three objects: notebook, pencil
To get comfortable with speaking into a camera, knowing your video will be watched by your instructor (and your classmates in later weeks), the best strategy is to begin with a topic in which you are the expert: YOU! This week, you will introduce yourself through a speech to practice strategies to beat anxiety and practice using video-recording software and props.
Resources
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Readings
The Assignment:
Note to students: This speech will be viewed by your instructor only. You may choose to present the speech standing before the camera or sitting at a table. Whatever you do, remember that this is a formal speech.
You may use note cards to assist you with speech organization and delivery. But do not read your speech from a computer screen. The goal is to make natural eye contact as if you are having a conversation.
For this assignment you will present a “Me in Three” Introductory Speech. This assignment allows you to introduce yourself to your instructor and practice public speaking.
Instructions:
1. Choose Three Objects You Can Hold in Your Hands Select three items that represent three important areas of your life. These areas could be roles you fulfill (e.g., student, parent, friend, worker) or interests and aspirations (e.g., social worker, nurse, volunteer, musician). For example:
- A symbol of your job or workplace (e.g., a company logo or uniform)
- An item that reflects a personal interest or hobby (e.g., a tennis ball if you play tennis)
- An object that represents your career goals (e.g., an apple for an education major)
2. Prepare Your Speech
- Create a 3–4 minute speech where you:
- Present each object to the audience.
- Explain how it represents you and why you chose it.
3. Record Your Speech In ONE Sitting (in face-to-face speaking you would not have the chance to stop and start over).
- Choose a quiet, non-distracting setting with good lighting and no distractions in the background.
- Practice your speech several times before you record.
- Place the camera/phone at eye level.
- Use the delivery techniques you learned in this week’s Learning Resources.
Check the Assignment’s Rubric to ensure you are covering all the required elements. Questions about this assignment? Email your instructor.cil and computer