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Introduction

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  • Student Council speeches

Student Council Speeches

By:  Susan Dugdale  

How to write a winning speech: a template, guidelines, plus example speeches

Student Council Speeches mark the end of an election campaign.

Will yours be successful?

The final answer is in the hands of your fellow students. It's entirely their decision.

However, up until they mark their voting papers 'yes' or 'no' you have the potential to make their choice of candidate for the upcoming year 'you'.

How to write a great student council speech 

Use the quick links below to find what you need to write a great student council speech, whether it's the President, Vice-President, Secretary or Treasurer role you're after.

Image - colored hands waving in affirmation. The word "YES" superimposed over image.

  • the primary purpose of your speech
  • a template that includes all the necessary elements of a good Student Council speech
  • points to consider carefully before you write
  • an example Student Council President speech
  • an example Student Council Vice President speech
  • an example Student Council Secretary speech
  • an example Student Council Treasurer speech
  • a printable speech planner and outline to download
  • vital tips for rehearsal . These make the difference between looking and sounding polished and bumbling.
  • a link to a collection of videoed student council speeches
  • how to manage anxiety about speaking in front of others

Understanding your speech purpose

Understanding the nature or purpose of your speech could make all the difference between winning and losing.

Student Council speeches are persuasive speeches . Their ultimate goal is to get you the YES vote.

To help you achieve that use the template, (framework or pattern), below to cover all the essential elements you need to pull together.

In addition, it will structure your speech logically, and effectively, from its opening through to its close.

(I've turned the template into a printable enabling you to plan and outline your speech efficiently and easily. You can download it from the link further down the page.)

Return to Top

Student Council speeches template

Round button - colored hands waving in affirmation - YES.

  • Greeting - Attention Getter - The Hook You'll need an opening statement or rhetorical  question to sit your audience up with open ears and minds. For more see: How to write a speech introduction: 12 of the best ways to start.  
  • Who you are - your name, your place or grade in the school, and maybe, your hobbies or interests, and the clubs or teams you're a member of. For example, Amnesty International, the speech and debate club, cross-country and basketball. And if you've used a campaign slogan work it in. It'll jog people's memories. 'Ah, yes, that person!', they'll think. Being known and familiar gives you a head start.
  • What you want - the role you are campaigning for: President, Vice President,  Treasurer, Secretary, Historian...
  • What you are going to do for the audience - benefits to them in exchange for their vote. (Brief summary -you will expand this in the body of your speech.)
  • Credibility - your qualification or expertise establishing your fitness for the role you want. (Brief summary - you will expand this in the body of your speech.)
  • Transition leading to...
  • Your Main Idea 1 - For example: your goal for the role, what you want to achieve, how you plan to do it, the benefits to your audience - what painful problem(s) will you solve for them, your fitness for the job, transition to...
  • Main Idea 2 - Supporting ideas - details and examples - transition to...
  • Main Idea 3 - Supporting ideas - details and examples - transition to...

NB. Only include a second and third idea if you have time to expand on them. If not, move through to the conclusion.

  • Summary of main points
  • Re-statement of what you want - to be elected to the role you're running for
  • Re-statement of the benefits to the audience
  • Closer, clincher, call for action

Points to consider BEFORE you write your speech

Image: various colored hands waving. Text: - vote me.

You'll make a better job of completing the printable student council speech template if you  take the time to go through the points below.

And then, read the student council speech examples, before you start to write.

Research the role

Think about your audience, what tone or choice of vocabulary is best suited to them.

Avoid trying to impress with either 'big' words or use of slang. Both are traps! Be yourself. Authentic. Real.

Keep your language conversational rather than overly formal and use smaller rather than large sentences.

Try using active rather than passive words. These convey enthusiasm. For examples, see this page on using action verbs . You'll discover how to go from boring bla bla bland to dynamic excitement.

What 'hook' will you use to get them to listen? Humor? Humor is good if it is relevant and inclusive rather than exclusive. (No 'in' jokes!).

Your goal in the role you want

Avoid setting up expectations that you will deliver beyond your capability. :-)

It might be very tempting, but can you really reduce school hours, increase academic standards, introduce a range of exciting new extracurricular activities, as well as have a 'green day' and a movie night every month? Please keep it real!

Your credibility or qualifications

Now is not the time either to be shy or arrogantly big-headed! Let the audience know how right you are for the role you want.

Set yourself apart from other candidates by sharing compelling personal stories or anecdotes that both support your pitch, and show you understand the key issues that matter to your fellow students.

Your school's requirements

If your speech does not meet pre- established criteria in any way you may find it is returned to you edited. It's safer to find out what those criteria are BEFORE writing to avoid having to re-write or worse, being disqualified entirely.

Mockery and personal insults are not clever. They boomerang back on you, letting your audience know you're not to be trusted and neither are you ready for leadership.

Readily acknowledging the skill and expertise of your fellow candidates sincerely in a way that doesn't demean yourself, or them, shows an open mind and maturity.

Aim to have your speech ready BEFORE the deadline.

Give yourself time to prepare thoroughly, including time to review of your opponents' campaigns. That can be very useful for seeing their strengths as well as their weaknesses, which you can then respond to in your own material.

Student Council President speech example 

Here's a sample student council speech. I've written it from the perspective of someone running for President.

As you read it, imagine it said aloud. That will help you get the rhythm and flow of language. The speech is between 3 - 4 minutes long, depending on how quickly you speak.

Vote Sophia Clarke for Student Council President

Image: multi-colored hands waving. Text: YES! Sophia Clarke for President Student Council.

"I’ve got a question for you. I’m not asking you to shout your answer out, or raise your hand. All I’m asking is that you give it room in your mind. Let it sit for a bit, and have a think about it.

My question is – do you believe like I do, that all of us deserve the opportunity to make the best of ourselves? Not second best, 3 rd , or even, highly commended. The BEST.

I’m Sophia Clarke. I’m in the 12 th  grade, and I’m running for president. My vision is that each student is enabled to develop the skills and confidence to become the bigger, better version of themselves. The best they can be.  Regardless of who they are, and what they need to achieve that.

It’s an audacious goal. Some would say an idealistic, rather than a realistic, one.

However I say it’s awesome. And that you’re intelligent people who realize that reaching any goal starts with taking the first step.

So let me remind you why choosing me, Sophia Clarke, for president, is also choosing a better chance for yourself, and everyone else to grow.

I know you, and I know your needs well. I’ve served on your behalf in multiple roles through my years here; secretary, auditor, public relations officer, and have successfully taken on multiple issues. You’ll know some of those through directly benefiting from them.

It was me who was behind the push to get a regular anti-bullying program running throughout the school. That was two years ago, and now the  Teens Against Bullying  message underpins what we expect and strive for in our every day dealings with each other.

We know incidents of bullying are far fewer as a result. As our orange tee shirts say we ‘choose kindness, acceptance and inclusion’ for each other, and our selves.

Who has been involved in our mentoring-homework program? Either as a buddy-tutor or as a student getting a helping hand? And who, like me, is passionate about making sure that everybody gets a fair go?

In the past year, under my watch that program has escalated. We have over 50% more tutors across more subject areas and more students taking up the offer of help. That is a fabulous outcome for everybody. Truly win-win.

A tick in the box alongside my name is a tick for the continued growth of those programs. Their value is proven. They allow each of us to grow and experience the strength and confidence that comes from knowing that we can make a positive difference in other people’s lives as well as our own.

When you vote me for President you get my capacity to organize, to liaise, to listen and to speak, working for the benefit of everybody.

A 'yes' for me is a 'yes' for appreciating and celebrating diversity.

A 'yes' for me, Sophia Clarke for President, is 'yes' to a better you.

And together that is a 'yes' to a better life, and a better school, for all of us."

Student Council Vice President speech example

Like the speech above, this one runs to approximately 4 minutes when said aloud. Try it and see.

Image: poster for student council election. Text: YES! Jason Hull for Vice President, Student Council

Nod your head if you've heard of the phrase '2nd fiddle' or '2IC'.

What about 'sidekick'?

Not booting a ball in from a sideline but a trusty partner to whoever it is who has the leading role. Like Robin is for Batman.

Or like, {name of your country's Vice President or Prime Minister} is for {name of country's President or Prime Minister} or {name of your school's Vice Principal} is for {name of your school's Principal}!

Well, that's what I aspire to - to become the trusty, tried and true sidekick to the President on our student council.

My name is Jason Hull. I'm in Grade 12 and proudly standing in front of you today as a candidate for the role of Vice President. Yes, I am asking you to give me something of immense value - your vote.

I know what the issues, here at {name of school} are. As part of my campaign, I've interviewed you, and listened. I promise your ideas will be acted on.

Afterall I've trained for this role, put in the time. You know, I know how to get things done.

Last year I served as Secretary and the year before that I was a representative for the committee - proof that I'm committed to bettering our school environment not just for you, but for everybody!

With your support, I'll be your go-to guy when you want to make sure that your opinions and feedback reach the decision-makers.

One of my main goals as your Vice President is to champion your initiatives: amongst others, that's the library extensions you told me about, the desire for healthier food choices in our cafeteria, and the urgent need to increase and diversify the workforce and out-reach opportunities that so many of you mentioned.

Whether you're passionate about improving our school facilities, or enhancing our community involvement, I'll be there to guide and help you. 

In the role of Vice President, I will work alongside the President fulfilling my duties to the best of my ability. 

Together, we'll make sure that your concerns, and hopes are not just heard but actively pursued. Not 'I' will make sure, but 'we'.

There is no 'I' in we, and that too, is a prerequisite of the Vice President's position: the capacity to put aside ego and to work productively for the good of all.

Because together, we, the Vice President, the President and the other council members, are stronger and can achieve more.

The Vice President role may be a support act but it's a vital one.  To succeed in it, collaboration is key. I promise to work hand in hand not only with the President but also with the entire student council team, our teachers, and our administration on your behalf.

Unity is strength. More than ever, we need to nurture understanding, kindness and respect for each other. Regardless of your grade, interests, or background, I want every one of you to feel valued and heard.

That's a goal many would say is impossible.

However, I say, we need to be the difference we want to see in the world. And to borrow those famous words of Helen Keller's: "Alone we can do so little. Together we can so much."

It would be an honor to be your voice, your eyes and your ears as Vice President.

So, I ask you, will you trust me to have your best interests at heart? Will you enable me to work on your behalf?

And are you willing to give me, Jason Hull, your vote for best sidekick, aka. Vice President?

I'll take those smiles, as a 'Yes'.

Example Student Council speeches for Secretary and Treasurer

Click the link to read an:

  • example Student Council speech for the role of Secretary . Plus, an overview of the Secretary's main tasks and responsibilities.
  • example Student Council speech for the role of Treasurer . Plus, an overview of the Secretary's main tasks and responsibilities.

(This page was getting far too long to include them both here. ☺)

Get the printable student council speech outline

Click on the image below to open a downloadable printable student council speech planner and outline pdf. (Please note it will open in a new window.)

Image: a row of multicolored hands waving. Text: Click to download a printable student council speech outline.

Your completed outline will provide both the structure and the content you need to efficiently write your speech.  

After you've finished writing your speech

Now that you've finished writing, you're ready to begin work on your delivery: how you present the speech to your audience.

The first step in that process is making sure your speech fits comfortably into whatever time you've been allocated.

After that comes rehearsal. The information you need for both steps is below.

Timing and word count

Student Council Speeches are generally brief: around 1-4 minutes long which isn't a lot of time! That's between approximately 150 - 600 words at an average speaking rate of 150 words per minute.

To be safe say your speech out loud as if you were delivering it for real and time it. In some schools going overtime can result in being disqualified.

Going faster to fit everything in

Please do not be tempted to say it faster to get everything you planned said. As a strategy it doesn't work. You'll end up gabbling: speaking far too quickly and people won't be able to understand what you're saying.

Cutting out extra material

If you have got too much material for the time limit, cut it. Choose the least important ideas to let go of first. Then move on to rephrasing to reduce the number of words used to express a point.

When you think it's done, repeat the test. Say it out loud as if you were actually giving it, and time it.

If you're now within the allotted time, you are ready for rehearsal.

For more about word count see: how many words per minute in a speech

How to rehearse your speech

Round button -multi-colored hands waving in affirmation - the word "rehearse" across image.

Please, please  rehearse your speech ! Do not be tempted to wing it. The more you rehearse the easier it will be to deliver it well.

Remember it is only 1 to 4 minutes long! In that time your goal is to have your audience ready to vote for you.

You can help them make that decision by being confident and prepared. You will show that through:

  • your speaking style  - natural, sincere, fluent, understandable (clear and able to be heard without straining)
  • your body language  - relaxed, open gestures, good eye contact and smiling
  • your personal grooming or presentation  because how you look 'speaks' too. Make sure that your clothing and general grooming supports your speech because, like it or not, you will be judged on both!

Go to: how to rehearse a speech properly .

Image: cross legged girl with large pair of wings, levitating. Text: How to rehearse a speech properly and do so much more than wing it.

 Videoed Student Council speech examples  

How do other people handle a Student Council speech? What's their content and delivery like?

Are they funny? Formal? Too hurried? Confident? Familiar with the audience?

It can help to look at what others have done. Even if it's only to decide their way will not be your way!

Image: Malvern Preparatory School, Malvern, PA. USA, candidates for Student Council 2018

Click the link to access a collection ten videoed student council campaign speeches from the 2018 student council executive board candidates for Malvern Preparatory School, Malvern, Pennsylvania, USA. 

At the foot of the article you'll find links to the videos of the school's 2015, 2016 and 2017 student council campaign speeches.

A word of warning

Ps. panic not.

Round button - Image -multi-colored hands waving in affirmation with the word "Help" superimposed on top.

If you find yourself getting anxious over the thought of delivering your speech, please check this page for help.

  • How to deal with acute public speaking anxiety: 14 ways that will help

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16 Public Speaking Tips for Students

Arlin Cuncic, MA, is the author of The Anxiety Workbook and founder of the website About Social Anxiety. She has a Master's degree in clinical psychology.

how to write a speech for elementary students

Aron Janssen, MD is board certified in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry and is the vice chair of child and adolescent psychiatry Northwestern University.

how to write a speech for elementary students

Public speaking tips for students aim to reduce anxiety that can interfere with giving presentations or speeches in class. These tips can also be helpful for those with social anxiety disorder (SAD)   who have difficulty speaking in front of a group or telling a story among friends.

Public Speaking Tips

If you have SAD and need to give a speech  in elementary school, high school, college, or university, it helps to be as prepared as possible . Beyond preparation, however, there are strategies that you can use to reduce anxiety and fight the urge to stay home with a fake illness.

Even great speakers practice their speeches beforehand. Practice out loud with a recording device or video camera and then watch yourself to see how you can improve. If you are feeling brave, practice in front of a friend or family member and ask for feedback.

  • Talk about what you know : If possible, choose a topic for your speech or presentation that you know a lot about and love. Your passion for the topic will be felt by the audience, and you will feel less anxious knowing that you have a lot of experience to draw from when other students ask you questions.
  • Concentrate on your message : When you focus on the task at hand, anxiety is less likely to get out of control. Concentrate on the main message of your speech or presentation and make it your goal to deliver that message to the other students in your class.
  • Grab the audience's attention : Most of your fellow classmates will pay attention for at least the first 20 seconds; grab their attention during those early moments. Start with an interesting fact or a story that relates to your topic.
  • Have one main message : Focus on one central theme and your classmates will learn more. Tie different parts of your talk to the main theme to support your overall message. Trying to cover too much ground can leave other students feeling overwhelmed.

Tell Stories

Stories catch the attention of other students and deliver a message in a more meaningful way than facts and figures. Whenever possible, use a story to illustrate a point in your talk.

Being prepared to speak in public can also be important if you have social anxiety disorder. Feeling confident and prepared to give your speech may help lessen your feelings of anxiety. Some of the things that you can do to prepare include:

  • Visit the room : If you have access to the classroom where you will be speaking outside of class hours, take the time to visit in advance and get used to standing at the front of the room. Make arrangements for any audio-visual equipment and practice standing in the exact spot where you will deliver your speech.
  • Rack up experience : Volunteer to speak in front of your class as often as possible. Be the first one to raise your hand when a question is asked. Your confidence will grow with every public speaking experience.
  • Observe other speakers : Take the time to watch other speakers who are good at what they do. Practice imitating their style and confidence.
  • Organize your talk : Every speech should have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. Structure your talk so that the other students know what to expect.

