GCSE · Chapter 9
Spoken language: presenting and responding
By the end of this chapter you will be able to
- I can plan a short talk with a hook, three points and a conclusion.
- I can keep to time by planning how many words each part needs.
- I can use my voice, pace and body language to hold an audience.
- I can use Standard English in a formal talk, and say why.
- I can listen to a question, answer it, and build on or politely disagree with another speaker.
- I can rehearse and check my own talk against a list.
You should already know
- Writing speeches and articles (Chapter 8)
- Argument and discursive structure (Chapter 7)
Where this leads
- Mock exam Paper 2 (Chapter 13)
- Punctuation and Standard English in writing (Chapter 11)
GCSE English Language. Content follows the GCSE (9-1) subject content for England (Edexcel and AQA). Content references: Plan and structure a presentation of about 2 to 4 minutes with an opening, clear points and a conclusion (spoken language), Use voice, pace, eye contact and body language to engage an audience (spoken language), Use Standard English where the context needs it, in formal speech (spoken language, grammar), Listen to others, respond to questions, and build on or politely challenge what others say (spoken language), Rehearse and self-evaluate a spoken task against a checklist (spoken language).
Exercise P Do you remember?
1
FWhat is Standard English? Write the answer in one short phrase.
the form of English used in formal writing and speech
Method. Standard English is the accepted form used in formal settings.
- Think about formal settings. It is the form used in formal writing and speech.formal writing and speech
- Write it as a phrase. The accepted form for formal use is Standard English.the form of English used in formal writing and speech
- Write the answer. the form of English used in formal writing and speech
Check. Standard English is the formal form. ✓
2
FWhat is the past tense of "see"? Write one word.
saw
Method. See has an irregular past form.
- Think about the verb. See is an irregular verb.irregular
- Give the past form. The past tense of see is saw.saw
- Write the answer. saw
Check. I saw the bus. ✓
3
FWhich word is the best name for a short opening that catches attention? Write one word: hook, close or point.
hook
Method. A hook grabs attention at the start.
- Think about the start. The first line of a talk is the hook.first line
- Choose the word. The word for the attention-catching start is hook.hook
- Write the answer. hook
Check. A hook starts the talk. ✓
4
FHow many words does a talk of about three minutes usually need? Write the number to the nearest hundred.
400
Method. A speaker says about 130 to 150 words a minute.
- Work out the rate. Three minutes at about 130 to 150 words a minute is about 400 to 450 words.400 to 450
- Round. To the nearest hundred, that is about 400.400
- Write the answer. 400
Check. Three times about 140 is about 420, near 400. ✓
5
FWhat is eye contact in a talk? Write the answer in one short phrase.
looking at people in the audience
Method. Eye contact means looking at the audience.
- Think about the audience. Eye contact connects the speaker with listeners.connects
- Write it as a phrase. Looking at people in the audience is eye contact.looking at people in the audience
- Write the answer. looking at people in the audience
Check. Eye contact engages listeners. ✓
9.1
Planning a presentation
Video lesson: Planning a presentationComing soon
Context. A presentation is spoken, so it needs a clear shape that a listener can follow. Model talk: read it as a script. Notice the greeting, the signpost, the three points and the closing thanks. Each part does a job.
Model talk: whether our town still needs a library (original script, four paragraphs)
1Good afternoon. My talk today is about whether our town still needs a library. I will make three points, and then I will answer your questions.
2First, a library is a place where anyone can learn for free. You do not need money or a card to read a newspaper or to find a book about the history of the local river.
3Second, libraries help people who do not have a computer at home. They offer a place to apply for jobs, to print a form and to get help from staff who know how to use the internet.
4Third, a library brings people together. Children go to story time, older people meet for a chat, and new arrivals find out what the town has to offer.
5Some people think that libraries are old-fashioned. I disagree, because a library is one of the few public places where you do not have to spend money to belong. To sum up, a library is worth keeping. Thank you for listening, and I would be happy to take your questions.
Key ideas
- Opening: greet the audience and say the topic.
- Signpost: tell the audience how the talk is organised, for example: I will make three points.
- Three points, each with a reason and an example, keep the talk clear.
- Conclusion: sum up, then thank the audience and invite questions.
Worked example 9.1.1
Which sentence in the model talk is the signpost? Copy the words.
Method. Find the sentence that tells the listener what is coming.
- Find the signal. A signpost tells the audience the shape of the talk.signpost
- Check the sentence. I will make three points tells the listeners the plan.three points
- Copy the signpost. The signpost is I will make three points.I will make three points
- Write the answer. I will make three points
Check. The signpost names the number of points. ✓
Worked example 9.1.2
Which topic is better for a three-minute talk? Choose one: The history of everything, Why our school should keep its library open at lunchtimes or Lots of things about lots of things.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. It is a clear, focused topic that suits three points.Why our school should keep its library open at lunchtimes fits
- Reject the other choices. The history of everything is too broad, and the last option is vague.The history of everything and Lots of things about lots of things do not fit
- Write the answer. Why our school should keep its library open at lunchtimes
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 9.1.3
How much time should a three-minute talk give to its three points together? Write the minutes.
