CHC 2DI SEMINAR PRESENTATIONS
EXPECTATIONS:
You will present a seminar on a topic dealing with the Roaring Twenties. Please see the list
of topics discussed in class which may include:
The Winnipeg General Strike
Sports
Entertainment
The Economy & Consumerism
Social Trends
Women’s Rights
Art (Group of 7)
Inventions
WHAT IS A SEMINAR?
IN ESSENCE, A SEMINAR IS A VERBAL ESSAY. THE PURPOSE OF YOUR
PRESENTATION IS:
1. To inform the class about your topic . i.e.) background information.
2. To present an argument. i.e.) your ideas about your topic.
3. To stimulate class discussion. Have a question ready in case they're asleep!
SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Pick a topic. Be as specific as possible without limiting your topic too much. Do some
initial research in the area - ( your textbook) and then narrow your scope further by asking
yourself a relevant question. For instance, if you choose to present a seminar on the Winnipeg
General Strike is not enough to simply discuss the strike... you must dig deeper and ask
yourself the larger focal question: Why did the strike take place?... What does the strike tell
us about Canada during this time period? Does it represent a Roaring Canada?
2. Develop a working thesis on your topic. A good way to do this is to answer the question
you came up with in # 1 above.
3. Do further research. Try to find out as much about your topic as you can. Given this new
information you may wish to modify your thesis accordingly. (hence 'working' thesis)
4. Create a Powerpoint for the class. Remember, be heavy on images and light on words.
Be sure, though, that your thesis appears early in your powerpoint.
5. Present your findings to the class. You might try proceeding as follows:
a) Provide some background information to your topic.
b) Present your argument to the class. Be specific and try not to omit any of the gory details!
Remember, you likely know more about this topic than anyone else in the room.
c) Conclude your seminar by summarizing the major conclusions you have drawn after
researching the area. You may wish to ask your previously formulated question hereto
stimulate discussion. The floor will now be open for questions from the class.
SOME TIPS FOR A GREAT SEMINAR:
1. Make good use of available audio-visual resources. Videotape excerpts, pictures, maps,
overheads, and primary source documents are all useful and will add much to your overall
presentation.
2. Ensure that your Powerpoint is well organized, visually stunning, and NOT just a bunch of
words.
3. Do not presume to simply read your presentationto the class. Try to converse naturally make eye contact, be expressive, try to be fluid - avoid ' ums, & 'ahs'. Be involved and
interested. Easier said than done , I know.
4. Feel free to be creative. Many of our topics lend themselves nicely to a bit of role play or
drama – but do not overdo it!
5. Meet your time requirement. Conversely, do not go over your alloted time! (20 Minutes
MAX including discussions/questions)
6. Be prepared, and involve ALL members of the group meaningfully.