Communications
Do you talk to friends? Take part in a school play? Write reports? Read books? Share your own photos and videos from your smart phone? If you do, you’re communicating! The world of communication impacts you every day. By participating in the 4-H Communication project, you will explore the exciting world of communication, and learn more about yourself and others.
- Learn written, oral, and visual communication skills
- Develop self-confidence through public presentations
- Practice self-expression and creativity
- Learn how to organize and present information
Communications is open to all members enrolled in 4-H. It can be taken as a project or can be used in conjunction with any other project. There are three project area within the communication arena: Presentations, Educational Displays and Videography
Presentations
These guidelines are to be used for Presentations in all project areas. Judging criteria are outlined on the Oregon 4-H Presentation Evaluation sheets for Demonstrations and Illustrated Talks (211-001); Public Speaking (211-002) and Impromptu Speaking (211-003) available at the county Extension office and on the State 4-H website. Communication projects | OSU Extension Service (oregonstate.edu)
GENERAL INFORMATION
1. 4-H Presentation divisions include demonstrations, illustrated talks, public speeches, and impromptu speeches.
2. Members may have one entry in each class as long as the subject matter is different for each.
3. Members may be expected to use a microphone.
4. All contestants will be interviewed by the judge at the conclusion of their presentation.
5. Counties may enter as many blue ribbon participants from the county contest as the judge qualifies for State Fair.
DEMONSTRATIONS AND ILLUSTRATED TALKS
A demonstration shows how to do something. There is a finished product at the end. An illustrated talk is a way to share information with the use of visual aids.
1. Topic may be anything the member wants to share with others.
2. A member may not present the same topic more than once.
3. Teams will consist of two members. If one team member is a senior and the other an intermediate, the presentation should be entered in the senior division.
4. Each team or individual will have time to set up, present, and clear the area. The actual presentation should be between 3 and 10 minutes for Juniors and 10 to 15 minutes in length for Intermediates and Seniors.
5. 4-H members must furnish all supplies and equipment required except for a table, easel and
microphone. If other special equipment is needed, contact the Extension office prior to Pre-Fair Contest Days. A computer and projector may be borrowed from the Extension Office with prior arrangements.
6. The use of notes is permitted. However, the excessive use of notes may be counted against the contestant at the judge’s discretion.
7. During the presentation, contestants should introduce themselves by name and topic.
8. Contestants should cite their major references at the conclusion of their presentation. (Citing references is not included in the time.)
9. Anyone may ask questions of the contestant.
PUBLIC SPEECHES
A public speech can be informational or persuasive. No visual aids may be used.
1. Topic may be anything the member wants to share with others.
2. A member may not present the same topic more than once at the Pre-Fair Contest Days.
3. Speeches should be between 3 and 8 minutes for Juniors and 7 to 10 minutes in length for Intermediates and Seniors.
4. The use of notes is permitted. However, the excessive use of notes may be counted against the contestant at the judge’s discretion.
5. During the speech, contestants should introduce themselves by name and topic.
6. Contestants should cite their major references at the conclusion of their speech. (Citing references is not included in the time.)
7. Anyone may ask questions of the contestant.
IMPROMPTU SPEAKING
The presenter must compose and deliver a speech with no prior preparation.
1. Contestants will draw topics at random.
2. Once contestants draw a topic, they will have five minutes to prepare before they begin their speech. The contestant may write notes on one 3 x 5 inch notecard which will be provided.
3. The speech should be 3 to 5 minutes in length.
4. During the speech, contestants should introduce themselves by name and topic.
5. No questions may be asked at the conclusion of the speech.
Cloverbud Presentation
Members Kindergarten through 8 years old may participate in this contest.
Contestants should introduce themselves at the beginning of their presentation. 1st year members demonstrate the 4-H pledge and hand motions to the judge. 2nd year and beyond choose a topic. The judge will ask one question.
Find more information on the state 4-H website : Communication projects | OSU Extension Service (oregonstate.edu)
