Types of Speeches

Have you given an oral report about an assigned topic in class?

What was it about?
How did you prepare for it?
What techniques or strategies did you use to effectively deliver your oral report?

Recall that public communication involves a single speaker and a sizable number of
persons or an audience. The speaker is tasked to deliver a message or a speech of general
interest to the audience. Speeches can be classified into two main categories: according to
purpose and according to delivery.

There are three types of speeches according to purpose: informative, persuasive, and
entertainment. This lesson focuses on a speech to inform. (Note: The other types of speech
according to purpose and delivery will be discussed in the succeeding lessons.)

Expository or Informative Speech

As a student, you engage in various speech activities in school. You may be asked by your
teacher to give an oral report, explain a concept, tell a news story, describe or demonstrate
a process, among others. In each of these activities, your purpose is to inform the audience.
An expository or informative speech aims to provide the audience information about a
topic or to expand their knowledge about a topic with which they are already familiar.
Some examples of speech situations that call for an informative speech are the following:

 A science teacher discussing to her students about how a typhoon forms

 A pharmaceutical sales representative describing the uses and side effects of a drug
 A production manager instructing factory workers how to operate a machine
 A fitness trainer demonstrating different types of exercise to reduce belly fat
 A news anchor giving a news story about a fire incident

An informative speech not only provides the audience with knowledge, but it also shapes
their perceptions. With the new information, the audience may view something (e.g.,
concept, belief, experience) differently. Additionally, it allows the audience to get a big
picture about a situation, issue, or problem and help them to think critically and make
sound judgments and decisions.
Types of Informative Speeches

There are three main types of informative speeches:

1. Description speech – provides a vivid word picture of a person, place, object, or

event. It should be able to create a clear picture in the minds of the audience about a
subject using sensory details (i.e., sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste). Examples of
speech topics for a descriptive speech are describing the person who influenced you
the most, the symptoms of a rare genetic disorder like progeria, and the
magnificence of the Northern Lights.
2. Definition speech – explains a concept, term, or an abstract topic (e.g., idea,
principle, philosophy). It tells the audience what something is using facts, etymology
of the concept or word, classification, examples, or other details. Examples of speech
topics for a definition speech are explaining the effects of global warming, the
concept of realism, and the term net cash flow in business.
3. Demonstration speech – presents information about how to do something, or how
something is done. It gives the audience detailed information of a certain process in
order to achieve a particular task, or information about how something happens.
Examples of speech topics for a demonstration speech are explaining how to
operate a vote-counting machine, how toothpaste is made, and how to apply for a
student loan.

Example:

The following is an excerpt from an informative speech by Sarah Putnam entitled “The
Titanic.”

From the disaster to the movie, the sinking of the Titanic remains one of the most famous
tragedies in history. The Titanic was thought to be the largest, safest, most luxurious ship ever
built. At the time of her launch, she was the biggest existing ship and the largest moveable
object ever built. According to Geoff Tibbals, in his 1997 book The Titanic: The extraordinary
story of the “unsinkable” ship, the Titanic was 882 feet long and weighed about 46 000 tons.
This was 100 feet longer and 15 000 tons heavier than the world’s current largest ships.
Thresh stated in Titanic: The truth behind the disaster, published in 1992 that the Titanic
accommodated around 2345 passengers and 860 crew-members.
Source:https://www.cmich.edu/office_provost/academicaffairs/cbtc/documents/
sampleoutlines.pdf(accessed on 16 May 2016)
Explanation:

The given example is an informative speech about one of the most famous ships in history,
the Titanic. The speaker gave concrete details about the Titanic by appealing to the sense of
sight (e.g., “the Titanic was 882 feet long and weighed about 46 000 tons. This was 100 feet
longer and 15 000 tons heavier than the world’s current largest ships.”) The complete speech
gives information on why the sinking of the Titanic remains one of the most famous
tragedies in history.

Qualities of a Good Informative Speaker

Whether you are giving a descriptive, definition, or demonstration speech, you should
demonstrate the following characteristics to be a good informative speaker.

