television program, or movie scene. When it comes to speeches, memorization can be useful when the message needs to be exact and the speaker doesn’t want to be confined by notes.

The advantage to memorization is that it enables the speaker to maintain eye contact with the audience throughout the speech. Being free of notes means that you can move freely around the stage and use your hands to make gestures. If your speech uses visual aids, this freedom is even more of an advantage. However, there are some real and potential costs. First, unless you also plan and memorize every vocal cue (the subtle but meaningful variations in speech delivery, which can include the use of pitch, tone, volume, and pace), gesture, and facial expression, your presentation will be flat and uninteresting, and even the most fascinating topic will suffer. You might end up speaking in a monotone or a sing-song repetitive delivery pattern. You might also present your speech in a rapid “machine-gun” style that fails to emphasize the most important points. Second, if you lose your place and start trying to ad lib, the contrast in your style of delivery will alert your audience that something is wrong. More frighteningly, if you go completely blank during the presentation, it will be extremely difficult to find your place and keep going.

Key Takeaways

  • There are four main kinds of speech delivery: impromptu, extemporaneous, manuscript, and memorized.
  • Impromptu speaking involves delivering a message on the spur of the moment, as when someone is asked to “say a few words.”
  • Extemporaneous speaking consists of delivering a speech in a conversational fashion using notes. This is the style most speeches call for.
  • Manuscript speaking consists of reading a fully scripted speech. It is useful when a message needs to be delivered in precise words.
  • Memorized speaking consists of reciting a scripted speech from memory. Memorization allows the speaker to be free of notes.
  • Find a short newspaper story. Read it out loud to a classroom partner. Then, using only one notecard, tell the classroom partner in your own words what the story said. Listen to your partner’s observations about the differences in your delivery.
  • In a group of four or five students, ask each student to give a one-minute impromptu speech answering the question, “What is the most important personal quality for academic success?”
  • Watch the evening news. Observe the differences between news anchors using a TelePrompTer and interviewees who are using no notes of any kind. What differences do you observe?

Stand up, Speak out Copyright © 2016 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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4 Strategies for Developing Confident Student Speakers

Consistent support and low-stakes opportunities to practice go a long way to help students overcome the challenges of speaking in front of a group.

High school student speaking in front of the class

I belted out the opening line to Marc Antony’s funeral speech from The Tragedy of Julius Caesar , leaping up the stairs to the stage in my school’s auditorium. Thirteen ninth-grade students dressed in togas sat in the front rows, mouths agape, as they witnessed their goofy teacher unexpectedly launch into the 35-line monologue they had all just beautifully performed. 

Confession: I was nervous walking onto that stage—I sometimes get uncomfortable in the (literal) spotlight. To normalize feelings of anxiety during a performance, I revealed those emotions to my class afterward. 

Public speaking is hard, and it can be extremely daunting for our most introverted students ; however, with modeling and practice, I believe that teachers can cultivate confident speakers.

Strategy 1: Provide Direct Instruction

A poster inspired by Erik Palmer’s work on public speaking ( PVLEGS : Poise, Voice, Life, Eye Contact, Gestures, Speed) hangs in the back of my classroom. Well before we launch into a study of the funeral orations from Caesar , I explicitly teach those skills. I demonstrate for students appropriate eye contact—the speaker locks eyes briefly with individual audience members and scans the room as she speaks, establishing a connection with her audience. The speaker might also speed up his voice for a certain effect or raise his arms to command the attention of his audience.

Strategy 2: Provide Public Speaking Models

After we spend a class closely reading and analyzing the two funeral orations by Marc Antony and Brutus, I play clips of the speeches from the two film adaptations. We watch the performances and think about PVLEGS: Which speaking moves does each actor utilize in his performance? Which actor delivers the stronger performance and why? After we watch and students share their observations with partners, we discuss and debate the merits of each performance. 

When my classes work on memorizing and performing the monologues, I ask them to study the models and even borrow some of the actors’ techniques. They consider: Do I want to take an angrier approach to the Antony speech like Marlon Brando? Should I adopt a regretful tone like Jason Robards’ Brutus? This type of close viewing could be applied to any speaking performance. On a related note, I also hope that I serve as a public speaking model for my students as I stand in front of my English classes daily.

Strategy 3: Acknowledge and Coach through Anxiety

I remember stumbling through my senior research presentation in high school, well before the advent of interactive whiteboards and Google Slides. I’m vulnerable with my students about my former public speaking struggles. I want them to know that they’re not alone, and through practice and repetition, their self-doubt and fear can transform from an eardrum-rupturing siren into a quiet background hum.

I give a few bits of advice to nervous speakers as they prepare for any public speaking activity. First, I urge them to “practice, practice, practice!” If they know their stuff, they’ll be much more confident on game day. I also find that most students who report feeling very nervous while speaking don’t always appear nervous to others. Sharing this anecdotal evidence with them helps students tune out their inner critics and feel more calm. I also find lots of opportunities to confer with reluctant speakers and give them plenty of encouragement. This fosters stronger connections with my students and boosts their confidence. 

Strategy 4: Provide Lots of Low-Stakes Speaking Opportunities 

My Caesar unit usually takes place in the second semester, when students have had plenty of low-stakes speaking opportunities. In almost every class, I ask students to turn and talk to their partners to share a sentence from a quickwrite or to check in on their current drafts. Earlier in the year, I coach them on how to effectively talk to their partners, and the process quickly becomes routine. An effective technique to get all students speaking, even if it’s a quick response, is the whip-around. Teacher Marcus Luther asks a question with a short, one-word answer. He then goes around the room and has each student answer aloud, followed by a debrief with partners or groups. 

My favorite low-stakes speaking activity is the Pop-Up Debate , which teacher Dave Stuart Jr. invented and has been writing about for years. In this activity, the class is presented with a question, and they spend 10 minutes writing an answer to it. After that, the debate begins, and students simply “pop-up” at their desks to enter into the conversation. In my experience, this activity can transform a usually quiet class into an engaged one. Secondary students love to argue, even about literature! 

Flexibility, Support, and Incentives Develop Strong Speakers 

In many ways, the memorized funeral oration is the most high-stakes speaking task my ninth-grade honors students participate in throughout the year. I give a grade for this assessment, but to take the focus off of grades and to place that focus on improvement instead, I provide students with a few crutches to lean on. 