Method. Share the time between the parts.
- Total time. The talk is three minutes long.3 minutes
- Opening and close. About half a minute each for the opening and the conclusion.1 minute together
- Give the time for points. The three points take about two minutes together.2
- Write the answer. 2
Check. Two minutes for the points. ✓
Exercise 9A Practice: planning a talk
1
FWhich part of a talk greets the audience and says the topic? Write one word: conclusion, opening or point.
opening
Method. Think about the start.
- Think about the start. The opening greets the audience.Good afternoon
- Name the part. The first part is the opening.opening
- Write the answer. opening
Check. The opening greets. ✓
2
FHow many points does the model talk make? Write the number.
3
Method. Count the points.
- Count. First, second and third each make a point.First, Second, Third
- Give the number. The talk has three points.3
- Write the answer. 3
Check. Three points. ✓
3
PSWhich word in the model talk starts the first point? Write the word.
First
Method. Find the first point.
- Find the point. The first point begins with First.First, a library
- Give the word. The word is First.First
- Write the answer. First
Check. First starts the first point. ✓
4
FWhich part of the model talk closes it? Write one word: opening, point or conclusion.
conclusion
Method. Find the ending.
- Find the ending. The last paragraph sums up and thanks the audience.Thank you for listening
- Name the part. The closing part is the conclusion.conclusion
- Write the answer. conclusion
Check. The conclusion closes. ✓
5
RWhat is the purpose of a signpost in a talk? Write one word: confuse, guide or interrupt.
guide
Method. Think about the audience.
- Think about the audience. A signpost shows the audience what to expect.expect
- Choose. Guide is the purpose of a signpost.guide
- Write the answer. guide
Check. A signpost guides the listener. ✓
6
PSIn a three-minute talk, about how long should the conclusion take? Write the seconds: 10, 20 or 60.
20
Method. Share the time.
- Share the time. The conclusion is a short part, about twenty seconds.twenty seconds
- Give the time. Twenty seconds is about right.20
- Write the answer. 20
Check. Twenty seconds is short and sufficient. ✓
7
PSWrite a hook for a talk about a school library. One sentence.
Accept any answer that writes a one-sentence hook that makes the audience imagine or ask a question about the library. For example: Imagine a school with no books, no quiet corners and nowhere to read at lunch.
Method. Start with an image or question.
- Image. Imagine a school with no books.Imagine
- Hook. The image makes the audience think.think
- Write the answer. Imagine a school with no books, no quiet corners and nowhere to read at lunch.
Check. The hook engages the audience. ✓
8
RWhich is a point and not a signpost? Write the sentence: "I will make three points." or "Libraries help people without computers."
Libraries help people without computers.
Method. A point gives a reason; a signpost tells the shape.
- Check the first. I will make three points is a signpost, not a point.signpost
- Check the second. Libraries help people is a point with a reason.reason
- Write the answer. Libraries help people without computers.
Check. The second sentence is a point. ✓
9
RWhat is the job of the points in a talk? Write one word: decorate, support or interrupt.
support
Method. Think about what a point does.
- Think about the job. Each point supports the main topic with reasons.reasons
- Choose. The points support the topic.support
- Write the answer. support
Check. Points support the topic. ✓
10
PSWrite one example that could support the point "a library is a place where anyone can learn for free".
Accept any answer that gives a specific, realistic example that supports the point about free learning. For example: A child can borrow a dictionary to finish a project without paying.
Method. Make the point concrete.
- Choose a case. A child borrowing a book is realistic.borrowing
- Link to the point. The example shows free learning.free learning
- Write the answer. A child can borrow a dictionary to finish a project without paying.
Check. The example supports the point. ✓
11
RWhich is the better topic for three points? Write A or B. A: "Libraries." B: "Why libraries matter to families."
B
Method. A good topic is specific.
- Check A. Libraries is too broad to answer clearly.broad
- Check B. Why libraries matter to families gives a clear question.clear question
- Write the answer. B
Check. B is specific. ✓
9.2
Voice, pace, eye contact and body language
Video lesson: Voice, pace, eye contact and body languageComing soon
Context. How you say something matters as much as what you say. A speaker varies the voice to show emphasis, speaks at a steady pace, looks at the audience, and uses open body language. Practise each one aloud, and ask a friend to watch.
Key ideas
- Voice: vary the volume and tone to show what matters most.
- Pace: a steady pace is clearer; rushing loses the listener, and very slow speech can bore.
- Eye contact: look around the room, not only at one person or at the notes.
- Body language: stand still, face the audience and use open gestures.
Worked example 9.2.1
Which pace suits a presentation to a large group? Choose one: a steady, clear pace with pauses, very fast, so the talk ends early or whispered throughout.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. A steady pace with pauses lets listeners follow each point.a steady, clear pace with pauses fits
- Reject the other choices. Fast speech is hard to follow, and whispering cannot be heard by a large group.very fast, so the talk ends early and whispered throughout do not fit
- Write the answer. a steady, clear pace with pauses
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 9.2.2
Name one thing a speaker can do with voice to show a key point. Give one word.