 Be credible. If the audience see that you are fully prepared and qualified to speak
about the topic, they are more likely to listen to you. If, on the other hand, they know
that you do not have expertise on the subject, you cannot identify with them, or you
give the impression that you are being untruthful, they will lose interest in you and
your message. To build credibility, present valid arguments and sound reasoning,
relate with the audience, and be honest.
 Be accurate and knowledgeable. You need to show the audience that you are well-
informed and that you know what you are talking about. A good informative speaker
presents accurate information that is up-to-date, reliable, and unbiased.
 Be clear. You must clearly convey the information to avoid misinterpretation and
confusion among the audience. To ensure the clarity of your speech, use simple
words and straightforward sentences, define unfamiliar concepts, and choose an
organizational pattern (e.g., chronological, spatial, cause-effect) that will clearly
present the information.
 Be memorable. Make a long-lasting impact with the audience by being memorable.
You can do this showing enthusiasm, creativity, and sincerity. It is also essential to
build rapport with the audience. Engage them by sharing a personal experience,
asking a provocative question, telling a humorous story, among others.

Persuasive Speech

Another type of speech according to purpose is the persuasive speech. A persuasive speech
aims to influence the audience to accept the speaker’s position or stand on an issue.
The speaker attempts to convince the audience to adopt his or her way of thinking or
change the way they think about things. A persuasive speech is also designed to urge the
audience to take a particular action. A speaker seeks to persuade the audience to start
doing something that they probably do not do now or to stop them from doing certain
things. Sales pitches, political campaign talks, business proposals, and debates are some
examples that require a form of persuasive speech.

Modes of Persuasion

Persuasion is best achieved using rhetorical appeals. In his book Rhetoric, the Greek
philosopher Aristotle classified three rhetorical appeals or modes of persuasion. According
to him, a persuasive speech must have the following elements to persuade

an audience:

1. Ethos - this is an appeal to the speaker’s credibility or authority as perceived by

the audience. Before a speaker can convince an audience to accept his or her views,
he or she must appear credible, meaning he or she is reliable, competent, and
trustworthy. To build credibility, the persuasive speaker needs to gain the respect of
the audience and must be able to let the audience see that he or she is of good
character, generally trustworthy, and an authority to speak on the topic.
2. Pathos - this is an appeal to the audience’s emotion. The goal is to provoke an
emotional response from the audience, or let the audience feel a particular emotion
(e.g., love, fear, anger, pity, sympathy) in response to what the speaker said. Using
words and visuals that evoke feelings and telling a personal story are some ways to
achieve emotional appeal. An advertisement about a beauty product, for instance,
attempts to make the audience feel insecure or unattractive so they will be
influenced to buy the product.
3. Logos - this is an appeal to logic or reason. The speaker has to present a valid
argument or claim, which is a statement that an audience is urged to accept. To
develop a logical argument, a speaker needs to provide proof or strong evidence
(e.g., facts, case studies, statistics) in support of that argument. To be
successful, the speaker has to show the audience why his or her argument is
rationally true or correct. Using analogy, inductive or deductive reasoning, or cause
and effect, and making inferences are some strategies to make sound arguments.
Using all three rhetorical appeals, a speaker has the best chance to persuade an audience to
accept his or her position, or to call them to action.

Example:

Does your home make you happy?

A house is not a home. A home is where you want to be more than any place in the world. At
Carson Construction, we build homes.

With over a decade of experience and many satisfied customers, we at Carson Construction
can turn your dream home into a reality. Our staff of top architects, experienced project
managers, and master builders have a reputation of providing our clients with only the best.
Our people bring their technical knowledge, innovativeness, and dedication to the delivery of
our best construction services. During the past 10 years, we have built over 1000 homes all
over the country and we currently have

more than 50 clients under contract.

From redesigning your home to suit your family’s needs, to building the home of your dreams,
Carson Construction will carefully craft every detail of your home using only quality
materials.

We strive to be a truthful advisor and a responsible contractor, and we would love to turn
your house into a home. We can help your vision of a home come to life!

