Presentation Guidelines/Grading

Presenters  will not have time to (nor should you) simply read your paper.  Pick some key aspect (s), argument, interpretation, survey, etc. from your paper that will educate and engage your audience.  If you have a puzzle or interpretation you are still trying to work out, soliciting comments from your audience may be fruitful.   You may use Powerpoint, video clips,  directed writing or other exercises, etc., but these should enhance rather than detract from the content.  You will have forty (40) minutes.  At least five to ten minutes should involve participation of your audience.  Perfection is not possible.  Graciousness, passion, confidence, humility, and the best argument/interpretation you can offer are encouraged.  

 

 

NAME:                                                                 Title of Presentation:

Form - 12 points possible

1. Clarity for intended  audience. Can your fellow students understand your points or are you presupposing knowledge or terms that not all will have?

2. Good organization.

3. Key Points Made Obvious and Important Terms or concepts defined.

4. Capturing audience attention.  Engaging the audience throughout. Responding to questions or comments deftly.

5. Effective use of audio and/or visuals. (Talk loud enough and slowly enough for everyone to hear and understand. If used, make sure any other sort of audio can be heard clearly. Make sure people will be able to see and understand any visuals). 

6. Helpful handouts, visual aids, or other materials provided. (If desired some questions for thought, key quotes, etc. may be provided by e-mail or during the previous class period, to prepare your audience).

7. Attention to time limits. Able to present key points succinctly in approximately sixty minutes overall, including time for questions/reactions or other forms of student interaction.

Content - 38 points possible

1. Clear explanation of the thesis you are developing, the question you are seeking to answer, the material you are surveying, the purpose and design of your research project, etc. as appropriate.

2. Clear explanation of presuppositions, methods, etc. that shape your work. .

3. Relating your work to thinkers or issues that we have discussed in this class or as part of classes required for all majors.

4. Clear description of the results, evidence, elements of your interpretation, your evaluation, etc. as appropriate.

5.  Counter-examples, counter-arguments, alternative points of view as appropriate.  Charitably treating opposing viewpoints.

6. Discussion of the problems and possibilities that have issued from your work so far. What are the strengths and weaknesses of your position?  Further questions you have or research you need to do. (Solicit response/advice as appropriate.)  You may solicit suggestions from the audience. Here your peer reviewer should be sure to be ready to participate.