Method. Think about emphasis without changing the words.
- Think about emphasis. A pause before a key point makes it stand out.stand out
- Name the feature. Pausing is a voice feature for emphasis.pausing
- Give the word. The feature is a pause.pause
- Write the answer. pause
Check. A pause gives emphasis. ✓
Worked example 9.2.3
Which body language suits a confident opening? Name one feature.
Method. Think about what confident speakers do.
- Think about posture. A confident speaker stands still and does not fidget.does not fidget
- Think about direction. They face the audience.face the audience
- Give the feature. Standing still and facing the audience is confident.standing still and facing the audience
- Write the answer. standing still and facing the audience
Check. Still and facing the audience looks confident. ✓
Exercise 9B Practice: voice and body language
1
FWhich feature of voice shows that a word is important? Write one word: volume, speed or grammar.
volume
Method. Think about how a speaker stresses a word.
- Think about stress. Raising the volume stresses a word.raise
- Choose. Volume is the voice feature for emphasis.volume
- Write the answer. volume
Check. Volume shows emphasis. ✓
2
FWhich is better for eye contact: looking at one person for the whole talk, or moving the gaze around the room? Write one phrase.
moving the gaze around the room
Method. Think about the whole audience.
- Think about the audience. Looking at one person leaves others out.leaves others out
- Choose. Moving the gaze around the room includes everyone.moving the gaze around the room
- Write the answer. moving the gaze around the room
Check. Moving the gaze includes everyone. ✓
3
PSWhich is a sign of nerves in body language: fidgeting, or standing still? Write one word.
fidgeting
Method. Think about signs of nerves.
- Think about nerves. Fidgeting shows nervous energy.nervous energy
- Choose. Fidgeting is a sign of nerves.fidgeting
- Write the answer. fidgeting
Check. Fidgeting shows nerves. ✓
4
PSWhich pace is better for a talk with three points? Write one phrase: steady and clear, or very rushed.
steady and clear
Method. Think about clarity.
- Think about clarity. Listeners need time to follow three points.time to follow
- Choose. Steady and clear helps the listener.steady and clear
- Write the answer. steady and clear
Check. Steady and clear is best. ✓
5
FName one way to make eye contact with a large audience. One phrase.
Accept any answer that names one practical way to make eye contact with the whole room. For example: Sweep the gaze slowly from one side of the room to the other.
Method. Think about how to include everyone.
- Sweep. A slow sweep covers the room.sweep
- Include all. Everyone feels included.included
- Write the answer. Sweep the gaze slowly from one side of the room to the other.
Check. Eye contact includes the room. ✓
6
RWhat should a speaker do with the hands while speaking? Write one phrase: use open gestures, or hide them.
use open gestures
Method. Think about how gestures help.
- Think about gestures. Open gestures look welcoming and help show meaning.welcoming
- Choose. Open gestures suit a talk.use open gestures
- Write the answer. use open gestures
Check. Open gestures help. ✓
7
PSWhich feature helps a speaker stay calm? Write one word: breathing, shouting or running.
breathing
Method. Think about calm.
- Think about calm. Slow breathing calms the body before speaking.slow breathing
- Choose. Breathing helps the speaker stay calm.breathing
- Write the answer. breathing
Check. Breathing calms the speaker. ✓
8
RExplain why a speaker should not read every word from notes. One sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that reading from notes stops eye contact and reduces engagement. For example: Reading every word stops eye contact and makes the talk sound less natural and engaging.
Method. Think about the listener.
- Think about eye contact. Reading stops eye contact.stops eye contact
- Explain the effect. The talk sounds less natural.less natural
- Write the answer. Reading every word stops eye contact and makes the talk sound less natural and engaging.
Check. Notes should prompt, not dictate. ✓
9
RWhich is the best use of a pause? Write one word: emphasis, nervous or ending.
emphasis
Method. Think about the effect of a pause.
- Think about the effect. A pause before a key point makes it stand out.stand out
- Choose. A pause is for emphasis.emphasis
- Write the answer. emphasis
Check. A pause gives emphasis. ✓
10
PSWhat does a speaker's posture show? Write one word: confidence or hunger.
confidence
Method. Think about body language.
- Think about posture. Standing upright and still shows assurance.upright
- Choose. Posture shows confidence.confidence
- Write the answer. confidence
Check. Posture shows confidence. ✓
11
PSDescribe one body language feature that suggests you are listening to a questioner. One phrase.
Accept any answer that names one feature such as nodding, turning to face, or keeping eye contact with the questioner. For example: nodding and turning to face the person who asked.
Method. Think about what a listener does.
- Turn. Turning to face the questioner shows attention.turning to face
- Nod. Nodding shows you are following.nodding
- Write the answer. nodding and turning to face the person who asked.