Manage Your Anxiety

Taking steps to deal with your feelings of anxiety can also make public speaking easier. Some of the things that you can do:

  • Tell someone about your anxiety : If you are speaking in front of a high school or college class, meet with your teacher or professor and describe your public speaking fears . If you're in elementary or high school, share your fears with your parents, a teacher, or a guidance counselor. Sometimes sharing how you feel can make it easier to overcome stage fright.
  • Visualize confidence : Visualize yourself confidently delivering your speech. Imagine feeling free of anxiety and engaging the students in your class. Although this may seem like a stretch for you now, visualization is a powerful tool for changing the way that you feel. Elite athletes use this strategy to improve performance in competitions.
  • Find a friendly face : If you are feeling anxious, find one of your friends in class (or someone who seems friendly) and imagine that you are speaking only to that person.

Press Play for Advice on Finding Courage

Hosted by therapist Amy Morin, LCSW, this episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast shares a strategy to help you find courage when you need it the most.

Follow Now : Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts

Maintain Perspective

Remember that other students are on your side. Think about a time when you have been an audience member and the student delivering the speech or presentation was noticeably nervous. Did you think less of that student? More likely, you felt sympathetic and wanted to make that person more comfortable by smiling or nodding.

Remember—other students generally want you to succeed and feel comfortable. If for some reason the audience is not on your side or you experience bullying or social exclusion, be sure to discuss this with a parent, teacher, or guidance counselor.

Be Confident

Sometimes just knowing what makes a good speech can help you feel more confident. Focus on some of the following elements and practice them before you have to speak in public.

  • Develop your own style : In addition to imitating good speakers, work on developing your own personal style as a public speaker. Integrate your own personality into your speaking style and you will feel more comfortable in front of the class. Telling personal stories that tie into your theme are a great way to let other students get to know you better.
  • Avoid filler words : Words such as "basically", "well", and "um" don't add anything to your speech. Practice being silent when you feel the urge to use one of these words.
  • Vary your tone, volume, and speed : Interesting speakers vary the pitch (high versus low), volume (loud versus soft), and speed (fast versus slow) of their words. Doing so keeps your classmates interested and engaged in what you say.
  • Make the audience laugh : Laughter is a great way to relax both you and the other students in your class, and telling jokes can be a great icebreaker at the beginning of a speech. Practice the timing and delivery of your jokes beforehand and ask a friend for feedback. Be sure that they are appropriate for your class before you begin.
  • Smile : If all else fails, smile. Your fellow classmates will perceive you like a warm speaker and be more receptive to what you have to say.

Don't Apologize

If you make a mistake, don't offer apologies. Chances are that your classmates didn't notice anyway. Unless you need to correct a fact or figure, there is no point dwelling on errors that probably only you noticed.

If you make a mistake because your hands or shaking, or something similar, try to make light of the situation by saying something like, "I wasn't this nervous when I woke up this morning!" This can help to break the tension of the moment.

A Word From Verywell

It's natural to feel frightened the first time you have to speak in front of your class. However, if you fear continues, interferes with your daily life and keeps you awake at night, it may be helpful to see someone about your anxiety.

Try talking to a parent, teacher, or counselor about how you have been feeling. If that doesn't get you anywhere, ask to make an appointment with your doctor. Severe public speaking anxiety is a true disorder that can improve with treatment .

Spence SH, Rapee RM. The etiology of social anxiety disorder: An evidence-based model . Behav Res Ther. 2016;86:50-67. doi:10.1016/j.brat.2016.06.007

By Arlin Cuncic, MA Arlin Cuncic, MA, is the author of The Anxiety Workbook and founder of the website About Social Anxiety. She has a Master's degree in clinical psychology.

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How to Make a Good Speech for School

Last Updated: February 26, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Patrick Muñoz . Patrick is an internationally recognized Voice & Speech Coach, focusing on public speaking, vocal power, accent and dialects, accent reduction, voiceover, acting and speech therapy. He has worked with clients such as Penelope Cruz, Eva Longoria, and Roselyn Sanchez. He was voted LA's Favorite Voice and Dialect Coach by BACKSTAGE, is the voice and speech coach for Disney and Turner Classic Movies, and is a member of Voice and Speech Trainers Association. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,266,860 times.

A good speech in school will earn you the admiration of your teachers and peers alike. You probably won't deliver the kind of speech you hear in the movies, but that's a good thing: people will enjoy your original take much more. From getting an idea to conquering stage fright, here are the steps to take if you want to make your final speech a memorable, exciting success.

Sample Speeches

how to write a speech for elementary students

Writing the Speech

Step 1 Choose a topic or theme.

  • If you're not sure which theme to choose, write down or summarize a few stories and statements you could include in your speech. Pick the ones you like best and see if there's a unifying theme to tie them together.
  • See What to Do and What Not to Do for more advice on themes.

Step 2 Pick a tone that makes you comfortable.

  • Don't interrupt one point with a clause, or section set aside by commas or parentheses. Instead of saying "Our tennis and basketball teams, which we all know won the regional championships two years ago, need increased funding to compete," say "Our tennis and basketball teams both won the regional championships two years ago. Now we need to increase their funding to compete with other schools."
  • You can reference your school's slang once or twice to get a laugh, but don't overdo it, especially if there are parents in the audience.

Step 4 Write down original stories and messages.

  • Find a broad message that your whole audience can connect to their own life, but still deals with a specific idea. For instance: "Become an even better version of the hero who inspired you." (But don't steal your "original" idea from this website!)
  • Your stories can be specific incidents in your life or from history, but you should connect them to a more general idea. For instance, you could tell a story about your sibling's hospital visit, then go on to talk about overcoming fear and hardship in general.
  • If you like what you're writing but it doesn't fit the theme you had planned, it's fine to adjust your topic or switch it entirely. Switch back and forth between writing stories and brainstorming a theme if you keep getting stuck.

Step 5 Find a gripping way to begin your speech.

  • Surprise your audience by diving right into a tough story. "When I was ten years old, I lost my father."
  • Make your audience laugh by telling a joke, especially one that everyone in the room will get. "Hello everyone. Let's have a round of applause for the guy who installed air conditioning."
  • Start with a grand, thought-provoking statement. "Our galaxy contains billions of earth-like planets, and we're only just beginning to discover them."
  • Most likely, someone else will introduce you, and many of your classmates know you already. Unless you're asked specifically to introduce yourself, you can get right to the good stuff.

Step 6 Make the theme clear.

  • To use an example from earlier, if your theme is "Become an even better version of the hero who inspired you," you could begin your speech with two or three sentence about your hero, then say "You all have heroes who inspire you, but you don't have to just follow them. You can become even greater than the people you look up to."

Step 7 Move from one idea to the next in a natural order.

  • Include phrases such as "Now I'd like to talk about..." and "But we should also remember..." when moving on to your next idea.

Step 8 End with a memorable statement that captures your speech.

  • Build up to a big ending, then crack a joke to wrap up a funny speech. "And I know when you walk to the ballot box tomorrow, you'll be ready to do the right thing. Protect the interests of yourself and your school by washing your hands afterward. Do you know how many people touch that thing?"
  • If you're giving a commencement speech, leave people feeling excited or awed about the future. This is a big moment and you have the power to help them realize it. "Years from now, you will be the father or mother your kid looks up to. The writer who changes the way we think. The inventor who creates new ways to live. Come up to the stage and start becoming heroes!"

Step 9 Edit and polish it as much as possible.

  • Have a teacher, family member, or trusted friend check it over for grammar mistakes and offer feedback. Spelling isn't as important, since you'll be speaking out loud.

Step 10 Consider visual aids.

  • If your topic involves a lot of numbers, plan to write them on the board so your audience can remember them

Step 11 Turn the speech into note cards, then practice!

  • Your notes are there to remind you what to say next and of important facts. "Move on to bear wrestling story (guy's name is Paul Bunyan)" is the level of detail you need.

Practicing and Delivering the Speech

Step 1 Think about movement and materials.

  • Practice giving your speech in as situation as similar to your actual speech as possible.
  • In general, you should stay fairly still while giving a speech. Small hand gestures and occasionally moving to a new spot are fine, especially if they help you feel and appear confident

Step 2 Practice speaking loudly and clearly.

  • If you speech is too long, you absolutely need to cut some material out of it or shorten the longer stories or ideas. If you're giving a commencement speech, aim for a 10 or 15 minute maximum. An election speech should be no more than a few minutes, and your teacher should be able to tell you the time limit for a class assignment speech.

Step 4 Talk slowly and pause between ideas.

  • If you can't stop rushing, work out how long you should spend on each section and write the number of minutes at the top of each index card or paragraph. Practice near a clock so you can check whether you're on pace.

Step 5 Deliver your speech to a mirror until you can do it without reading.

  • Use slightly different words each time once you have the main ideas down. Try not to get caught up on exact memorization; using a new phrase to communicate the written idea makes your speech sound more natural.

Step 6 Pay attention to other details once you become comfortable with the content.

  • Practice varying your facial expression if your face looks fixed and mechanical.
  • Try to vary the tone of your voice as well. Don't make it sound like you're reciting every word from memory; pretend you're speaking in ordinary conversation.

Step 7 Practice in front of a test audience.

  • Try to make eye contact with different members of your audience throughout the speech. Don't stare at any one person for too long.
  • Resist the temptation to hide by standing near a corner or large object.
  • Don't fidget, tap your foot, or make other nervous gestures. Try slowly walking back and forth across the stage to get rid of your nervous energy.

Step 8 Use their feedback to practice more.

  • Dressing nicely will increase your confidence and gain respect and attention from your audience.

What to Do and What Not to Do

Step 1 Choose an appropriate theme (for an election speech).

  • Memories your class shares and personal memories that many people will connect to, such as your first day at the school.
  • Overcoming obstacles. Talk about how your classmates overcame problems related to academics, finances, and health, and how proud everyone is that they're standing here.
  • The diversity of your classmates and celebrating the rich variety of experiences, personalities, and interests at your school. Describe some of the many ways people will go on to do good in the world.

Step 3 Use techniques to make your speech more memorable.

  • Address your audience directly. Ask them questions to get them thinking, although you shouldn't expect an answer.
  • Use groups of three. The human brain loves repetition, and especially trios. Start three sentences with the same phrase, speaking louder each sentence.
  • Use emotive language. Try to provoke a strong emotional response in your audience, not present a list of facts to them.

Step 4 Thank specific people, but don't go on too long.

  • Don't tell stories that only a few friends will understand. Even references that your whole class will get should be used sparingly if there are parents in the room as well.

Step 6 Avoid clichés.

  • Go change the world!
  • Today is not the last day of your education, but the first.
  • The future belongs to you.
  • If elected, I will be the voice of the students.
  • It's time for change!

Step 7 Don't insult or offend anyone.

  • If you're giving a high school commencement speech, remember that not everyone in your class will be attending college. Don't joke about your education letting you avoid a "bad" profession; chances are good there's a parent who has that job out in the audience.=

Common Questions: Tips for Writing & Rehearsing a Speech

How do you start a speech for school?

Start by introducing yourself and thanking the audience. You can kick off the speech with a relevant “what if” question that gets the audience thinking and expand on it. Or try starting with a strong statement or quote related to your topic, then follow it up with an impactful question to answer in your speech. [14] X Research source

Where do I start when I'm writing a speech?

Start by sitting down and brainstorming to get your creative juices flowing. What is the focus of your speech? Who is your audience? Why is your speech important? Once you have some notes down, start refining your ideas until you get to one main point or theme that you’ll base your speech on. [15] X Research source

What parts should I include in a speech to make it the most effective?

Create a speech that has a clear introduction for your main point or thesis statement. Then, include and expand on 2-3 main points to make up the body of your speech. To conclude, summarize and restate your thesis to include your key points, and then make your closing statement. [16] X Research source

How do I get better at giving a speech I've written?

Read the speech out loud several times to get a feel for it. Record or take video of yourself giving the speech to find any weak spots and adjust anything that feels awkward or choppy. Ask friends or family to watch you rehearse and give you honest feedback. Then, just keep practicing until you've nailed it. [17] X Research source

  • Look at everyone in the audience, not just one person. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Make sure you don't offend or embarrass your audience. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Before you start, pick a spot on the wall to focus on. Throughout the speech, keep looking at that spot after each sentence. This shows to your audience and teacher that you can make eye contact! Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

how to write a speech for elementary students

Things You'll Need

  • Writing tool
  • Index cards

You Might Also Like

Prepare and Give a Speech

  • ↑ [v161163_b01].12 November 2019.
  • ↑ https://finley-h.schools.nsw.gov.au/content/dam/doe/sws/schools/f/finley-h/localcontent/how_to_write_a_speech.pdf
  • ↑ https://www.toastmasters.org/magazine/articles/for-the-novice-six-simple-steps-to-writing-a-fantastic-speech
  • ↑ https://www.unr.edu/writing-speaking-center/student-resources/writing-speaking-resources/speech-introductions
  • ↑ [v161163_b01]. 12 November 2019.
  • ↑ https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/topics/zv7fqp3/articles/z4w96v4
  • ↑ https://classroom.synonym.com/write-good-speech-school-4859.html
  • ↑ https://www.unr.edu/writing-speaking-center/student-resources/writing-speaking-resources/speech-delivery
  • ↑ https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-start-off-a-speech
  • ↑ https://open.maricopa.edu/com225/chapter/selecting-a-topic-brainstorming-your-ideas/
  • ↑ https://www.amherst.edu/academiclife/support/writingcenter/public-speaking/resources-for-public-speaking/speech-structure
  • ↑ https://open.maricopa.edu/com225/chapter/practicing-your-speech/

About This Article

Patrick Muñoz

To make a good speech for school, choose a theme or topic to focus your speech on so it's easier to write. When you're writing your speech, stick with simple language so your audience understands and doesn't get bored. Also, try to start your speech with a joke, story, or shocking fact that will immediately grab their attention. Remember to talk directly to your audience by asking rhetorical questions and making references they'll understand. End your speech with something memorable, like an inspirational quote or a call to action. To learn more about how to practice and memorize your speech before you present it, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to teach public speaking

How to Teach Public Speaking in Elementary & Middle School

In our world of instant communication and ever-evolving technological advancements, it’s important that we teach our students to be effective speakers. Delivering speeches, participating in classroom discussions, and presenting projects are all things students will be expected to do as they progress through their future educational endeavors. The post below includes four helpful strategies for teaching public speaking to students in elementary and middle school.

Start with Basics

Most students in elementary and middle school are new to public speaking. Like anything else in education, it’s important to start with the basics. Below is a list of key concepts you can introduce early. This will give students a chance to improve over time.

  • listening skills
  • eye contact
  • body language and gestures
  • voice volume
  • facial expressions 
  • stage fright 

After building a strong set of foundational skills, students will be prepared to tackle more advanced techniques. Ultimately, the goal is for students to feel confident and prepared to speak in front of an audience.

Examples and Modeling

Students new to public speaking will benefit greatly from examples and modeling of the following topics:

  • what to include on notecards
  • speaking from notecards
  • writing a speech in outline form
  • speech timing
  • speech delivery 
  • use of visual aids

Watching videos of famous speeches, TED Talks, or student speeches on YouTube will provide students with examples of speaking styles and techniques. Two examples are linked below. 

“Always Pan” (Sales Speech)

Storyline Online (Oral Interpretation Speech)

Examples of speeches written in outline form are also extremely helpful. Use the outline and format described in this post to guide your students through the speech writing process. All of the major components of a speech are included and explained in a format students can understand and apply. Once students understand the step-by-step method for crafting a successful speech, they will feel more confident speaking in front of an audience.

Rubrics are a Must

Use a rubric to list the necessary criteria for each major part of the speech, including the introduction, body, conclusion, pacing, inflection, and audience engagement. Review the rubric ahead of time to ensure students clearly understand the speech expectations. The consistent use of rubrics will provide students with a roadmap for improvement to help students track their growth over time. Click HERE to download a free oral presentation rubric.

