1. Academic Senior Project
Oral Presentations
Academic
Senior Project

2. Purpose
To engage you in communicating your research findings to an audience
To inform, enlighten, and maintain the interest of your audience
To display the expertise you have gained through your research
To gain confidence and practice speaking before an audience

3. Your Job Provide a summary and reflection of research findings:
Overview of the Topic/Thesis
Overview of the Opposition
Presentation of Your Argument
Utilize a visual aid
Entertain questions post-presentation

4. Your Grade Time Requirements Content Organization Presentation Skills
Visual Aid
Q & A
Audience Participation

5. Content & Organization
Does the presenter use detailed information to inform the audience about their topic/thesis, the opposition, and the major points that support their argument?
Is the information provided thorough enough to adequately defend the thesis?
Is the presentation organized in an appropriate and easy-to-understand manner?
Does the speaker walk the audience through the thesis, the opposition, and their argument in an understandable fashion both verbally and visually?
Did the speaker include a title, preview, and concluding slide in addition to their informational slides?

6. Presentation Skills Eye Contact Vocal Skills Vocal Variety
Rate of Speech
Projection/Volume
Formality
Enthusiasm & Confidence
Audience Interest
Poise
Slouching
Comfort
Body Language/Gestures
Dress
Professional Interview Dress
Time Requirements
3:00-5:00 minutes
Visual Aid
Appropriate Use
Question/Answer Session
2-5 Questions

7. Visual Aids Text vs. Images Clear headings Appropriate Use
NO SENTENCES!
Noun keywords or verb phrases/fragments ONLY!
EXAMPLE:
Connection to violent acts (noun keywords)
Connected to violent acts (verb phrase fragment)
Clear headings
Preview and concluding slides
Appropriate Use
Eye contact
Knowledge of research

8. Other Things to Consider
Do's
Don'ts
Consider using note cards
NOTE CARDS ONLY
Review your research materials
Remember that FORMALITY is key
Breathe
Chew gum
Read your paper or your notecards to us

9. Finally…
Do remember that your participation as an audience member counts for a portion of your grade total. Give everyone your fullest attention and respect. You will be given work days to work on your presentation and PowerPoint. YOUR FOCUS & PRODUCTIVITY ON THESE DAYS WILL BE GRADED. If you need more time than the allotted days, make arrangements well in advance.