Check. The feature shows listening. ✓
9.3
Standard English in formal speech
Video lesson: Standard English in formal speechComing soon
Context. In a formal talk, use Standard English: the form of English that is accepted in formal settings. Dialect and informal speech are part of who you are, and they are valued in many places. Use Standard English when the context and audience require it.
| Non-standard | Standard English | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| I seen it | I saw it | Past tense of see is saw |
| We was late | We were late | Plural subject takes were |
| I done my best | I did my best | Past tense of do is did |
| should of | should have | The verb after should is have |
| them books | those books | A demonstrative pointing at plural nouns is those |
Key ideas
- Standard English follows agreed grammar: I saw (not I seen); we were (not we was).
- Use Standard English in a formal talk, interview or presentation to an audience that expects it.
- Dialect is not wrong, but in a formal talk the audience may expect Standard English.
Worked example 9.3.1
Correct "I seen the film" for a formal talk. Write the corrected sentence.
Method. Find the verb and its standard past form.
- Find the verb. Seen is used in place of saw.seen
- Choose the form. The past tense of see is saw.saw
- Write the sentence. The corrected sentence is I saw the film.I saw the film.
- Write the answer. I saw the film.
Check. Saw is the standard past tense. ✓
Worked example 9.3.2
Which is the Standard English form for a formal talk? Choose one: we was, we were or we is.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. We takes the plural verb were in Standard English.we were fits
- Reject the other choices. We was and we is do not agree with the plural subject.we was and we is do not fit
- Write the answer. we were
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 9.3.3
Correct "should of" for a formal talk. Write the correct form.
Method. Think about the auxiliary verb.
- Find the error. Of is wrong here; the form is should have.should of
- Check the form. After should, the verb is have.have
- Write the form. The Standard English is should have.should have
- Write the answer. should have
Check. Should have is the standard form. ✓
Exercise 9C Practice: Standard English
1
FCorrect "I done my best" to Standard English. Write the corrected verb: did or done.
did
Method. Find the past tense of do.
- Find the past tense. The past tense of do is did.did
- Give the form. Did is the Standard English past tense.did
- Write the answer. did
Check. Did is standard. ✓
2
FWhich is Standard English: "them books" or "those books"? Write the words.
those books
Method. Think about the demonstrative.
- Think about the form. Those is the standard word for pointing at plural nouns.those
- Choose. Those books is standard.those books
- Write the answer. those books
Check. Those is standard. ✓
3
PSCorrect "we was late" in a formal talk. Write the corrected verb.
were
Method. Check the subject and verb.
- Check the subject. We is plural.We
- Correct. The plural verb is were.were
- Write the answer. were
Check. We were is standard. ✓
4
PSWhich double negative is not Standard English: "I do not know nothing" or "I know nothing"? Write the standard sentence.
I know nothing
Method. Count the negatives.
- Count the negatives. The first sentence has two negatives: not and nothing.two negatives
- Choose. One negative is standard: I know nothing.I know nothing
- Write the answer. I know nothing
Check. One negative is standard. ✓
5
RWhich tense of "give" is Standard English for the past: gave or gived? Write the word.
gave
Method. Think about irregular verbs.
- Think about the verb. Give is an irregular verb.irregular
- Choose. The past tense is gave.gave
- Write the answer. gave
Check. Gave is correct. ✓
6
RExplain when a speaker should use Standard English. One sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that Standard English is used in formal settings where the audience expects it. For example: In formal settings, such as a presentation to a panel or a talk to a formal audience, when the audience expects it.
Method. Think about the context.
- Think about the context. Formal settings expect Standard English.formal settings
- Explain the choice. The audience expects it, so the speaker adapts.expects it
- Write the answer. In formal settings, such as a presentation to a panel or a talk to a formal audience, when the audience expects it.
Check. The context decides. ✓
7
PSCorrect "me and him went home" to the Standard English sentence "He and I went home." Write the corrected subject: he and I or me and him.
He and I
Method. Think about the subject pronoun.
- Think about the subject. Subject pronouns are he and I.subject
- Choose. He and I is the standard subject.He and I
- Write the answer. He and I
Check. He and I is standard. ✓
8
FRewrite "We was really happy about the news" in Standard English. Write the sentence.
Accept any answer that changes was to were and keeps the rest of the sentence. For example: We were really happy about the news.
Method. Change the verb to match the plural subject.
- Change the verb. We is plural, so was becomes were.were
- Keep the rest. The meaning stays the same.same meaning
- Write the answer. We were really happy about the news.
Check. The agreement is correct. ✓
9
PSWhich is standard in a formal talk: "could of" or "could have"? Write the words.
could have
Method. Check the verb after could.
- Check the verb. After could, the verb is have.have
- Choose. Could have is standard.could have
- Write the answer. could have
Check. Could have is standard. ✓
9.4
Listening, responding and building on others
Video lesson: Listening, responding and building on othersComing soon
Context. In a discussion or a Q and A, listening matters more than speaking. Respond to the question asked, build on a partner's point, and disagree politely with reasons. If you do not know, say so, and offer to find out.
Key ideas
- Listen fully before you answer. Pause, then respond.
- Build on a point: Building on what Sam said, I would add ...
- Disagree politely: I see it differently, because ...
- If you do not know: I do not know, but I will find out.