Stick to Short Speeches

Set time limits for speeches based on age and skill level. Three minutes is a good starting point. Elementary and middle school students have limited attention spans, so it is crucial to keep their speeches concise and engaging. This will also encourage students to express their ideas effectively in a short amount of time. Keeping speeches short will foster clarity and concise expression of thoughts.

Teaching public speaking to elementary and middle school students lays the foundation for effective communication skills and boosts their self-confidence. The strategies listed above will help create an environment that fosters growth and empowers young learners to become confident speakers. Remember, the key is to provide a supportive and encouraging atmosphere, where students can gradually refine their public speaking abilities.

Download everything you need to teach public speaking!

“This is a ready-to-use resource for my Public Speaking semester-long middle school elective.  Great ideas and activities.” -Michelle B.

“We built a year of instruction off of this resource.  Each week we tackled a new type of public speaking. The students enjoyed the notes and activities included in this resource and it saved me so much time!  Everything I needed was right here.  I will be using this again!!” -Lacey Y.

“This bundle makes public speaking a breeze. My students find it engaging, and it reviews multiple different skills that public speakers need. I love the options for different types of speeches (the Award Ceremony is a student favorite).” -Kasey L.

Gestures Worksheet for Kids

This printable and digital bundle is jam-packed with engaging lessons and activities your students will love! The comprehensive and easy to use lessons include directions, examples, rubrics, and more! Save time and build student confidence with this step-by-step curriculum plan!

Printable & Digital Public Speaking Unit

Download today and get the public speaking curriculum plan with objectives, & standards for FREE!

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This  wireless Bluetooth microphone  is perfect for student presentations, read alouds, speeches, and so much more! The microphone has 27 colorful LED lights that flicker in rhythm with the voice. You can also use this wireless microphone as a portable Bluetooth speaker. It’s available in a bunch of different colors, and it comes with a nice storage case.

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How to Teach Public Speaking to Elementary & Middle School Students

Frantically Speaking

How to start a speech for students (Ultimate opening lines)

Hrideep barot.

  • Public Speaking , Speech Topics , Speech Writing

Person presenting to an audience

Schools and their love for speeches is an affair we are all quite aware of. Now if you are looking to move beyond the mundane way of delivering speeches in school and are in search of some amazing speech openings for students, you are at the right place!

Speeches are the most common form of public speaking that is encouraged in schools . Be it for a competition, assignment, presentation, or even as a punishment (oops), speeches are everywhere in a student’s life.  

To get a quick idea on speech opening lines for students , don’t forget to check out our video on 3 speech opening lines for students!

But before we dive into understanding how to go about your speeches, it is important to first understand why educational institutes focus so much on speeches or public speaking in general that they begin introducing us to speeches as early as primary sections.

Why is speech encouraged in Primary school?

It is a common practice to give the students a little idea about giving speeches as early as primary school. Part of the reason is that these are the foundational years and form as a stepping stone for the students to get a little more used to public speaking as they move to higher classes .

A couple of ways students in primary schools may be asked to give speeches would be to introduce themselves or at competitions like fancy dress competitions.

What is the use of speech in high school?

In high school, as students gain more understanding about the world at large and develop their opinions, giving speeches is encouraged in school to help them navigate their thoughts to their peers. Further, speeches as a form of public speaking also help build the student’s soft skills .

A few ways giving speeches in high school can help in developing their soft skills are:

1. critical thinking.

Speeches aren’t about blurting out your ideas or opinions, rather it requires you to research and find evidence to back your point of view, or to think critically to deliver a speech that effectively reaches the other students.

2. Problem-solving

Speeches could be framed around a popular or controversial issue that the student wishes to provide their insight into. This would encourage them to come up with solutions. Apart from that, even coming up with a speech can be a task sometimes, and overcoming those challenges too can be counted in as a way of problem-solving

3. Time-management

With a huge number of students in high school, speeches are almost always time-bound. This also means that the students have to structure their speeches in a way that fits the time given, further inculcating time management skills in them.

4. Active listening

Speeches are not only about delivering or conveying your ideas or findings but also about listening carefully to what others have to say in terms of questions that may ask.

Why is speech required at college?

Speeches in college have an entirely different goal than the one that schools have.

In college, it isn’t always mandatory to give speeches or to participate in public speaking. However, a few reasons why giving speeches or public speaking is encouraged in colleges is because:

  • It helps in developing communication and public speaking skills that can be very beneficial to their professional life later.
  • Speeches may also be a way to meet new people and make new connections.
  • It improves the student’s leadership skills. How? We have all heard how a good speaker carries with him or her the potential to influence and lead the crowd, and that is how practicing public speaking in college helps improve a student’s leadership skills.

When can students be asked to give a speech?

As we just discussed that the purpose of giving speeches changes as we progress in our school. However, there are a couple of situations where mostly all students are expected to present their speech. And they are:

Classroom/section speeches

Classroom or section speeches are the ones you give in front of your classmates or people from your age group. Generally, the presentation of assignments and competitions comes under this category.

Graduation Speech

Graduating students

Students may also be expected to present a graduation speech . However, the big difference here is that not everyone gets the opportunity to present a graduation speech or commencement address as it is known.

What type of speech is a graduation speech? Or what type of speech is a commencement speech?

Graduation speeches or commencement speeches are parting speeches wherein the focus is on reflecting on the good times in the institute and motivating others for their bright future ahead. Depending on the purpose as selected by the speaker, these speeches could be persuasive, informative, or entertaining in nature . 

How to start a speech as a student 

Giving speeches as a student, even if you have been doing it for the past few years can still end up being a little challenging.  But rather than giving you tons of tips on things you can focus on while coming up with your speech or speech openings for students, we have got one ultimate tip . If you follow that, you should ideally be able to reach your audience more effectively.

Ultimate tip when writing speeches or speech openings for students

Write how you speak, not how you write.

When I came across this tip, I was surprised too. Because is indeed true that we write very differently when we have to show the speech to someone in written form but if asked honestly, do we speak in such a highly polished, extra professional vocabulary?

The idea is not to write the speech or speech opening riddled with slang but rather in a way that you’d feel comfortable listening to and understanding easily had you been the listener.

So in short, prepare the speech with the listener in mind, not the reader .

What is a good opening line for a speech?

Most opening lines for speech in school begin with a good morning.  We usually follow it with greetings or addressing the audience and the guests.

Wondering how you greet everyone in a speech?

Here is a list of ways you can begin with a simple good morning:

  • Good morning everyone presents here today. I’m delighted to present my views and understanding on a very delicate yet overlooked topic; Gender sensitization in the workplace.
  • Good afternoon esteemed members of the jury, my friends and peers, and everyone present in the room today.
  • Good morning to the faculty, the non-teaching staff, and the class of 2022!!

Now it is a good practice to begin your speech with your usual greetings. However, in this blog, we are trying to look beyond the usual.

It doesn’t mean that you will not be saying good morning or your basic greetings; the only difference is that you’ll not be opening your speech with it but addressing these basic formalities later in the speech.

How do you start a speech without saying good morning?

There are a couple of ways you can start a speech without saying good morning. Here are some of the ways we will take a look at in this blog:

  • “Imagine” scenario
  • “What if” scenario
  • Rhetorical questions
  • Statistics and figures
  • Powerful statements

Quotes are phrases or things spoken by someone influential . Quotes as speech openings for students can not only help them go beyond the widely popular way of beginning any speech but will also help them establish credibility right in the very beginning!

Now if you have ever wondered,

How to start your speech with a quote?

Here are a couple of examples of using quotes as speech openings for students:

Lon Watters had said that “A school is a building with four walls, with tomorrow inside.” And it would be wrong if I said that I didn’t agree with every bit of what he said. As we come to an end of our journey with this school that has provided us with tons of opportunities to learn, grow, interact and make memories we sure will cherish forever…
“If you don’t have a plan for your life, somebody else does.” This is a quote given by Michael Hyatt and isn’t it something we have all been experiencing all these years of growing up as our parents or guardians make plans for us right from the way we dress to the school we go to and sometimes even the careers we choose. Good morning everyone, I am Myra, a student of XYZ school standing here to voice my opinion on “Factors that influence your career decisions.”

 2. “Imagine” Scenario

Young girl imagining

This happens to be a personal favorite of mine when it comes to speech openings for students. A very simple yet beautiful way to engage your audience right at the beginning of your speech while at the same time allowing them to relate to what you’ll be saying next is what the image” scenarios are all about.

Before we begin, I’d like you to take a moment and imagine walking through a trail. You see the lush greens and pretty sky above you, the most dynamic clouds following everyone you go. Try sniffing the smell of wet soil and a hint of flowery fragrance as you walk towards the edge of the hill expecting to take a glimpse of the utter beauty that these hours of walking would lead you to, but you find something else. You see something that sends chills down your spine. There are some strange men performing rituals right in the very heart of these dense greens. You wonder what it is all about until it hits you; you have just uncovered a cult.

For the next example, I’d like you to take a look at the video below and check for yourself how wonderfully the speaker (although not a student) has made use of the “imagine” scenario to share his tragic experience with his audience.

Imagine a big explosion as you climb through 3,000 ft. Imagine a plane full of smoke. Imagine an engine going clack, clack, clack, clack, clack, clack, clack. It sounds scary. Well I had a unique seat that day. I was sitting in 1D.

3. “What If” Scenario

What if I told you that the best speech openings for students are actually the ones wherein they come up with an opening that best represents their style and comfort at delivering speeches, be it with a joke or a story?

Do you see what I did there?

That is an example of a “what if” scenario. It is similar to the imagination scenario we discussed above but the only difference here is that “what if” speech openings for students focus on providing an alternative idea to the audience while the imagined scenarios provide the audience an opportunity to relate to the speaker.

4. Rhetorical question

Rhetorical questions are questions the speaker includes in his/her/their speech that doesn’t necessarily require the audience to come up with an answer but are posed to get the audience thinking on the same.

Using rhetorical questions as speech openings for students can work wonders especially when you are looking for either a very quick speech opening or have very little time to deliver the speech.

An example of using rhetorical questions for speech opening is given below:

Talking about the new policy that makes it illegal to check the gender of the child before birth, do you think that it will curb the issue of female foeticide? Or will it simply take the activity underground?

The art of silence is phenomenal. Opening your speech in silence can help enhance your speech in two ways.

First, it will give the audience some time to settle in , post which you can expect to grab their dedicated attention. And secondly, silence would give you some time to understand the room and calm your pre-stage anxiousness .

6. Statistics and figures

collage of random numbers

Want to begin your speech on a hard-hitting and eye-opening note?

Show the numbers, the figures, and any statistics that serve your purpose for giving the speech.

It is very common to overlook the seriousness of any situation when you aren’t aware of the real extent of its seriousness. But when we have numbers in front of us, there is no more room for being in denial.

Examples of using Statistics or figures as speech openings for students

  • According to the 2019 WWF report , on average, we consume about 1,769 microplastic particles every week. 1769 microplastic particles every single week, can you imagine that?
  • 3.2 million teenagers between the age of 12-17 were depressed in the US as of 2017. Now you can only assume the number has increased over the past 5 years.

7. Powerful  Statements

Powerful statements are statements that try to break any common ideologies held by the public. Another example of a powerful statement is stating a fact or idea that isn’t openly spoken .

The video below is one such example of how the speaker tries to break a perception generally held by the people.

How often have we been told to include stories in our speech?

Almost every time isn’t it? So here we are to bombard you yet again by saying that stories are extremely fun and engaging forms of speech openings for students.

You can either share your experience or someone else’s story.

You can also refer to a Recent Conversation by starting your speech with something like “Just the other day as I was walking out of my Philosophy lecture, I asked Mr.Dee about his philosophy on life, and what he said was so eye-opening that I could not wait to share with all of you.”

An adorable example of how to begin a speech with a story is given below to help you get a clearer idea.

Examples of speech openings for students

Speech opening lines for public speaking competitions.

When it comes to public speaking competitions like elocutions, speech competitions, or even presentations, it is almost always recommended to begin with self-introduction . The reason is quite simple; there is a high chance that your audience might not know you .

But if you don’t want to begin with a self-introduction, you can start by using any of the alternatives we discussed earlier. Click here to go back and take another peek at it.

Speech Opening Lines for Self-introductions

Speech openings for self-introductions need to be simple, to the point yet descriptive.

Wait a minute? Wasn’t I contradicting myself in that line?

Yes, but that is how opening lines for self-introductions would ideally work. As people expect you to talk about yourself in depth in the rest of your speech, your opening lines would just be a teaser about yourself.

2 most important things to add in your self-introduction opening lines for students

  • What do you do?

Other things that you can talk about in these opening lines include:

  • Where are you from?
  • What is your goal?
  • What does your organization do?
  • A little bit about your family

Examples of opening lines for students

Good morning, I am Reini. I recently graduated from BMU college and have since been working as a Design intern at Desgynopedia. 
Hello and good evening everyone. I am Nicole and this is my team, Alina, Tim, Harold, and Noman. We are in our senior year majoring in Organizational psychology. Today we would like to talk about the 5 main Psychological factors that impact any organization’s overall performance.
Hey, I am Nizan. I am a nerd for Political Science and Greek Philosophy and am currently majoring in the same. My love for the subjects is also the reason why I am here to present a topic I found very intriguing “The injustice behind socrates’ death.”

Funny speech opening lines for students

If you are giving a speech for a competition, one of the most fun ways of opening your speech could be to say “Good morning to the faculty, my friends, and (look at the opponents) others.”

Other funny opening line examples:

  • I almost bunked school today until I realized that this speech carries marks and I sure don’t want to be in a class with our juniors. Just imagine! Who could do that?
  • Hello and good morning to everyone, except the ones who are well prepared for their speeches today.
  • Hello everyone, I’m excited to present my speech on XYZ’s topic today. I mean come on, what could be better than waking up at 7 am on a Monday morning to give a speech?
  • Today I’ll be talking about XYZ because I was told to!

Best Speech Opening Lines by students

1. chase dahl.

In one of the funniest speech opening lines by students, Chase Dahl opens up by saying “You know I have never understood how imagining the audience naked was supposed to make you less nervous. Honestly, I’m just uncomfortable right now.”

2. Kyle Martin (The King’s Academy)

Yet another Valedictorian speech that has caught our eye is the one given by Kyle Martin. The reason we would suggest you take a look into the opening lines of his speech is so that you can take notes on how beautifully he has described the efforts taken by every department of the institute as he tries to thank them for their efforts.

Presentation Opening Lines

Presentation speeches are a little different compared to your usual speeches and the major reason for that is because now you have access to visuals or your PPT.

Besides some of the ways already discussed above, you can begin the presentation by pointing out a particular slide. You can show your audience a graph, table, pictures, or any other creative and eye-catching ideas that can also turn out to be an amazing presentation opening.

How to start a presentation speech example for students

A few common ways you can open your speech are:

  • Hello everyone, I am Miya. I would first like to thank you all for your time.
  • For those who don’t know me, my name is Nazia, and if you do know me, hello again!
  • Good afternoon to all you wonderful people present here. I am Ryan and as you can see on screen, today I’ll be speaking on “The hazards of drinking from plastic bottles.”

For more examples of opening lines check out 50 Speech Opening Lines .

You might also like to know:

How to start a speech for the student council.

Speeches for student council are usually persuasive. They are your pitch to convince your fellow students to vote for you and help you get the position you are looking for.

So ideally, you should start by addressing everyone in the room . Then make a point to introduce yourself. Once you have introduced yourself, remind the audience why you are speaking which means let them know the position you are campaigning for. Bring up at least 1-2 issues that the students are most concerned about and tell them how if elected you’ll provide solutions to their issues.

Try to end it on a high note and don’t forget to add your campaign slogan .

You can also begin by stating your campaign slogan .

Yet another way to begin your speech for the student council is by challenging your opponent’s point of view or campaign . However, this would work only f you have a better strategy or solutions to the issues raised by your opponents.

Lastly, do something that no one expects from you . Let me share a story here to help you understand this point better. During one of the student council speeches, one candidate asked the audience to stand up, move a step in the front then go back to their seats and settle down. Following this, she said, “My parents told me if I could move the audience, I’d win.” And so she did win!

What is a speech class?

