{"id":5170,"date":"2014-04-23T09:30:39","date_gmt":"2014-04-23T13:30:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/?page_id=5170"},"modified":"2026-01-06T13:52:59","modified_gmt":"2026-01-06T18:52:59","slug":"public-speaking","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/public-speaking\/","title":{"rendered":"4-H Public Speaking"},"content":{"rendered":"

Speak Up, Maine 4-H!<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Public speaking.
\n<\/strong>Two words that can strike fear in the hearts of students and adults everywhere.<\/h3>\n

Although intimidating, most people agree that it\u2019s also one of life\u2019s most useful skills. The benefits of communicating effectively in public, range from developing critical thinking skills to fine-tuning verbal and nonverbal skills.<\/p>\n

\"Juniors
4-H Public Speaking Junior Awards Group<\/strong>, April 9, 2022<\/strong>. For More Photos: 2022 4-H Public Speaking Photo Gallery<\/a>. \u2014 UMaine Extension Photo<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Public speaking is an important part of one\u2019s 4-H career, even for those who do not pursue formal public speaking opportunities. The skills 4-H youth build through Public<\/span>\u00a0Speaking<\/span> will support them throughout their lives and aren\u2019t solely utilized behind a podium, on a stage or with a microphone. We encourage youth to showcase their sparks, share their passions, and be proud of their connection to 4-H. Many 4-H alumni report how important it was to have public speaking skills when they applied to college, interviewed for jobs, or interacted with adult peers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Through this program, 4-H<\/span>‘ers learn to evaluate basic skills, give and receive constructive feedback, and build confidence to express themselves in various life situations. Youth who choose to participate in Maine events select a topic that they feel is important to share, develop a presentation, practice it with family and fellow club members, and enter their county showcase. If they achieve a minimum score, they qualify for the state showcase, which is open to youth ages nine and older.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Seniors
4-H Public Speaking Senior Awards Group<\/strong>, April 9, 2022<\/strong>. For More Photos: 2022 4-H Public Speaking Photo Gallery<\/a>. \u2014 UMaine Extension Photo<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

UMaine Extension 4-H is the most successful out-of-school youth educational program in the state. Through learning by doing along with their peers, building life skills in a safe environment, with caring, trained adults who lead by example \u2013 youth are encouraged to find their passion and learn to thrive in today\u2019s changing and challenging world.<\/span><\/p>\n

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For more information about 4-H Public Speaking, including guidelines and evaluation sheets<\/a>, upcoming event information<\/a>, and resources to assist you in planning your presentation<\/a>, contact Laura Personette at 207.581.8213 or laura.personette@maine.edu<\/a>. You may also contact your local UMaine Extension county office<\/a> for information about 4-H Public Speaking in your county.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

<\/a>2022 4-H Public Speaking Photo Gallery<\/h3>\n

Photo highlights of the 2022 4-H Public Speaking Event, April 9, 2022. \u2014 UMaine Extension Photos.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\t\t