First, if students forget a line, a friend acts as a prompter in the pit with the text ready. Students can also revise the performance if they choose to. I tell students that they can redo the performance if it doesn’t go as planned. At the end of the class, if time allows, a handful of students always choose to give it another shot. I find that this also takes the pressure off. I think of it like a writing assignment; students can always revise a paper to improve it. Finally, I give them extra credit for wearing togas, which adds to the fun of the special day.

In a recent article in The Atlantic , “ End the Phone-Based Childhood Now ,” author Jonathan Haidt reports that Gen Z students are more anxious, shy, and risk-averse than the children of the past, which he attributes to social media and the introduction of the smartphone. Risk-taking, Haidt argues, “promote[s] competence, maturity, and mental health.” Public speaking, a type of risk-taking, can be very frightening for some of our students, but if teachers provide them with speaking opportunities each day, month, and school year, perhaps we can help mold them into confident, healthy young adults who venture into the world as strong public speakers. 

Thank you to my former department chair, Janet Matthews, for the Julius Caesar performance activity.

a speech about what your school needs most

How to Write and Deliver a Memorable Graduation Speech: Tips, Examples, and Techniques

  • The Speaker Lab
  • March 7, 2024

Table of Contents

The goal of any graduation speech is to find words that capture the essence of years spent learning and growing. Today, we’ll guide you through that process and help you craft a memorable graduation speech . You’ll learn to weave gratitude with shared experiences, and balance humor with wisdom. We’ll even help you find quotes that strike a chord and deliver them in a way that resonates.

But that’s not all! Dive into proven strategies for public speaking, managing stage fright, and drawing inspiration from iconic commencement speeches. Discover how personal growth stories add depth to your message and explore themes that leave a lasting impact on your peers as they step forward into new beginnings.

Crafting Your Graduation Speech: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to marking the end of your high school or university journey, a graduation speech can capture the essence of this pivotal moment. But how do you start such an important address?

Opening with Impact

The first words of your graduation speech are crucial. They set the stage for what’s to come and grab your audience’s attention. Think about starting strong by sharing a personal anecdote that ties into the broader experience of your class or drawing from Steve Jobs’ Stanford University commencement speech , where he began with, “Today I want to tell you three stories from my life.” This technique instantly piques interest because it promises narratives that have shaped who you are.

An impactful opening also acknowledges shared experiences. Perhaps you could reflect on how moments in classrooms turned strangers into lifelong friends. Or for university commencements, consider touching upon those late-night study sessions that tested perseverance but ultimately led to academic achievements worth celebrating today.

Building the Body of Your Graduation Speech

In crafting the body content, intertwine lessons learned throughout high school years or during university courses with aspirations for what lies ahead. For instance, share how overcoming obstacles like balancing extracurricular activities and academics taught valuable time management skills.

To add depth, incorporate quotes from luminaries like Oprah Winfrey or draw parallels between classroom learnings and real-world applications. Dive deeper by discussing milestones achieved together as a graduating class and recognizing the hard work everyone put in to make it to this monumental occasion.

Concluding with Inspiration

Your conclusion should leave fellow graduates feeling inspired while helping them celebrate high school memories one last time—or honor those unforgettable college years if addressing higher education grads.

Closing remarks could include heartfelt gratitude towards teachers’ support and parental guidance. You might even crack a joke or two. It’s these personalized touches paired with universal truths that resonate most deeply as students step forward into new chapters post-graduation.

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Delivery Techniques for Confident Speaking

Standing in front of a crowd can turn even the most composed student into a bundle of nerves. But fear not, with some smart strategies, you’ll be able to channel your inner orator and deliver your graduation speech with confidence.

Practicing Your Graduation Speech

Becoming familiar with every word of your speech is key. Rehearse it out loud until the words feel like second nature. This practice does more than just help you remember what comes next; it lets you find the natural rhythm and pace of your delivery. Consider recording yourself to catch any quirks or stumbling blocks—you might be surprised at how much this helps refine your presentation.

A trick often overlooked is practicing in different environments. If possible, stand on the actual stage where you will deliver your commencement address. Familiarity breeds comfort, making that once daunting podium seem like an old friend when graduation day arrives.

Overcoming Nervousness and Stage Fright

Nervousness is normal but doesn’t let it dictate your performance. Before stepping up to speak, take deep breaths to steady yourself—a calm body encourages a calm mind. An effective method for easing anxiety is visualization. Imagine delivering each line perfectly and receiving an enthusiastic response from listeners—envisioning success can make it so.

Maintaining Eye Contact

The power of eye contact cannot be overstated. It connects speaker and listener on a personal level that amplifies engagement significantly. Scan across different sections of the audience periodically without lingering too long on any one individual.

Incorporate these techniques diligently when preparing for the big day. In doing so, they become part of muscle memory and help build confidence. With confidence and plenty of practice on your side, your graduation speech is sure to conclude to applause leaving you to celebrate yet another milestone achieved.

Analyzing Renowned Graduation Speeches for Inspiration

When crafting a commencement speech, it’s often helpful to look at the giants whose words have echoed through auditoriums and across campuses. Steve Jobs’ Stanford University Commencement Speech is a classic example of weaving life lessons into an address that connects deeply with graduates. Similarly, Oprah Winfrey’s Harvard University Commencement Address showed how stumbling blocks can become stepping stones if we learn from them.

Steve Jobs’ Storytelling Mastery

Jobs had a knack for turning personal anecdotes into universal truths. In his Stanford address, he shared three stories from his own life without sounding self-indulgent. These stories worked because each one carried a broader message relevant to every graduate: finding what you love, dealing with loss, and facing death head-on. Jobs famously urged students to “stay hungry, stay foolish,” encouraging them not just to pursue success but remain curious about life despite challenges. This advice is especially poignant for today’s graduating class.

Like Jobs, you too can craft narratives around moments that speak volumes about perseverance and passion.

Oprah’s Unflinching Honesty

Much like her television persona suggests, Oprah did not shy away from discussing her setbacks in front of Harvard’s graduating class. Instead, she confidently laid bare the challenges faced by anyone who dares greatly because failure is part of achieving greatness. As she reminded students, “It doesn’t matter how far you might rise… At some point you are bound to stumble.”

