As I was updating teachingup.com today to announce the 2013 San Diego County Fair Oratorical Contest theme, I was glad to find the link to a blow-em-away speech given by Cameron Whitfield, a Speaking Up student in 2011. His interpretation of one of my favorite poems by Jane Yolen, "Owl Moon" will transport you to a snowy forest, quietly looking for owls. Take a break and enjoy his masterful speech now. To my disappointment, Cameron did not place in the competition that year; can you believe it? Still Cameron and his family celebrated his successful speech with full joy, as they well should. Cameron gave his all and will keep that feeling of pride in his powerful performance always.
The SD Fair Theme this year is "Game On!", and refers to board games, video games, etc.
Starting in April, I'll again offer classes to help children learn techniques for effective speech presentations. In addition to techniques, I assist each child in finding a text that will fit the theme and match his/her spirit. I've just posted the class dates & times on teachingup.com .
At your request, classes can be added in locations that are convenient to children who live too far away to come to my location.
I'm also available for individual coaching.
Happy Spring to all!
June
P.S. I've noticed that fewer girls come to my classes than boys, and so fewer of them compete and/or claim their place on the podium for prizes. While I love working with boys, I would really like to empower more girls in this arena. I'd love to offer a class this year for girls-only, so please let me know if you have a group of 3-8 girls I could coach.
