Considering non-verbal features in presenting a speech
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can understand how non-verbal features contribute to an effective speech.
Key learning points
- The pitch, tempo, loudness and tone of voice used in speeches can enhance the content.
- Gesture and posture can be used to engage the audience and to add emphasis to important points.
- Spoken language often needs to be slower than feels natural.
- You need to consider your spatial behaviour - too much movement can be distracting but too little can be wooden.
Keywords
Pitch - this refers to the highness and lowness of your voice
Tone - this refers to the attitude and emotion of your voice
Posture - refers to the way someone holds themselves when they’re seated or standing
Non-verbal features - aspects of communication that do not involve spoken words, such as body language and tone of voice
Common misconception
Content alone is enough for an effective speech.
Consider the most engaging speakers and how they use tone, gestures and eye contact. Giving a speech is so much more than just the words on a page.
Teacher tip
This lesson focuses on improving an existing speech so students will need to have a previously written speech with them when completing the tasks related to improving non-verbal communication.
Licence
Lesson video
Loading...
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the primary purpose of writing a letter to MPs to stop sewage companies dumping in our oceans?
Q2.Which word beginning with 'T' describes the mood, feeling and attitude of a speech?
Q3.When a text appeals to the reader using the pronoun 'you' this is an example of ...
Q4.Match these devices to the correct speech openings.
You must act now.
How can another day pass without action?
I remember the loud bang of the explosion.
Ignoring this plea will be disastrous, catastrophic and tragic.
Q5.What type of sentence is being used here: 'Continue to break down the barriers you face.'?
Q6.What features has the following closing used? "Like the sounds of the battle field, we must be loud, explosive and send a message."
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which word can be used to describe the highness and lowness of a voice?
Q2.Which word beginning with 'P' refers to the speed at which you deliver your speech?
Q3.Which of these could be considered non-verbal features?
Q4.Which of the following would you use to show confidence when delivering a speech?
Q5.Which tonal words could be used to describe Emma Watson's and Emmeline Pankhurst's speeches?
Q6.Which answers would not be considered an appropriate tone in which to deliver a persuasive speech about gender inequality to world leaders?
To help you plan your 9 English lesson on: Considering non-verbal features in presenting a speech, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 9 English lesson on: Considering non-verbal features in presenting a speech, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 English lessons from the Women's rights across the ages: non-fiction reading and writing unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.