In doing so she forged an instant connection with listeners grappling with their fears about what the future holds post-graduation. It was a powerful reminder that even icons like Oprah are not immune to trials but emerge stronger through them.

The power behind these speeches lies not just in their content but also in their delivery. These speakers mastered the art of speaking confidently before crowds, maintaining eye contact, and conveying authenticity—techniques any speaker should aspire to replicate on graduation day.

Themes and Messages That Resonate with Graduates

Facing a sea of caps and gowns, the right words can turn a graduation ceremony from mundane to memorable. When crafting your commencement speech, focusing on themes like overcoming obstacles and perseverance connects deeply with graduates who have hurdled high school or college challenges.

Overcoming Obstacles

Talking about stumbling blocks is not just relatable; it’s inspirational. Think Steve Jobs at Stanford University or Oprah Winfrey at Harvard—both shared personal tales of setbacks turned into comebacks. Beyond simply telling their stories, they showed how those hurdles were stepping stones to success.

Weave your narrative around the potholes you’ve navigated during your high school years. This doesn’t mean airing every bit of dirty laundry, just highlighting that one significant moment where everything seemed against you yet failed to defeat you.

The Power of Perseverance

Perseverance is more than sticking to something—it’s pushing forward when every fiber wants to quit. It resonates because everyone, including your fellow graduates, has felt that urge to give up but chose to persevere instead.

Incorporate this theme by using vivid examples that mirror collective experiences—the all-nighters before exams or balancing sports stars ambitions with academics—to illustrate perseverance isn’t just an idea but lived reality for many students.

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Life Lessons Shared During Graduation Speeches

In addition to sharing content that fellow graduates will find relatable and inspirational, you should also consider sharing life lessons with your audience. Whether young or old, everyone has a unique perspective on life and sharing your wisdom can steer graduates toward a fulfilling path.

The Power of Kindness

Making a positive impact doesn’t require grand gestures; sometimes it’s found in small acts of kindness or an innovative idea that simplifies lives. This message sticks because everyone wants their work to mean something—to know they’ve left footprints on society’s vast canvas.

True Grit and Tenacity

Embracing failure and resilience is another powerful theme echoed by commencement speakers across podiums. Let’s face it; not all endeavors lead straight to success. But as Oprah Winfrey once said during her Harvard University commencement address, “It doesn’t matter how far you might rise… At some point, you are bound to stumble.” Her words remind us: How we pick ourselves up matters more than how we fall.

Making a Positive Impact

A graduating class stands poised on tomorrow’s threshold ready to mold history—and speeches should fuel this transformative fire within them. Memorable graduation speeches show individuals that ovation-worthy achievements are possible if you believe your actions count.

As you prepare your graduation speech, consider including one of these life lessons or one of your own. Don’t be afraid to share your hard-won insights to your fellow graduates—you just might inspire them to make history.

Celebrating Achievements and Acknowledging Contributions

Graduation is not just a ceremony. It’s a tribute to the academic achievements and extracurricular activities that have shaped students into who they are. The acknowledgment of teacher support and parental guidance also plays a pivotal role in these speeches, as they’re the scaffolding upon which student successes are built.

Academic Achievements, Extracurricular Activities

Acknowledging academic prowess goes beyond GPA scores or honor societies; it’s about highlighting unique intellectual journeys. Similarly, shining a light on extracurricular triumphs—be it sports stars setting records or artists winning competitions—adds depth to your speech. Remembering these moments isn’t merely recounting victories but celebrating the relentless spirit of your fellow graduates.

Diving deeper into personal anecdotes helps you connect with peers by reminding them of their growth through challenges faced together—from late-night study sessions to championship games. It’s these stories that make graduation memories stick with classmates long after commencement ends.

Teacher Support, Parental Guidance

The unsung heroes behind every graduate deserve their moment in your address too. Teachers’ dedication can turn classrooms into launch pads for dreams, while parents’ unwavering belief often fuels aspirations during tumultuous times like the pandemic.

In weaving tales of mentorship from teachers or wisdom imparted by parents, you remind everyone that success is rarely a solo act—it’s supported by many hands and hearts along the way. Celebrate this collective effort because each person has contributed uniquely to shaping graduating classes across America, including yours.

Common Issues in Writing and Delivering Graduation Speeches

Staring at a blank page as the clock ticks down to graduation day can rattle even the most seasoned speech writers. Overcoming writer’s block is about finding your message stick—the core idea that you want to leave with your peers. Remember, this isn’t just any talk; it’s one that marks a significant transition for both you and your audience.

Overcoming Writer’s Block

Finding yourself stumped on how to write a speech ? Don’t sweat it. Start by jotting down memories from school years or powerful life lessons that resonate. Think of Steve Jobs’ Stanford University commencement speech where he shared personal stories, which became an inspirational backbone for many other speeches.

If inspiration doesn’t strike immediately, step away from the computer. Take a walk and reflect on high school experiences or browse through commencement speeches archives—like Lin-Manuel Miranda’s address at the University of Pennsylvania. They might spark ideas you hadn’t considered yet.

Navigating Technical Troubles

A great speech can stumble over technical hiccups. To avoid glitches, check all equipment beforehand—a simple but crucial task often overlooked due to nerves or excitement about graduating class celebrations.

Prior rehearsals will also let you handle these issues like a pro should they pop up during delivery. Make sure any videos or slides complement rather than overshadow what you’re saying. After all, graduates aren’t there for bells and whistles—they’re there for meaningful words.

Handling Stage Fright

Your knees may shake thinking delivering in front of proud parents and peers—it’s no small feat, after all. Before you step on stage, visual your success until it feels more real and attainable.

And don’t forget to watch your body language. During your speech, maintain eye contact—not stare-downs—to connect genuinely with fellow students. And if anxiety creeps up despite practice sessions? Take deep breaths to steady yourself and keep going. You’ve handled high school—you can handle this.

FAQs on Writing and Delivering a Graduation Speech

What do i say in my graduation speech.

Share heartfelt stories, acknowledge support from others, and inspire your classmates to chase their dreams boldly.

How do you write a 3 minute graduation speech?

