Walkup's Way Home

 Oral Presentation Checklist
 Are you ready?

The unpardonable sin in public speaking is the sin of inadequate preparation.

          

  Checklist:  Content
# Yes No Question
1     Do I have visuals (either the book itself,  PowerPoint slides...) to appeal to visual learners?
2     Is my material organized or is it haphazard?
Is my material organized around my main points?
3     Do I have transitions to get me from one point to another?
4     Will my introduction  immediately "grab" their attention ?
5     Does my intro state the central idea directly and clearly? This is the foundation upon which your speech is based. Be sure your audience understands it.
6     Does my body contain adequate examples & supporting details?
7     Does my conclusion sum up the main points & repeat the central idea to reinforce the message?

 

Checklist: Presentation

# Yes No Question
1     Am I prepared? Have I rehearsed often enough to know my script  and to  feel & sound semi-comfortable?  Have I visualized myself giving a great presentation (affirmation)?
2     Before even beginning, did I pause, take a deep breath, relax, smile & wait  for everyone's attention? 
3     Do I feel comfortable with my appearance? Do I stand erectly & gesture comfortably?
4     Do I look the audience in the eye?
5     Are my volume and pace suitable? Do I  vary my tone & pause for emphasis?
6     Did I stay within my time allotment?
7     Do I invite the audience to participate, and do I remain calm when answering awkward and hostile questions  taking a deep breath while composing myself & preparing an answer?
8     When my talk is done, do I hold eye contact for a few seconds, waiting for an applause?

McKeachie's Teaching Tips (11th Edition by Wilbert J. McKeachie)
The above texts indicates college students have a  10 minute attention span .
It cites a   study by Hartley and Davies.

Remember: in a 45-minute presentation your audience will absorb one-third of what is said
and retain a maximum of 7 concept  (Tim Hindle, Making Presentation) .