Public speaking skills are very important, yet often overlooked. Instruction in public speaking is a value-added component that better prepares students for success in school and later in the workplace. Instruction in public speaking also provides students with the confidence they need to reach their academic potential and resist peer pressures that can lead to underachievement and bad decision-making.
I have developed an effective approach that facilitates the learning process among my students. I focus on one or two skill sets each session. For first timers I conduct five sessions. Each session lasts one hour. This allows the students to digest what could be an overwhelming amount of information into manageable bites. I promote a supportive and non-judgmental environment where students can be comfortable expressing their views. As a result, they quickly find their comfort zone, relax, and demonstrate an eagerness to participate and learn.
As of December 2007, I have taught using this method in 12 eight-week sessions that were conducted at the Tucker Road Community Center in Prince Georges County Maryland. The results have been sterling. Students have overcome shyness, elevated their self-esteem, boosted their confidence and improved their oral and writing skills.
I contract with schools, churches, educational organizations, associations and other groups. I also contract with individual parents, but the cost of individual classes can be challenging. Additionally, the results are less predictable because many of the benefits come from group interaction.
Contact me (wordpower@scarletmaith.com). I am certain I can help your children make the most of their abilities.
WordPower is the brainchild of Scarlet Maith, a longtime member and former president of M Street Verbalizers- a local chapter of Toastmasters International, the recognized world leader in helping people become more competent and comfortable in front of an audience. As president of M Street Verbalizers, Mrs. Maith helped many adults overcome the fear of speaking and increase their self confidence, but her passion was always to help young adults overcome challenges to their development. She decided to apply what she had learned during her years of working with Toastmasters, and WordPower is the result.
If you have additional questions about how your child can benefit from WordPower, contact Scarlet Maith by email at wordpower@scarletmaith.com
| Five (5) Session Fee Schedule | |
| Number of Sessions | Five (5) |
| Number of Hours | 1 per Session |
| Number of Students | 8 |
| Ages | 12-16 |
| Location | Your Location |
| Cost Per Student | $125.00 |
| Total Cost | $1000.00 |
Contact me (wordpower@scarletmaith.com). I can help your children make the most of their abilities.
Beverly-- Clinton, MD
"My daughter, Harmonee had the wonderful opportunity to experience your public speaking class. My daughter was a little apprehensive at first because she was one of the other students in the class. I believe because of your leadership and motivation she was enthused and an active participant in the class. She always practiced her speeches on me prior to the Saturday sessions. One of the Saturday sessions Harmonee was late because one of her classmates wanted to ensure he was prepared for class and wanted to bring a printed copy of his speech for his printer wasn't working.
"I had the privilege of attending the last session. I was blessed by the well prepared speeches from the youth honoring their parents, siblings and each other. I was tickled to hear one of the students thanking you for turning over the floor for him to start his speech. It was evident that the students listened to your instruction.
"A job well done. I wish you well in your endeavors."
LaWona R. Green-- Alexandria, VA
"I am writing in reference to the Public Speaking class attending by my granddaughter (Ronai Williams) last session. I must say that Ronai has matured a lot and has a lot to share with others. Her closing speech was outstanding and I am so proud of her. Thank You!!"Pastor Bernard A. Howard-- Sanctuary of Praise, Way of the Cross
"I was searching the PG County smartlink system for an activity for one of my five children. There was a course titled "Intro Public Speaking" geared for teenagers. I immediately brought this news to the parents of the teens at the church.
"There were apprehensions from the youth that we had signed up for the class, because they heard that there would work involved. However, after the first session the youth became very inspired. My two children would sit me down to listen to their speeches and would call the other students on the phone to compare notes and discuss the upcoming week's lessons.
"I tip my hat to Mrs. Maith who possesses a God given ability to challenge young people to overcome phobias that have paralyzed them. She inspired, guided and encouraged them to heights they didn't think attainable. I only wished there was another course Intro. to Public Speaking 2, 3 and 4.
"I can't wait to have her come to the church to do a series for the entire congregation."
Katrina Allen-- Washington, DC
"My name is Katrina Allen and I reside in Washington, DC. My two sons, Emmanuel and Gerald Allen, who are 16-years-old and 15-years-old, respectively, attended a public speaking class conducted by Ms. Maith earlier this year. Since taking the class, Emmanuel and Gerald seem more confident in their ability to speak in public settings. They are also able to speak in a more concise manner. The class was really beneficial."
Denise J. Smith-- Temple Hills, MD
My son Aaron McGue, III attended the Public Speaking class facilitated by Ms. Maith. As the class progressed I not only noticed an improvement in his speaking, but also in his writing. It seems to me that knowing other people would not only be reading his writing, but hearing it as well gave Aaron the extra impetus he needed to give his best effort to each speech.
My nephew Daemein Smith also attended the class. Hearing him speak so highly of me publicly in his speech was one of the greatest things I've experienced. Being one of the youngest in the class, his maturation and progress was evident.
Witnessing all those young people laud others with such conviction and strength of voice was inspiring.
Thank you Ms. Maith for teaching our children some of the additional life skills they need to be effective, if not eloquent public speakers. Your devotion to our youth is commendable and inspiring.