A speech class in high school or college is usually a short course or 1-semester course wherein the student is expected to improve on their public speaking skills along with critical thinking and active listening skills.

It essentially enhances their oral communication skills.

This also reminds me to introduce you to our courses that help enhance your public speaking and communication skills. If you are interested, head to Frantically Speaking .

But if your appetite for learning more about opening speeches isn’t satiated yet, we suggest you go check out our Video on the Powerful speech opening lines.

To Conclude

There are tons of ways to get creative with speech openings for students. From saying a simple good morning to adding stories, quotes, statistics, rhetorical questions, and even silence!

Get creative with your speech openings. As we always say, there are no right or wrong ways of public speaking as such, only a way that suits perfectly for you is the one that is right for you.

Hrideep Barot

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how to write a speech for elementary students

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how to write a speech for elementary students

100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Kids

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Kids' persuasive speech topics cover everything from current events to age old childhood milestones. If you've been assigned a persuasive writing speech, look for a topic you know a lot about and really stand behind.

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics for Beginners

Students in grades two and up who are just starting to learn about the different types of essays and writing can select easy topics about things they are very familiar with. These persuasive writing prompts work great for short speeches.

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Fun and Interesting Topics

  • Kids should start every morning with yoga.
  • Cereal is not a healthy breakfast.
  • Showering every day isn't important.
  • Kids' clothing should always be designed by kids.
  • Being a YouTube star is a real job.
  • Boredom is good for kids.
  • Borrowing books from the library is better than buying them from a store.
  • Hamsters are the best first pet for kids.
  • Every person is completely unique.
  • My town is the best place for families with young children to live.
  • Being an only child is better than having siblings.
  • Kids should have TVs in their bedrooms.
  • Jeans are the most uncomfortable article of clothing.

Educational Topics

  • Cursive writing shouldn't be taught in schools.
  • Lunch periods should be longer for younger kids and shorter for older kids.
  • Kids shouldn't be allowed to bring homemade treats to share at school.
  • Homework should be optional for kids.
  • Schools should mandate that all kids learn about all holidays celebrated around the world.
  • All schools should have outdoor classrooms available.
  • All foods should be grown or raised by small farmers.
  • Playing video games is a good hobby for kids.
  • Gardening is an easy way to eat healthier.
  • Reading is more important than math.
  • Kids should get to choose what classes they take in elementary school.

Global Topics

  • People's differences make the world a more interesting place.
  • Kids under age 13 shouldn't be allowed to have jobs anywhere in the world.
  • The world is round.
  • Dinosaurs really did exist and go extinct.
  • People should only be allowed to eat food that grows or lives in their country.
  • International pen pals are good for kids.
  • Learning a second language is helpful for everyone.
  • There should be one form of money that every country uses.
  • Every country should have its own kind of schools.
  • Governments should offer free travel to other countries for educational purposes.

Intermediate Persuasive Speech Topics for Children

Kids in upper elementary grades who have some practice in writing persuasive speeches can choose topics that might be a little more controversial. These unique speech topics leave room for longer arguments and feature more interesting subjects.

  • Kids should have cell phones.
  • Kids, not adults, should decide how much screen time to have each day.
  • Every town should be required to have a playground.
  • Waffle cones are better than regular ice cream cones.
  • Dogs are better companions than cats.
  • Wearing pajamas in public is inappropriate.
  • Short hair is for boys and long hair is for girls.
  • Kids should have fewer toys and more cardboard boxes to play with.
  • Girls like to play with action figures.
  • Pokemon are cooler than Yo Kai.
  • Mosquitos are the most annoying of all bugs.
  • Zoos are unsafe for young children.
  • Kids under age 13 should be banned from having social media accounts.
  • Classrooms shouldn't have traditional desks.
  • School lunches should include some junk food options.
  • Every school should have child representatives on their hiring committee.
  • Naps are important for kids of all ages, not just babies and toddlers.
  • The government should stop making paper money and only use coins.
  • Robots make life easier for humans.
  • Children's books should be written by children.
  • Field trips and real-world experiences are more useful than classroom lectures.
  • Columbus discovered America.
  • Kids should be allowed to skip high school and go to college early if they want.
  • Dancing in public should be outlawed.
  • Voice recognition locks are safer than fingerprint recognition locks.
  • People should only eat foods they grow or catch.
  • All people in the world should speak English.
  • All countries should have the same rules about weapons.
  • Every child should spend a year living in another country with their family.
  • Men and women should have the same rights no matter what country they live in.
  • Adults should encourage child participation in strikes and marches for important causes.
  • The current U.S. President represents the country well.
  • Global competition is good for everyone.

Advanced Persuasive Speech Topics for Kids

Upper elementary and lower middle grade students with lots of speech writing experience can pick more complex topics that elicit bigger emotional reactions.

  • TV shows and movies for kids should have stronger content guidelines.
  • Real life heroes like police officers and firefighters would be more approachable if they dressed like Power Rangers and other super heroes.
  • Virtual reality games are better than 3D games.
  • Parents of bullies should be punished for their child's actions.
  • "Crap" and "Heck" are bad words.
  • Riding a bike is not that easy.
  • Funny cat videos are funnier than funny baby videos.
  • There's no such thing as too many stuffed animals.
  • Goats say "maa," not "baa."
  • Kids sports are safe.
  • Holidays shouldn't be celebrated in schools.
  • Kids should rate their teachers at the start and end of every school year.
  • Recess and classroom physical activity breaks help kids focus in school.
  • School buses should have a driver and at least two aides.
  • Classes should be grouped by ability levels rather than ages.
  • Technology makes people's lives better.
  • Middle school is still elementary school.
  • Schools should mandate classes where kids teach each other.
  • No one, teachers or students, should be allowed to bring cell phones into the school.
  • Kids should be allowed to take off their shoes in their classroom.
  • Students should not have to ask permission to take drinks and bathroom breaks.
  • Global warming isn't real.
  • Every country can have its own guidelines for who is allowed to leave or enter.
  • Kids can help combat climate change.
  • Astronauts will find life on other planets.
  • Daylight Savings Time should be eliminated.
  • Aquariums and zoos help with wildlife conservation.
  • People should be allowed to clone animals.
  • Sugar should be outlawed.
  • McDonald's is better than Burger King.
  • Tribal cultures should be preserved.
  • Companies should not be allowed to build their products in other countries.
  • People should call countries by their native name, not a translated name.

More Speech Topics for Kids

Speech topic examples and ideas from other types of speeches can be adapted to persuasive writing with a few minor wording changes.

  • Get students started with motivational speech topics for kids that are uplifting and less controversial.
  • Beginning writers can select simple kids speech topics for their first persuasive essays.
  • Some of the most interesting speech topics for kids include subjects they haven't encountered in real life.
  • Use examples of funny speeches for kids to show how students can inject humor into any kind of speech.

State Your Case

Most people agree that writing in elementary school is important because it gives kids a way to express their thoughts and feelings in a way others can understand. Persuasive writing is all about stating your case, or point, and all the facts that support this opinion. Choose a topic you believe in or are passionate about to create the best persuasive speech.

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How to help your child write a speech (without doing it for them)

how to write a speech for elementary students

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It’s hard for parents to help kids with homework without doing it for them . It can be especially difficult to work out where to start when your child is preparing a speech for school.

You might find your child is procrastinating more about getting started with a speech than about other homework. This could be because they are anxious about it.

Having something that they want to say to their class can help to increase your child’s confidence and motivation when they deliver the speech. A positive speechmaking experience can increase confidence for next time, which is why some schools teach public speaking in a systematic way.

It’s important to keep in mind that public speaking has two parts to it: writing the speech, and delivering it.

Here are some tips for how to help your kid with both aspects of preparation.

how to write a speech for elementary students

Read more: What's the point of homework?

Writing the speech

First, help your child find something they want to say to their audience.

When a child is delivering a speech to the class, they are being listened to, observed, and watched by their peers. Most other classwork is only read by the teacher. In a speech, they are sharing their ideas with the whole class.

That’s why it is really important they own what they are saying, and say it in their own words.

It’s key they own the topic (if it is a free choice of topic) or that they own the stance they are taking (if the topic is set by the teacher).

As a parent, it’s tricky to support your child to find their own words to say – but it’s very important you don’t write the speech for them.

Help them to think about what they care about and what they think is important to share with their class.

Apart from the fact the teacher will spot a parent-written speech a mile away, if your child has no ownership of their speech, they will not care about communicating the ideas to the class.

Next, help your child to think about organising their ideas.

It’s good to have a hook or a catchy introduction into the main idea of the speech. That could be a rhetorical question, an anecdote or an amazing fact. They can then think of around three main points about the topic.

Ask your child questions that help them to think about some examples or evidence that support their ideas.

Finally, help them to finish their speech. Often, the ending might return to the beginning to round off the point being made – a kind of “I told you so”!

how to write a speech for elementary students

Delivering the speech – 4 tips for parents

1. Encourage your child to focus on communicating their idea to their audience.

If they focus on sharing their ideas, rather than worrying about themselves, everything will come together. Encourage them to think about looking at the audience and making sure everyone can hear them.

2. Practise the speed of delivery and time their speech.

One of the easiest things to practise that makes a big difference to the delivery of the speech is the pacing.

The big tip is to slow down. When speakers feel nervous they tend to speed up, sometimes just a little — but often students will deliver their speeches at breakneck speed, racing to just get it done so they can go and sit down.

I’ve listened to thousands of student speeches and have never heard one delivered too slowly. But I have heard many that sound like a horse-race call.

3. Be an affirmative audience to their speech.

Listen to your child practise when they feel ready to share with you, but don’t push them if they are resistant.

Focus on building their confidence by talking to them about the moments you felt they were connecting with you as an audience member. Be appreciative of their jokes or show you share their feelings about ideas they care about.

Your children seek your approval – don’t be stingy with it.

4. If they are feeling confident, suggest they work on nuancing their delivery.

Once they are feeling confident about delivering the speech, the child can add variety and texture.

For instance, they might slow down for emphasis on certain words, add a pause after asking a question, or think about some moments where they might speak more softly or loudly.

Variation will add interest to the delivery of the speech and help to grab and keep the audience’s attention. It also helps further convey your child’s ideas.

how to write a speech for elementary students

Good support takes time

It’s hard to get the balance right when supporting your child to prepare their speech. The trick is to understand that it will take more than one sitting.

So, plan for a few chunks of time, and work on building their ideas and enthusiasm.

Read more: Should parents help their kids with homework?

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The Classroom | Empowering Students in Their College Journey

Elementary Student Council Speech Ideas

Grade 9 Speech Topics

Grade 9 Speech Topics

Running for elementary school student council can be an apprehensive activity for young children. They may be nervous speaking in front of their classmates and unsure of what tasks the role of a student council member includes. Students running for council will be required at some time to make a speech to the other students that details what the speaker will do for the other students or why they are the best choice for the position. Most student council speeches follow similar themes and include similar sections.

Speaker Qualities

Many student council speeches are written around the qualities the speaker feels sets them apart from other candidates. The speech might list popularity, intelligence, dedication or the ability to do certain things. The speech should start with an introduction and a summary of what the speaker feels they can accomplish as a student council member. The speech should not sound like bragging and should offer evidence to support what it says.

Leadership Abilities

Some student council candidates focus on their abilities to be leaders. They may point out their extracurricular activities such as scouts organizations or church groups where they may take a leadership role. They may speak about what their leadership might accomplish for their voters by pointing out issues that are important to their classmates, and how the speaker can try to address them.

Issues Addressed

For older elementary students, speeches may focus on particular issues that are important to the student body as a whole. These issues may include curriculum choices or activities that the students would like to see implemented. The issues may be on cafeteria food or certain school rules. The speaker may make a speech about a plan to reasonably address the situations by providing a voice for the voters.

What Not to Say

Within the speech, there are negative topics to avoid. The candidate shouldn't attack other students that are running for the same office or other offices. Focusing on their own positive qualities and ideas for the office is a better way to present themselves in their speech. Additionally, the candidate shouldn't make outlandish promises in their speech that are undeliverable.

Overall Speech Themes

Many speeches blend other types of speeches into one. They may focus on the qualities that the candidate feels she possesses, her leadership potential and how she may resolve problems or issues the students feel they face. She may speak about ideals the students want to see achieved such as a reduction in bullying or how she can lobby for longer recess breaks or more time in the lunchroom.

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Georgia Dennis has been writing since 1995, specializing in the areas of education, behavioral sciences, canine behaviors, human resources and language development. Her work has been published in literary journals, magazines and in print. She is also suspense novelist. Dennis is pursuing her Bachelor of General Studies, with an emphasis in writing and psychology, from Indiana University.

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Delivering a Persuasive Speech Lesson Plan

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Please help us grow this free resource by submitting your favorite lesson plans.

Lesson Plan #: AELP-SPH0200 Submitted by: Douglas Parker Email: [email protected] School/University/Affiliation: Albany Academy, Albany, NY Date: May 30, 2001

Grade Level: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

Subject(s):

  • Language Arts/Speech

Duration: Two 50-minute sessions

Description: Students need to understand that how they say something and how they physically present themselves are just as important as what they say. By understanding the dynamics involved in effective persuasive speaking, students will improve their overall confidence in communicating.

Goals: The goal of this lesson is to improve students’ speaking skills by understanding persuasion proficiencies.

Objectives: Students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate the appropriate classroom public speaking and listening skills (e.g., body language, articulation, listening to be able to identify specific examples of the speaker’s coordination of talking and action) that would be necessary to influence or change someone’s mind or way of thinking about a topic.
  • Define the elements of persuasion.
  • Recognize the elements of personal credibility.
  • Develop methods to analyze other students’ speeches.
  • Understand outlining main ideas.
  • Create a persuasive speech.
  • teacher-prepared topics for persuasive speeches
  • sample rubric (available in .pdf format)
  • Sample Rubric

Procedure: During class discussion, define and explain how people make decisions based on what they see and hear. Explain that sometimes we have to use skills to convince others about our positions. Have the students recall and list their own experiences trying to convince their friends about something, and then ask them to share these with the class. Have the students pick a proposition that not everyone would agree with such as: nuclear power plants are superior energy sources. Have them write a 6-8 minute speech in outline form to persuade the class. Each student will then deliver this speech in front of the class while the rest of the students take notes and prepare to give the speaker feedback on the speech. 

The voice and the body are the best tools — every student is a natural persuader! They have done it all their lives. Every time someone enters a conversation, he or she engages in elementary persuasion techniques. It is true that any time students make a statement of fact, they are asserting its validity and assuming that their listener agrees. This speech goes further than a normal conversational assertion: now students have to assume that not everyone will agree with them from the start, and it is their job to make them see things their way. The goal of this speech is to change someone’s mind or way of thinking about a topic. This is not a speech to sell, as students do not ask that the listener do anything except to agree with them or to begin to listen to their way of thinking. Their message is, of course, very important in this speech, but their voice and body language are even more important. Here they will learn how their delivery can help. There are several important aspects of presentation to keep in mind; the academic elements of persuasion are:

  • Body Language – Make sure that they have a proper posture. If their shoulders are sagging and their legs are crossed, they will not appear as being sincere, and people just will not accept their message.
  • Articulation – Articulation means how their total vocal process works. There are several steps to this entire process. Students need to understand the process. First, they need air from the lungs, their vocal cords in their larynx must be working, their mouth and tongue must be in sync, and they have to make sure that they have got some saliva in their mouths to keep things oiled. They should be aware of their physical makeup to be able to understand how they speak.
  • Pronunciation – Students need to pronounce each word. They must avoid slang, except to make a point, and not slur the words. They must avoid saying, you know.
  • Pitch – Pitch refers to the highs and lows of the voice. Whatever they do, they must avoid a monotone!
  • Speed – The speed, or pace, is an important variable to control. Between 140-160 words per minute is the normal pace for a persuasive speech. Any faster and they may appear to be glib; any slower and they sound like they are lecturing. If they are not sure about their speed, tape them for one minute and then replay it and count the number of words they used in the minute! The human ear and brain can compile and decode over 400 spoken words per minute, so if they are going too slow their listeners’ minds are going to start to wander as the brains finds other ways to keep themselves occupied.
  • Pauses – The pause, or caesura, is a critical persuasive tool. When they want to emphasize a certain word, have them just pause for one second before; this highlights the word. If they really want to punch it, tell them to pause before and after the word!
  • Volume – Volume is another good tool for a persuasive speech, but they should use it with caution. If they scream all the way through their speech, people will become accustomed to it and it will lose its effectiveness. On the other hand, a few well-timed shouts can liven up the speech! They must try to project or throw their voice out over the entire class – or speak to the last row.
  • Quality – Quality of voice is gauged by the overall impact that their voice has on their listeners. Quality of voice is the net caliber of their voice, its character and attributes. They must try to keep the vocal quality high; it is what separates their voices from everyone else’s.
  • Variance – Variance of vocal elements is the most important consideration of all! One of the most persuasive speakers in modern history was Winston Churchill. One of his most remarkable qualities was his ability to vary the elements of his voice. He would start with a slow, laconic voice and then switch gears to a more rapid pace. People were light-headed after listening to him! Even if they have no desire to run for political office, students can still use the tools of variance. Have them try to change their pitch, volume, and speed at least once every 30 seconds, if only for just one word. Never let them go more than one paragraph without a vocal variance. This keeps the class locked into the speech, if for no other reason than it sounds interesting! Let the students’ words speak for themselves; reflect their nature through their voices. If they use the word strangle, have them say it with a hint of menace in their voices. If they say the word heave, let the class feel the onomatopoeic force behind it. If they say the word bulldozer, make it sound like a titan earthmover, not like a baby with a shovel.

