For the past five years a fourth grade teacher from Cub Run Elementary has contacted the Cooperative Extension Service interested in offering 4-H Demonstrations to 4th grade classroom students to use as a writing portfolio piece as well as a public speaking opportunity. 

The 4-H Youth Development Agent delivered a six day program to 28 students this spring. The lessons included how to select and research a topic, how to write your demonstration, how to make an effective presentation, and how to utilize posters and a power point. 

At the conclusion of the lessons 28 students practiced what they had learned by presenting their demonstration to the class. 

A pre-test and post-test was given to each student. The following results were collected from the evaluations 97% of the students gained self-confidence and poise from giving their demonstration in front of the group. 94% developed skills in organizing and presenting information to others. 90% can now recognize qualities of a good public speaker by evaluating eye contact, voice expression, proper movement, proper rate and intensity level in their voice. 

After this educational program was completed at the elementary school, students were given the opportunity to participate in the county 4-H Demonstration Contest. A parent of one of the students at Cub Run Elementary said "I had no idea how much the 4-H Demonstration program would benefit my child. It has really helped her to become more confident and comfortable to speak in front of a group. I am enrolling my child in 4-H from this point forward. I highly recommend it to other parents and youth as well.”