DAV Public Speaking Competition Success
During Term 2 four Woodleigh students, Sam MacKenzie, Joseph McGrath, Lachlan Palmer, and Charlie Russo took part in the Debaters Society of Victoria’s on-line Year 7 and 8 Public Speaking competition. For this, they had to submit a recording of themselves presenting a five-minute prepared speech on their choice of one of three topics:
- Living in a material world
- It's not the journey, but the destination.
- The Australian Dream
Every one of the kids worked in their own time to prepare their speech and then submit it to the adjudicators.
Making an online presentation is very challenging, and it was marvellous that both Charlie and Lachie were selected to proceed to the finals.
In the finals, which were performed on Zoom, Lachie, and Charlie had first to present their prepared speech to the adjudicators and the other finalists. Following this they had to present an unprepared speech of three minutes and were only given five minutes to prepare.
Both of the Woodleigh students did an amazing job, and although all the results are yet to be released I am really delighted to congratulate Charlie for winning!
Some of our DAV Public Speakers; Lachie Palmer (L), Charlie Russo (R)
As their teacher, I was so proud. Amongst the group of finalists, both Charlie and Lachie really stood out. They spoke from their hearts demonstrating individualism and personality. There was no trace of manufactured thoughts, and their speeches were well-structured and engaging.
All the students who participated did a great job and I am sure we will hear more about them all in the future.
MARNEY POPE
Public Speaking and Debating Coordinator