Explanation:

The given example is an advertisement of a construction company that seeks to convince

the audience to avail of their construction services. It begins with a thought-provoking
question that gets the audience thinking about their own homes. It appeals to the
audience’s emotion (i.e., whether they are happy or not with their homes). The succeeding
paragraphs contain information that build the credibility of the company and present
reasons as to why the company can deliver the best construction services.
Guidelines in Delivering a Persuasive
Speech
A successful persuasive speech requires much preparation. To be an effective persuasive
speaker, it is important to keep the following guidelines in mind:

1. Determine your goal. The first step to preparing and delivering a persuasive
speech is to know exactly what it is you want to achieve. Is your goal to change the
audience’s particular way of thinking? What is it that you want them to do or think
about?
2. Know your audience. Know who your listeners are. Consider what topic will
interest your audience and what the audience will gain from your speech.
Determine also their needs (e.g., Are they seeking for change?), level of knowledge,
and attitudes (i.e., Are they supportive, will they most likely oppose you, or are they
neutral?).
3. Organize the information. Like any speech, a persuasive speech has three essential
parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. Each part needs to have a clear topic
sentence supported with details. Use an organizational pattern (e.g., problem-
solution, cause-effect) that best suits your topic and purpose.
4. Provide strong evidence. Determine the points you want to make and provide
strong and sufficient evidence to support each point. Use reputable and reliable
sources of information.
5. Practice your speech. You can practice your speech by standing in front of a mirror
or by recording yourself so you can identify areas that need improvement. You can
also have a friend or a family member listen to you and ask him or her for feedback.
When delivering the speech, take note of the following:
a. Make eye contact with the audience.
b. Speak clearly and confidently.
c. Use appropriate body language (e.g., standing straight), gestures (e.g., an open
palm when making a point), and facial expressions (e.g., showing a relaxed smile).
d. Project your voice effectively.

Entertainment Speech
Entertainment is any activity that holds a person’s attention and interest or provides
amusement or enjoyment to occupy spare time. There are different forms of entertainment.
You entertain yourself by reading a book, watching TV, listening to music, playing a musical
instrument, solving a puzzle, drawing an artwork, going to the movies, chatting online with
your friends, surfing the Internet, among others. Often, amusement comes from storytelling
or watching others give a performance (e.g., dance, music, drama).

You have probably listened to people give an entertaining talk at various social occasions.
These include casual dinners, parties, graduations, and weddings. An entertainment
speech is designed to amuse an audience and put them in a jovial mood. Although it can
also inform or persuade, its primary focus is to entertain an audience or create a pleasant
or interesting diversion.

There are various ways to make a speech entertaining. Here are some of these ways:

 Tell a funny or a scary story.

 Use a humorous story or an anecdote.
 Relate a personal experience.
 Incorporate drama by use narration and dialogue.
 Use sarcasm, exaggeration, or pun (play on words which suggests two or more
meanings; for example, “A bicycle can't stand on its own because it is two-tired”).

It is important to note, however, that an entertainment speech does not need to be funny all
the time and all throughout. If the speech interests the audience and holds their attention,
and it creates an enjoyable experience for them, the speech can be entertaining.

Tips on Making and Delivering an Entertainment Speech

Giving an entertainment speech can be difficult since you need to ensure that your speech
will create a pleasant atmosphere and that the audience will have an enjoyable experience.
The following are some pointers on how to successfully entertain an audience.

1. Know your audience. As with any type of speech, it is important to know and assess
your audience. Since they are gathered to generally have a good time, find out what
 interests the audience. Think about how you can give them what they came for.
Remember that you are there to entertain the audience, not yourself.
2. Decide on a topic or theme. Choose a significant topic that is appropriate to the type
of audience and the occasion. Talk about things that the audience is familiar with.
Although an entertaining speech is designed to be amusing, it should still convey an
essential point. Use entertaining strategies to impart a serious message.
3. Start with an attention grabber. Have an engaging opening for your introduction.
You can open with a joke, an incident, or a striking fact that is related to your topic.
4. Use simple language and vivid descriptions. Since your main purpose is to entertain,
this is not the time to use technical or complex words to go deep. Use simple words
so it will be easy for the audience to follow along with your speech. Also, use vivid
descriptions through sense words to create a strong image in the audience’s minds.
5. Use humor effectively. The ability to make people laugh is not an easy task. For one,
humor is subjective. What may be humorous to you, may not be humorous to
another or to other cultures. However, humor is still a great way to make the
audience feel relaxed. Add a little humor, but make sure that it does not offend or
insult others.
6. Use appropriate nonverbal cues. To add flair to your speech, use appropriate facial
expressions (e.g., flashing a big smile), body movements (e.g., moving around the
stage), and large gestures (e.g., spreading hands apart to indicate length, distance, or
size).

