Programs > Classroom Plus > Volunteers

Presentation Tips

Over the years we have noted some tips for successful classroom visits.

Before Your Visit: Communicate thoroughly beforehand with the teacher about the topic and any specific points to include. The teachers may also have advice on how to best relate to their students.

Delivery: Be yourself. You know your topic so speak from personal experience. Teens are less interested in detailed statistics…they want to know how your topic affects them. It is best not to assume students understand terminology or industry jargon. While introducing concepts or terms, feel free to ask the students questions. For instance, ask students to explain marketing; they will often define it in ways we would never think of.

Audience Participation is essential and involving students in your presentation keeps it engaging. Ask lots of questions. Have a student help you with part of your presentation (it can be as simple as having them hand out materials). Example: a cereal producer brought small boxes of a new product to pass out as students correctly answered or asked questions.

Format: The confirmation letter specifies the number and ability level of the students. Your presentation should cover the basics of the TOPIC and challenge the students with new concepts.

• Use of alliterations, acronyms, and outlines give purpose to your presentation and are easy for the students to follow and remember.
• Use examples and personalize whenever possible, and summarize your presentation before you end. Business cards are great, but hand them out only if you actually want the students to give you a call.
• Discuss with the teacher how much time to leave for questions and answers. Be prepared to answer questions about your education, motivation, mentors, philosophies, experiences, and profession. However, feel free to leave inappropriate questions unanswered.

Visuals and Props: Using visuals of any kind is always more effective than words alone. When additional senses are incorporated, the message has a greater impact. Be sure to contact the teacher prior to your visit for any special needs you will have for your presentation.

Organize and plan your presentation taking into account your audience, topic, and comfort level, and if it is a new presentation, it never hurts to practice it!

After the Visit…
Fill out the online evaluation via a link sent to you with the confirmation e-mail to Classroom Plus to help facilitate the best classroom experiences in the future.

Contact Information
Rachel Schwalbach
Classroom Plus Program Associate
763-398-0090 ext. 235
rschwalbach@bestprep.org