Keep it tight: hit the high notes with gratitude, shared memories, a dash of humor, and wrap up with punchy inspiration.

How do I start a graduation speech?

Kick off with thanks. Give props to family and mentors. Set the stage for reflecting on past adventures together.

What is the most important message of a graduation speech?

The core should spark hope—urge peers to leap into tomorrow equipped with lessons learned during these formative years.

Master your moment with a graduation speech that turns heads and warms hearts. Remember the power of gratitude and connect with your audience through stories, those shared adventures that bind you to your classmates. Don’t be afraid to add a few jokes and quotes to your speech either, as well as personal growth stories to inspire.

When you hit the stage, stand tall, make eye contact, and speak from your heart—the podium’s yours. If butterflies invade, breathe deep and know everyone’s rooting for you. Writer’s block didn’t stop you and neither will this.

Your graduation speech is not just words—it’s a battle cry for your graduating class as you prepare to conquer what lies ahead!

  • Last Updated: March 5, 2024

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a speech about what your school needs most

Oxford school shooter seeks help from parents; President Biden's speech; and more

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Oxford school shooter seeks help from parents

Oxford school shooter Ethan Crumbley is challenging his life-without-parole sentence and needs help from his parents. However, court filings may indicate that his dad is not willing to assist.

Crumbley, who did not testify at either of his parent's trials or let them use his confidential medical records, wants access to his parents' confidential presentencing reports, claiming they contain "relevant and necessary" information to his appeal, particularly involving his upbringing. James Crumbley objects to giving the shooter access to his presentence investigation report that includes private details about his personal and family life, writes Tresa Baldas.

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This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Oxford school shooter seeks help from parents; President Biden's speech; and more

James Crumbley, left, enters court as he prepares to sit with his attorney Mariell Lehman in the Oakland County courtroom of Cheryl Matthews on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 for sentencing.

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Breaking Down Harrison Butker's Speech: Read the Chiefs Player's Most Controversial Comments

Fans are calling for Harrison Butker to be removed from the Chiefs' roster for the upcoming NFL season after his 20-minute commencement speech at Benedictine College

a speech about what your school needs most

Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker 's commencement speech at Benedictine College, a Catholic school, continues to cause outrage.

The NFL player's 20-minute address included attacks on working women, the LBGTQ+ community and families who utilize surrogacy and in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Butker and the Chiefs did not immediately return PEOPLE's requests for comment. In a statement, the NFL’s Chief Diversity Officer Jonathan Beane says, "Harrison Butker gave a speech in his personal capacity. His views are not those of the NFL as an organization. The NFL is steadfast in our commitment to inclusion, which only makes our league stronger.”

Former Kansas City commissioner Justice Horn went further, slamming Butker in a post on X (formerly known as Twitter). "Harrison Butker doesn’t represent Kansas City nor has he ever," he wrote . "Kansas City has always been a place that welcomes, affirms, and embraces our LGBTQ+ community members."

Rapper Flavor Flav chimed in, "Sounds like some players 'need to stay in their lanes' and shouldn’t be giving commencement speeches."

Cooper Neill/Getty

Writer Cyd Zeigler wrote , "Pretty awful to hear an NFL player so proudly tell women to 'stay in their lane,' serve their man and make babies. Not to mention comparing Pride month to a 'deadly sin' and lobbing bombs at the trans community. Not a fan."

Amid the backlash, below is a breakdown of Butker's most controversial comments from the speech.

On Taylor Swift's Lyric

A portion of the outrage against Butker came from supporters of Taylor Swift after he shared one of her lyrics, which fans noticed he misinterpreted.

Butker quoted a lyric from Swift's 2022 song "Bejeweled," and referred to her as his teammate, Travis Kelce 's girlfriend.

"As my teammate's girlfriend would say, familiarity breeds contempt," Butker said when discussing the values of the Catholic Church.

What seemed to have been lost on Butker, however, is that the song's message is about Swift embracing her independence away from a former boyfriend.

On the Covid-19 Pandemic and President Joe Biden

At the start of his speech, Butker addressed how the class of 2024 was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic at the start of their college careers. The subject quickly transitioned into attacks on President Joe Biden and topics such as abortion, IVF, surrogacy and euthanasia.

"I'm sure your high school graduation was not what you had imagined and most likely neither was your first couple years of college. By making it to this moment through all the adversity thrown your way from COVID, I hope you learned the important lesson that suffering in this life is only temporary," he said. "As a group, you witnessed firsthand how bad leaders who don't stay in their lane can have a negative impact on society."

Butker went on: "Bad policies and poor leadership have negatively impacted major life issues. Things like abortion, IVF, surrogacy, euthanasia, as well as a growing support for degenerate cultural values in media, all stem from the pervasiveness of disorder. Our own nation is led by a man who publicly and proudly proclaims his Catholic faith, but at the same time is delusional enough to make the sign of the cross."

The Chiefs kicker continued his verbal attack on Biden, saying, "During a pro-abortion rally, he has been so vocal in his support for the murder of innocent babies that I'm sure to many people it appears that you can be both Catholic and pro-choice."

"This is an important reminder that being Catholic alone doesn't cut it. These are the sorts of things we're told in polite society to not bring up. The difficult and unpleasant things. But if we are going to be men and women for this time in history, we need to stop pretending that the 'Church of Nice' is a winning proposition. We must always speak and act in charity, but never mistake charity for cowardice."

He continued: "As members of the church founded by Jesus Christ, it is our duty and ultimately privilege to be authentically and unapologetically Catholic."

Carmen Mandato/Getty 

On LGBTQ+ Pride

Butker then turned the focus of his speech to the Catholic values at Benedictine College. However, his sentiments attacked the LGBTQ+ and trans communities.

Butker said, "Benedictine has gone from just another liberal arts school with nothing to set it apart to a thriving beacon of light ... I'm certain the reporters at the AP could not have imagined that their attempt to rebuke and embarrass places and people like those here at Benedictine wouldn't be met with anger, but instead met with excitement and pride, not the deadly sin sort of pride that has an entire month dedicated to it, but the true God-centered pride that is cooperating with the Holy Ghost to glorify him."

On IVF and Surrogacy

Butker later attacked families who utilize IVF and surrogacy to have children, saying, "It is imperative that this class, this generation, in this time in our society must stop pretending that the things we see around us are normal."

