CPPS CPPS Stage Presence & Body Language

Question 1

In public speaking, 'stage presence' is best defined as:

Accepted Answer

The commanding, engaging physical and energetic impact a speaker has on an audience

Answer

The ability to memorize a script perfectly

Answer

Standing completely still to avoid distraction

Answer

Wearing formal attire appropriate to the event

Question 2

Eye contact in public speaking should primarily be directed:

Accepted Answer

At various individuals across all sections of the audience, holding 3–5 seconds per person

Answer

At your notes or slides to ensure accuracy

Answer

At one friendly face for the entire speech

Answer

Above the audience's heads to reduce nervousness

Question 3

What does purposeful movement on stage — such as stepping toward the audience at a key point — communicate?

Accepted Answer

Increased emphasis, energy, and desire to connect at that moment

Answer

That the speaker has forgotten their place

Answer

The speaker is nervous and restless

Answer

The presentation is nearly over

Question 4

Which body language behavior is most likely to undermine a speaker's credibility?

Accepted Answer

Crossing arms tightly across the chest and avoiding eye contact

Answer

Standing with feet shoulder-width apart

Answer

Using open gestures above the waist

Answer

Walking confidently to different areas of the stage

Question 5

The 'power stance' or 'victory pose' is recommended before a high-stakes presentation because research suggests it:

Accepted Answer

Boosts confidence through postural feedback affecting hormones and mindset

Answer

Intimidates the audience into passive listening

Answer

Eliminates the need for vocal warm-ups

Answer

Replaces the need for rehearsal

Question 6

Gestures in public speaking are most effective when they are:

Accepted Answer

Natural, purposeful, and consistent with the verbal message

Answer

Rehearsed to appear perfectly synchronized with every word

Answer

Minimized to avoid distracting the audience

Answer

Reserved exclusively for humorous anecdotes