Standing in front of a group of classmate with nothing but a sheet of papers or stack of note cards can be daunting. When called on to do a traditional speech, a student can enhance his report with visual aids that add interest to the materials. Along with a well-thought-out report, the presentation can include charts, photographs, drawings and posters to help illustrate points or highlight information. Items that are passed around the room will also add to the effectiveness of the presentation.
Regardless of the subject material, a puppet show is a unique way to present the materials to others. A one puppet monologue or multiple puppets holding a conversation can be used to teach about health issues, science concepts, safety, history and school life. Bullying, anorexia and other school issues can be presented by students with puppets. The use of puppets gives the student a feeling of anonymity while presenting subjects that may be dry or controversial.
Student materials can be presented using a computer. PowerPoint presentations, videos and podcasts can all be created by students and played during their presentation time. Some computer software has made creating movies so easy that kindergarten teachers are letting their students use it. Students can even bring static objects to life in simple stop-motion videos. Presentations that include technology get students more involved in the project, both during the presentation and the reaction.
Plays and skits are creative ways students can present their materials to the class. The students create their presentations using professional skits or they write the plays and skits themselves. Whether the student is using a scene from a story as part of a book report or explaining a concept in science, the play is an effective tool that encourages the audience to pay close attention. Students who create their own material also learn more because they use the knowledge they have gained from their studies.