Speak

The ability to speak effectively is a critical life skill that will serve a student well in college and scholarship interviews as well as in social settings, relationships and professional lives.  Still, the fear of speaking in public is one of the most prevalent fears in America.  The sooner a student can learn to speak comfortably and articulately, the better.

Debate- One of the very best mechanisms to develop sound speaking skills is by participating in the Debate Team.  There are many ways to participate in debate; traditional debate (two-man teams), Lincoln-Douglas debate (one-man teams), extemporaneous speaking, dramatic interpretation and original oratory are all categories of debate team competition.

Theater- Participation in theater productions can also be helpful in dispelling fear of being in the spotlight.  The downside is that the student is not required to speak his or her own thoughts in a theater production, only to deliver scripted words. Some drama clubs offer an improvisation group to give the students more opportunities to deliver their own thoughts.  If there is no debate team at your school, look into opportunities in drama to at least help build some comfort with public speaking.

Gavel Club/Youth Leadership Programs-  Toastmasters International is an organization dedicated to teaching effective communication to its members through frequent practice in front of other members.  Toastmaster members must be over 18 years old but they also offer Gavel Clubs and Youth Leadership Programs to younger members.  To find out about programs in your area, visit www.toastmasters.org.