Make a One-Minute Speech!
Prepare and practice a one-minute speech on a favorite topic, time yourself, include a clear opening and closing, then present to someone.
Step-by-step guide to make a one-minute speech
1-Minute School Captain Speech | Vice Captain Best Leadership Speech for School Election #shorts
Step 1
Pick one favorite topic you feel excited to talk about.
Step 2
Write one short opening sentence that grabs attention.
Step 3
Write three short points you want to say about your topic.
Step 4
Write one short closing sentence that clearly ends your speech.
Step 5
Put your opening points and closing together into a short script.
Step 6
Set your timer for 60 seconds.
Step 7
Read your script aloud while starting the timer.
Step 8
If your speech is too long or too short edit one sentence to make it closer to one minute.
Step 9
Mark two places in your script where you will pause.
Step 10
Add one simple gesture or facial expression to use at one marked place.
Step 11
Practice your speech again with the timer using your pauses and gesture.
Step 12
Present your one-minute speech to your friend or family member.
Step 13
Ask your listener for one thing they liked and one suggestion to improve.
Step 14
Share your finished creation 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 if we don't have a timer or paper for the script?
Use a phone's clock or stopwatch to 'Set your timer for 60 seconds' and type your opening, three points, and closing into a notes app instead of paper.
My speech keeps running over or finishing too quickly—what should I try?
Follow the instruction 'If your speech is too long or too short edit one sentence to make it closer to one minute,' time each sentence with the timer and shorten or combine one of your three points until the total fits 60 seconds.
How can I change the activity for younger or older kids?
For younger children, simplify to one opening, two short points, and one closing and use a 30-second timer, while older kids can keep three points, add a visual prop, or extend the timer to 90–120 seconds when following the 'Write three short points' and 'Set your timer' steps.
How can we make the presentation more fun or personal?
Add a small prop or costume for one marked pause, record the practice on a phone to watch expression and timing before you 'Present your one-minute speech to your friend' and then upload the final clip to DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to make a one-minute speech
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How to Start a 1 Minute Speech (Super Simple, Super Effective)
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Facts about public speaking for kids
⏱️ The average speaking rate is about 120–150 words per minute, so plan ~120–150 words for a one-minute speech.
🎤 Glossophobia (fear of public speaking) affects up to 75% of people — you're definitely not alone!
🧠 People tend to remember the beginning and the end of a talk best (primacy and recency), so make your opening and closing strong.
🎯 TED Talks limit speakers to 18 minutes because it balances attention and depth — short can be powerful!
🏆 Toastmasters International was founded in 1924 and has helped millions build public speaking skills worldwide.
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