Worked example 9.4.1
What should you do first when someone asks you a question? Choose one: listen to the whole question and pause, answer before they finish or look away and say nothing.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. Listening to the whole question lets you answer the question actually asked.listen to the whole question and pause fits
- Reject the other choices. Answering too early can miss the point, and silence without a reason is unhelpful.answer before they finish and look away and say nothing do not fit
- Write the answer. listen to the whole question and pause
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 9.4.2
Write a phrase that builds on a partner's point. Use the words "Building on".
Method. Start with a phrase that links to the partner.
- Name the partner. You refer to the partner's point.what you said
- Add your idea. You add a new reason or example.an example
- Give the phrase. The phrase is Building on what you said.Building on what you said
- Write the answer. Building on what you said
Check. The phrase links to the partner. ✓
Worked example 9.4.3
Write a polite way to disagree. Give the first two words.
Method. Use a polite phrase, then give a reason.
- Choose a phrase. I see it differently is polite.I see it differently
- Give the reason. Then give your own reason.because
- Give the first two words. The first two words are I see.I see
- Write the answer. I see
Check. The disagreement is polite. ✓
Exercise 9D Practice: responding and building on others
1
FWhat is the first thing to do when someone asks you a question? Write one word: listen, speak or move.
listen
Method. Think about the start of a response.
- Think about the start. You must hear the whole question first.whole question
- Name it. The first step is to listen.listen
- Write the answer. listen
Check. Listening comes first. ✓
2
FWhich phrase builds on a partner's point? Write the phrase: "Building on what you said" or "You are wrong".
Building on what you said
Method. Choose the phrase that links to the partner.
- Compare. Building on links to the partner.links
- Choose. Building on what you said is the building phrase.Building on what you said
- Write the answer. Building on what you said
Check. It builds on the partner. ✓
3
PSWhich phrase politely disagrees? Write the phrase: "I see it differently" or "That is stupid".
I see it differently
Method. Choose the polite phrase.
- Compare. I see it differently is polite; that is stupid is rude.rude
- Choose. I see it differently is polite.I see it differently
- Write the answer. I see it differently
Check. It disagrees politely. ✓
4
RWhat should you say if you do not know the answer to a question? Write one phrase: "I do not know, but I will find out" or "I made it up".
I do not know, but I will find out
Method. Think about honesty.
- Think about honesty. Honest uncertainty is better than invented facts.honest
- Choose. Saying you do not know and offering to find out is honest.I do not know, but I will find out
- Write the answer. I do not know, but I will find out
Check. Honesty is best. ✓
5
PSWhat should you do before you begin to answer? Write one word: pause, shout or turn away.
pause
Method. Think about the start.
- Think about the start. A short pause lets you think.think
- Choose. Pausing is the right first step.pause
- Write the answer. pause
Check. A pause helps you think. ✓
6
PSWrite one sentence that responds to a question about why libraries matter, using a reason.
Accept any answer that answers the question about libraries with a clear reason. For example: Libraries matter because they give everyone a free place to learn.
Method. Answer the question with a reason.
- Answer. Libraries matter for learning.learning
- Reason. Because they are free and open to all.free
- Write the answer. Libraries matter because they give everyone a free place to learn.
Check. The answer has a reason. ✓
7
RWhich technique links two speakers? Write one phrase: building on a point or changing the subject.
building on a point
Method. Think about linking.
- Think about linking. Building on links two points together.links
- Choose. Building on a point is the link.building on a point
- Write the answer. building on a point
Check. Building links points. ✓
8
RExplain why it helps a discussion to ask a follow-up question. One sentence.
Accept any answer that explains that a follow-up shows listening and develops the discussion. For example: A follow-up question shows you listened, and it helps the group explore the idea further.
Method. Think about what a follow-up does.
- Shows listening. A follow-up shows you were listening.listening
- Develops. It helps the group go further.further
- Write the answer. A follow-up question shows you listened, and it helps the group explore the idea further.
Check. Follow-up questions develop discussion. ✓
9
FWhich word means "to add to someone else's idea"? Write one word: challenge, build or interrupt.
build
Method. Think about adding.
- Think about adding. Adding to another idea is building.adding
- Choose. Build means add to.build
- Write the answer. build
Check. Build means add to. ✓
10
RWhich is the better response to a question you do not understand? Write A or B. A: "What?" B: "Could you explain what you mean by that?"
B
Method. A good response asks politely for clarity.
- Check A. What? is abrupt.abrupt
- Check B. The second asks politely for clarity.politely
- Write the answer. B
Check. B asks politely. ✓
11
FName one way to show you are listening to a speaker without speaking. One phrase.
Accept any answer that names one non-verbal sign of listening, such as nodding or eye contact. For example: nodding or keeping eye contact with the speaker.
Method. Think about non-verbal signs.
- Non-verbal sign. Nodding shows attention.nodding
- Second sign. Eye contact shows attention too.eye contact
- Write the answer. nodding or keeping eye contact with the speaker.
Check. The sign shows listening. ✓
9.5
Rehearsing and self-evaluation
Video lesson: Rehearsing and self-evaluationComing soon
Context. Rehearsal turns a plan into a talk. Speak your talk aloud at least twice, time it, and then check it against a list. Self-evaluation asks: did I keep to time, did I use Standard English where needed, and did I listen to questions?
