Show and Tell: Speaking Clearly and Staying on Topic
Show and Tell: Speaking Clearly and Staying on Topic Objective: Students will practice speaking clearly and staying on topic during a short presentation to demonstrate their ability to express ideas effectively in a group setting.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the importance of speaking clearly so others can understand.
- Practice staying on one topic during speaking.
- Build confidence in sharing ideas in front of others.
Materials Needed
- A small object or picture for each student to describe
- Timer or clock
- Simple checklist for parents to note child’s speaking skills
Key Vocabulary
- Speak Clearly
- Talking in a way that others can easily hear and understand.
- Topic
- The main subject or idea being talked about.
- Listener
- Someone who hears and pays attention to what is being said.
Detailed Activities
Show and Tell Practice
- Explain to your child that they will share about an object or picture for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Help your child choose an object or picture they like and prepare 2-3 simple sentences about it.
- Remind your child to speak slowly, clearly, and to stay on the topic about the object.
- Have your child take turns sharing their ‘show and tell’ with you or a family member.
- After each share, ask simple questions about the topic to encourage more speaking and check understanding.
Listening and Responding
- Model being a good listener by looking at your child and smiling while they speak.
- Encourage your child to look at you when they speak and to speak loudly enough to be heard.
- After your child finishes, say something positive about their speaking, such as ‘I liked how you told me about the color!’
- Practice this activity multiple times with different objects or pictures to build confidence.
Parent & Instructor Notes
- This lesson focuses on helping your child speak clearly and stay on topic, which are important early communication skills.
- Keep the environment positive and supportive to encourage your child to speak without fear of mistakes.
- If your child struggles, gently remind them to slow down or think about what to say next.
Assessment Questions
- Can your child tell you about the object using 2-3 clear sentences?
- Does your child speak loudly enough to be heard without shouting?
- Does your child stay on the topic of the object during their speaking time?
Extension Ideas
- Create a simple ‘show and tell’ book by drawing pictures and writing a few words about each item your child shares.
- Practice speaking clearly by singing simple songs or reciting nursery rhymes together.
- Invite a sibling or friend to join the show and tell to build social skills and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s normal for young children to feel shy. Start with short sharing times and praise any effort. You can also be the first to speak to model confidence.
Encourage your child to speak slowly and repeat words if needed. Practice together by playing games that involve talking or describing things.
Teacher’s Guide
Common Misconceptions:
- Children may think speaking fast is better; remind them to slow down for clarity.
- Children might go off-topic; gently guide them back to their main subject.
Scaffolding Ideas:
For Struggling Students:
- Allow extra time to prepare their sentences.
- Use pictures or prompts to help organize their thoughts.
For Advanced Students:
- Encourage them to add more details or describe feelings related to the object.
- Have them ask questions to listeners after their presentation.
Pacing Recommendations:
- Spend about 10 minutes introducing the activity and vocabulary.
- Allow 20 minutes for the child to prepare and present their show and tell.
- Use the last 15 minutes for feedback, questions, and practice listening skills.
Standards
- K.SL.4 — Describe familiar people, places, things, and events and, with prompting and support, provide additional detail.
Printable Worksheet
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