speech v3

Speech Preparation Overview

Class Format

  • Set-Up: Possible semicircle arrangement for better visibility.

  • Podium: Essential for delivering the speech; will be provided to students on presentation day.

  • Speech Duration: Each speech should last between three to five minutes.

  • Note Cards: No cards allowed; students must speak from memory or understanding of their subject.

Understanding Diction

  • Definition of Diction: The choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing.

  • Key Components:

    • Natural flow of language.

    • Proper articulation, pronunciation, and enunciation.

  • Expectation: Students should strive for smooth speaking to avoid choppy speech or stuttering.

  • Medical Conditions: If a student has a speech impediment, they must discuss this with the instructor beforehand to avoid misinterpretation of their speaking abilities.

  • Example: Joe Biden is noted for having a stutter, illustrating that such issues are common and acceptable if communicated openly.

Pronunciation and Enunciation

  • Importance: Proper pronunciation is critical. Mispronouncing words can result in point deductions.

  • Strategies for Improvement:

    • Use online dictionaries or YouTube to hear pronunciations (e.g., vocab.com, dictionary.com).

    • Familiarize yourself with difficult words prior to speaking.

Voice Clarity and Projection

  • Smoothness and Clarity:

    • Encourage exaggerating mouth movements during practice to improve clarity.

    • Exercise: Exaggerate mouth movements while speaking clearly to a partner (example phrases provided in the transcript).

  • Vocal Projection:

    • Speakers should be loud enough to be heard by all, without needing to shout.

    • Adjustment of chin position can enhance projection: Looking slightly upward allows the voice to carry better.

Timing and Pausing in Speech

  • Effective Use of Pauses:

    • Pausing for effect should be deliberate and not awkward.

    • A well-placed pause can enhance dramatic effect, but should not cause confusion or discomfort for the audience.

  • Awkward Pauses:

    • Defined as unintentional silences resulting from nervousness or lack of preparation, leading to point deductions.

Variation of Pitch

  • Definition of Pitch: Variation in the highness or lowness of the speaker’s voice.

  • Monotone Speech: Must be avoided as it leads to audience disengagement.

  • Techniques to Avoid Monotone: Use varying pitches to engage with the audience; be aware of how pitches can express different emotions or messages.

  • Example: Mimicking children's educational shows can illustrate how varied pitch keeps an audience's attention.

Performance and Delivery

Mood of Speech

  • The emotion conveyed should align with the topic:

    • Happy Topics: Should be presented with an upbeat tone.

    • Serious Topics: Should be presented seriously without excessive enthusiasm.

  • Communication of Emotion: The presentation should match the topic, e.g., smiling when discussing a joyful topic versus a somber one.

Clear Presentation

  • A clearly presented speech reflects understanding.

  • Emphasis, fluency, and lack of confusion are essential for success.

  • Smooth Delivery: Practiced delivery is compared to confidently asking someone out, where clarity and confidence are key.

Avoiding Hesitation

  • Hesitation leads to confusion and point deductions; prompts for restarts during a speech indicate lack of preparedness and lead to penalties.

  • Students should avoid reading directly from notes to maintain fluency.