Key ideas
- Rehearse aloud, not only in your head.
- Time the talk and adjust if it is too long or too short.
- Check against a list: opening, signpost, three points, conclusion, eye contact, Standard English, questions.
Worked example 9.5.1
Why rehearse aloud rather than silently? Give one reason.
Method. Think about what a spoken talk needs.
- Think about speech. A talk is heard, not read.heard
- Think about timing. Speaking aloud shows the length and the pace.length and pace
- Give the reason. Speaking aloud shows how the talk sounds and how long it takes.it shows how the talk sounds and how long it takes
- Write the answer. it shows how the talk sounds and how long it takes
Check. Speaking aloud tests the talk. ✓
Worked example 9.5.2
A talk is planned for three minutes but runs to five. What should you do? Choose one: cut some points or shorten the examples, speak faster to finish on time or ignore the time.
Method. Test each choice against the text.
- Read what the question asks for. Decide what the sentence or the text needs.
- Test the choice. Cutting or shortening the parts brings the talk back to time.cut some points or shorten the examples fits
- Reject the other choices. Speaking faster loses clarity, and ignoring the time breaks the task.speak faster to finish on time and ignore the time do not fit
- Write the answer. cut some points or shorten the examples
Check. The choice fits the text. ✓
Worked example 9.5.3
Name one item from a self-check list for a talk. Give one item.
Method. Think about what a checklist asks.
- Think about the parts. A checklist covers the parts of the talk.parts
- Choose one. One item is whether there is a signpost.signpost
- Give the item. The item is the signpost.the signpost
- Write the answer. the signpost
Check. The signpost is on the list. ✓
Exercise 9E Practice: rehearsing and self-evaluation
1
FHow many times should you rehearse at least? Write the number.
2
Method. Think about practice.
- Think about practice. Two rehearsals show the talk flows.two rehearsals
- Give the number. At least two rehearsals are sensible.2
- Write the answer. 2
Check. Two rehearsals is a good minimum. ✓
2
FWhich tool helps you keep to time when you rehearse? Write one word: stopwatch, pencil or sofa.
stopwatch
Method. Think about timing.
- Think about timing. A stopwatch measures the length.measures
- Choose. A stopwatch is the timing tool.stopwatch
- Write the answer. stopwatch
Check. A stopwatch times the talk. ✓
3
RWhat should you do with the self-check list after a rehearsal? Write one word: ignore, tick or hide.
tick
Method. Think about the list.
- Think about the list. Ticking shows which parts are done.done
- Choose. Tick the items that are met.tick
- Write the answer. tick
Check. Tick what is done. ✓
4
PSWhich item from the self-check list is about listening? Write one word: eye contact, questions or pace.
questions
Method. Think about the listening part.
- Think about listening. Responding to questions is listening.responding
- Choose. Questions is the listening item.questions
- Write the answer. questions
Check. Questions show listening. ✓
5
RWrite one self-evaluation question you could ask about your last talk.
Accept any answer that writes a question that checks one spoken feature such as clarity, timing, eye contact or Standard English. For example: Did I speak clearly enough for the back row to hear me?
Method. Ask about one feature.
- Choose a feature. Clarity is a feature to check.clarity
- Write the question. The question asks about the back row.back row
- Write the answer. Did I speak clearly enough for the back row to hear me?
Check. The question checks one feature. ✓
6
RWhich is the best feedback to give a speaker? Write A or B. A: "It was bad." B: "Your opening was clear; try slowing down in point two."
B
Method. Good feedback is specific and kind.
- Check A. It was bad is vague and unkind.vague
- Check B. Specific praise plus a clear next step helps.next step
- Write the answer. B
Check. B is specific and useful. ✓
7
PSWhy is a checklist useful after a rehearsal? Write one word: memory, speed or colour.
memory
Method. Think about what a list helps.
- Think about the list. A list stops you forgetting parts.forgetting
- Choose. A checklist supports memory.memory
- Write the answer. memory
Check. A checklist supports memory. ✓
8
PSWrite one target for your next talk, in one sentence.
Accept any answer that writes one clear, measurable target for the next talk. For example: Next time I will make eye contact with three different people in the room.
Method. Make a target specific and measurable.
- Choose a target. Eye contact is a clear target.eye contact
- Make it measurable. Three different people is measurable.three different people
- Write the answer. Next time I will make eye contact with three different people in the room.
Check. The target is clear. ✓
9
RAfter a presentation, which step comes next? Write one word: reflect, forget or delete.
reflect
Method. Think about the review.
- Think about the review. Reflection helps you improve.improve
- Choose. Reflect is the next step.reflect
- Write the answer. reflect
Check. Reflection helps improvement. ✓
10
FName one way you could practise the body language of a presentation at home. One phrase.
Accept any answer that names a practical activity, such as a mirror, a video, or a friend watching. For example: stand in front of a mirror and practise the opening.
Method. Think about practice without a crowd.