"Heterodox ideas abound, even within Catholic circles. Let's be honest, there is nothing good about playing God with having children, whether that be your ideal number or the perfect time to conceive. No matter how you spin it, there is nothing natural about Catholic birth control. It is only in the past few years that I have grown encouraged to speak more boldly and directly because as I mentioned earlier, I have leaned into my vocation as a husband and father and as a man."

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On Working Women

In a direct address to the female graduates at Benedictine, Butker said, "For the ladies present today, congratulations on an amazing accomplishment. I want to speak directly to you briefly because I think it is you, the women, who have had the most diabolical lies told to you."

"Some of you may go on to lead successful careers in the world, but I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring into this world."

Of his spouse, Butker said, "I can tell you that my beautiful wife, Isabelle, would be the first to say that her life truly started when she began living her vocation as a wife and as a mother. I'm on this stage today and able to be the man I am because I have a wife who leans into her vocation. I'm beyond blessed with the many talents God has given me, but it cannot be overstated that all of my success is made possible because a girl I met in band class back in middle school, who would convert to the faith, become my wife and embrace one of the most important titles of all: homemaker."

Jamie Squire/Getty

He continued, "I say all of this to you because I have seen firsthand how much happier someone can be when they disregard the outside noise and move closer and closer to God's will in their life. Isabelle's dream of having a career might not have come true, but if you asked her today if she has any regrets on her decision, she would laugh out loud without hesitation and say, heck no."

Several users on social media have pointed out , however, that Butker's mother, Elizabeth Butker, is a successful physicist at Emory University's Department of Radiation Oncology.

On Masculinity

Moving his focus to the male graduates in the room, Butker said, "To the gentlemen here today, part of what plagues our society is this lie that has been told to you that men are not necessary in the home or in our communities. As men, we set the tone of the culture. And when that is absent, disorder, dysfunction and chaos set in ..."

"Other countries do not have nearly the same absentee father rates as we find here in the U.S., and a correlation could be made in their drastically lower violence rates as well. Be unapologetic in your masculinity. Fight against the cultural emasculation of men. Do hard things. Never settle for what is easy. You might have a talent that you don't necessarily enjoy, but if it glorifies God, maybe you should lean into that over something that you might think suits you better."

Concluding his speech, Butker said, "I know that my message today had a little less fluff than is expected for these speeches, but I believe that this audience and this venue is the best place to speak openly and honestly about who we are and where we all want to go, which is heaven. I thank God for Benedictine College and for the example it provides to the world."

"Make no mistake, you are entering into mission territory in a post God world, but you are made for this and with God by your side and a constant striving for virtue within your vocation, you too can be a saint. Christ is king to the heights."

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What School Subjects Do You Need in High School?

The subjects you study in high school should allow you to graduate, but you’ll also want classes that will prepare you for college and for life as an adult.

  • Subjects Offered in High School
  • Subjects Needed to Graduate
  • Subjects for College Preparation

Picking high school courses is an exciting process. Core high school subjects like math, science, and language arts are required, but a range of others can be selected. Finally being given more of a choice in what a student studies can be freeing, but also may feel overwhelming, confusing, or stressful.

What courses are best? There's no one right path. First, consider what is needed to graduate. Then, take a look at your options.

Parents and teens can work together to choose school subjects that not only engage their interests but also have their future plans and goals in mind.

For example, students who want to go to college may be required to take more years of a foreign language or other classes required by the schools they are interested in. A student who is interested in pursuing a career in construction may want to take an industrial arts class.

Read on to learn more about selecting courses in high school.

Parents / Nusha Ashjaee 

What School Subjects Are Offered in High School?

Most high schools offer the same basic school subjects: Math, language arts, foreign language, science, social studies, health, and physical education (PE).

However, the exact courses may vary dramatically from school to school. Different high schools—even within the same district—often have different course offerings or special programs. If possible, choose the local high school that provides the programs and classes that best suit your needs and passions.

Below is a list of the most common school subjects. However, individual schools may offer a range of specialized classes, such as mindfulness or engineering.

High School Subjects

  • Literature or Language Arts
  • Speech and Debate
  • Writing or Composition
  • Trigonometry or Calculus
  • Biology (typically has advanced class options)
  • Chemistry (typically has advanced class options)
  • Earth or Space Sciences
  • Physics (typically has advanced class options)
  • US Government
  • World History
  • Foreign Language, such as Spanish, French, Japanese, Chinese, Arabic, and German
  • Physical Education and Health
  • Arts, such as Music, Photography, Drawing, or Ceramics
  • Computer Applications, Graphic Design, or Web Design
  • Cooking and other life skills
  • Physical Education
  • Trade field studies such as Auto Mechanics, Woodworking, or Nursing
  • Personal Finance

School Subjects You Need to Graduate

Ideally, teens should start high school with a basic plan of the classes they will need to take to graduate. Every state has different requirements for obtaining a high school diploma, and each school varies greatly in what it offers to give kids a chance to fulfill them. Different schools also vary in the number of classes students take each year.

The school's guidance department can help students understand the graduation requirements and how their coursework aligns with them.

English language arts

Studying the English language and literature is an important part of high school for every student, regardless of their post-school plans. In addition to studying important pieces of literature, English classes teach teens about writing, reading, and speaking.

Most states require four years of English or language arts classes. Colleges require four years of English for admission. The main English classes in high school include:

Mathematics

In high school, students dig into several different types of math . Algebra and geometry are required at most high schools, and students may choose to take advanced math classes if they are offered.

Most states require three or four years of math coursework in high school. The main math classes in high school include:

Basic life sciences (biology) and physical sciences (chemistry and physics) are required at most high schools. These classes often include lab components that allow students to perform hands-on experiments.

Most states require two to three years of science coursework in high school. These may include:

  • Biology (typically has advanced class options)
  • Chemistry (typically has advanced class options)
  • Earth or Space sciences

Social studies and history

Understanding the past and how the world works is important for young adults. In high school, students will study history and government and learn about how social studies affects their lives.

Most states require three to four years of social studies coursework in high school, including:

Foreign languages

Learning a second language is important in today's global world. While many high schools offer foreign language courses, only 11 states require students to take a foreign language course.  

