Listen to the conversation again and fill in the gaps

Rosa: Thanks a lot for offering to give me some 1. ………… on how to use visuals for my presentation.

Milo: What do you 2. ………… to use?

Rosa: Well, I plan to show these 3. ………… for the first part of the talk.

Milo: Then, for this bar chart, I’d make sure to tell the audience what the 4. ……….. and 5. ………… stand for, and what each increment represents.

Rosa: I think it’s a little confusing, but your 6. ………… on the other charts are really helpful.

Milo: The second half of the presentation includes some 7. ………… participation, right?

Rosa: I don’t think so. You’ve been so 8. ………… .

Quiz
4) To be a more effective presenter, it is useful to evaluate your own presentation skills. The following self-evaluation form can help you identify areas you should try to improve. Please read each item below and rank yourself from 1 to 5 based on how frequently you believe you adhere to the item (1=never and 5=always). Then concentrate on the points that you have ranked with low numbers when you are trying to improve your oral presentation skills.

Question Rank
1) I determine some basic objectives before planning a presentation.  
2) I analyze the values, needs and constraints of my audience.  
3) I write down some main ideas first, in order to build a presentation around them.  
4) I incorporate both a preview and review of the main ideas as my presentation is organized.  
5) I develop an introduction that will catch the attention of my audience and still provide the necessary background information.  
6) My conclusion refers back to the introduction and, if appropriate, contains a call-to-action statement.  
7) The visual aids I use are carefully prepared, simple, easy to read, and have impact.  
8) The number of visual aids will enhance, not distract, from my presentation.  
9) If my presentation is persuasive, arguments used are logical and support my assertions.  
10) I use anxiety to fuel the enthusiasm of my presentation, not hold me back.  
11) I ensure the benefits suggested to my audience are clear and compelling.  
12) I communicate ideas with enthusiasm.  
13) I rehearse so there is a minimum focus on notes and maximum attention paid to my audience.  
14) My notes contain only "key words" so I avoid reading up from a manuscript or technical paper.  
15) My presentations are rehearsed standing up and using visual aids.  
16) I prepare answers to anticipated questions, and practice responding to them.  
17) I arrange seating (if appropriate) and check audio-visual equipment in advance of the presentation.  
18) I maintain good eye contact with the audience at all times.  
19) My gestures are natural and not constrained by anxiety.  
20) My voice is strong and clear and is not a monotone.  

Evaluate your score:

  • If you scored between 80-100, you are an accomplished speaker who simply needs to maintain basic skills through practice.
  • If your total score was between 60-80, you have the potential to become a highly effective presenter.
  • If your score was between 40 and 60, this resource can help you significantly.
  • If you scored between 30 and 40, you should show dramatic improvement with practice.
  • If your total was below 30, roll up your sleeves and dig in. It may not be easy - but you can make excellent progress if you try.

At the end of the course, take this evaluation again and compare your scores. You should be pleased with the progress you have made.

 

5) Discuss the following questions in pairs or small group?

1. Do you agree with the statement that ability to make presentations is an important part of professional competence? Why do you think so? Prove your point of view.

2. How do you evaluate your skills in making presentations?

3. What advantages and disadvantages of your presentations can you name? How can you improve your presentation skills?

 

Letter of apology



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