Public Presentations

4-H Public Presentations is a program in which youth learn to create a presentation and develop the skills needed to present it before an audience. They learn about the research process and the steps needed to organize information into an interesting and creative presentation.

The public presentation program is one of the most beneficial and rewarding 4-H experiences. It is the one most often credited by 4-H alumni as having given them an edge above peers in both college and professional careers. It provides a unique opportunity to develop a positive self-concept and poise, gain self-confidence before a group, learn to express ideas clearly, respond spontaneously to questions, and gain subject matter knowledge. Through a progressive series of communication activities youth learn to express themselves and their ideas. New skills and more emphasis on delivery and “showmanship” are introduced each year.

Beginners are encouraged to select simple topics with which they are extremely comfortable, so that the presentation process is the focus of their learning without the stress of learning about an unfamiliar topic. As youth progress and grow each year, they are challenged to try one of the more difficult types of presentations, to use more advanced technology in their presentations where appropriate, and to venture into unfamiliar topics or presentation styles.

The Public Presentations event provides youth an opportunity to develop and polish their public speaking skills. For this event, 4-H Youth will choose their own subject matter, or topic, to create a public presentation. Through public presentations, youth learn to: express themselves clearly and convincingly; organize their ideas and present them in a logic order; research subjects; problem solving skills; develop self-confidence and much more.

There are 6 different public presentations that 4-H Members can choose from. These options include: Cloverbud presentations, demonstrations, illustrated talks, formal speeches, horse communications, and creative communications such as dramatic recitation.

Horse Communications

Open to Junior and Senior 4-H members, Horse Communications is a public speaking contest specifically for our equine-oriented members and varies slightly from the traditional Public Presentations event.

After researching a topic of interest related to horses, youth present first at the County Level. Top speakers are chosen to move on to the Region II Horse Communications event.

Participants can present as individuals or join another member to form a team. These presentations are timed, and penalties are applied for youth that go over or under the time limits.

Youth who excel at the regional level are selected to go to the NYS Horse Communications contest and possibly be chosen to represent New York at the National level.

For more information, see the New York State 4-H Horse Communications Rules on the Cornell website.