Speaking tips

Hi! You must be here because you want to know more about the BBC Public Speaking Awards. We think it's cool that you are considering participating! It takes courage to step up in front of an audience of many international guests and tell them your story (and that in English !!) Because…that is what you will have to do when you reach the finals! You need guts to do this!

But of course, you will get rewarded for competing. Besides the fame, you can also win spectacular prizes! And above all, don't forget the advantage you will have over your fellow students when it comes to applying for a job. Companies nowadays are particularly interested in internationally orientated students.

Both native and non-native English speakers are welcome to enter the competitions. And don't think that you'll be at a disadvantage if you are a non-native speaker! Only a maximum of 9 of a possible 50 points are awarded to language-related criteria. The judges are looking at many other factors too!

Hopefully you will find all the information you need on this website. Video’s of last year competitors are available.

Got any questions? In that case you can always get in touch with us using our contact form or ask your teacher about us. Your teacher can tell you more about these Awards.

Speaking tips

- Use an original opening
	Attract attention with news, an anecdote, a quotation or a joke.
- Use structure in your story
	Use for instance: - Past, present, future - Tell your audience what you are going to tell them, tell them, then tell what you have told them - What-Why-Who-Where and How.
- Know your audience!
	Does the audience know anything about the subject?
- Are you going to talk in a formal or informal manner?
- Know what you are going to say
	Write down at least the beginning and the end of your speech. Use a note with keywords.
- Keep it simple
	Use 'normal' language. Don't use terminology.
- Make contact with your audience
	Establish and keep eye contact.
- Use body language
	Illustrate your speech with the use of mimics and gestures.

Further reading:

There’s No Such Thing as Public Speaking : Make Any Presentation or Speech as Persuasive as a One-on-One Conversation by Jeanette and Roy Henderson
The Oxford Union Guide to Successful Public Speaking
by Dr. D. Hughes and B. Phillips

BBC Awards coaching session on November 21st, 2007 at Telenet Headquarters, Mechelen

BBC Awards teasing session on October 5th, 2007 at Telenet Headquarters, Mechelen