Writing, Public Speaking, and Science Classes for K-12 Curriculum | PopSmart Academy

Public Speaking Curriculum: Overview, Outcome & Schedule

Our Public Speaking Curriculum is designed to build confidence, sharpen communication skills, and empower students from grades 1 to 8 to express themselves effectively. Each unit progressively develops speaking abilities, from foundational presentation skills to advanced techniques in persuasion, debate, and leadership. Through interactive activities, real-world practice, and supportive feedback, students will learn to speak with clarity, confidence, and purpose in any setting.

Overview

• Introduction to Speaking Skills: Developing comfort with speaking in front of others through voice exercises, body language awareness, and stage presence.

• Expanding Vocabulary and Expression: Building a strong vocabulary and learning to use tone, pace, and emphasis to engage an audience.

• Speech Organization and Structure: Understanding how to outline and organize speeches with clear openings, transitions, and conclusions.

• Storytelling and Persuasion: Learning to captivate audiences with personal stories, narratives, and persuasive techniques.

• Critical Thinking in Speaking: Analyzing issues, forming logical arguments, and presenting viewpoints with evidence and reasoning.

• Debate and Public Discourse: Introducing students to structured debate, counterarguments, and respectful public discourse.

• Impromptu Speaking and Quick Thinking: Practicing spontaneous speaking activities to build adaptability and confidence under pressure.

• Collaborative Presentations: Working in teams to plan, rehearse, and deliver group presentations, fostering cooperation and leadership.

• Editing, Revising, and Refining Delivery: Refining speeches through practice, peer feedback, and advanced delivery techniques.

• Project-Based Learning: Applying skills in real-world projects such as TED-style talks, storytelling showcases, debates, and mock conferences.

• Preparation for High School and Beyond: Equipping students with the confidence, presence, and skill set needed for future academic and professional success.

Outcome

• Enhanced Communication Skills: Students will speak with confidence, clarity, and persuasion across different formats.

• Improved Organization and Delivery: Ability to structure speeches effectively and deliver them with engaging body language and vocal control.

• Critical Thinking and Argumentation: Stronger logical reasoning and ability to present, defend, and challenge ideas respectfully.

• Confidence in Real-World Situations: Preparedness for school presentations, interviews, debates, and public events.

• Collaboration and Leadership: Experience working in groups, leading discussions, and inspiring peers through speech.

Comprehensive Curriculum Path

Unit 1: Introduction to Debate

• Explore different debate formats: Lincoln-Douglas, Team Policy, and Public Forum.

• Learn basic debate structure and techniques for constructing persuasive arguments.

Unit 2: Claim, Evidence, Impact (CEI)

• Master the essentials of persuasive speaking by linking claims with supporting evidence and explaining their impact.

• Practice organizing ideas logically for effective communication.

Unit 3: Three Pillars of Persuasion

• Develop skills in Ethos (credibility), Pathos (emotion), and Logos (logic).

• Learn to balance these elements to create convincing arguments.

Unit 4: Key Parts of a Speech

• Understand and practice the structure of a compelling speech: introduction, body, and conclusion.

• Enhance skills in engaging delivery, pacing, handling questions, and using visual aids.

Unit 5: Different Types of Speeches

• Explore various speech formats (informative, persuasive, demonstration, impromptu, and storytelling).

• Adapt style and content to suit different audiences and occasions.

Unit 6: Public Speaking for Entrepreneurs

• Learn to pitch ideas and persuade investors through effective storytelling and concise messaging.

• Develop networking and business presentation skills.

Unit 7: Model United Nations (Model UN)

• Simulate UN activities to understand global issues and practice debate and negotiation skills.

• Research and represent a country’s perspective on international resolutions.

Unit 8: Impromptu Speaking

• Build quick-thinking and confidence through spontaneous speech exercises.

• Practice impromptu presentations on fun and timely topics (e.g., a bomb cyclone adventure).

Unit 9: Preparing Your TED Talk

• Discover your “big idea” through brainstorming and mind mapping.

• Structure your talk, design engaging visual aids, and rehearse for a polished final presentation.

Unit 10: Analyzing Literature and Speeches

• Explore techniques such as repetition, parallelism, and metaphor used in literature and speeches.

• Examine how authors use rhetorical strategies to convey themes and evoke emotions.

Back to Curriculum List