Presentations should

1. tell us

-what you've found in nutshell (you don't have a lot of time!)
-what your thesis (argument) is
-anything that's surprised you from your research
-any problems/challenges you are still facing with the research/writing
-be sure to have a proper intro., body, and conclusion

2. be interesting

-it's better to work from notes rather than a fully written out text
-illustrations can be helpful
-start with an engaging anecdote or story to get your
audience's attention
-maintain eye contact as much as you can

3. practice so you

-can keep to the time limit (about 7 minutes is ideal, 8
minutes is the maximum)
-are confident with the material

Practice is really crucial--I can't stress it enough. After each
presentation, there will be time to ask questions and to talk about
what worked or didn't work. I will probably have students write out
brief comments on each presentation as well.