The Strategy: Appear Rational When students are trying to convince someone of something, they must first establish their credibility, or in other words, they must sell themselves before they sell their message. If people feel that they are not being reasonable or rational, they do not stand a chance. They must be committed to the ideals and goals of their speech and what they are saying. They should not use words such as maybe or might- the should use positive words such as will and must. Students must portray themselves as the authority figures in this speech, so they had better supply enough information to prove their points so that they can seem knowledgeable, and they had better know their material cold. People can usually spot someone who is trying to wing a speech. They should also appear to be truthful – even when they are really stretching a point. If they do not appear to be earnest, even if their message is the 100% truth, people will doubt their word and tune out their speech. Lastly, they must not be afraid to show a little emotion – this is not a sterile or static speech. Students’ bodies and voices must match the tone of their words. If their language is strong, they must present a physical force to go along with their deliveries.

The Class Reaction The class has two major criteria to consider after each member’s speech. First, the delivery. Were the speaker’s body, words, and actions in synchronization and harmony? Did one support the other or was there tension between the body and the voice? Secondly, were the students persuaded? Why or why not? Discuss what makes a persuasive speech work and how the intangibles effect a positive outcome. Assessment: The class will assess each speaker’s performance in terms of voice and body coordination and in terms of persuasiveness. Each class can develop performance assessments such as rubrics to facilitate this process (see sample rubric in Materials ).

Useful Internet Resource: * Basic Public Speaking, 2nd edition (written by the lesson plan author) http://www.capital.net/~bps2

Table of Contents

Impromptu Speech Activities

Oral Presentation Topics for Elementary Students

  • Assessments & Tests
  • Becoming A Teacher
  • Elementary Education
  • Secondary Education
  • Special Education
  • Homeschooling
  • M.S., Education, Buffalo State College
  • B.S., Education, Buffalo State College

Learning how to deliver an impromptu speech is part of meeting the oral communications standards. Use the following activities to help students practice their presentation skills.

Activity 1: Speech Fluency

The purpose of this exercise is for students to practice speaking clearly and fluently. To begin the activity, pair students together and have them choose a topic from the list below. Next, give students about thirty to sixty seconds to think about what they are going to say in their speech. Once they have gathered their thoughts, have students take turns presenting their speech to one another.

Tip - To keep students on track, give each group a timer and have them set it for one minute for each presentation. Also, create a handout that students must fill out after their speech to give their partner feedback on the positives and negatives of their presentation.

Possible Questions to Include in the Handout

  • Was the message clear?
  • Were the ideas organized?
  • Did they speak fluently?
  • Was their audience engaged?
  • What can they do better next time?

Topics to Choose From

  • Favorite book
  • Favorite food
  • Favorite animal
  • Favorite sport
  • Favorite school subject
  • Favorite vacation
  • Favorite holiday

Activity 2: Impromptu Practice

The purpose of this activity is for students to gain experience delivering one to two-minute impromptu speech presentations. For this activity, you can put students into groups of two or three. Once the group is chosen, have each group select a topic from the list below. Then allow each group five minutes to prepare for their task. After the five minutes is up, each individual from the group takes turns delivering their speech to the group.

Tip - A fun way for students to get feedback is to have them record their presentation and watch (or hear) themselves on tape. The iPad is an excellent tool to use, or any video or audio recorder will work just fine.

  • Any of the above
  • Explain the rules of your favorite game
  • Explain how to make your favorite meal
  • Explain your daily routine

Activity 3: Persuasive Speech

The purpose of this activity is for students to gain knowledge on how to give a persuasive speech . First, use the list of persuasive language techniques to give students examples of what should be included in their speech. Then, group students into pairs and have them each choose a topic from the list below. Give students five minutes to brainstorm a sixty-second speech that will persuade their partner to their point of view. Have students take turns delivering their speeches and then fill out the feedback form from Activity 1.

Tip - Allow students to jot down notes or key words on an index card.

  • Any current event
  • Convince listeners why you should be the president
  • Try to sell the listeners the clothes you are wearing
  • Convince the teacher to not give homework for a week
  • Try to convince the school board why they should have better food in the cafeteria

Persuasive Language Techniques

  • Emotional appeal : The speaker plays on people's emotions, can manipulate the reader by triggering an emotional response.
  • Descriptive language : The speaker uses words that are lively and vivid and engages the reader by inducing an emotion or producing a picture for them.
  • Emotive language : The speaker uses language that plays on peoples feelings. There is a deliberate use of words to provoke an emotional response.
  • Inclusive Language : The speaker uses language that engages the audience and sounds friendly.
  • Alliteration : The speaker uses the same letter in two or more words to persuade by adding emphasis and reinforcing the meaning. (ex. cruel, calculating, and crooked)
  • 100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students
  • Best Apps to Learn French
  • Fun Field Day Activities for Elementary Students
  • How to Give an Impromptu Speech
  • 5 Successful Review Activities for Elementary Students
  • Stage a Debate in Class
  • Practice Speaking Skills With Impromptu Speeches
  • How to Write a Persuasive Essay
  • Christmas and Winter Holiday Vocabulary 100 Word List
  • 13 Creative Examples of Informal Assessments for the Classroom
  • Persuasion and Rhetorical Definition
  • 5 Minute Activities for Elementary School Teachers
  • 10 Fun Team-Building Activities for Middle School
  • Methods for Presenting Subject Matter
  • 4 Fast Debate Formats for the Secondary Classroom
  • 50 Topics for Impromptu Student Speeches

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Elementary School Graduation Speech - A Free Graduation Speech

An elementary school graduation speech should give thanks where thanks are due,  acknowledge accolades achieved, pay tribute to both knowledge and attitudes attained and leave the students with a message for the future.

elementary school graduation speech

You can use the speech with a bit of tweaking here and there, or you can use it as a guideline to structure your own speech.

Graduation day is indeed a memorable day in the minds of the students and their parents. You can add to their magical moment and present a  short, yet meaningful speech.

Don't be reluctant to edit and add as needed - the more personalized and unique... the better!

Good Evening Honored Guests, Ladies, Gentlemen and of course the Graduating Class of [insert year] .

It seems hard to believe. The year started off at a sprint and it seems to have left many of us still trying to catch our breath. As we looked forward to all the challenges that lay ahead of us, it did appear a little daunting at times - a huge mountain that lay ahead of us to climb. But my, what a wonderful year it has been. A year of challenges met, mountains climbed and summits conquered!

To our young Ladies and Gentlemen seated in front of us tonight listening to our elementary school graduation speech - we are immeasurably proud of each  and everyone of you. There were those of you who seemed to have wings and you just soared over the obstacles and challenges that crossed your path. It is a wonderful gift and one that never fails to amaze me. And although, not everyone may have had wings that saw them soaring over obstacles confronted - each and every one of you had feet - feet that you used to climb, bit  by bit every day, one day at a time and yes...you all got there. You all achieved your goals!

Step-by-step and day-by-day - your course was steadfast and you never lost sight of your goals. I can only applaud that kind of determination, that purposeful resolve to get where you need to be - even when it may not always have been very easy. Well done - you seized wonderful opportunities, academic, cultural and sporting  and made them your own. We are indeed proud!

But, allow me set another scene? No elementary school graduation speech is complete without a story? The end of recess bell has just rung. The Grade [insert highest year of students] 's are outside a class,  waiting for a lesson. Along comes a little Grade [insert lowest year of students] chap....shirt un-tucked and socks down  after a good game of something that involves running. He sees a Senior Teacher standing next to the class, waiting to lead the class in.

Quite undeterred, this young man walks up to the teacher. The conversation that follows goes something like this:

Boy: "Who are those boys?"

Teacher: "They are Senior Boys."

The boy looking disappointed, but still hopeful: "Oh...I'm looking for a tall Senior Boy ( little arms extended to the left and the right accompany this statement to show just how tall the boy is). Do you know him? He said he would play soccer with me after school!"

Teacher: "Well, do you know his name?"

Boy: "No...but will you find him for me please? Tell him I'll wait for him after school to play soccer."

With that, the little chap turns happily on his heel, confident that the teacher will in fact find the "tall Senior boy" and he trots off to his next lesson. The Senior kids smile and chuckle good-naturedly at the little guy's enthusiasm and conviction.

Ok, so the teacher never did find the elusive "tall one" - but something more important was "found".

It is gratifying to find that at [insert name of School] a Senior Boy will still offer to play soccer with  a younger boy because he remembers looking up to the bigger boys when he was just a little guy. And what  a find it is when a Junior Boy wants to play soccer with the Senior Boys - no fear...just a little awe and admiration perhaps?

It is also heart-warming to see the complete trust and belief, as our young friend approached a teacher for help in this rather urgent matter,  and more importantly, to see the faith that the little guy had in the simplicity of his request, and the faith that the teacher would do their best to help him.

It is moments like these, not only the more tangible academic, sporting and cultural moments that are normally evident - when we are again reminded of what makes [insert name of School] so special. The moments are seemingly unimportant, magical and many - but they happen every day at [insert name of school] .

As you face a new academic year, my advise to you in our elementary school graduation speech is to continue soaring, continue boldly stepping forward, continue marching towards the beat of your drum and may the year that lies ahead be as phenomenal as your graduating year at [ insert name of School].

Your elementary school graduation speech will be even more effective with good quotes for graduation speeches.

Go on - visit  free graduation speeches for more ideas on free written speeches. Read them, copy and paste them, tweak them and present them!

Examples

Student Council Speech

Student council speech generator.

how to write a speech for elementary students

So you feel that you have what it takes to be part of your student council in your school. You got the guts, responsibility, wit, and charm to grab the position you are vying for from other students who are as qualified as you. Even if you are sure of yourself, you need to convince every student in your school that will be an effective officer if you are elected. And one way to convince your fellow students to vote for you is through your speech .

What is Student Council Speech? A student council speech is a presentation given by a student who is running for a position on the student council, which is a group that represents the interests and ideas of the student body at a school. In this speech, the candidate shares their ideas, goals, and plans to improve the school and address student concerns. They aim to persuade their classmates to vote for them by highlighting their leadership qualities, past achievements, and specific proposals for making positive changes within the school community. This speech is an important opportunity for candidates to connect with their peers and show why they are the best choice for the position.

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When writing a student council speech, you must be able to persuade your schoolmates to trust in your abilities and your platforms. (If you need more tips on writing persuasive speeches , see this one). Remember, you are not running just for popularity votes or to earn yourself a good credential in your achievements. You are running for a certain position (whether you’ll be a president, treasurer, secretary, etc.) to serve the student body, to represent them when they want their needs to be attended to and to make better changes in your school. So first you need to make your speech sound persuasive, but not aggressive. Start writing your speech weeks ahead before you deliver your speech.

how to write a speech for elementary students

Student Council Speech Format

Introduction.

Greet the Audience: Start with a friendly greeting to capture the audience’s attention. Introduce Yourself: Briefly introduce yourself, including your name, grade, and any relevant personal background that relates to the position you’re running for.

Statement of Intent

Declare Your Candidacy: Clearly state the position you are running for on the Student Council. Motivation: Share why you decided to run for the student council, focusing on what motivates you and why the role is important to you.

Qualifications

Experience and Skills: Highlight your relevant experiences, skills, and achievements that make you a suitable candidate. This could include previous leadership roles, involvement in school activities, or specific talents that contribute to your ability to serve effectively.

Vision and Goals

Key Issues: Identify key issues or areas for improvement within the school that you plan to address. Proposed Initiatives: Outline your main goals or initiatives that you aim to implement if elected. Be specific about what changes or improvements you want to make and how you plan to achieve them.

Plan of Action

Strategies: Briefly describe the strategies or steps you will take to achieve your goals. This shows that you have thought about how to turn your ideas into action. Collaboration: Emphasize the importance of working together with fellow council members, students, and school staff to accomplish shared objectives.
Reiterate Key Points: Summarize the main reasons why you are the best candidate for the position, focusing on your vision, qualifications, and what sets you apart from other candidates. Call to Action: Encourage your classmates to vote for you, emphasizing the importance of their vote in making a positive change within the school. Thank You: Conclude by thanking the audience for their time and consideration.

Example of Student Council Speech

“Good morning, students and teachers of Springfield High! My name is Jamie Lee, a sophomore, and I’m excited to run for the position of Secretary on our Student Council. Why am I standing here today? Because I believe in change, in improvement, and most importantly, in us—as a student body—to make Springfield High not just a school, but a community where every voice is heard and valued. My experience as class representative last year taught me the importance of organization, communication, and dedication—qualities essential for the role of Secretary. My main goal is to enhance our school’s spirit and involvement through better-organized events, clearer communication between the student council and the student body, and by creating more opportunities for everyone to contribute their ideas and talents. I plan to introduce a monthly feedback session where you can share your thoughts and suggestions directly with the council. But that’s not all. I want to work on making our school events, including dances, fundraisers, and spirit weeks, more memorable and inclusive. How? By working closely with clubs and sports teams to ensure our activities reflect the diverse interests and talents within our school. I’m asking for your vote not just for me, but for the vision of a school where every student feels connected, involved, and proud to be a Springfield Hawk. Let’s make this year one of unity, fun, and achievement. Together, we can make a difference. Thank you for considering me as your next Student Council Secretary. Let’s soar high, Hawks!” This example of a student council speech uses a structured approach to convey the candidate’s motivations, qualifications, goals, and plans in a clear and engaging manner, effectively persuading classmates to lend their support.

What is the Best Student Council Speech Example?

Title: Creating Unity, Inspiring Change Good morning, fellow students, teachers, and staff, I stand before you today not as a candidate, but as a passionate advocate for positive change in our school. My name is [Your Name], and I am committed to fostering a sense of unity and bringing about real, impactful change. Imagine a school where every student’s voice is heard, where diversity is celebrated, and where kindness and respect are the foundation of our interactions. This vision drives my candidacy. 1. Unity Through Diversity: I believe in celebrating our differences. Let’s embrace our diverse backgrounds, interests, and talents to create a rich tapestry that makes our school vibrant and unique. 2. Student-Led Initiatives: I propose student-led initiatives that reflect our passions. From cultural awareness events to environmental projects, let’s turn our ideas into actions that benefit our entire community. 3. Mental Health Support: Mental health is a priority. I will work to expand counseling services, create safe spaces for open discussions, and promote stress-relief activities, ensuring every student’s well-being. 4. Interactive Learning: Let’s enhance our learning experience through interactive methods. I will advocate for technology integration, peer-to-peer tutoring, and hands-on projects that make education engaging and enjoyable. 5. Community Engagement: Our school is not just a building; it’s a part of our community. I will initiate partnerships with local organizations, organizing volunteer opportunities and outreach programs to give back and make a difference. In closing, I am not just asking for your votes; I am asking for your trust. Together, let’s build a school where every student feels valued, heard, and supported. Join me in creating a future where unity inspires change. Thank you.

