10 ways to survive a

We all have our personal lists - of the zaniest/quirkiest/
funniest/ craziest/smartest ... We devote this page to them.

This week, Samarth Kakria is a Grade 12 pupil at Dubai Modern High School, lists ...

Prepare a script: Take a few seconds to quickly prepare your script - list a few key words, then focus on one idea at a time. Come to think of it, even Hollywood movie stars follow a script, so there is no reason to hold yourself to a higher standard than all those award-winning celebrities.

Use humour: You could spice things up with a little humour by beginning with a joke, then pepper your presentation with catch phrases. But don't get carried away and overdo it, just use them at the right time for dramatic effect.

Be brief: Get a good idea and stay with it. You can use a few examples to support your argument. However, rule number one: just get to the point, don't drone on!

Be innovative: Ask yourself the following: what does the question require? What are the possible solutions? Think outside the box and try to invent your own solutions. You can even use material you have learnt from other subjects. After all integrating stuff shows you are an intelligent, analytical student.

Act and feel confident: Only when you are confident will you be able to convince others. If you stumble just pick yourself up and move on to the next point. There is no need to be scared or embarrassed in front of your classmates because they are just as nervous as you are.

Practise: Yes it's true, practice makes perfect. Hold mock "cold call" sessions with your friends. Have them ask you challenging questions so that you get used to thinking on your toes and giving impromptu answers. You can also practise alone in front of the mirror.

Read ahead: Since the teacher just randomly "cold calls" you will be better off if you read ahead and paid more attention in class. Tuning out is not an option since no one wants to be caught napping.

Feel the pulse: Your classmates and teacher's response or feedback will enable you to gauge the effectiveness of your presentation. You can either improve or keep the pace based on their reaction.

Build your vocabulary: The way you express yourself is very important. If you have a high command of the language people may not even notice when you're waffling.

Always eat before class: When you're nervous, an empty tummy can give you away. Now you want to focus on the task at hand and don't want any distractions in the form of a grumbling stomach and besides you need all the energy to take you through a "cold call".

(The technique of "cold calling" is whereby the teacher asks a question then calls upon a student to respond. He just selects the student(s) at random without any prior warning.)