Presenting in English

This five-day practical workshop focuses on the fundamentals of making presentations in English, with the goal of making presenting a pleasure. First we discuss participants’ experience. Then we learn a variety of relaxation exercises and warming-up techniques, which we practice each day for the rest of the week. We practice targeted exercises for all issues regarding proper vocal production, including breath and volume control and pitch, as well as those related to speech production, such as pronunciation, articulation and variety. We consider body language, eye contact and stage fright, along with how to assess and make the best use of a physical space (and possible props). Each participant makes an “elevator pitch” as well as a more developed presentation of a study/product/project, etc. (Bring your ideas and themes to the workshop!) We learn appropriate English phrases for greeting the audience, giving opinions and making suggestions, as well as fielding questions and dealing with interruptions. The coach also addresses any specific problems that may crop up: pronunciation, speed, breathiness and the like. In the workshop we learn very practical tools for making successful presentations with confidence. We work individually, in pairs and as a group. 

Nancy du Plessis has many years’ experience teaching English as a foreign language and working as a coach and voice talent. everything-in-english.com. She studied the performing arts and has presented her solo shows and documentary films internationally. nancyduplessis.com.

The workshop is for participants with at least B2 competency in English.