High school students can fill these requirements by learning the basics of at least one foreign language. They may also be able to choose to take advanced classes to learn more.

Common languages offered in high school include:

  • Mandarin Chinese

Other possible language offerings include Russian, Latin, American Sign Language, Arabic, and German.

Physical education and health

Physical education and health classes can teach high schoolers how to care for their bodies' fitness, health, and nutritional needs. These courses often touch on the following:

  • Mental health
  • Sexual health
  • Making healthy choices about drugs, alcohol, and nicotine.

Many states require at least one unit of PE and health to graduate. Other states offer these subjects as electives.

School Subjects for College Preparation

Students planning to go to college should consider how colleges will look at their courses during the application process. Grade point average (GPA) is important, but coursework should also demonstrate academic rigor.

When planning, it can be helpful to balance standard high school courses with some that are more challenging. Additionally, students can do this—and even get a head start on college—by taking advanced placement (AP) or college-level classes.

AP classes are more rigorous courses that teach subjects at an introductory college level. Some of the most common AP courses that are available include:

  • Calculus AB
  • English Literature
  • African American Studies

Students who take AP classes have the option to take an AP test in the spring. If they get a certain score, they can get credit for the course at many colleges.

College credit courses

Many high schools offer opportunities to gain college credit through various programs. Your child's academic advisor, teachers, or counseling department can inform them about such offerings.

These may be online or in-person classes through programs offered by colleges and universities, and a professor or a high school teacher may teach them. Dual-credit programs allow students to fulfill their high school requirements while obtaining some college credits free of charge.

School Subject Electives

In addition to the basic classes, there are usually plenty of opportunities to take electives in various areas of study. These can not only broaden a student's academic knowledge but also teach them valuable life skills and inspire their career aspirations .

In some cases, a student may be given the freedom to choose one class from a select group of options required in the school's curriculum. In others, a student may have room in their schedule to choose to study something simply based on their interests and goals.

Examples of elective classes may include:

  • Arts, such as music, photography, fashion design, painting, theater, dance, or ceramics
  • Computer applications, graphic design, or web design
  • Student government
  • Forensic science
  • Physical education
  • Sports medicine
  • Trade field studies such as auto mechanics, welding, or nursing
  • Personal finance or business

Students on a vocational track may be able to gain some hands-on learning in fields such as metalworks and woodworking. Many schools even offer the opportunity to gain certificates or licenses that will help them in their future careers .

Key Takeaways

Choosing high school classes requires planning both as a student enters school and throughout their high school experience. The right classes are challenging and engaging but not unrealistically rigorous or overwhelming.

An ideal schedule can help a student succeed, enjoy learning, and have a good academic experience while preparing them for their future plans , whatever they may be. Have your teen set up a meeting with their school counselor if they need any help.

The association between neighbourhoods and educational achievement, a systematic review and meta-analysis . J Hous Built Environ . 2016.

50-state comparison . Education Commission of the States . 2019.

High school classes required for college admission . National Association for College Admission Counseling . n.d.

The national K-16 foreign language enrollment survey report . American Councils for International Education . 2017.

Program summary report . College Board. 2019.

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Biden delivers Morehouse commencement speech as some on campus express pro-Palestinian messages

ATLANTA — President Joe Biden delivered the commencement address at Morehouse College on Sunday morning, his most direct engagement with college students since the start of the Israel-Hamas war and a key opportunity for him to engage with a group of voters that data suggests is softening on him: young, Black men.

In his remarks, Biden ticked through his administration's policies that he said have aided Black Americans, including a record $16 billion in new aid for historically Black colleges and universities.

And, in a nod to the pro-Palestinian sentiment among Morehouse students and faculty, Biden reiterated his calls for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, more humanitarian aid in the region and support for a two-state solution that would lead to the creation of a Palestinian state.

“We’ve been working on a deal as we speak. Working around the clock to lead an international effort to get more aid into Gaza, rebuild Gaza. I’m also working around the clock for more than just one cease-fire. I’m working to bring the region together. Working to build a lasting, durable peace,” he said.

As Biden spoke, roughly six students in the crowd sat turned away from him. Though Biden did not reference the action directly, his remarks touched on the “anger and frustration” felt by many Americans over the war, including by members of his own family.

“I know it breaks your heart. It breaks mine as well,” Biden said. “Leadership is about fighting through the most intractable problems. It’s about challenging anger, frustration and heartbreak. To find a solution. It’s about doing what you believe is right, even when it’s hard and lonely.”

Following the speech, Morehouse President David Thomas praised Biden for a “thought-provoking speech” he said was reflective of the president “listening.”

Joe Biden speaks at a podium

“You spoke to the hard issues confronting our nation and the world at this moment,” Thomas said before conferring an honorary doctorate degree onto Biden.

No significant, disruptive protests materialized, but some students and faculty members still expressed their support for Gaza during the ceremony.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrations began even before Biden took the stage Sunday morning. As graduates and faculty entered the ceremony, at least eight students and three staff members wore pro-Palestinian garb, some adorned in Palestinian flags and others wearing keffiyeh scarves.

An opening prayer by the Rev. Claybon Lea Jr. urged those in power to be “accountable for valuing human life” across the globe.

“Whether they live in Israel or Palestine, Ukraine or Russia, the Congo or Haiti, God give us men that will value life and call us to accountability. Give us men who require all of us to live the golden rule and even follow the edicts of that Palestinian Jew named Jesus,” Lea said as Biden sat inches behind him.

In the most direct call to action of the ceremony, valedictorian DeAngelo Jeremiah Fletcher concluded his remarks by calling for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, framing his decision to speak on the conflict as a moral duty in line with the legacy of fellow Morehouse alumnus Martin Luther King Jr.

“It is important to recognize that both sides have suffered heavy casualties in the wake of Oct. 7,” Fletcher said. “From the comfort of our homes, we watch an unprecedented number of civilians mourn the loss of men, women and children while calling for a release of all hostages. For the first time in our lives, we’ve heard the global community sing one harmonious song that transcends language and culture. It is my stance as a Morehouse man named as a human being to call for an immediate and a permanent cease-fire in the Gaza Strip.”

As Biden took the stage, graduating students remained seated and silent, even as older alumni nearby cheered.

