INTRODUCTION

The ability to verbally present information is an increasingly important skill when studying or working in the sciences. Presenting involves not only the ability to deliver the presentation; but also the skill in creating one which is relevant, informative, well structured and engaging.

In order to assist you in developing your presentation skills, for some of the Level 4 Lab Year 2 practicals the in-lab assessment will take the form of a presentation.

FORMAT & ORGANISATION

The Level 4 Lab presentations will run with groups of 2-3 students presenting to two demonstrators (usually 2 Staff).

For some of the presentations the students in the group may be assigned specifically to introduce certain theory and work, whilst for others the students will work collectively (dividing between themselves the presentation responsibilities).

For Level 4 Lab Year 2 Inorganic Chemistry presentations:

• Each group will be allocated 15 minutes to present and you should expect to be interrupted by questions from the audience throughout the presentation. Note: Time limits will be enforced.
• For the presentation you will have access to a flipchart (3 sheets of paper will be provided in advance of the presentation to allow you to prepare) and a whiteboard (only available during the presentation) No electronic presentation facilities will be available.

For Level 4 Lab Year 2 Physical Chemistry presentations:

• Each group will be allocated upto 10 minutes to present uninterrupted. This will be followed by a Q & A session of 10 minutes duration. Note: Time limits will be enforced.
• Since the presentation format follows that used for the Year 1 Quantum Chemistry presentation, to assist you in preparing it would be useful for you to:
  1. Review the video feedback provided to you after the Quantum Chemistry presentation - Contact the Lab Manager if you have lost the link.
  2. Read the relevant portions of the Guide to Year 1 Presentation: Quantum Chemistry Practical.
• For the presentation you will have access to a computer running Microsoft Office 2013 (- make sure any files you generate are in a compatible format), but if using PowerPoint only a single file (containing all the slides for the group) is permissible - This must be brought with you on a memory stick.
  You may also use a flip chart - Ask the lab manager or technician for flip chart paper if you wish to prepare this in advance.

Specific details of the required presentation content, organisation and timings can be found in the lab scripts for the practicals where presentations are a requirement. Note: Level 4 Lab Year 2 presentations will NOT be videoed.

PREPARATION

Preparation for the presentation should begin as part of your pre-lab activities, with time available for the preparation to be completed during the lab session, before presenting towards the end of the afternoon.

Preparing for the presentation should involve:

• Researching the topic.
• Identifying key content.
• Ordering material in a logical manner.
• Deciding how to clearly communicate the information.
• Pre-preparing (any needed) visual aids.
• Consideration of time constraints, i.e. making sure the presentation fits within the specified time-frame.

It is also recommended that you practice, since this is the most useful means of assessing timings and gaining confidence in your delivery.

ASSESSMENT

The mark awarded for the presentation will be based on students ability to:

• Identify and explain key aspects.
• Answer questions.
• Clearly develop a position.

Additionally, the assessors will also take into consideration the students:

• Understanding of theory.
• Completeness (or content) and clarity in their explanations.