- Practice. A mirror shows posture and gestures.mirror
- Feedback. A friend can give feedback.friend
- Write the answer. stand in front of a mirror and practise the opening.
Check. The practice is practical. ✓
Chapter summary
| Skill | Method |
|---|---|
| Plan a presentation | Opening with a hook, a signpost, three points with reasons and examples, a conclusion with thanks |
| Voice, pace, eye contact and body language | Vary the voice, keep a steady pace, look around the room, stand still and open |
| Standard English | Use I saw, we were, I did, should have, those; use Standard English where the context needs it |
| Listen and respond | Listen fully, pause, build on a partner's point, disagree politely with a reason, admit when you do not know |
| Rehearse and self-evaluate | Speak aloud, time the talk, check against a list, and reflect on one strength and one target |
Can you…?
- I can plan a talk with an opening, a signpost, three points and a conclusion
- I can use voice, pace, eye contact and body language to engage an audience
- I can use Standard English where the context needs it
- I can listen, respond to questions, and build on or politely challenge others
- I can rehearse and self-evaluate a talk against a checklist
Key terms
- signpost
- a sentence that tells the audience how the talk is organised
- hook
- an opening that catches the audience's attention
- pace
- the speed at which you speak
- Standard English
- the form of English accepted in formal settings
- build on
- to add a new point to what another speaker has said
- rehearsal
- practising a spoken task aloud before the real occasion
- self-evaluation
- reviewing your own performance against clear criteria
Exercise 9Z Check-up
1
Which part of a talk greets the audience and says the topic? Write one word.
opening
Method. Think about the start of a talk.
- Think about the start. The opening greets the audience.Good afternoon
- Name it. The first part is the opening.opening
- Write the answer. opening
Check. The opening greets. ✓
2
What is a signpost in a talk? Write one word: guide, hook or close.
guide
Method. A signpost shows the shape of the talk.
- Think about the job. It shows what the audience will hear.shows
- Choose. A signpost guides the listener.guide
- Write the answer. guide
Check. A signpost guides. ✓
3
How many points does the model talk make? Write the number.
3
Method. Count the points.
- Count. First, Second and Third are the points.First, Second, Third
- Give the number. There are three points.3
- Write the answer. 3
Check. Three points. ✓
4
Which voice feature shows that a word matters? Write one word.
volume
Method. Think about how a speaker stresses a word.
- Think about stress. Raising the volume stresses the word.raising
- Name it. Volume shows emphasis.volume
- Write the answer. volume
Check. Volume shows emphasis. ✓
5
Which pace suits a talk with three points? Write one phrase.
steady and clear
Method. Think about the listener.
- Think about the listener. Listeners need time to follow.time to follow
- Choose the pace. A steady and clear pace helps.steady and clear
- Write the answer. steady and clear
Check. Steady and clear helps. ✓
6
Correct "I seen the film" to Standard English. Write the sentence.
I saw the film.
Method. Find the standard past tense of see.
- Find the error. Seen should be saw.saw
- Write the sentence. The correction is I saw the film.I saw the film.
- Write the answer. I saw the film.
Check. Saw is standard. ✓
7
Which is Standard English in a formal talk: "we was" or "we were"? Write the words.
we were
Method. Check the plural subject.
- Check the subject. We is plural.We
- Choose. The standard verb is were.we were
- Write the answer. we were
Check. We were is standard. ✓
8
What should you say if you do not know the answer to a question? Write the phrase.
I do not know, but I will find out
Method. Think about honesty.
- Think about honesty. Saying you do not know is honest.honest
- Offer to help. Offering to find out keeps the discussion going.find out
- Write the answer. I do not know, but I will find out
Check. Honest and helpful. ✓
9
Write one sentence that builds on a partner's point. Use the words "Building on".
Accept any sentence that starts Building on and adds a new reason or example. For example: Building on what Sam said, I would add that libraries save families money.
Method. Start with the link, then add a new point.
- Link. Building on links to the partner.Building on
- Add. A new reason is added.libraries save families money
- Write the answer. Building on what Sam said, I would add that libraries save families money.
Check. The sentence builds on the point. ✓
10
Plan a three-minute talk. Write how many seconds the conclusion should take.
20
Method. Share the time between the parts.
- Share the time. The conclusion is short, about twenty seconds.twenty seconds
- Give the number. The conclusion takes about twenty seconds.20
- Write the answer. 20
Check. Twenty seconds for the conclusion. ✓
Total 26 marks. Allow about 26 minutes.
Exercise 9X Exam-style questions
1
PSPlan the opening (about 20 seconds) of a talk on "Why our town needs a park". Write a greeting, a hook and the topic in note form.[2 marks]
Accept any note plan with a greeting, a hook and the topic named. For example: Greeting: Good morning. Hook: Imagine a town with no green space. Topic: Why our town needs a park.
Method. Plan the three parts in note form.
- Greeting. Good morning is a greeting.Good morning
- Hook. Imagine a town with no green space grabs attention.Imagine
- Topic. The topic is the park.Why our town needs a park
- Write the answer. Greeting: Good morning. Hook: Imagine a town with no green space. Topic: Why our town needs a park.