Examples of Speeches for Student Council Representative?

Empowering student voices.

“Hello, everyone, I’m [Your Name], and I’m here to talk about empowering student voices. Our school is not just a place of learning; it’s a community, and in a community, everyone’s voice should be heard. As your student council representative, my mission is to bridge the gap between the student body and the administration. I will establish regular open forums where students can voice their concerns, ideas, and suggestions. These forums will be a platform for change, where we can work together to make our school an even better place. I’ll also implement an online suggestion box for those who may not be comfortable speaking up in person. Every idea counts, and every voice matters. Let’s make our school a place where students play an active role in shaping their own education. I promise to be your dedicated advocate, listening, acting, and ensuring that every student’s voice is heard. Vote for change. Vote for me. Thank you.”

Bridging the Gap

“Dear friends and fellow students, I’m [Your Name], and I’m running to bridge the gap between students and the administration. It’s time to foster a closer relationship that benefits us all. I propose regular meetings with teachers, administrators, and students to discuss school policies and improvements. Our education should be a collaborative effort, with students having a say in decisions that affect us directly. In addition, I’ll work to create an inclusive school culture. Let’s celebrate our diversity through cultural events, and ensure that every student feels welcome and valued. I believe in transparency and open communication. Together, we can make our school experience better for everyone. Vote for a bridge to a brighter future. Vote for me. Thank you.”

Building a Greener School

“Hello, fellow students, Our environment is a priority, and I’m committed to making our school more eco-friendly. As your representative, I’ll initiate ‘Green School’ initiatives. We’ll start with recycling programs and energy-saving projects. I’ll work to establish a school garden, promoting sustainable practices. Let’s reduce waste and show that we care about the future. Your voice matters. Tell me your eco-friendly ideas, and together, we can create a greener, healthier school. Vote for a greener future. Vote for me. Thank you.”

Student Council Speech Samples to Edit & Download

  • Student Council Speech for Secretary
  • Student Council Speech for 4th Grade
  • Student Council Speech for Elementary
  • Student Council Speech for 5th Grade
  • Student Council Speech for Class Representative
  • Student Council Speech for House Captain
  • Student Council Speech for 3rd Grade
  • Student Council Speech for Treasurer
  • Student Council Speech for Vice President
  • Student Council Speech for Election

Student Council Speech Examples & Templates

Student Council Speech

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Funny Student Council Speech

High school student council speech.

High School Student Council Speech

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Short Student Council Speech

Short Student Council Speech

Short Student Council Secretary Speech

Student Council Secretary Speech

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Sample Student Council Speech Guidelines and Schedule

Student Council Speech Guidelines and Schedule

Speech Example for Student Council

Speech Example for Student Council

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Student Council President Speech

Student Council President Speech

Junior Class President Speech

Junior Class President Speech

Student Council Campaign and Speech

Student Council Campaign and Speech

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High School Student Council Speech

High School Student Council Speech

How to Write Student Council Speech

This is the most nerve-wracking part of your speech. So this part must be a good, no, great one. If for examples. you’re running for student council president don’t start just by merely introducing your name and telling them you are running for student council. You need to start your speech with a bang! Something that can catch the attention of your audience. Students are usually inattentive during these kinds of speeches so you need them to focus towards you. There are lots of creative ways to make a flashy opening. You can sing, rap, dance, act, do some comedy sketches, or anything that relates to the theme of your speech. However if you do not feel like performing live, you can still do some creative opening. You can use videos, power point presentation, music, or ask your friends to introduce you. You may also see introduction speech .

You can also open your speech by asking a question, whether if it is rhetorical or humorous. Here are some examples:

“So here is this person standing infront of you, asking you to for her. Why should you? You ask.” “If there’s anything you can do something for the school to make it loads better, what will it be?”

You can also add quotes from famous people that correlates with your speech. Make sure you cite your quotes properly. Here are some examples of quotes from well known people that you can cite:

“Leadership is not about the next election. It’s about the next generation.” Simon Sinek “I think leadership is service and there is power in that giving: to help people, to inspire, and motivate them to reach their fullest potential.” Denise Morrison “You need an attitude of service. You’re not just serving yourself. You’re helping others to grow up and grow with them.” David Green

After your awesome introduction, you then proceed to state all about yourself. Describe yourself, the position you are running for and the reason why you are running. Tell your name and your grade in your school. This is important if you go to a school with a big population. Don’t ever skip this part of speech as this will be what the audience should remember when it’s time to vote for you. You may also see thank you speech .

No need to elaborate in this part of speech. A brief 1-2 sentences are enough. Example:

“Hello. My name is John Cheese and I will be running for President! My vision is change for the betterment of our school. I fight for equality for all the students in this institution.”

Next is the part where you will sell yourself by mentioning your qualifications. This is one way to persuade your fellow students that you are responsible enough to be part of the student council. Mention any accomplishments that are related to the position your are running for.

If you’re running for president, don’t list your accomplishments in stamp collecting. The accomplishments that you should cite are your leadership skills, whether you are the team captain of your football team or you’re the major in your drum and lyre corp. You can also mention your honors and awards. You may also see speech templates .

“I am currently the team captain of our baseball team and I have also been a member of the Boy Scouts. Currently, I am the president of our drama club.  I have also been an honor roll student for the past five years. I have been exposed to a lot of leadership training skills and I believe I am most qualified to be an efficient president in the student council.”  

how to write a speech for elementary students

Writing the main point of your speech

Now that you have organize your introduction, it’s time to get to your ideas and how you should present them in front of the student body. This is the part where you will enumerate your platforms on how to improve the system in your school. Make sure that when you have laid out your platforms to the students you made some research. Ask the students, teachers, personnel on what areas that you should be improved.

Listen to what the students are concerned about. What are the changes that the students may want to see? What areas in your school you want to change to keep it running efficiently? You can also research ways on how to deal with school problems. Read books and ask some experts to help you. And find out how you, a member of the student council can address these problems. Once you already knew this, you will know what will be your platforms. A nice opening statement is to state out the causes that are important to you and what are your plans to make it better. You may also see special occasion speech .

“Bullying and discrimination has been more prevalent in this institution for the past year. As a student, I am disappointed that some of my fellow schoolmates has been the forerunners of this ugly way of treating people. And because of this, I would work out to invite speakers to talk about sensitivity in school, open more clubs for students to join, and start a tutorial program to aid students who are having a hard time in their classes.”

Keep in mind that you need to present your ideas briefly but persuasive enough to move your audience. If you need an inspiration, refer to Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. His speech was short but full of key points that got his message across to his audience. You may also see self introduction speech .

how to write a speech for elementary students

End it with a memorable conclusion

1. Once you’ve stated your ideas effectively, it’s time for your conclusion. When you get there, go back to mention your plans as a president or a treasurer and relate it to your main points that you’ve mentioned a while ago. You may also see speech examples for students .

“With my experience in leadership training and in my service to my team members, I know I can be a great leader to each of you. I promise to do my best to stop discrimination and bullying and to increase the interest of the students to be more open to each other’s diversities.” 

2. Don’t forget to highlight your qualifications one last time. They key to this is to sincerely state that it is your passion to serve your students. You may also see tribute speech .

“I am a passionate advocate against discrimination. And to change that attitude starts here in our school. I want everyone to be accepting of everyone’s differences. I vision an institution with good relations between students and faculty members. I care about each of you and your right to be treated fairly…”

3. Of course, don’t forget to ask the audience to vote for you. Here is the part where you will beg your students to vote for you. Their vote is important for you to win the election. Ask with genuine humility for the students to vote for you. You may also see informative speech .

“I ask nothing but your votes. I would be deeply honored if you’ll vote for me on the election day.” 

Now that you completed your speech, see to it if it’s good enough for you to use. Ask a friend, a family member, or a teacher to read your speech. Ask them what areas you need to improve. Ask for a constructive criticism, even if it hurts.

It’s important for you to learn to improve your speech and to be open-minded towards critical suggestions. Remember you are running for the student council. Make yourself a best example of a responsible student that your fellow students can look up to. Additionally, debates may come up in before the election day, so make yourself familiarize with debate speeches .

What is a good speech for student council?

A good speech for a student council should be engaging, relatable, and persuasive. It should include:

  • Introduction: Begin with a strong hook or personal anecdote to grab the audience’s attention.
  • Your Vision: Clearly outline your goals and vision for the student council. Explain how you intend to make positive changes.
  • Relevance: Address the specific needs and concerns of your fellow students. Show that you understand their issues and are committed to addressing them.
  • Qualifications: Highlight your relevant skills, experience, and qualities that make you a suitable candidate.
  • Ideas and Initiatives: Present concrete ideas and initiatives you plan to implement if elected. Be specific and practical in your proposals.
  • Inspiration: Motivate your audience with an inspiring message that encourages unity and active participation.
  • Closing: End with a strong call to action and a memorable closing statement.

Why do I want to run for student council?

  • Leadership: Desire to take on a leadership role and make a positive impact on your school community.
  • Advocacy: A commitment to representing and addressing the concerns and needs of fellow students.
  • Service: A genuine interest in serving others and contributing to the betterment of your school.
  • Initiative: Eagerness to implement positive changes, initiatives, and projects that benefit the student body.
  • Voice: A belief in the importance of having a voice in the decision-making processes at your school.
  • Personal Growth: Opportunity for personal growth, development of leadership skills, and networking.
  • Passion: Passion for specific causes, clubs, or activities at your school and a desire to support them.
  • Community Building: A goal to create a sense of community, unity, and school spirit among students.
  • Inspiration: Being inspired by previous student council members or leaders who made a positive impact.
  • Love for Your School: A deep affection for your school and a desire to contribute to its success and well-being.

What are the Good student council speech ideas?

  • Mental Health Awareness: Discuss initiatives to promote mental health and well-being, such as counseling services, stress-reduction activities, or peer support programs.
  • Diversity and Inclusion: Address the importance of diversity and inclusion, proposing events, clubs, or awareness campaigns to celebrate differences and foster unity.
  • Student Engagement: Highlight the need for more student involvement in decision-making, suggesting forums, surveys, or open discussions for students to voice their concerns.
  • Environmental Sustainability: Propose eco-friendly practices, like recycling programs, tree planting, or energy conservation efforts, to make your school more sustainable.
  • Bullying Prevention: Talk about strategies to combat bullying and promote kindness and respect within the school community.
  • Academic Support: Suggest peer tutoring programs, study groups, or additional resources to help students excel academically.
  • Extracurricular Activities: Promote the creation of new clubs, sports, or arts programs to cater to a wider range of interests.
  • Community Outreach: Encourage volunteer opportunities, partnerships with local organizations, and community service projects.
  • School Safety: Address safety concerns and suggest measures to ensure a safe and welcoming school environment.
  • Technology Integration: Propose the use of technology for educational enhancement, including virtual resources and tools for remote learning.
  • Student Wellness: Advocate for initiatives like healthy eating options, exercise facilities, or mindfulness practices to support student well-being.
  • Peer Mentorship: Discuss the benefits of mentorship programs, where older students can guide and support younger ones.

What are the Topics Included for Student Council Speech?

Student council speeches can cover a wide range of topics, depending on the issues that matter most to your school and peers. Here are some common topics and themes to consider:

  • Leadership and Service: Discuss your commitment to serving and leading your fellow students.
  • Unity and Inclusivity: Emphasize the importance of fostering an inclusive and welcoming school community.
  • Student Voice: Highlight the need for students to have a say in school decisions and policies.
  • Academic Excellence: Talk about ways to improve academic support, resources, and educational opportunities.
  • Mental Health and Well-being: Address the importance of mental health support and stress reduction.
  • Diversity and Cultural Awareness: Celebrate diversity and promote cultural awareness and understanding.
  • Environmental Initiatives: Propose eco-friendly projects and sustainability efforts for the school.
  • Bullying Prevention: Discuss strategies to combat bullying and create a safer, kinder school environment.
  • Community Outreach: Advocate for volunteer opportunities and partnerships with local organizations.
  • Technology Integration: Propose using technology for educational enhancement and virtual resources.
  • School Safety: Address safety concerns and suggest measures to ensure a safe school environment.
  • Peer Mentorship: Talk about the benefits of mentorship programs to support academic and personal growth.
  • Student Well-being: Discuss initiatives like healthy eating options, exercise facilities, or mindfulness practices.

What are the Quotes to put in a student council speech?

  • Be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi
  • “Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.” – Simon Sinek
  • “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
  • “In diversity, there is beauty and strength.” – Maya Angelou
  • “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” – C.S. Lewis
  • “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs
  • “Leadership is not a position or a title; it is action and example.” – Cory Booker
  • “Don’t watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going.” – Sam Levenson
  • “We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.” – Maya Angelou
  • “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” – Peter Drucker
  • “Unity is strength… when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved.” – Mattie Stepanek
  • “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill
  • “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
  • “Your time is limited, don’t waste it living someone else’s life.” – Steve Jobs
  • “The best leaders are those most interested in surrounding themselves with assistants and associates smarter than they are.” – John C. Maxwell

How to start a student council speech?

Begin a student council speech with a compelling and attention-grabbing opening, like a quote, personal anecdote, or thought-provoking question, to engage and captivate your audience from the start.

What is the main idea of student council?

The main idea of a student council is to represent and serve the interests of the student body, fostering leadership, organizing events, and improving the school community.

How do I run a good student council?

To run a good student council, prioritize communication, listen to peers, set clear goals, organize effective events, and collaborate with the school administration to address students’ needs and concerns.

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Speech on Education and its Importance for Students

Speech on importance of education for students.

Good Morning to one and all present here! Today I am here to deliver a speech about education. It is usually a belief that education is the foundation for all-round development. Life is based on development and that developing and growing is life. If we describe this view into the perspective of education, we can sum up that education is the all-round development of the individual’s personality. Thus, education is nothing but all-round development of the individual’s personality. Education is a process of man-making. Hence, education is necessary for all.

speech on education

Importance of Education

As per the report of the Kothari Commission, “the destiny of India is being shaped in its classrooms.” Education ingrain civic and social responsibility among everyone. India is a land of diversities. Therefore, in order to bring unity, education is a means for emotional integration. We cannot do without any kind of education. Education is an essential aspect of human development. Education is a means of achieving a world of peace, justice, freedom, and equality for all. Thus, education is extremely necessary for all. No good life is possible without education.

It indorses the intelligence of human beings, develops his skill, and enables him to be industrious. It ensures his progress. Education also channelizes the undeveloped capacities, attitude, interest, urges and needs of the individual into desirable channels. The individual can adjust and modify his environment with the help of education as per his need.

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Problems and Prospects

In a democratic country, education is necessary for all its citizens. Unless all the citizens get education, democratic machinery cannot work well. So we may emphasize that the problem of equality of educational opportunities in Indian. This situation is a very formidable one.

Our education system is at cross-roads. The Indian constitution enacted that there should be a universalization of primary education. In the order of the constitution, it was indicated that compulsory education must be for all children up to the age of 14. The universalization of elementary education has been implemented as a national goal. ‘Education for all’ is now an international goal.

The main problems are finances. Rural-urban disparity due to illiteracy. Women’s education, economic conditions of backward communities and non-availability of equipment are some other major problems.

Strategies and efforts at the national and international level

Universal elementary education has run the formulation of the project “education for all”. The provision of article 45 of the Indian constitution is a noble determination for the universalization of elementary education. Big efforts have been made to reach the goal of providing elementary education to every child of the country through, universal enrolment, universal provision, and universal retention.

Our constitution is making arrangements for free and compulsory education with the right of minorities to establish educational institutions. As well as there are education for weaker sections, secular education, women’s education, instruction in the mother-tongue at the primary stage, etc. These constitutional provisions are nothing but our effort to achieve the target of the project “Education for all”.

Thus, in the end, we find that education is a significant factor for achieving success, building characters, and for living a wholesome and happy life. True education always humanizes the person. In this reference, “Education for all” has become an international goal for both developed and developing countries.

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How to Teach Students to OWN that Speech

April 9, 2017 by Jeanne Wolz 5 Comments

I don’t remember gleaning much from going up and giving speeches during school, other than that I hated it.  I know it’s the same for my students.  Literally the ONLY thing I remember from my 8th grade social studies class was the nausea I felt as I walked up to give a speech one day.  This traditional method of one-chance speech-giving is not only traumatic, but it’s not effective.  

