Showandtell

Showandtell refers to a classroom activity in which students bring an object or describe an experience to the class, then explain its significance or answer questions. The practice is a common component of early education, used to build speaking, listening, and narrative skills in a structured setting.

The activity has deep roots in elementary education and is widely used in the United States and other countries. It is typically presented as a routine part of daily or weekly classroom life, aimed at developing confidence, vocabulary, and the ability to organize thoughts for a public speaking context.

Typical procedures involve a student selecting an item, preparing a brief, structured presentation, and then engaging with questions from peers. Teachers often set time limits and safety guidelines, and some formats rotate participants on a regular schedule or incorporate peer feedback to encourage constructive responses.

In modern contexts, showandtell can take digital forms, including photo or video demonstrations, virtual presentations, or asynchronous postings. These adaptations support remote learning and allow students to participate from different locations or time zones, broadening the activity beyond the physical classroom.

Critiques of showandtell focus on equity and inclusion, as some students may experience anxiety, cultural or language barriers, or discomfort with public speaking. Proponents emphasize its potential benefits for communication skills, confidence, listening, and the ability to present ideas clearly.

See also: Show and tell in education; oral storytelling; classroom activities.