Introduction to 4-H Presentations

1. Introduction to 4-H Presentations By: Neil Callahan 4-H Extension Agent

2. Presentation Info Presentations are a vital part of the 4-H program. They help develop and strengthen knowledge and communication skills for youth between the ages of 9 to 19 years old. Through presentations, 4-H members can: Work on something they like and have interest in Gain new knowledge and learn about a specific subject Learn to plan, organize, and express thoughts more clearly Learn to express thoughts by using visuals or examples Develop public speaking skills Teach and show others skills they learned through 4-H Take part in interesting events and activities 

3. Presentation Info Presentations are simply a more formal show and tell in which you can show someone how to do something or tell them how to do something. Showing someone how to do something is called a demonstration. Telling someone how to do something is called an illustrated talk. There are three different age divisions for presentation competition: 9-10, 11-12, and 13-19. You can give an individual or team presentation depending on the category of presentation competition. Presentations are given on the local club, county, district, state, andnational levels. You can given presentations in a number of categories.  Rewards and prizes varied among the different competition categoriesand levels. They include ribbons, certificates, trips, scholarships to 4-H events, medals, gifts, and etc.

4. Steps in Developing a Presentation 1. Choose a subject Choose something you are interested in. Limit the scope of the topic. You do not want too much information. Make sure the topic of your presentation is something you can actually do. See which presentation category your presentation comes under and follow its’ specific rules.

5. 2. Research your topic Gain all the information you can about your topic. The more you know about your topic, the more comfortable you are presenting it. You can get information from the 4-H Office and various other sources. Keep up with the information you use to prepare your presentation so you can show and tell the judges. 3. Choose a title The title of your presentation should be catchy. You want it to get the attention of the audience.

6. 4. Choose a type of presentation Decide whether or not to give a demonstration or an illustrated talk. Choose the one you are most comfortable with. 5. Outline your presentation Map out what you want to do because it helps you become more familiar with your topic. Use the outlines in the presentation handbook or use your own.

7. View the Presentation Video (available at the 4-H Office). Read your Presentation Handbook.

8. Questions To Ask & Things To Do How old are you as of January 1, 2002? This determines which age category you will compete in. The 4-H Awards Handbook. It is also available on the web at www.nc4h.org

9. Parts of the Presentation The Introduction: This should be an attention getter. Once you get their attention, introduce yourself and go into the body. The Body: This is the main part of the presentation. In a demonstration, talk about each step you are showing the group. Know how to do each step well and talk to the group in your own words. Avoid memorized lines and note cards. In an illustrated talk, you do it just like a demonstration. The difference is that you use your visuals instead of demonstrating how to do something.

10. Parts of the Presentation The Summary: Hit the main ideas or steps again. This should be short and to the point. This helps everyone remember the main points you are trying to teach them. Answering Questions: “Are there any questions?” The only people who can ask you questions are the judges. Answer their questions as best you can.

11. Visuals Visuals include such items as posters, charts, models, pictures, & etc. Use only when needed. Be sure the visual you are using is necessary. Practice handling & working with your visuals so your transitions are smooth and not distracting.

12. Visuals Have your visuals set up properly so that the audience can see them. Do not have them where they will get in the way of the audience seeing you. Read over the visuals section in your presentation handbook and view the presentation video.

13. Posters Use regular size poster board. Have a two inch border all around the poster. There should be no written information extending into the border. Lettering should be big enough & dark enough for everyone to see easily. Posters should be made as neatly as possible.

14. Posters Do not make posters too crowded with information. It is better to have more posters if this is the case. Limit posters to only those you need. Posters should be the work of the 4-H’er, not an adult. Look at the poster handout, presentation handbook,and presentation video.

15. Poster Setup Introduction: Title poster: Include your catchy title & a picture. Introduction poster: This poster includes your name, age, club, and county. Body: I would suggest 2 or 3 posters to represent the body. List the main points clearly.

16. Poster Setup Summary: One poster listing the major points you want the audience to remember.

17. Things To Remember Dress nicely. Wear your best clothes that fit the type of presentation you are doing. Be well groomed. Know your information and topic. Practice using your equipment & posters. Smile & enjoy your presentation. Speak loudly & clearly.

18. Things To Remember Make eye contact with the audience. Be prepared to answer questions. Have examples of the resources you used to prepare your presentation. Practice good posture. Avoid distracting mannerisms such as pushing back hair or rocking back & forth. Practice as much as possible in front of people to get use to it.

19. Awards & Scholarships Each category carries its own award amounts & prizes. Winners receive awards & prizes on the district & state levels from the State 4-H Office in Raleigh. Pamlico County 4-H awards scholarship money to 4-H Congress for winning presentations on the county & district levels.

20. Presentation Events May/June 2002: County Activity Day Late June 2002: District Activity Day July 16, 2002: State Activity Day at 4-H Congress in Raleigh.

21. The NC 4-H Website www.nc4h.org Look for presentation information under the “What do you want to know?” button. http://intra.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/fourh/clubs/Org/Index/home.htm Look here to get the Presentation Handbook. Be sure to look under the Presentation heading.