And during his remarks, faculty member Samuel Livingston held up the flag of the Democratic Republic of Congo, in an effort to bring attention to ongoing conflict in the region.

Sebastian Gordon, a graduating senior from Washington, D.C., was satisfied with Biden's remarks. “I know one concern that my class had was actions and words didn’t line up,” Gordon told NBC News. “I’m happy with his words that he said. I’m just going to continue to watch to make sure his actions line up with that.”

The protests during the commencement were largely peaceful, following instructions Thomas, the school president, gave to faculty and students across at least three meetings: The right to protest would be honored as long as they’re not disruptive.

Ahead of the commencement, Thomas told CNN that though he would not ask police to intervene should protests occur during Biden’s remarks, he would immediately bring the commencement to a halt.

“I have also made a decision that we will also not ask police to take individuals out of commencement in zip ties. If faced with the choice, I will cease the ceremonies on the spot if we were to reach that position,” Thomas said.

Even the most vocal student protesters at Morehouse predicted that protests during the commencement ceremony would likely not be disruptive, partially due to the volatility a police response would likely incite.

“I think that whatever happens on Sunday on the part of the people and the people who want to see some change is going to be peaceful,” sophomore Anwar Karim said. “I don’t see it erupting like it has at some of the other campuses, because we at HBCUs here are also just mindful of the fact of how interactions with police often go.”

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Friday that Biden spent several days working on the speech, tapping into a brain trust of senior advisers, including some Morehouse alums, to craft his message to the 415 Black men graduating from the school.

Biden previewed the tone of his remarks during a speech Thursday to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Supreme Court’s Brown v. Board of Education decision.

“Morehouse was founded after our nation’s Civil War to help prepare Black Americans who were formerly enslaved to enter the ministry, earn an education and usher them from slavery to freedom,” Biden said before announcing $16 billion in new investments for historically Black colleges and universities. “The founders of Morehouse understood something fundamental. Education is linked to freedom. Because to be free means to have something that no one can ever take away from you.”

Biden’s speech at Morehouse came against the backdrop of protests on college campuses nationwide over his handling over the war in Gaza, with many students and faculty members voicing opposition to the White House’s continued financial and military support for Israel. Some at Morehouse hoped Biden would speak directly to those concerns during his commencement remarks.

“I hope that we don’t get boilerplate language. I hope that we get something we haven’t heard before. I hope that his ethical, moral conscience trump any politics,” Morehouse professor Stephane Dunn said at a protest Friday.

Morehouse has also had pro-Palestinian protests on campus, though the HBCU did not see the same scale or escalation of demonstrations as some larger universities.

The school’s decision to host Biden as commencement speaker and award him an honorary doctorate degree almost immediately sparked protests among faculty and students, some continuing into the days leading up to the commencement ceremony.

“This is one big distraction on a day to celebrate the class of 2024 following Covid-19, but this is also an opportunity for students to make their voices heard during a time of increasing war and genocide in the Middle East,” Morehouse senior Calvin Bell said in reaction to Biden’s visit.

“We as students, faculty and alums who are standing on the right side of history do not stand with Biden,” Karim said. “We do not align ourselves with all of the clear and avid support that he’s had for a genocidal campaign on the part of the Israelis for the last over 200-plus days.”

Most recently, Morehouse faculty were split over the decision to award Biden an honorary doctorate degree at the ceremony. A letter circulated among staff members in protest of the decision got more that two dozen signatures in support, and the vote to award the degree passed 50-38, with roughly 12 faculty members abstaining.

The White House deployed its allies to Morehouse, both formally and informally, to assuage concerns and lower tensions over Biden’s visit.

Steve Benjamin, who heads the White House Office of Public Engagement, met with a small group of Morehouse students and faculty this month following a push from the school’s leadership for “direct engagement” from the White House.

During the meeting, some students expressed concerns about Biden overshadowing their graduation, while others implored Benjamin to ensure Biden’s speech doesn’t double as a campaign stump speech — frustrated with the idea of the commencement address being a vehicle for Biden to bolster support among Black voters.

That sentiment was shared by other Morehouse students critical of Biden’s visit.

“I don’t think it’s a coincidence that he only accepted the invitation after Trump was already in [Atlanta’s] West End, trying to make gains and failing to make gains with our students here,” Morehouse student Malik Poole said at a campus protest ahead of Biden’s visit. “And this is coming at a time where voters of color are fleeing from Biden at record pace.”

But still, Biden’s Morehouse visit came amid a concerted effort by his administration and campaign in the past week to sharpen his message to Black voters .

On Thursday, Biden met with plaintiffs and their family members from the historic Brown v. Board of Education case. The following day, he met with leaders of the Divine Nine, a group of historically Black sororities and fraternities, alongside Vice President Kamala Harris, a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority herself. During his trip to Georgia, Biden attended an event Saturday focused on engaging Black voters. And following his commencement address, Biden will close out the weekend by delivering the keynote address at the NAACP Freedom Fund dinner in Detroit, where he plans to tout his administration’s accomplishments for Black Americans.

As data suggests that Black voters — particularly young Black voters — are souring on Biden, some at Morehouse recognized the “opportunity” Biden had to make his case to members of that voting bloc during his address.

“If you want ... these students to vote in the fall for you, you have to give them something that shows that you are hearing them,” Dunn said. “That you are trying to do something we haven’t heard about. This is the opportunity.”

a speech about what your school needs most

Nnamdi Egwuonwu is a 2024 NBC News campaign embed.

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  6. 💣 Good speeches for school. School Speeche. 2022-10-22

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VIDEO

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COMMENTS

  1. How To Write A Speech On Education (With Sample Speech)

    2. Include Concrete Elements. Concrete details or elements include things like facts, statistics, etc. If you don't include concrete elements in your speech, then chances are that your speech will become abstract and hard to believe really fast. So, make sure to back up your arguments with relevant information.

  2. 8 Ways We Can Improve Schools Today For A Better Future Tomorrow

    Put students in the driver's seat and work with them as a listener, learner, and guide. Mentor students and show them how to become mentors to underclassmen. Exemplify Entrepreneurship —We are ...