Remember, to successfully deliver an entertainment speech, create a delightful experience

for the audience. It is also important to be yourself, have a good time, and enjoy the
experience as well.

Example:

For an example of a speech that is entertaining, go to this link (accessed on 20 May 2016).
The speech was delivered by Jim Carrey during a graduation at Maharishi University of
Management in Fairfield, Iowa on 24 May 2014.

Explanation:

The commencement speech was delivered in an inspiring, funny, and enlightening way. It
captured and sustained the interest of the audience. The speaker opened his speech by
using irony. He said that the painting he brought was not “one of my bigger pieces,” when
in fact, the painting he brought was huge. The introduction was funny, making the audience
laugh and feel relaxed. He continued by using informal language in welcoming the guests.
He then talked about planting a seed (figuratively) and made a joke about it by referring to
Monsanto, an agricultural company that sued farmers for alleged seed patent infringement.
The speaker also used sarcasm when he said “Excuse me if I seem a little low energy
tonight – today – whatever this is” for it is apparent that he was energetic. The speaker
then went on by sharing serious, profound thoughts, but still incorporating humor to create
an amiable atmosphere.

Overall, the speaker gave an entertaining speech but with a truly uplifting and fitting
message:

You are ready and able to do beautiful things in this world and after you walk through those
doors today, you will only ever have two choices: love or fear. Choose love, and don’t ever let
fear turn you against your playful heart.

TYPES OF SPEECHES ACCORDING TO DELIVERY

Reading from a Manuscript

You have probably watched a speaker deliver a speech by reading from a piece of paper or
by using a teleprompter. Many presidents, for instance, read their speech when addressing
the nation during their inaugural day or during a state of emergency. Reading from a
manuscript (or manuscript speech) is done when a speaker reads to the audience a
prepared text or manuscript, which may be prepared by someone else or by the speaker
himself or herself. This is usually given when the manuscript will be part of an official
record wherein extremely careful wording is required. For example, an official
spokesperson is provided with a proclamation, a formal public announcement, and reads it
exactly as written. A speaker may also opt to use this method when he or she feels that the
important points are best conveyed by reading the manuscript, especially when it is
remarkably written.

Giving a manuscript speech has its merits and drawbacks. Below are some of the
advantages and disadvantages of reading from a manuscript.
Guidelines on Reading from a Manuscript

Reading from a manuscript presents a huge challenge since the speaker is mainly limited to
the written speech. If you choose to deliver a manuscript speech, follow these guidelines:

1. Write a good speech. Since you will likely be reading most of the words, make an
exceptional speech that has logically connected paragraphs and well-supported topic
sentences. Carefully choose each word and make sure that your speech conveys a clear
message.

2. Format your speech properly. Formatting your speech properly makes it easier for you to
read it. Here are some tips on how to format your speech for readability:
a. Indent each paragraph and include only two to three paragraphs per page.
b. The right margin should not be justified so that the words are equally spaced.
c. Double-space between lines.
d. Use only one side of the page.
e. Use a font type that is easy to read and a font size that is large enough to be read. The
standard font type is Times New Roman with a font size of 12 points. You can use another
font type, but make sure you can clearly read it.

3. Practice your speech repeatedly. Know your speech “by heart” by practicing it repeatedly.
Record yourself and then identify areas in your speech and in your delivery that need
improvement.
4. Vary your voice. Varying your voice in terms of volume, pitch or intonation, and emphasis
allows you to make important points stand out from those that are less significant, and to
express your feelings or attitudes. Use also appropriate pauses within the sentences.

5. Look at the audience from time to time. Do not read the manuscript word for word
looking down. Glance at the audience when highlighting keywords or when beginning a
long sentence. (Short sentences are eventually memorized when practicing the speech
repeatedly.) Questions written in the speech should be spoken while looking at the
audience.

Even if you are reading from a manuscript, you can still sound natural. To do this, speak
clearly and at a normal pace, make eye contact with the audience at appropriate times, and
be relaxed.

