Explain a Concept in 15 Seconds
Choose a simple concept and practice explaining it aloud in fifteen seconds, using a drawing or prop to show the main idea clearly.
Step-by-step guide to explain a concept in 15 seconds
Formation of rainbows (& how far are they) | Physics | Khan Academy
Step 1
Pick one simple concept you want to explain in fifteen seconds.
Step 2
Say the name of your concept out loud so you remember it.
Step 3
Choose the single main idea about your concept that will make it easy to understand.
Step 4
Decide if you will use a drawing or a small prop to show the main idea.
Step 5
Prepare your visual by drawing a quick picture or setting up your prop so it is clear.
Step 6
Add one label or arrow to your drawing or place your prop to point to the main idea.
Step 7
Write a short script that says the main idea and includes one quick example or cue.
Step 8
Set your timer for fifteen seconds.
Step 9
Practice saying your script once while pointing to your visual and watching the timer.
Step 10
Shorten any words that make you go over fifteen seconds and rewrite the script if needed.
Step 11
Practice the final version two more times to feel confident and clear.
Step 12
Present your fifteen-second explanation to a family member or friend.
Step 13
Share your finished drawing or prop and a short note about your explanation on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can we use instead of art supplies, a special prop, or a physical timer?
Use plain printer paper and a pencil for your drawing, a small household object (like a toy or spoon) as your prop, and the timer on a smartphone to complete the 'set your timer for fifteen seconds' step and still upload your note to DIY.org.
I'm running out of time or my visual is confusing—what should I fix?
Follow the instruction to 'shorten any words that make you go over fifteen seconds', rewrite your script to the single main idea, add one clear label or arrow to your drawing, and practice with the timer until the practiced version fits.
How can this activity be changed for a preschooler versus a tween?
For a preschooler pick a very simple concept and use a large colorful prop while a parent helps 'say the name of your concept' and point, and for a tween choose a slightly more precise main idea, add a concise label, and require two more practice runs for clarity.
How can we make the 15-second explanation more creative or keep going after one presentation?
Turn it into a mini-series by preparing different visuals during 'prepare your visual', adding unique labels or props each time, and 'share your finished drawing or prop and a short note' about each explanation on DIY.org to compare progress.
Watch videos on how to explain a concept in 15 seconds
How Do Rainbows Form?
4 Videos
How Do Rainbows Form?
What Is a Rainbow? | Rainbows for Kids | Learn how and why rainbows form
What is a rainbow?
How Rainbows Form | Full Science Behind Refraction, Reflection & Dispersion
Facts about communication skills for kids
⏱️ Fifteen seconds is about three short sentences spoken clearly — perfect for a quick, memorable hook.
🎯 A 15-second explanation works like an elevator pitch — it helps you focus on one clear idea and one example.
🎨 Even simple drawings or stick figures can quickly show cause and effect or how something works.
🧠 People often remember visuals more easily than words, so a single drawing can make your idea stick.
👂 Practicing aloud helps you find the best words and tone so your explanation sounds natural to listeners.
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