HELPING OUR STUDENTS BECOME BETTER PRESENTERS IN THE SECOND LANGUAGE

In my YouTube channel, you’ve probably seen several videos of my amazing AP students presenting various topics from the Contextos readings in Vista Higher Learning’s TEMAS. It’s been incredibly rewarding to witness their growth and progress, and I often receive questions about how they’ve developed the confidence and proficiency to deliver clear, compelling, and well-structured presentations. Today, I want to share with you some of the strategies that have helped my students excel in presenting their thoughts and ideas in the target language.

1. Clarity in Project Directions: To kick things off, it’s essential to be crystal clear with your project directions. I’ve found that using straightforward rubrics that guide rather than confuse the students is paramount. The more concise and unambiguous your rubric, the more confident your students will feel. If you’d like to see an example, check out the [rubric here](insert link). This type of rubric has consistently helped my students prepare extraordinary presentations.
2. Topic Expectations: One thing I’ve learned over the years is the importance of discussing the topics students will be researching and presenting. Don’t spring unfamiliar subjects on them—build an expectation and interest in the topic first. It’s a game-changer.
3. Model Great Presentations: Students might not always know what makes a great presentation. That’s why I show them a video of me presenting or teaching, or even a captivating TED Talk. After they watch the video, I ask them what they believe makes a presentation truly great. It’s crucial not to assume they know these elements intuitively.
4. Supportive Visual Aids: I’ve seen great results when I allow students to include key phrases on their slides or index cards. This sends the message that I’m not expecting them to memorize a script. It eases their nerves considerably.
5. Leverage Existing Knowledge: Encourage your students to use the second language (L2) they already know and supplement it with one additional skill to explain their presentation. Many students mistakenly believe they need to memorize a slew of new words and expressions. It’s my job to dispel that notion.
6. Positive Engagement: During their presentations, I make sure to maintain eye contact, smile, and resist the urge to correct minor, non-obstructive language errors. This approach creates a supportive and encouraging atmosphere that builds their confidence.
7. Unique Feedback: While they’re presenting, I keep notes on what’s unique about each student’s presentation. I complete the rubric later and in private, emphasizing what sets them apart. This personalized feedback is incredibly valuable.
8. The Most Important Step: Before diving into any significant presentations or projects, I have my students practice with “small” presentations or projects. Here is a [list of topics](insert link) that I provide for quick 2-minute practice presentations. During these mini-presentations (which I consider formative assessments), I give them feedback on all the aspects I’ll be evaluating in their “big” presentations.

These strategies have not only enhanced my students’ proficiency but have also elevated their confidence when tackling more complex presentations in the target language. By providing clear guidance, engaging activities, and constructive feedback, you can help your students become exceptional communicators in Spanish or any other language they’re learning. Your journey toward confident, proficient presentations has just begun. Happy teaching!

Here is an example of one of my former students presenting:

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