Public speaking activities for high school?

Hey there! I really want to improve my public speaking skills but I'm not sure where to start. Are there any clubs, extracurriculars, or activities you could recommend that are available for high school students? How did these activities help you build your public speaking skills? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Hi! There are several clubs, extracurriculars, and activities you can participate in to improve your public speaking skills during high school. Here are some recommendations:

1. Debate Club: Joining your school's debate team can help you practice public speaking, as well as critical thinking and argumentation skills. Regularly participating in debates will help you become more confident when presenting your ideas in front of an audience.

2. Model United Nations (MUN): MUN is a popular extracurricular activity where students simulate the United Nations and develop policies and resolutions. Participants build their public speaking skills through negotiations and speeches during conferences.

3. Speech and Forensics Club: These clubs often focus on competitive speech events that can help improve your public speaking skills, such as Original Oratory, Dramatic Interpretation, and Extemporaneous Speaking. As you practice and compete in these events, you'll build your public speaking skills and confidence.

4. Theatre or Drama Club: Participating in school plays or working with a drama club can provide excellent opportunities for you to practice public speaking in front of an audience.

5. Student Government: Student government positions often require you to speak in front of your peers, faculty, and even members of the community, providing numerous occasions to refine your public speaking abilities.

6. Volunteer as a tutor or mentor: Teaching or guiding others can help you build your public speaking skills by forcing you to communicate complex concepts in a clear and concise manner.

7. Toastmasters Youth Leadership Program (YLP): Though not specifically for high school students, Toastmasters offers its Youth Leadership Program for participants aged 18 and under. Through a series of workshops, YLP aims to improve public speaking and leadership skills.

As you take part in these activities, you can implement strategies such as practicing regularly, focusing on your body language, and watching and analyzing speeches by professional public speakers. As you gain experience in these various activities, you'll develop your own public speaking style and grow more comfortable speaking in front of an audience.

The key is to find an activity or organization that aligns with your interests and goals so that you'll be motivated to actively participate and improve your skills. Good luck on your public-speaking journey!