The purpose of this 6-week action research study was to teach public speaking skills to third
graders through the use of theater activities. The intent was for students to be able to use
these skills throughout their academic and professional lives. Participants were students from
a suburban public elementary school. The research questions were: 1) How does the teaching
of theater activities affect students’ public speaking skills? 2) How will these theater
activities affect students’ confidence in conducting public speeches? 3) Will students
recognize what skills are valuable to utilize when conducting public speeches? Qualitative
and quantitative data were collected in the form of pre- and post- intervention rubrics, a
survey, field notes, and a quick-write. Results indicated that students’ speaking skills
improved, especially in the skills of vocal projection, rhythm, and pacing. In addition, the
practice of speaking skills contributed to an increase in students’ confidence in public
speaking.