Year 5 & 6

Over the past few weeks, our Year 5/6 students have been busy planning, writing and presenting speeches. This process has given them the opportunity to persuade, entertain or inform their audience, whilst also developing confidence in public speaking. Each student selected a topic they were passionate about, planned and drafted their ideas, then revised and rehearsed their speeches before presenting them to the class.

Presenting a speech in front of others can be daunting, but it provides valuable practice in building confidence and resilience. Students develop the ability to manage nerves and overcome the natural anxiety that can come with public speaking. Equally important is the listening aspect of the task. As audience members, students were respectful and attentive and this helped to create a supportive environment for all speakers.

You’ll also notice that we have included some photos from our whole school House Athletics Day as a taste of the amazing day that was had by all students. You’ll be able to read more about this in our next newsletter.

Relax and enjoy reading some students' reflections about their experiences with writing and delivering their speeches. 

5/6A

I gave a speech about a game and I enjoyed every moment of sharing it. Now I really want to share it to all the 5/6 classes.

- Declan A

My speech topic was why I think basketball is the best sport ever. I chose this to show why I think basketball is the best sport and to spread my love for the game. In my speech I tried to change people's opinion of what they think of the sport. When I was about to present my speech I felt nervous but I fought through and when I actually started reading out my speech I felt more relaxed and had a great time.

- Cruze F

For my speech I chose Cleopatra because she was so famous in Egyptian history. The purpose of my speech was to inform people because I think everyone should learn more about history. For example, most people don't know that she married her brother. I felt very nervous to present my speech in front of the class but Ashleigh was helping me. During my speech it was more flowy and I didn't make any mistakes. I felt great! Afterwards I felt proud and good inside. 

- Emily S

My speech was about how social media affects both your mental and physical health. I chose this topic because I think it is fascinating to dwell deeper into the hidden secrets of all the social media platforms, and I think it is a very pressing issue that kids our age are using social media platforms. The purpose of my text was to inform my classmates/peers about the dangers of underage use of social media platforms, and what can happen if you don't use those platforms safely.

When I was about to deliver it, I was feeling a bit nervous, but then I realised that I had nothing to be scared about. During my speech I felt I was delivering it confidently, and I was doing my absolute best and putting expression into my talking. Afterwards, I felt relieved I had finished it, but I also wished I could have gone again! It was so much fun!

- Achala S

5/6B

My topic is 'Why do Elephants Have Big Ears?’. I chose this because it's a fun topic on which to write. You can decide whether it has facts or if it is a creative story. The purpose of my speech is to entertain and maybe even inspire (more to entertain though!). I haven't delivered my speech yet.

- Annie T

My topic is ‘What makes me happy’. I chose it because I want people to know what makes me happy and why it makes me happy. I also hope that other students might want to do what I do. 

- Harry C

For my speech, I’m writing and speaking about how Australia is the best country. I chose this topic because, when I read it out loud, I know everyone is going to agree with me. I would like to persuade my audience by using confidence, eye contact and speaking with a strong voice. 

- Lukey S

My speech topic is about ‘What makes me happy’. I chose my topic because I love musical  instruments and they make me happy. The purpose of my speech is to persuade others to give learning an instrument a go even if you don't like them. When I started the speech, I felt nervous but at the end I felt happy and good.

- Marcus C 

5/6C

My topic was, ‘What makes me happy!’ I chose this topic because I haven't done a speech before and I thought this might be the easiest one to write about. I was informing my class about the things I like doing and what makes me happy. Before I gave the speech I was feeling nervous and I was shaking at the beginning but after a while I felt great. 

- Kade J

My topic was about my inspiration, Cristiano Ronaldo. I chose him because he is the one I have looked up to all my life and what better way to inspire than to write about an already inspiring figure. Presenting this speech gave me some anxiety and I was so relieved when I finished talking. I’m also proud that I did do it.

- Oscar L

My topic was, ‘It's ok to be different’ and l picked this topic because l feel like so many people are being bullied for being different and people are ashamed for being themselves. My speech was to inform people and when l did my speech at the start l felt very nervous and l was shaking. During my speech I felt a bit nervous and a bit happy. After my speech, I felt really happy I did it and got it done and over with.

- Chloe P

My topic was, ‘Making the World a Better Place’. I picked this topic because I know the world can be better and I know that it's important that we help the earth. My speech was to persuade people to help the earth and the environment. Before my speech I was really nervous especially because I knew the whole class would be watching me but I put my hand up to go next and I gave it a go. During the speech I was shaking but the more I spoke, the better I was feeling. After the speech I felt relieved that it was over but I also thought I did a good job. 

- Lacey T

Celebrating our Students

Students are nominated by their teachers to receive a certificate of acknowledgment. The below students' certificates will be presented at our next assembly. 

56A - Mrs Freene

Emily S

For confidently presenting a very informative speech. 

56B - Mr Hanley

Jeremy F

For his enthusiasm and support at our whole school Athletics Day!

56C - Mrs Haysom

Noah F

For his recent involvement in class discussions.