What is going through your mind when you're speaking in front of the class?

Question

Also, what goes through your mind when you're in the audience and watching a classmate speak?

Answer 1

It depends on the case, for me. In my public speaking class, I remember always being kind of nervous. I would search for the next thing I wanted to say...and if I forgot it, I'd kind of improvise until I found a familiar spot and continue from there. If the teacher is observing, I notice if they're smiling, nodding, jotting something down, etc. If they would start to write something down, I'd worry that it was something negative. Nodding made me feel like they followed what I was saying.

I have to give speeches to my studio class on a weekly basis and I notice this kind of stuff as well. Neither of my professors were smiling last time, and one actually looked like he rolled is eyes. Very discouraging, but I continued on. What choice did I have? During these speeches, I worry about what the professors are thinking (maybe they're just listening and not meaning to seem unfriendly) but at the same time, I'm thinking more about what my classmates are doing (some are talking. I worry that they're talking about me/my project) and I'm also thinking about what kind of thing I should talk about next. Since I talk about my own project, it's not too hard to think of what to say, but the teachers expect it to be concise yet 5 minutes long. I've gotten used to it, but it can still be so stressful.

Answer 2

When I'm speaking infront of a class, I always think, omg, am I going 2 mess up and embarass myself. If there is someone I like in the class, I will get sooooo nervous, but do a good job anyway. When there iz someone presenting, usually ppl just judge the way they look, notice more details. ALL eyes on them.

Answer 3

I took a speech class as my humanities elective and it was a nerve-wracking experience. When I am speaking in front of others I wonder if they are judging the way I look or how I am speaking. When I look at other speakers I try to concentrate on their words, but I usually end up evaluating their attire and how they come across as a speaker.

Answer 4

Me: OMG! am i doing it right? Dear God dont let me stutter or stumble on a word! and all of that stuff just makes me more nervous, and i mess up.

Others: I try soo hard to make them feel better while they are up there, b/c i know that i need that when i am giving a presentation. especially if it is a friend of mine

Answer 5

I am beyond nervous i hate it. everyone looking at you, ooo my god. i almost want to faint. soo scared, im almost willing to take a F so i dont have to get up in front of the class.