Memorized Speech

Memorizing a speech is usually done by skilled speakers. Most expert or professional

speakers deliver their speeches from memory. For instance, in campaign rallies, many
experienced politicians memorize their speeches because they use the same speech but
with some minor tweaks to suit their audience. Many marketing or business executives
deliver effective sales pitches by speaking from memory.

A speaker gives a memorized speech by committing every word of the speech to

memory and then delivering it in front of an audience. The speaker does not bring with
him or her any notes or manuscript. Unless you are an exceptionally proficient speaker,
speaking from memory is usually appropriate for relatively short speeches such as when
presenting or accepting an award, making an announcement, giving an opening or closing
remarks, or introducing a speaker.

Before deciding whether to give a memorized speech or not, learn about its advantages and
disadvantages first.
Tips on Delivering a Memorized Speech

Delivering a memorized speech can be nerve-racking as you are never sure that your
memory will not fail you. Here are some tips to help you successfully deliver a memorized
speech.

1. Keep it short. Make sure that your speech is not too lengthy and wordy so it will be easier
for you to memorize it. Create an outline of your main points and familiarize it. Also, write
your speech as if you are speaking naturally.

2. Practice. Once your speech is put together, practice it. Find a quiet place and read your
speech out loud. Read it repeatedly so you can memorize the words and internalize the
message. You may divide the speech into parts and memorize each part until you have
committed all parts to memory. Then, rehearse the delivery. Watch yourself speak in front
of a mirror so you can identify nonverbal cues that you can do (e.g., smiling, making eye
contact, pacing) or avoid doing (e.g., fidgeting, slouching, swaying).

3. Visualize. When memorizing, you may get stuck on certain words or parts of the speech.
One technique to get back on track is to visualize or create a mental image of the difficult
word or part. Assign an image that you can easily associate to the word or part which you
have trouble remembering. The next time you practice your speech, recall the image and
the content will likely get back to you.

4. Project your voice. How you project your voice may make or break your speech. If you
speak too softly and without energy, the audience will not be able to hear you and will lose
interest in what you are saying. However, if you speak too loudly, the audience might feel
that you are yelling or shouting. When giving a memorized speech, speak with projection
and energy. Good voice projection entails good posture and breathing. When practicing
your speech, stand straight with your head up, take deep breaths, and speak at a volume
that will be heard by all audience members.

5. Use appropriate pauses. Pauses can enhance your memorized speech when used
appropriately. A pause has many functions. It can build suspense or create a dramatic effect
as the audience anticipates what is to come next. It can also give them time to reflect,
allowing the words to make meaning in their minds. Moreover, it can be used to keep the
speech dynamic. So, incorporate pauses in your speech, but use them effectively.

A memorized speech requires extra effort with a lot of practice and careful preparation.
Practice your speech repeatedly until you have learned them by heart. If you do forget a
word or a small part of your speech, do not panic and just take a deep breath. Give yourself
time to recover. To buy time, you may engage the audience by asking them what your last
point was, or you may also use humor. If you still cannot remember, just continue speaking.

Example:

Imagine that you are Pres. Ramon Magsaysay and it is the 15th of March 1957. You will
deliver a speech at the kick-off ceremonies launching the Fund Drive for the Jose Rizal
National Centennial Commission. Memorize the speech below and use the given tips to
successfully deliver it.

MY FRIENDS:

WE are met today to inaugurate the fund drive for the Rizal Centennial Commission. We are
investing the event with fitting solemnity because it means so much to all of us. It is the
historic privilege of our generation to celebrate the centenary of the birth of Jose Rizal. It is
our good fortune to render in a special manner in our time the tribute which we owe to his
greatness, to prove our loyalty to his memory, to express our faith in him. It is our duty and
privilege to communicate to those who come after us the loftiest spiritual values of the legacy
he left to our race.

As beneficiaries of his sacrifice, we are called upon–all of us–to contribute generously of our
resources and our energies so that the celebration we shall hold four years from now may be
worthy of the stature we accord to Rizal in the life of our nation. Let it not be said of us that
we are lacking in the veneration which other peoples render lesser men. Let us make the
centennial of Rizal’s birth truly a national event, with every Filipino giving his shave of the
fund until the amount of ten million pesos required for this grand event has been raised.

