Grade 4 Speech Topics

Create mock settings that support fourth-graders in giving speeches.

According to the Speaking and Speeches website, "Learning how to become an effective public speaker can be the key difference between success and failure in your life at home, at work and in your own community." Introducing public speaking to youths lets them spend ample time learning and honing their skills in a safe classroom environment. When fourth-graders develop the skill of public speaking, they grow in self-confidence.

1 Historical Figures and Popular Characters

It's easy to find information and facts on historical figures and popular characters when conducting research for a speech. Encourage pupils to use their personal taste to choose an individual. For example, a pupil fascinated by cellular phones might choose Alexander Graham Bell. Aspiring cartoonists or animators can benefit from learning about artists such as Charles Schulz, Jim Davis or the history of Pixar Studios and its owners.

2 Personal Ambitions

Teach fourth-graders to look to their future by suggesting exploring personal ambitions for their speech topic. Hold a classroom discussion and help pupils get started by brainstorming ideas. Suggest they research career options, expanding on the basics beyond a position's title. For example, if they're interested in becoming a firefighter, they can address what firefighters do, life at the firehouse, salary, required training or education, and benefits to the community.

3 Local News

Help elementary pupils learn the importance of being aware of the world and paying attention to what's going on it by recommending they search news articles for topic ideas. Focus on arts and leisure, books and music, or home and garden to keep graphic drama and details to a minimum. Local community news minus heavy crimes and magazine profiles such as those found in "Parade" also offer suitable options. Specialty or animal publications offer manageable subject matter and cute pictures to act as visual aids.

4 School-Related Issues

Empower young people to relate to and understand their surroundings by encouraging research that focuses on rules, policies and guidelines in their school. Ideas and topics such as bullying (how to spot it and why not to do it), dress codes (the positive and negative consequences of wearing them) and report cards (what they mean and why they are necessary) are suitable options. School board and district websites offer useful information. If the school hosts its own site, exploring its contents is also appropriate.

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