Your Second Speech
Prepare and deliver a second short speech on a favorite topic, practicing clear structure, voice projection, and gestures, then reflect on improvements.
About this activity
Prepare and deliver a second short speech on a favorite topic, practicing clear structure, voice projection, and gestures, then reflect on improvements.
What you need
Step by step
- 1
Step 1
Pick your favorite topic to talk about.
- 2
Step 2
Write the topic at the top of a sheet of paper.
- 3
Step 3
Decide how long your speech will be (pick about 30 to 90 seconds).
- 4
Step 4
Write a one-sentence opening that grabs attention on the paper.
- 5
Step 5
Write two main ideas and put each idea on its own index card.
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Step 6
Write a one-sentence closing that wraps up on another index card.
- 7
Step 7
Stand in front of a mirror and practice saying your opening out loud twice.
- 8
Step 8
Say each main idea out loud while using a different clear hand gesture for each one.
- 9
Step 9
Say your closing out loud once and finish with a smile.
- 10
Step 10
Set your timer for the speech length you chose.
- 11
Step 11
Do a full run-through of your speech using your index cards while timing yourself.
- 12
Step 12
Deliver the speech to a family member or friend.
- 13
Step 13
Ask the person who watched to tell you one thing you did well.
- 14
Step 14
Ask the person who watched to tell you one thing you can improve.
- 15
Step 15
Share your finished speech and your reflection on what you improved on DIY.org.
Fun facts
How do I prepare and deliver a second short speech with my child?
To prepare and deliver a second short speech, help your child pick a favorite topic, write a simple outline (hook, two main points, conclusion), and set a time limit (1–3 minutes). Practice daily focusing on clear structure, voice projection, pacing, and natural gestures. Use a mirror or record rehearsals, give positive feedback, and do a full delivery for family. Finish with a short reflection on what improved and one goal for next time.
What materials do I need to help my child prepare their second short speech?
Materials: a notebook or index cards for notes, a pen, timer or phone for timing, a recording device (phone or tablet), a mirror or quiet practice space, optional props or visual aid, and a simple feedback checklist for strengths and improvements. Print a one-page outline template to guide structure if helpful. Keep materials minimal so the child practices speaking without over-reliance on prompts.
What ages is this speaking activity suitable for?
This activity suits children roughly ages 5–16 with adjustments. Ages 5–7 need short speeches (30–60 seconds), more adult prompts, and simple visuals. Ages 8–12 can aim for 1–2 minutes, with focus on structure and gestures. Teens (13–16+) can give 2–5 minute talks emphasizing voice projection and reflection. Adapt timing, support, and goals to each child’s attention span and comfort level.
What are the benefits of doing a second speech and how should we reflect on improvements?
Benefits include increased confidence, clearer thinking, better organization, and improved speaking and listening skills. Reflection deepens learning: watch a recording together, name one clear strength and one specific area to improve, and set a measurable goal for the next talk. Keep feedback positive and concrete. Practice in a supportive setting, avoid public shaming, and let the child control sharing or recording for comfort and safety.
Watch & Learn
Need help?
What can I use instead of index cards, a mirror, or a kitchen timer if I don't have them?
If you don't have index cards use small squares of scrap paper or Post-it notes for each main idea, use your phone camera or a bright window instead of a mirror, and use your phone's stopwatch or a simple kitchen clock for the speech length.
I'm running over time or keep forgetting my gestures—how can I fix that?
Shorten your chosen speech length, write one bold keyword on each index card to cue your two main ideas and the different clear hand gesture for each one, practice the opening twice in front of the mirror (step 7), and do a few timed full run-throughs (step 11) to get the pacing right.
How can I adapt this activity for different ages?
For younger children make the speech 15–30 seconds long, use picture cards for each main idea and help write the one-sentence opening on the sheet of paper, while older kids can extend toward 90 seconds, add extra index cards for more main ideas, and record the delivery to share.
How can we make the speech more interesting or personalize it?
Add a small prop or visual on an extra index card for your opening or closing, rehearse with those props while practicing your distinct hand gestures, record a full run-through to review feedback from the family member (steps 13–15), and upload your final speech plus a one-sentence reflection about what you improved to DIY.org (step 16).