In countries under the heel of the Communist tyrant, projects like the one we inaugurate
today are insured against failure by resort to compulsion and coercion. But success thus
achieved is of course hollow and empty. In our democracy, these enslaving methods have no
place United to Rizal in his love of freedom, inspired by his dedication to the well-being of our
Motherland, and encourage by his faith in our capacity for greatness as a people, we shall, I
am sure, respond freely and heartfully to the present appeal to our generosity and to our
patriotism.

I ask everyone to support this drive. It is my privilege to start it off with my personal
contribution.
Source: link (accessed on 25 May 2016)

Did you have difficulties memorizing the speech? How did you overcome the difficulties, if
any? What techniques did you use to help you remember the speech and successfully
deliver it?

Impromptu Speech

Most of us, if not all, have been asked to speak with no warning or notice. In school,
teachers often call on students to express their opinions on some issue. At a wedding
reception, a family member or close friend is asked to say a few words about the
newlyweds. At a party or gathering, someone is called upon to say grace before meals. All of
these situations may involve an impromptu speech. An impromptu speech is made with
no advance planning. Unlike in manuscript and memorized speeches, an impromptu speech
is delivered with very little or no preparation. It is generally brief, and it is unrehearsed.
The speaker does not have time to practice the speech.

People who are asked to give an impromptu speech are usually knowledgeable about the
topic or subject. Some politicians, for example, are asked by reporters about certain issues
almost anywhere and anytime. In a department meeting, a manager might ask a staff
member for an update on a current project. At a birthday party, a shy best friend may be
prodded to say something about the birthday celebrant.

Impromptu speaking is not for everyone. It can be unnerving to a person who is not used to
speaking in public, let alone on the spot. As a result, the impromptu speech may be
incoherent because the person feels anxious and uncomfortable. What should one do when
asked to speak on the spur of the moment?

Tips on How to Deliver an Impromptu Speech

At some point in your life, you will be asked to deliver a speech spontaneously. You will
have no time to organize your ideas or to research information about the topic or subject.
Since you are unprepared, you may have difficulty in expressing your thoughts. Below are
some tips you can do when asked to give an impromptu speech.

1. Gather your thoughts. Think first before speaking. Relax, take a deep breath, look around,
and smile. Pause (for 2–3 seconds) to reflect and think about what you are going to say.

2. Consider the three major parts of a speech. Since you do not have time to prepare a
detailed outline, in your head, just think of an introduction, body, and conclusion for your
speech. Make a good introductory sentence about the topic to engage the audience.

3. Identify your main point(s). Think of the main point or idea you want to convey to the
audience. Then, support it briefly with details or good examples.

4. Keep your speech short. Be mindful of the time. Stop when you have made your point(s).
Remember, an impromptu speech is generally short.

5. End on a strong note. Give a memorable conclusion by tying all your points together.
Relate your conclusion back to the introduction.

6. Be confident. As you deliver your speech, show confidence and speak with conviction.
Never show the audience that you are nervous or frightened. Keep yourself together and
just talk naturally.

Learn about it!

Practice thinking on your feet. Say the first thing that comes to mind when you hear each of
the following words:

School love family dream friend Philippines

Were you a quick thinker? Did you find it easy to think on the spot?
This time, practice impromptu speaking using the list of topics below. Give yourself 3–5
minutes to talk about each of the topics. Apply the given tips you have learned.

 My favorite book or movie

 The best thing about my life
 If I could invent something
 The three things that make me happy
 The worst day of my life

Key Points

An impromptu speech is made with no advance planning. It is delivered with very little or
no preparation.

People who are asked to give an impromptu speech are usually knowledgeable about the
topic or subject.

Impromptu speaking can be unnerving to a person who is not used to speaking in public,
let alone on the spot. Therefore, to successfully deliver an impromptu speech, follow these
tips: (1) gather your thoughts, (2) consider the three major parts of a speech, (3) identify
the main point or points, (4) keep the speech short, (5) end on a strong note, and (6) be
confident.

Extemporaneous Speech

Extemporaneous speaking is the most preferred method of delivery among many public
speakers because it is a middle ground between a manuscript speech and a memorized
speech. An extemporaneous speech is given from notes or a speech outline. A speaker
does not read a manuscript word for word nor does he memorize every word. In this type
of speech, the speaker uses his or her prepared notes or outline as guide and elaborates it
using his or her own words.

