Using non-verbal features to present a speech effectively
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can understand how non-verbal features contribute to the effective presentation of a speech.
Key learning points
- Paralanguage is important: the pitch, tempo, loudness or tone of voice that is used in speeches can enhance the content.
- Kinesics - 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.
- Pupils need to consider their spatial behaviour- too much movement can be distracting but too little can be wooden.
Keywords
Paralanguage - the features of verbal communication other than words e.g tone, volume and pitch.
Kinesics - the way body language, facial expressions and gestures can communicate meaning.
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.
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
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.A speech's tone refers primarily to...
Q2.Which of the following is an example of non-verbal communication in spoken language?
Q3.Match these devices to the correct speech openings.
You have decided that enough is enough.
How can we stand idly by knowing our planet is in crisis?
I remember the loud bang of the explosion.
Ignoring this plea will be disastrous, catastrophic and tragic.
Q4.What is the correct definition of the word 'gesture'?
Q5.Which word beginning with 'C', can be described as being trustworthy and believable?
Q6.What features has the following closing used? "Like a powerful weapon, education can be empowering. Stay curious, stay informed, and ensure your learning journey leaves a lasting impact."
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of the following refers to the speed at which you deliver your speech?
Q2.Which word beginning with 'p' can be described as the highness and lowness of a voice?
Q3.Which three answers could be considered features of paralanguage?
Q4.Which three of the following would you use to show confidence when delivering a speech?
Q5.Which of the following does kinesics refer to?
Q6.Which two answers would not be considered an appropriate tone in which to deliver a persuasive speech about peace to world leaders?
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Using non-verbal features to present a speech effectively, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Using non-verbal features to present a speech effectively, 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 4 English lessons from the Spoken language: the language of change unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.