  3. My School Speech for Students: 3-5 Minutes Speech in English

    My School Speech in English: 3-5 Minutes Speech. School is always special to us. It is where we spend fourteen years of our lives making new friends, learning and experiencing new things and making some of the best memories. Everyone's experience with school is unique. The school makes you ready to face the world.

  4. 1-Minute Speech on My School for Students

    Speech on my school requires you to write some basic details and features of your school, how your life at school was or is, things you have learned there and what was the best part of your school life. Below we have discussed a 1-minute speech on my school for students with a paragraph and some lines that you can add to your speech on my school.

  5. 224 School Speech Topics for All Grades [High School, Middle School

    School Speech Topics Checklists. School speech topics tips for verification and 1-2-3 step checking at the secondary middle, high and elementary public speaking homework assignments on teaching skills. In a nutshell: they are easy to answer questions to make a better choice for creating the best result.

  6. How to Make a Good Speech for School

    7. Practice in front of a test audience. Gather together your family members or friends and ask them to listen to your practice. You'll probably feel nervous, but the practice will make you more confident for the actual speech. Try to make eye contact with different members of your audience throughout the speech.

  7. How to Write a Student Council Speech: 10 Steps (with Pictures)

    3. Keep your ideas short but very strongly worded. Your body should be about two paragraphs of 5 to 6 sentences each. This might sound brief, considering how much information you'll have to get across, but you have limited time and must keep people's attention.

  8. How to Write a Great Speech for School

    Tips on Writing a Winning Speech. These are some of them for writing: 1. The Audience. They are the pillar upon which your talk derives its meaning. Before the project, carry out thorough knowledge of the group of persons you are about to address. For instance, you may be preparing to address the administration on the contemporary issues ...

  9. How To Talk About Your School In English

    Language (or Languages): Noun, plural. A school subject that involves the study of a specific language or multiple languages, focussing on their grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, reading, writing, and speaking skills. In school, we may study other languages. In my school, I had to study French and German.

  10. The Ultimate Go-To Guide to Prepare for Your Student Council Speech

    1. Understand the Role of the Student Council and Identify Your Goals. 2. Research the Audience and Tailor Your Message accordingly. 3. Craft a Compelling Opening that Grabs Attention and Sets the Tone. 4. Structure Your Speech Effectively with Clear Main Points and Supporting Details. 5.

  11. My School Speech For Students in English

    Speech For Students on My School. Schools are considered as the temple of knowledge for students. Schools prepare the students to be future leaders and help them to face problems without any fear. Schools help students in understanding the importance of discipline and time management. Similarly, my school played an important role in shaping my ...

  12. Guide: Planning and Presenting an Informative Speech

    Most speeches that are not organized chronologically, spatially, or causally are organized topically. Connective Devices. Within the body of your speech, you need clear internal structure. Connectives are devices used to create a clear flow between ideas and points within the body of your speech--they serve to tie the speech together.

  13. How to Write and Structure a Persuasive Speech

    The purpose of a persuasive speech is to convince your audience to agree with an idea or opinion that you present. First, you'll need to choose a side on a controversial topic, then you will write a speech to explain your position, and convince the audience to agree with you. You can produce an effective persuasive speech if you structure your ...

  14. WHAT MY SCHOOL NEEDS

    WHAT MY SCHOOL NEEDS Teacher's Activities. Activity one (1): Draw out sentences from the pupils about some things they need in school. Activity two (2): Tell them some things you as a teacher need in the school. Activity three (3): To guide the pupils in writing a detailed composition about the topic, write and explain the following guidelines on the board.

  15. 16 Public Speaking Tips for Students

    Observe other speakers: Take the time to watch other speakers who are good at what they do. Practice imitating their style and confidence. Organize your talk: Every speech should have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. Structure your talk so that the other students know what to expect.

  16. Student Council Speech Ideas & Tips to Help You Win

    You can try using silly jokes, sarcasm, or inside jokes that only those who attend your school would get. These ideas might help. FG Trade/ E+ via Getty Images. Say in a serious tone, "Settle in, I've got about three hours' worth of material to get through." After your speech, say, "Okay, now for my speech."

  17. How to Write a Good Speech: 10 Steps and Tips

    Create an outline: Develop a clear outline that includes the introduction, main points, supporting evidence, and a conclusion. Share this outline with the speaker for their input and approval. Write in the speaker's voice: While crafting the speech, maintain the speaker's voice and style.

  18. 10 School Prefect Speech Outline Examples (PDF)

    4. How you shall be missed. 5. Farewell. Your school is celebrating the fortieth anniversary of its founding. As head prefect you are asked to give a public speech during the celebrations. Write your speech, outlining the achievements of the school and your hopes for the future.

  19. 11 Tips for Giving a Great Speech

    If you don't want to inflict the same sort of experience on others, here are our top tips for giving a great speech. 1. Practise your microphone technique. Correct spacing is key - you want to be heard but don't want to end up deafening your audience! Nothing ruins a speech more than bad microphone technique.

  20. 14.1 Four Methods of Delivery

    Extemporaneous speaking consists of delivering a speech in a conversational fashion using notes. This is the style most speeches call for. Manuscript speaking consists of reading a fully scripted speech. It is useful when a message needs to be delivered in precise words. Memorized speaking consists of reciting a scripted speech from memory.

  21. Helping High School Students Develop Public Speaking Skills

    A poster inspired by Erik Palmer's work on public speaking (PVLEGS: Poise, Voice, Life, Eye Contact, Gestures, Speed) hangs in the back of my classroom.Well before we launch into a study of the funeral orations from Caesar, I explicitly teach those skills.I demonstrate for students appropriate eye contact—the speaker locks eyes briefly with individual audience members and scans the room as ...

  22. How to Write and Deliver a Memorable Graduation Speech: Tips, Examples

    Conclusion. Master your moment with a graduation speech that turns heads and warms hearts. Remember the power of gratitude and connect with your audience through stories, those shared adventures that bind you to your classmates. Don't be afraid to add a few jokes and quotes to your speech either, as well as personal growth stories to inspire.

  23. As the senior prefect of your school you have been invited to tell the

    The student would discuss the school's most pressing needs, emphasize the importance of equal participation and accessibility, address the controversy over mobile phone use in the classroom, and potentially cover topics such as speech programs, dress code, and societal changes.

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