30-Second Stimulus Talks

Students give very brief oral presentations about a personal object, building confidence for longer speaking turns.

Procedure

1. Explain that everyone will give one or more very short talks about an object.
2. Offer opening and closing phrases: I'm going to talk about..., I've decided to talk about..., That's it, That's all I want to say.
3. Teach easy audience questions: Can you tell me more about...?
4. Model a very short talk yourself (no more than 30 seconds), speaking slowly. For example: I've decided to talk to you about my bicycle bell. I've brought it in so you can see it. It's very old. I like the sound it makes. I never clean it. That's it.
5. The aim is to show students that talking about an object is easy.
6. Ask students to bring in photos, objects, talismans, mascot toys, etc.
7. In later lessons, invite students who brought something to sit at the front and present.

Tips

• Call students up when the atmosphere is relaxed.
• If a student is still talking fluently after 30 seconds, let them continue. If they start hesitating, gently stop them and congratulate them for going over time.
• Once students are comfortable with 30 seconds, gradually increase the time limit.
• Try to elicit more audience questions over time.
• Presentations can be recorded on phones for less pressure and the option to redo.