Check. The opening has three parts. ✓
2
PSList three points for a three-minute talk on "Why our school should start later". Give each point in one line.[3 marks]
Accept any three distinct points, each on one line, that support starting later, such as tiredness, attendance or time for breakfast.
Method. Choose three distinct reasons.
- Point 1. Tiredness affects learning.tiredness
- Point 2. Later starts can improve attendance.attendance
- Point 3. Time for breakfast helps health.breakfast
- Write the answer. Accept any three distinct points, each on one line, that support starting later, such as tiredness, attendance or time for breakfast.
Check. Three distinct points are given. ✓
3
PSWrite three questions you might be asked after a talk on "Why libraries matter", and one short answer for each.[3 marks]
Accept any three questions about libraries, each with a short, honest answer. For example: Q: Are libraries still needed online? A: Yes, because many people need a free place to learn.
Method. Write questions and answers.
- Question one. A question about the online world.online
- Question two. A question about cost.cost
- Question three. A question about who uses libraries.who uses
- Write the answer. Accept any three questions about libraries, each with a short, honest answer. For example: Q: Are libraries still needed online? A: Yes, because many people need a free place to learn.
Check. Three questions and answers are planned. ✓
4
FCorrect the non-standard English in this line for a formal talk: "We was going to say that them ideas are good." Write the corrected line.[2 marks]
We were going to say that those ideas are good.
Method. Correct the verb and the demonstrative.
- Verb. Was becomes were.were
- Demonstrative. Them becomes those.those
- Write the answer. We were going to say that those ideas are good.
Check. Both corrections are standard. ✓
5
RWrite a sentence that disagrees politely with a partner who said "Libraries are old-fashioned". Use one reason.[2 marks]
Accept any polite disagreement with one reason. For example: I see it differently, because a library is free and open to everyone.
Method. Disagree politely and give a reason.
- Polite phrase. I see it differently is polite.I see it differently
- Reason. Libraries are free and open to everyone.free and open
- Write the answer. I see it differently, because a library is free and open to everyone.
Check. The disagreement is polite and has a reason. ✓
6
PSPlan how you would rehearse a three-minute talk in four steps. Write the four steps in order.[4 marks]
Accept any four ordered steps that include speaking aloud, timing, checking against a list, and making a change. For example: 1 Speak aloud. 2 Time it. 3 Check the list. 4 Change one part.
Method. Put the rehearsal in order.
- Speak. Speak the talk aloud first.aloud
- Time. Time it with a stopwatch.stopwatch
- Check. Check it against the list.list
- Change. Change one part and repeat.repeat
- Write the answer. 1 Speak aloud. 2 Time it. 3 Check the list. 4 Change one part.
Check. The steps are in order. ✓
7
RDescribe two body language features a speaker should use when answering a question. Give two short phrases.[2 marks]
Accept any two body language features suited to answering, such as facing the questioner and nodding, or open gestures. For example: facing the questioner; using open gestures.
Method. Name two features.
- Feature one. Facing the questioner shows attention.facing
- Feature two. Open gestures look welcoming.open gestures
- Write the answer. facing the questioner; using open gestures.
Check. Two features are named. ✓
8
RWrite one reflective sentence about your last talk, saying one thing that went well and one thing to improve.[2 marks]
Accept any reflective sentence that names one strength and one area to improve. For example: My opening was clear, but I need to slow down in point two.
Method. Name one strength and one improvement.
- Strength. The opening was clear.opening was clear
- Improvement. Slow down in point two.slow down
- Write the answer. My opening was clear, but I need to slow down in point two.
Check. Both parts are named. ✓
9
RExplain why a planned talk should leave time for questions. Write one sentence.[2 marks]
Accept any sentence that says questions let the audience engage and let the speaker respond to their concerns. For example: questions let the audience engage and the speaker clarify.
Method. Explain the benefit.
- Audience. Questions let the audience engage.engage
- Speaker. The speaker can clarify points.clarify
- Write the answer. questions let the audience engage and the speaker clarify.
Check. The benefit is explained. ✓
10
FWrite a short closing line for a presentation that invites questions. One sentence.[1 mark]
Accept any closing sentence that thanks the audience and invites questions. For example: Thank you for listening, and I would be happy to take your questions.
Method. Thank and invite.
- Thank. Thank you for listening is a closing thanks.Thank you for listening
- Invite. I would be happy to take your questions invites them.take your questions
- Write the answer. Thank you for listening, and I would be happy to take your questions.
Check. The closing thanks and invites. ✓
11
RName the two parts of a talk that you should rehearse most carefully, and say why in one sentence.[3 marks]
Accept any two parts, such as the opening and the conclusion, with a reason such as the audience remembers the start and end. For example: the opening and conclusion, because listeners remember the start and the end.
Method. Name two parts and a reason.
- Parts. The opening and the conclusion matter most.opening and conclusion
- Reason. Listeners remember the start and the end.remember
- Write the answer. the opening and conclusion, because listeners remember the start and the end.
Check. Two parts and a reason are named. ✓