Monroe County 4-H youth brought presentations on a variety of topics to Monroe County’s 2023 4-H Public Presentations events. The event took place at the Irondequoit Public Library, where youth and their families gathered to enjoy the presentations and support one another’s participation.
A widespread tradition in 4-H programs, Public Presentations are often among youths’ first opportunities to practice public speaking. Participants design a presentation based on a topic of their choice, typically a “spark” or other subject they are familiar with and excited about. After choosing and preparing a topic, they share it with an audience of peers and supportive adults. Many 4-H alumni share that this program is the most important project of their 4-H career.
Volunteer evaluators observe the presentations and ask questions. After each presentation, they offer detailed feedback in conferences with each presenter. Volunteer evaluators make it possible for 4-H youth to develop their public presentation skills in a positive and supportive environment.
The youth participants utilize several different presentation methods, using PowerPoint slides, tri-fold posters and hands-on demonstrations. Evelyn Kaproth-Joslin prepared Arepas on a hot plate while answering audience questions, Abigail Dayton and Brianna Tindall assembled a charcuterie board during an interactive dialogue, and other youth played instruments, demonstrated how to give a horse a bath, and shared about mythological creatures.
The Public Presentations Program continues to be a fruitful experience for all of those involved. Selected youth will have the chance to make adjustments to their presentations and give them again at the Finger Lakes District Public Presentation event with youth from the nine counties of the Finger Lakes 4-H District.
The Monroe County 4-H Program is offered through Cornell Cooperative Extension to the youth of Monroe County. 4-H is a worldwide youth development program open to all youth aged five to 19, who want to have fun, learn new skills, and explore the world. In return, youth who participate in 4-H find a supportive environment and opportunities for hands-on or “experiential” learning about things that interest them. Learn more about 4-H at http://monroe.cce.cornell.edu/4-h-youth-development.
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