Current issues assignment Pages 62-65
7 Have I got news for you Step 1: Choose the topic area Step 2: Find current news articles on your topic and consult different sources Step 3: Research Breaking down the news item What is your topic about? What is the cause of the phenomenon? What is the background of you event/topic? The affects of the phenomenon on people/nature etc.? in other words: dig deeper than what can be seen in the news article!
7 Have I got news for you Step 4: Preparation Presenting your topic and the current event/phenomenon/conflict to others Use a medium of your choice(PowerPoint, overhead, videos, etc.) but make it visual and easy to follow! Also, a handout for your classmates (IN ADVANCE!) Main information/points listed: What is the presentation about? What is important to know about the topic? Difficult/specific vocabulary explained/translated
Giving the presentation Oral tasks on your topic for other students (NB. see p. 65 for tips on possible tasks!) Good ideas for oral tasks could be, for example: Discussion questions (not too broad, not yes/no questions only) Statements that others should debate on Pictures/statistics/video clips to talk about (NB. see p. 65 for tips on possible tasks!) Remember that it is easier to talk in a smaller group that to an audience but in a bigger group you might not get your say so think about the size of the groups (pairs orgroups of three/four??)
Giving the presentation Step 5: Giving the presentation Keep it simple a news article doesn’t make a presentation! A list of key words Short sentences, easy words (benefits you and your audience) Explain difficult words Focus on the language Metalanguage: phrases that tell your audience what is going on.. (see p. 66 for help)
Giving the presentation Visual effects Slide show, video, pictures, statistics, music etc. Keywords in slides, don’t let a video take over your presentation Less is more!! Non-verbal communication Posture, eye contact, timing, voice, attitude etc.
Giving the presentation Read the useful tips pages 66-67 carefully when preparing and rehearsing your presentation KISS principle – Keep It Simple Stupid!