Quick Reference for Students
- Use a clear subject line (e.g., “Meeting Request – CDS 101”)
- Start with a greeting: “Dear Professor Smith,” or “Hello Dr. Lee,”
- Be concise: state your purpose in 1–2 sentences
- Use proper punctuation, spelling, and grammar
- End with a polite closing: “Sincerely,” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name
- Introduce yourself clearly (name, year, major)
- Speak confidently and make eye contact
- Use polite language: “Could you please…”, “Would you mind if…”
- Avoid filler words and slang in formal settings
- “I hope this message finds you well.”
- “I am writing to follow up on…”
- “Would it be possible to schedule a time to meet?”
- “Thank you for your time and support.”
- Avoid using emojis or texting shorthand (e.g., “u” instead of “you”)
- Don’t start emails with “Hey” or leave out a greeting
- Avoid writing in all caps or using overly casual tone
Title of Presentation: __________________________
Target Audience (e.g., peers, parents, clinicians): __________________________
Presentation Context (e.g., case study, research, IEP meeting): __________________________
Time Allotted: __________ minutes
Main Message or Purpose:
If my audience remembers only 1–2 things, they should remember...
Introduction
Hook, purpose, overview (Why does this matter?)
Main Points
Organized 2–4 key points with transitions
Conclusion
Summary, impact statement, call to action or reflection
Engagement Strategies: (e.g., question, story, visual, polling tool)
Visual Supports or Handouts: How do they enhance understanding?
Appropriate Tone/Register for Audience:
☑ Formal Academic ☑ Professional Conversational ☑ Parent-Friendly
Delivery Aspects to Focus On:
☑ Volume ☑ Pace ☑ Clarity ☑ Pausing ☑ Eye Contact ☑ Filler Words
Practice Phrase to Redirect if You Forget or Lose Your Place:
e.g., “Let me reframe that…”
Cultural or Linguistic Considerations:
Incorporating Personal Perspective or Background as an Asset:
What am I most confident about?
What am I unsure or nervous about?
Goal for this Practice Presentation:
Preparation for presenting in class with a projector and audience:
Before Presentation Day:
☑ Slides tested for contrast, readability, and formatting
☑ Video/sound clips embedded and tested
☑ Fonts are compatible (avoid rare or non-standard fonts)
☑ Bring presentation in multiple formats:
USB drive
Cloud backup (Google Drive, email, etc.)
PDF version (in case animations fail)
Day of Presentation:
☑ Arrive early to test projector and sound
☑ Confirm clicker/keyboard/remote use if applicable
☑ Check lighting (avoid washed-out visuals)
☑ Water bottle available
☑ Notes/cards printed if needed
☑ Know what to do if tech fails (e.g., present without slides, use printed handouts)
Use this rubric for self-evaluation or peer feedback
Clarity of Message
Clear main idea and takeaways; well-supported by content
Structure & Flow
Logical order with smooth transitions
Visual Aids
Slides/media are readable, relevant, and not overcrowded
Audience Awareness
Content and tone tailored to the audience's needs
Delivery
Eye contact, voice, pace, confidence, body language
Engagement
Uses questions, visuals, stories, or tone to engage
Time Management
Stays within time without rushing or dragging
Handling Questions
Responds thoughtfully; acknowledges gaps honestly
Cultural Responsiveness
Reflects awareness of linguistic, cultural, or identity factors in content or delivery
Technology & Logistics
Demonstrates readiness with projector, media, backups, and troubleshooting
Reflection & Growth
Identifies strengths and areas for growth post-presentation