Before I talk about how I changed the way I teach speeches, I need to tell a little story about how I learned to give speeches in high school.  In high school, a few friends and I became passionate about raising awareness about depression and suicide in our school.  It was a serious problem in our high school, and we were able to convince the powers that be to let us present to the entire student body, each grade level a different day, one class period at a time.  I remember giving my speech 8 times each day that we did this, and by the end, I absolutely rocked that thing.  Each time I gave my speech, I memorized it better, honed my content and delivery, and cut out parts that did not go over well.  

Many of us, especially secondary teachers, do this same process on a daily basis with our lessons.  We teach the same lesson to multiple class periods–our poor first hour getting our first run at it, and our last hour receiving the polished product of practice.  We know that repetitive practice makes our teaching better.

Why, then, is the traditional way to teach speeches a one-shot deal?  Why do we force students to go up in front of a room full of eyes boring into them, tell them we’re grading them on their performance, and expect them to get something meaningful out of it?  We can do a better job teaching speeches.

 My memories of speeches in high school, as well as my teaching experience, was my inspiration in developing the gallery walk speech marathon lesson plan.  I have done it every year I’ve taught, and without fail, it has moved mountains in terms of student anxiety and quality of speeches. You can adapt this lesson plan for any sort of performance-based activity: speeches, poetry slams , presentations, or interviews.  I’ve even used it to help students write fiction–which I will be writing about soon.

Basic Idea of Gallery Walk Speech Marathon Plan:

Students will give their speeches to each other and receive feedback in a “speed-dating” format.  They sit in a circle and half the students rotate each round.  For each round, partners take turns giving their speech, while the other partner listens and marks feedback.  By the end of the class, every student can have practiced their speech 4-5 times in front of just one person, and had a chance to respond to feedback.

Why it benefits students:

  • It gets students to practice their speech multiple times in front of a real audience, without the intimidation of ALL their classmates watching.
  • Students internalize the speech checklist and standards we’re working on.
  • Students anxiety reduces DRASTICALLY–and I know this from their reflections, which I talk about below.
  • I get way better speeches out of students.
  • I have a chance to give feedback before the big speech day.
  • Students can watch their own growth over the class period.
  • Students that do not come in prepared walk away at the end of class with their speech “written.”  I force all students to participate, regardless of preparation (and this is a MUCH less traumatic way to do that than in front of the whole class). I LOVE THIS. After a few weeks of preparing in class, students can come up with some things to say on the fly, even if they hadn’t written any of it down before class like they were supposed to.  I’ll even give these students notecards after a couple rounds so they can write down points they came up with while they were winging it.  This also makes it so that they have to feel the pain of un-preparedness, rather than throw up their hands and get out of it, but also gives them a last-second chance to prepare and feel comfortable to do it in front of the class and learn something.  Win-win.

Gallery Walk Speech Marathon Lesson Plan

how to write a speech for elementary students

  • Also, print out some speech feedback/reflection sheets for kids.
  • Have a power point visual for gallery walk instructions .  

Directions:

  • I have kids complete the first question of the reflection before class starts–it’s about how nervous they are about speeches.
  • Explain each feedback category on sheet.
  • Afterward, go through each feedback category and ask students to hold up their fingers to represent the rating they gave you–invite the lowest grade to explain their answer, and be humble–this can be so powerful with kids.  It’s important for kids to witness how to take feedback graciously and thoughtfully.
  • Explain that outside-circle students (I have them raise their hands so they tune in) will always stay put.
  • Explain that inside-circle students (have them raise their hands again) will be the ones that rotate.
  • First, students switch papers.
  • Inside circle people stand up, give speech.
  • Outside circle: mark feedback on THEIR PARTNER’S sheet.
  • Once done, outside circle give one positive and one thing to work on.
  • I will then say SWITCH. They switch roles and repeat.
  • At the end of this round, I say, “Stop. Give papers back. Stand up. Point clockwise to the seat you will go to (I check they know where they’re going), now ROTATE.”
  • Tip: Since there are a lot of moving parts for this lesson, I make sure that they go through the motions once without giving the speeches as I explain. It tends to go MUCH more smoothly if I do and I save a lot of re-explaining.
  • As they are going, I watch partnerships carefully.  I will go over to partnerships and give real-time coaching, and look for things that students are struggling with across the board. It’s like a writing workshop for speech-giving!
  • Half-way through, I give a mid-check lesson about what I notice people are doing well and one thing they should improve upon.
  • At the end of class, I have them look at their feedback sheet and reflect on how they improved–which you can see on the second page of the feedback sheet here.  I have them think about how the process helped them, and how they’d like to prepare for future speeches, knowing what they know now.

I hope this helps your students hone their speech-craft, and helps save you some head-ache.  If you try it, leave a comment to let us know how it goes.  And if you have other ways of helping students get through speeches, we’d also love to hear from you!

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One Week Slam Poetry Mini-Unit--designed to be stand-alone OR inserted into your current poetry unit. Perfect to add interest, energy, and meaning into your students' poetry experience.

Want even MORE slam poetry lessons?  This  Slam Poetry Unit Plan  includes a full 3 weeks of lessons similar to this one, taking students through drafting and revising multiple poems with a student-planned performance at the end.  It uses a variation of this lesson plan to help students prepare for their performance at the end.

Good for ANY type of writing you have your students do, this is a lesson plan with handouts, slides, and even tips for how to help students hone their peer conferences for each other.

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how to write a speech for elementary students

I was wondering, how have you adapted this lesson plan for slam poetry? What criteria do you have students evaluate for that? How would you do this if some students worked in groups and others worked by themselves? How many days before the actual presentation dates do you do this plan?

Thank you! 🙂

Hi Heather, Great questions.

For slam poetry, I would have a day or two before this where we would study great slam poem videos and make a class anchor chart on good slam poem performance techniques. Then, I give kids time to make notes on their poem about what they’d like to do at different parts (gestures with their hands, talking fast or slow, pauses, etc.). I would definitely model making these annotations on my own poem before having them do it. Then, on the day of performing, I follow this plan pretty closely, just demonstrating my own poem in front of them (if you don’t have your own poem, you could demonstrate with one that’s already written).

For criteria–entirely up to you and your students. You could make it based on what kids noticed the slam poets doing, which I’ve done before, or write the criteria for them (eye contact was consistent, gestures helped meaning, volume and pace were varied, volume and pace were understandable, etc.). For performance criteria, I try to just make it based on performance, and leave content for later.

Great question about groups. You could still have them follow this plan, but don’t switch each round–just have inside circle perform, rotate, perform, rotate–then when they’ve done it so many times, have them spread around the circle and have outside circle perform, rotate, perform, rotate. That way you could just have the groups act as individuals when they’re spectators. If that makes sense? You would probably have a few kids “off-duty” each round, but you could have them make notes/plan for their own poem while they’re off-duty–which has been really effective for me in the past.

I usually do this the day before presentations, that way it’s fresh and they’re well-practiced.

Good luck! Let me know if you have any other questions. I hope it goes well for you and your students 🙂 Reply

I’m curious if you ever used video platform similar to Vosaic Connect ( https://vosaic.com/products/vosaic-connect ) to get/provide feedback using the feedback sheet layered on top of a video of the student. Just an idea.

I was wondering, do you use the same feedback sheet for all the types of speeches you have your students give/assess?

Also, how long does this lesson last? I teach 51-minute periods every day.

Thanks, Kelsi Clark

Thank you for pointing out that students anxiety reduces drastically when they are involved with speech coaching. I think my son may need some help when it comes to his speech> I’ll have to look into programs that I can get him into. http://www.speechlanguageliteracy.com/

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how to write a speech for elementary students

How to Write a Persuasive Speech: 7 Tips for Success

  • The Speaker Lab
  • June 12, 2024

Table of Contents

Mastering the art of a persuasive speech is about more than just making an argument. It’s about engaging your audience, tapping into their emotions, and guiding them to your point of view with precision.

In our dive into persuasive speaking, we’ll look at how selecting enthralling topics can captivate listeners from the get-go and ensure they hang on every word. By structuring your thoughts clearly, you’ll convey messages that not only resonate but also inspire action. And as we venture further, expect practical insights on delivering these ideas with confidence.

This guide will equip you for impact whether you’re eyeing higher education debates or business pitches. So—ready to persuade? Let’s start building those skills!

Crafting the Essentials of Persuasive Speech

What makes a persuasive speech not just good, but great? It’s all about nailing the essentials. Let’s talk shop and get into what constitutes a persuasive speech.

Defining Persuasive Speech and Its Significance

A powerful tool in any speaker’s arsenal, a persuasive speech aims to convince your audience to adopt your point of view or take action. But why is this skill so crucial? In various contexts—from boardrooms to auditoriums—mastering persuasion can be the key that unlocks doors, whether you’re advocating for human rights or pitching an innovative product. It’s not just about having facts at your fingertips; it’s also about striking chords with audience members on both logical and emotional levels.

In essence, successful persuasion hinges on blending ethos , pathos , and logos —three rhetorical arguments that make different appeals in order to sway people without crossing ethical lines. Imagine stirring up the kind of passion Martin Luther King, Jr. did with his “I Have A Dream” speech—that’s what we’re aiming for.

The Anatomy of Persuasive Speech

Diving deeper into crafting effective messages requires understanding key elements like thesis statements—a concise summary of your argument. Your speech should also have main points bolstered by supporting evidence. An intriguing thesis acts as a magnet drawing listeners in while logically laid out arguments keep them hooked.

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Selecting Captivating Topics for Persuasive Speeches

Choosing the right topic is like picking the perfect outfit for an interview. It’s your first chance to impress and persuade. A good persuasive speech topic isn’t just interesting—it should also resonate with you personally, offer fresh insights, and be relevant to your audience. Your chosen topic should spark curiosity.

Criteria for Choosing Your Topic

Picking out a topic that resonates with you and hooks your audience starts with introspection. Think about what gets you fired up: Is it human rights or health insurance debates? Does discussing violent video games or tobacco products prohibition spark that inner debater in you? Now blend this passion with issues relevant to high school curriculums or hot topics from social media chatter—this fusion ensures relevance and personal engagement.

Next, ensure alignment between your chosen subject matter and specific purpose—a mission statement of sorts for your talk. It should clarify why this issue matters here, now, to these listeners. For example, if organ donation rates are low locally yet awareness is high—an effective persuasive speech could pivot towards addressing myths rather than general advocacy.

Brainstorming Ideas That Spark Interest

To uncover gems among standard persuasive speech ideas requires creativity. Begin by listing down all potential subjects that fascinate you—music therapy’s role in mental health recovery perhaps, or how genetically modified foods affect nutrition security.

Dive deeper into each idea by considering its counter arguments, as well as how you might answer such counterarguments.

Structuring Your Persuasive Speech Outline

A persuasive speech outline is your battle plan. It’s where you lay out the strategies to sway your audience and anchor them to every word.

Main Points in a Persuasive Speech

Your outline should map the journey from opening gambit to final plea, with main points acting as guideposts. Your main points aren’t just there for show but also to convince and convert. These points should be clear, concise, and crafted to push the envelope on what your listeners consider possible.

As most successful persuaders will tell you, a well-structured outline doesn’t simply support an argument; it elevates it. That’s why every point must be backed by evidence support strong enough to withstand counter arguments while remaining ethical—no room for manipulation here.

The Blueprint of Your Argument

An effective persuasive speech starts with a thesis statement bold enough yet plausible enough that even skeptics pause for thought. You then need to connect each section back to this central claim.

The body of your argument should alternate between serving up hard-hitting facts (logos) and plucking at the audience’s heartstrings (pathos). And let’s not forget ethos—audiences should be able to trust what you say because you know this topic inside and out due its personal resonance or professional relevance.

To hammer home your main points, make sure you reiterate them in your conclusion, along with your thesis. This method ensures that audiences don’t lose track of your argument in between points.

Mastering Persuasive Speaking Techniques

To effectively deliver a persuasive speech, it’s all about the blend of strategy and sincerity. Think of your speech as a three-course meal served to engage every sense; you need just the right ingredients mixed with skillful preparation.

The secret sauce? Ethos, pathos, logos—your credibility, their emotions, and logic neatly tied together. Present facts illustrated with tales that tug at heartstrings while showcasing your expertise on the topic. These approaches have been used by great leaders throughout history.

Engaging the Audience’s Emotions in Your Persuasive Speech

A dash of emotion can transform your talk from mundane to memorable. When you speak, aim for the heart to build an emotional connection that lasts beyond those final applause. Tell a personal story or paint scenarios that resonate on an individual level. It makes audience members feel like they’re part of something larger than themselves—a surefire way to keep them listening and ready to adopt your viewpoint.

Using Persuasive Speaking Techniques Effectively

An unforgettable opening ensures you grab attention immediately but remember: this is no time for fluff. Get straight into what matters with clear main points outlined upfront because if there’s one thing we know—it’s that nobody likes being lost in translation (or speeches). Counter arguments proactively so when doubts arise, they’re already addressed head-on.

Your thesis statement isn’t just another sentence; it’s the rudder on your ship of an argument. As such it needs to be strong so that everyone knows why they should care about exotic animals or health insurance debates.

Crafting Messages That Resonate

Persuasion isn’t merely about changing minds temporarily—it’s making ideas stick long after curtains close. So layer stories atop statistics until suddenly—the world views genetically modified foods differently because you’ve shown them both sides using evidence support wrapped in narratives too compelling to ignore.

Overcoming Public Speaking Challenges

Stage fright and nervousness can turn a spotlight into a glaring interrogation lamp. It’s common, but you don’t have to let it derail your speech . Deep breathing exercises before taking the stage can help steady those jitters. Remember, even the pros feel butterflies; they’ve just learned how to make them fly in formation.

Dealing with Stage Fright and Nervousness

Facing an audience can intimidating unless you’re prepared. Preparation is your armor against fear. Know your material inside out, because when you do, confidence isn’t far behind. And if that doesn’t cut it? Picture success: visualize yourself crushing it on stage, leaving audiences hanging onto every word.

If sweaty palms still persist, focus on making connections rather than impressing people—that shift in perspective might just be what keeps nerves from taking center stage.

Handling Difficult Audience Members During Your Speech

Sometimes audience members throw curveballs harder than a major league pitcher, but with tact and grace under pressure, you’ll turn that curveball into a homerun. If someone challenges or interrupts you mid-speech, stay calm. Thank them for their input and transition back to your main points swiftly yet respectfully.

A difficult question? Embrace it as an opportunity to showcase depth of knowledge or gracefully defer it until after the presentation so everyone stays engaged without going off track.

Remember: Persuasion begins where discomfort ends—and overcoming these hurdles will leave listeners remembering not just what was said but who said it with conviction.

Ethical Considerations in Persuasion

When you step onto the stage to deliver a persuasive speech, you’re not just sharing an opinion; you’re asking your audience to trust and follow your guidance. Balancing persuasion with honesty is no small feat, but it’s essential for maintaining credibility. You might be tempted to stretch the truth or hide inconvenient facts, but avoiding manipulation in speaking is crucial.

A successful persuasive speaker knows that ethical concerns in persuasive speaking form the bedrock of genuine connection with your audience members. It’s easy to get lost in crafting arguments so compelling they border on coercive. But ask yourself if what you’re doing serves as a bridge between differing viewpoints or simply bulldozes over counter arguments without regard for their validity.

Steering Clear of Manipulative Tactics

Persuasive speeches should light fires under topics like human rights or health insurance—not ignite controversy through deceitful tactics. Ethos, pathos, and logos can become tools for trickery when used improperly. As a responsible communicator aiming at engaging the audience’s emotions ethically, steer clear from creating emotional whirlwinds devoid of factual basis.

To stay true to ethical persuasion principles means ensuring every fact presented has been verified twice over—no exaggeration, deceit, or rumormongering allowed. Stick firmly within reality’s bounds while discussing controversial subjects such as tobacco products regulation or organ donation processes; this helps maintain an atmosphere where constructive debate thrives.

