Demonstrations

A demonstration is a presentation in which the speaker shows the audience how to do a task as they explain the process (demo) or a presentation in which the speaker gives a speech using visual aids. In a demo, the 4-H member traditionally makes use of props and a series of posters which illustrate the main point of the demo.

Guidelines

• A demo is like a “show and tell”
• Demos should be no more than 2-5 minutes in length.
• Presenters should use visual aids, like 2-3 half sheets of poster board that detail the steps in the demo.
• Presenters may use note cards.
• Any topic can be used for demos. Preferably a topic with which you and the audience are already familiar.
• DO NOT bring anything or give a demo on any topic that is against school rules and policies.

4-H Demonstration Tips

• Keep work area in front clear of items.
• Show a finished product.
• Blend something to see, some action and something to hear.
• Use short notes on note cards.
• Have a title poster and possibly one other with supplies, things to remember, etc.
• Have items pre-measured, pre-cut.
• Focus on 2-3 things for audience to remember.
• Smile.
• Look at the audience regularly.
• Choose a topic you really like and have learned well.
• Ask for questions and then do a closing statement so that audience knows you are done.
• Practice.
• Dress appropriate to the topic