A POCKET GUIDE TO PUBLIC SPEAKING 3rd Edition Section 20 Using Presentation Aids

Presentation Aids “A picture is worth a thousand words” if it is appropriate to the topic, the audience, and the occasion. Objects, models, PowerPoint slideshows, video clips, and audio clips are all types of presentation aids. Presentation aids must complement the purpose of the speech.

Functions of Presentation Aids Helps audience process information Helps audience retain important information Promotes and maintains interest in the speech topic Conveys information concisely Improves speaker credibility

Types of Presentation Aids A prop is any live or inanimate object that illustrates key points. In contrast, a model is a 3-D scale representation of an object. Pictures, diagrams, maps, charts, and graphs can all be displayed on a slide show or poster. Audio and video tools add an extra dimension to your speech. Posters, transparencies, and chalk/expo boards can be used to display your 2-D images.

Using Props Effectively Choose props that reinforce key points. Humorous objects may undermine speaker credibility. Make sure prop can be seen by audience. Move the prop slowly. Keep the prop hidden until needed. Put the prop away when finished showing it. Practice your speech with the prop.

Diagrams and Maps A diagram or schematic drawing demonstrates how something works or is constructed. A map illustrates the layout of a geographic region or the spatial relationship between locations.

Types of Graphs A graph represents numerical data in visual form. Types of graphs commonly used are: Line graph Vertical Bar graph Horizontal Bar graph Pictogram Pie chart

Tips for Creating Graphs Label all parts of your graph appropriately. Start numerical lines at zero. Compare only like variables. Limit the amount of data on a graph. Have a clear title and key. Use color to distinguish different parts. Restrict the number of slices in a pie graph. Identify values clearly.

Types of Charts A chart visually organizes complex information into compact form. Different types of charts are: Flowcharts Organizational charts Tables

Handouts Handouts are useful when the audience needs to keep information for later. If the information is simple to follow along then wait to distribute the handout until after the speech ends. If the information is complex and the speaker needs the audience to read or write on it during the speech then it should be distributed before the speech begins. Too many handouts reduce their effectiveness and can be boring for the audience. Printing out the entire PowerPoint slideshow is not necessary and can be distracting to the listeners.