Maintaining Honesty Throughout Your Speech

Your thesis statement isn’t just there for show—it’s your pledge of integrity throughout your address on music therapy benefits or violent video games’ effects on youth behavior patterns. Weaving personal experience into narratives may bolster relatability yet must never wander off into fabrication territory even if spinning tales better suited for your argument seems tempting.

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Leveraging Online Platforms t0 Develop Your Skills

The savvy speakers among us know that to stay ahead of the game, sharpening your speaking chops online is not just smart; it’s essential. With an array of top-notch courses, you can fast-track your way to becoming a more persuasive and effective speaker.

Building Public Speaking Skills Online

The journey to mastering public speaking starts with one click. The internet bursts at the seams with resources like Toastmasters International tailored to help you build public speaking skills online. Whether it’s refining thesis statements or practicing eye contact through video feedback, their tools are designed for real-world success without leaving your desk.

In addition to Toastmasters International, the National Speakers Association and SpeakerHub also have a myriad of resources for speakers of all levels. And of course, there are our own resources here at The Speaker Lab , where we offer you speaker training that will get you booked and paid to speak.

Top-Notch Courses for Developing Your Skills

No need to spend hours in traditional classrooms when you can speed up learning on-the-go or from the comfort of home. Top-notch programs, such as this course from the University of Colorado Boulder, turn theory into action faster than ever before. Interactive classes like these engage learners like no other. Just remember though—these resources aren’t magic wands; commitment still tops necessity lists if real growth is what you’re after.

FAQs on Persuasive Speeches

What is a persuasive speech example.

Persuasive speech aims to sway the crowd. Think MLK’s “I Have a Dream” pushing for civil rights.

What are the 5 elements of persuasive speech?

The five key slices: a solid intro, clear message, credible evidence, emotional appeal, and a killer conclusion.

How do I start a persuasive speech?

Kick off with an attention grabber—quote, question or startling stat—to hook your listeners right away.

What is a persuasive way of speaking?

Surefire persuasion speaks directly to interests while mixing logic and emotion to shift opinions.

Mastering a persuasive speech is about connection, clarity, and conviction. Remember the essentials: a well-structured argument supports your message and engaging topics capture attention.

Outline each argument with care, making it easy for listeners to follow, then balance facts with stories that stir emotions.

Hone your delivery like great leaders do. Practice making eye contact; refine those public speaking skills online or in person—it’s how you keep an audience listening.

Ethics matter as much as eloquence does. Persuade honestly without manipulating minds or exploiting fears—that’s true success in persuasion.

In every good persuasive speech lies the power to change views, inspire action, even alter history itself. So take these insights and go forth—persuade ethically, speak confidently!

  • Last Updated: June 4, 2024

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1. Parts of Speech Sorting Worksheets

2. identify and color parts of speech, 3. preposition matching, 4. parts of speech mad libs, 5. flashcard quiz, 6. interjection worksheet, 7. word search, 8. fill in the blanks, 9. sentence construction, 10. pronoun substitution.

Parts of speech refer to the different roles words play in sentences, such as nouns, verbs, adjectives, and others. In this guide on “ how to teach parts of speech ,” you’ll learn simple, engaging methods to help kids understand each type, making language learning fun and easy. Knowing these basics will help them write and speak more clearly.

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What are the 8 Types of Parts of Speech?

NounA word that names a person, place, thing, or idea.
VerbA word that shows an action or state of being.
AdjectiveA word that describes a noun or pronoun.
AdverbA word that modifies a verb, adjective, or other adverb.
PronounA word that replaces a noun.
PrepositionA word that shows a relationship between other words.
ConjunctionA word that connects words, phrases, or clauses.
InterjectionA word or phrase that expresses emotion.

What is the Best Order to Teach the Parts of Speech?

When teaching the parts of speech, it’s helpful to follow a clear order that builds understanding step by step. Start with the basics, like nouns and verbs, then progress to more complex types. Here’s a simple guide on which ones to teach first.

  • Prepositions
  • Conjunctions
  • Interjections

How to Teach Parts of Speech: 15 Fun Ways

Parts of speech sorting worksheet

Using worksheets is one of the fun ways to teach parts of speech, such as sorting words into categories. Provide kids with parts of speech sorting worksheet. They’ll categorize each word into the correct part of speech. This activity helps reinforce their understanding of how different words function within sentences.

Thanksgiving theme worksheet

This themed worksheet activity offers a creative way to make teaching parts of speech enjoyable. The worksheet features fun designs, like a turkey and Santa, divided into sections representing different examples of parts of speech, such as nouns, verbs, and adjectives. Below the illustration, kids use a color scheme to identify and color each part of speech accurately. It’s a visually engaging and fun way to teach parts of speech that keep kids entertained while reinforcing their understanding of grammar concepts.

Here are fun themed identify and color parts of speech worksheet:

Preposition matching worksheet

In the preposition matching worksheet, kids will identify the correct prepositions by pairing them with pictures or sentences. They will practice using “in,” “on,” “under,” and other prepositions, reinforcing how these words show the relationship between objects. This fun activity will help them understand prepositions through real-life examples while building their grammar skills.

Parts of Speech Mad Libs

Mad Libs is a playful and imaginative way to reinforce understanding of the parts of speech. Provide kids with fill-in-the-blank stories and ask them to supply words like nouns, verbs, or adjectives in specific places. The result is a fun, silly story that often makes everyone laugh! This activity helps children practice vocabulary in a creative context, letting them see how different parts of speech fit together in sentences.

A flashcard quiz is a handy activity for teaching parts of speech to ESL students and native English speakers alike. Use flashcards with sentences or single words and ask students to identify the parts of speech for kids to understand. You can have them raise a card, give a thumbs up, or call out the right answer. This quick game helps kids reinforce their knowledge while keeping the activity light and engaging.

Interjection worksheet

This worksheet introduces kids to interjections in three engaging tasks. First, they’ll identify and color the interjections provided in the worksheet. Next, they’ll write down three interjections that express specific emotions like surprise or excitement. Lastly, they’ll practice using these interjections in complete sentences to understand how they bring emotion and emphasis to writing. This activity helps children recognize and apply interjections in a creative and structured way.

The word search activity will challenge kids to find various parts of speech, like nouns, verbs, and adjectives, hidden within a word grid. They’ll scan the puzzle to identify and circle the words, reinforcing their understanding of different parts of speech. It’s a playful way for them to practice grammar while sharpening their vocabulary and word recognition skills.

Fill in the blanks worksheet

This activity involves giving kids sentences or stories with missing words and asking them to fill in the blanks using appropriate parts of speech. You can focus on different types, such as nouns, verbs, or adjectives. For instance, “The ____ ran quickly,” could be filled with “dog” or “cat.” It helps kids practice choosing the right words and reinforces their understanding of grammar.

Here are some fill-in-the-blank worksheets:

Card Image

With sentence construction , give students word cards featuring different parts of speech like nouns, verbs, adjectives, and more. Challenge them to arrange these cards into meaningful sentences that include multiple parts of speech. This activity helps children learn sentence structure, practice vocabulary, and see how each part of speech functions within a complete sentence.

Pronoun substitution worksheet

In the pronoun substitution activity, kids replace nouns in a story with suitable pronouns like “he,” “she,” “they,” or “it.” Provide a short story where specific nouns are underlined and let the children rewrite it using appropriate pronouns. This practice helps them see how pronouns can simplify sentences and make writing more fluid.

Here are some fun sentence worksheets to get started:

Card Image

11. Conjunction Connect

Conjunction Connect is a simple activity where kids practice combining short sentences using conjunctions like “and,” “but,” or “because.” Provide pairs of short sentences that need to be joined, and ask kids to pick the right conjunction to form a single sentence. It’s a great way to teach children how conjunctions help link ideas and improve their writing skills .

12. Grammar Posters

Grammar poster

Creating grammar posters is a fantastic way to reinforce the concept of parts of speech for kids. Let them make colorful posters with definitions and examples of nouns, verbs, adjectives, and more. Each poster can focus on one part of speech and include drawings, diagrams, or sentences. It’s a wonderful visual aid for kids, giving them something to reference during their writing or reading practice.

13. Verb Charades

Verb Charades is an interactive and fun way to teach parts of speech, focusing on verbs. Kids act out different verbs while their classmates guess the action. This activity not only makes learning parts of speech active and fun but also helps children understand verbs as action words. It’s a great way to physically engage students in learning and reinforce their understanding through movement and interaction.

14. Parts of Speech Bingo

Parts of speech bingo

Turn identifying parts of speech into a game with Parts of Speech Bingo. Create bingo cards with different words representing each part of speech. As you call out a word, students will mark their cards under the correct category, like “noun” or “verb.” This game adds a playful twist to grammar lessons while reinforcing the kids’ ability to categorize different words accurately.

15. Interjection Role-Play

Interjection Role-Play helps children grasp how interjections add emotion to sentences. Create scenarios where kids take turns acting out situations, using interjections like “Wow!” for excitement or “Oh no!” for surprise. You can offer prompts like receiving a gift or finding a missing toy to encourage genuine expressions. This fun activity allows kids to practice using interjections naturally in conversations, boosting their confidence and creativity with language.

Understanding how to teach parts of speech is essential for helping kids communicate clearly and confidently. By following a structured approach, kids will develop strong language skills that support them in reading, writing, and everyday conversations.

Related Reading: Easy Steps to Improve Writing Skills for Kids

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  4. Elementary school student speech

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  1. Speech for Elementary Students

    Popular Speech Topics for Elementary Students. Speech topics can vary from simple to complex themes that include social problems or political issues in today's society. These may either form a persuasive speech or an informative speech, or possibly a combination of both types.

  2. Speech Writing Outline and Format for Students

    It lets the audience know that the speech is about to end. Like the introduction, the conclusion can be broken into two parts: the review and the final statement. A. Review: During the first part of the conclusion, the speaker restates the topic of the speech and each main point. B. Final Statement: The speech ends with a strong final statement.

  3. How to Write a Student Council Speech: 10 Steps (with Pictures)

    To write a student council speech, start with an attention-grabbing statement such as a question or a powerful quote about leadership. Next, briefly explain who you are, what position you are running for, and why you are running. Then list any relevant qualifications, such as a summer job. In the body of the speech, discuss at least 3 ways to ...

  4. How to write a speech for kids

    Use conversational language rather than formal. In your mind choose a child to give your speech to. This will help you keep it 'real'. Limit the number of main points you wish to make about your topic to one or two. Keep the formal or structured part of your speech brief. Allow time for, and encourage questions.

  5. How to write a good speech [7 easily followed steps]

    Tell them (Body of your speech - the main ideas plus examples) Tell them what you told them (The ending) TEST before presenting. Read aloud several times to check the flow of material, the suitability of language and the timing. Return to top. A step by step guide for writing a great speech.

  6. Student Council Speeches: How to Write a Winning Speech

    Greeting - Attention Getter - The Hook You'll need an opening statement or rhetorical question to sit your audience up with open ears and minds. For more see: How to write a speech introduction: 12 of the best ways to start. Who you are - your name, your place or grade in the school, and maybe, your hobbies or interests, and the clubs or teams you're a member of.

  7. 16 Public Speaking Tips for Students

    Practice being silent when you feel the urge to use one of these words. Vary your tone, volume, and speed: Interesting speakers vary the pitch (high versus low), volume (loud versus soft), and speed (fast versus slow) of their words. Doing so keeps your classmates interested and engaged in what you say.

  8. How to Make a Good Speech for School

    7. Practice in front of a test audience. Gather together your family members or friends and ask them to listen to your practice. You'll probably feel nervous, but the practice will make you more confident for the actual speech. Try to make eye contact with different members of your audience throughout the speech.

  9. How to Teach Public Speaking in Elementary & Middle School

    Three minutes is a good starting point. Elementary and middle school students have limited attention spans, so it is crucial to keep their speeches concise and engaging. This will also encourage students to express their ideas effectively in a short amount of time. Keeping speeches short will foster clarity and concise expression of thoughts.

  10. PDF Introduction to Teaching Public Speaking

    DO. Day 1. • Introduce the assignment (go through assignment sheet), answer questions, tell parameters about topics and tell suggestions and fun stories about past triumphs and disasters. • Remind students about the Handy method of speechwriting and ask them to talk you through the assignment's outline and how it fits.

  11. How to start a speech for students (Ultimate opening lines)

    Opening your speech in silence can help enhance your speech in two ways. First, it will give the audience some time to settle in, post which you can expect to grab their dedicated attention. And secondly, silence would give you some time to understand the room and calm your pre-stage anxiousness. 6.

  12. 100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Kids

    Waffle cones are better than regular ice cream cones. Dogs are better companions than cats. Wearing pajamas in public is inappropriate. Short hair is for boys and long hair is for girls. Kids should have fewer toys and more cardboard boxes to play with. Girls like to play with action figures.

  13. How to help your child write a speech (without doing it for them)

    1. Encourage your child to focus on communicating their idea to their audience. If they focus on sharing their ideas, rather than worrying about themselves, everything will come together ...

  14. Speech for Students

    Here are a few ways for you to do so: Tell a brief story. It should illustrate the main points of your speech. Summarize key points. This is to remind your audience of the purpose of your speech. There might have been points that your listeners zoned out on, so it's good to give them a brief run through of what was covered.

  15. Speech Skills: Lesson for Kids

    Speech Skills: Lesson for Kids. Lesson Transcript. Instructor Kristin Pia Hayman. Kristin taught for over 10 years in the elementary classroom. She holds a B.A. in Journalism as well as a Master's ...

  16. Elementary Student Council Speech Ideas

    Many student council speeches are written around the qualities the speaker feels sets them apart from other candidates. The speech might list popularity, intelligence, dedication or the ability to do certain things. The speech should start with an introduction and a summary of what the speaker feels they can accomplish as a student council member.

  17. Delivering a Persuasive Speech Lesson Plan

    Have them write a 6-8 minute speech in outline form to persuade the class. Each student will then deliver this speech in front of the class while the rest of the students take notes and prepare to give the speaker feedback on the speech. ... he or she engages in elementary persuasion techniques. It is true that any time students make a ...

  18. Impromptu Speech Activities for Elementary Students

    Activity 2: Impromptu Practice. The purpose of this activity is for students to gain experience delivering one to two-minute impromptu speech presentations. For this activity, you can put students into groups of two or three. Once the group is chosen, have each group select a topic from the list below. Then allow each group five minutes to ...

  19. Giving a Speech Lesson Plan for Elementary School

    After students have written their speeches, have them read the 'Speaking Clearly & Accurately' and 'Tips and Tricks' sections of the lesson. Using the pre-written teacher speech, model for ...

  20. Elementary School Graduation Speech

    You can use the speech with a bit of tweaking here and there, or you can use it as a guideline to structure your own speech. Graduation day is indeed a memorable day in the minds of the students and their parents. You can add to their magical moment and present a short, yet meaningful speech.

  21. Student Council Speech

    My name is [Your Name], and I am committed to fostering a sense of unity and bringing about real, impactful change. Imagine a school where every student's voice is heard, where diversity is celebrated, and where kindness and respect are the foundation of our interactions. This vision drives my candidacy. 1.

  22. Speech on Education and its Importance for Students

    Education is an essential aspect of human development. Education is a means of achieving a world of peace, justice, freedom, and equality for all. Thus, education is extremely necessary for all. No good life is possible without education. It indorses the intelligence of human beings, develops his skill, and enables him to be industrious.

  23. How to Teach Students to OWN that Speech

    Rotation: Explain that outside-circle students (I have them raise their hands so they tune in) will always stay put. Explain that inside-circle students (have them raise their hands again) will be the ones that rotate. Rounds: First, students switch papers. 2 minutes: Inside circle people stand up, give speech.

  24. How to Write a Persuasive Speech: 7 Tips for Success

    Conclusion. Mastering a persuasive speech is about connection, clarity, and conviction. Remember the essentials: a well-structured argument supports your message and engaging topics capture attention. Outline each argument with care, making it easy for listeners to follow, then balance facts with stories that stir emotions.

  25. How to Teach Parts of Speech: 15 Fun Ways for Kids

    Using worksheets is one of the fun ways to teach parts of speech, such as sorting words into categories. Provide kids with parts of speech sorting worksheet. They'll categorize each word into the correct part of speech. This activity helps reinforce their understanding of how different words function within sentences. 2.