Lesson 49: Delivering Your 5-Minute Speech – Putting It All Together
“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.”
— Robert Collier
Your Challenge
Now it’s time to bring together everything you’ve learned — from structuring a compelling message to using powerful body language, vocal variety, and clear visuals.
Your task is simple, but meaningful:
Record a 5-minute speech applying the full range of skills and strategies you have practiced throughout this course.
This is not about perfection.
It’s about intentional practice, personal reflection, and building a real-world habit of speaking with clarity, energy, and presence.
What You Will Do
Task:
Prepare and deliver a 5-minute speech (choose any topic you feel passionate about or that relates to your professional goals).
Apply structure, voice control, body language, and (optionally) minimal supportive visuals.
Record your speech for personal review.
Submission Instructions
This recording is for YOU.
You don’t have to submit the video to instructors or peers.Save your video securely:
Upload to your Google Drive, Dropbox, or a personal device.
Clearly label your file (e.g., “First Practice Speech – [Your Name]”).
You will use this recording in the next lesson to self-assess your strengths and areas for improvement.
Setting the Right Mindset: “Critical but Kind”
Before recording, remember:
You are here to build skills, not to judge yourself harshly.
Critical: Observe your delivery carefully. Look for specific things you can improve.
Kind: Recognize your effort. Progress is made one adjustment at a time, and every recording you do is a step forward.
Interactive Activity: Personal Checklist Before Recording
Use this checklist before you press “record” to ensure you are applying the major elements we’ve covered.
Structure
My speech has a strong opening that captures attention (story, bold fact, or question).
My main points are organized clearly (e.g., Rule of Three, Problem-Solution-Benefit).
I conclude powerfully, giving the audience something to think, feel, or do.
Body Language
I use open, natural gestures to reinforce key points.
My posture is balanced and confident, not stiff or shifting nervously.
I maintain meaningful eye contact across different zones of the “audience” (even if speaking to a camera).
Voice and Delivery
My tone varies naturally to match my emotions and key messages.
I speak at an even, audience-friendly pace (~140–160 words per minute).
I use intentional pauses to emphasize important ideas.
Visuals (Optional)
If I use slides or props, they support my speech, not distract from it.
My visuals are clear, simple, and focused on one idea per visual.
Final Reminder
You are not just practicing a speech.
You are building the habits of a confident, engaging communicator.
Progress is not built through perfect performances.
It is built through intentional, courageous practice.
Record your speech. Watch it. Reflect with pride.
