Written by Marcus Eason
The 4-H Club’s slogan is ‘Learn by Doing.’ 4-H strives to help young people grow and become outstanding members of society through hands-on learning experiences; whether that be exhibiting livestock, poultry judging, forestry judging, community service or Project Achievement. Project Achievement is one of the most important 4-H activities that is offered for personal growth. Through one event youth learn many life skills that they can build on. Through Project Achievement, students choose a project area of interest, research the topic, and write and present a presentation. 4-H’ers develop leadership, creativity, public speaking, record keeping, and other skills. As students become older (7th-12th grades) a record keeping component that promotes independent thinking, research and implementation is added.
Students begin Project Achievement in the 5th grade and can participate all the way through high school. Youth are encouraged to research and develop a presentation on a topic that they find interesting. Exploring a topic of interest will help keep a participants’ interest and attention through the most challenging aspect of the process of developing a eight to ten minute presentation. Once a presentation is complete the student must develop visual aids for the project, such as powepoint slides or posters, along with tangible items to display and show the audience. Even after all of this the work is not done. Students must practice, practice and practice their presentation and try to become very familiar and comfortable giving their presentation to friends and family. Once at Rock Eagle 4-H Center, 4-H’ers give their presentations to their peers and two judges within their specific Project Achievement category, competing to see who can present the best demonstration. Yes, Project Achievement is a lot of work, but it is a very rewarding experience. 4-H’ers compete, meet new friends, develop a work ethic, and gain invaluable life skills through the process.