Here are other characteristics of an extemporaneous speech:

 It sounds natural. It uses a conversational tone because the speech is not read
verbatim or committed to memory.
  Its exact wording is chosen at the time the speech is being given. The speaker is not
tied to specific wording.
 It allows the speaker to practice in advance the flow of the speech using the
prepared notes or outline.
 It enables the speaker to engage the audience more and freely interact with them.
 It is flexible. It gives the speaker more room to adapt to the situation, and it allows
for elaboration, explanation, or restatement of ideas if the audience seem to be
confused.

Although extemporaneous speaking is the most popular method of delivery, it may not be
appropriate in some very formal occasions where precise wording is required such as in an
inaugural ceremony and other political addresses. However, in many speech situations
such as meetings, oral presentations, lectures, and business proposals or presentations,
extemporaneous speaking is recommended.

Tips on How to Deliver an Extemporaneous Speech

Like manuscript and memorized speeches, an extemporaneous speech also requires

planning and practice. When preparing and delivering an extemporaneous speech, you
need to keep these helpful tips in mind:

1. Prepare the notes or outline. When you have already chosen a topic, the next step is
to prepare your notes or outline about the topic. The outline, whether a topic or
sentence, lists the main points and subpoints that support the thesis or the central
idea of the speech. The main points are divided into subpoints that provide
supporting details about the main points. Write the outline on notecards (e.g., 3 x 5
index cards) to keep your ideas in order. On each notecard, write a main point and
its subpoints, and include some keywords or relevant phrases about them to serve
as your guide for elaboration or explanation. Number each notecard for easy
browsing. Then, review your outline and familiarize it. If you do not want to use an
outline, you can use a graphic organizer (e.g., flowchart, mind map) instead. Choose
the graphic organizer that best suits your topic and purpose.
2. Rehearse your speech using your notes. After you have finalized your outline, practice
your speech repeatedly. Rehearse for several times using the notecards to stay on
track and until you get the feel of your speech. However, during the actual speech,
do not spend more time looking at the notecards than on expressing your ideas and
 interacting with the audience. Only glance at your notes when you are citing
statistics or quoting an authority, or when you suddenly do not remember a key
idea.
3. Speak in a conversational manner. When you deliver your speech, speak as if you are
actually conversing with someone. Sound natural by using shorter sentences and by
speaking clearly in a friendly tone. Also, do not keep your eyes glued to your notes.
Rather, make eye contact with the audience to connect with them. Hold eye contact
with a single person and then with the other persons in the room.
4. Pay attention to the audience’s feedback. Remember, communication is a two-way
process. Even if the audience members are not expressing themselves verbally, they
are still communicating with you through nonverbal cues. Be aware of the
audience’s nonverbal cues and respond to them. For example, when you notice that
the audience look confused, you can restate your point using visuals or you can
explain it by giving an example. In an extemporaneous speech, you have room for
adaptation or flexibility, and you are in control.

When you deliver any type of speech, remember to have a captivating introduction, an
organized body, and a strong conclusion. Also, reinforce your message through your voice,
body, and language.

Practice extemporaneous speaking using the given tips. Choose one topic from the list
below. Deliver your speech in front of classmates or friends and solicit feedback. The
speech should run for 4 – 7 minutes only.

 The local TV program that should be promoted (or banned)

 The major environmental issue in the Philippines
 Three key areas the government should focus on
 Should divorce be legalized in the Philippines?
 How can the government address traffic woes in Metro Manila?

What was the feedback of your audience? Are there things you should improve on? What
should you do to effectively deliver the speech next time?

Speech Preparation: Audience

Any speech presented is intended for the audience or target listeners. In preparing for a
speech, the speaker should consider the following:

 Age – A speaker needs to consider the age range of the audience so he or she knows
what kind of topic to discuss. For example, in delivering a speech to graduating
students, topics usually cover career choices, how-tos in the corporate world, do’s
and don’ts during job interviews, among others.
 Educational and professional backgrounds – If a speaker is asked to deliver in an
event where the audience have similar professional backgrounds, such as medical
practitioners, lawyers, or businesspersons, he or she should choose appropriate
topics to discuss. For example, lawyers would be puzzled to hear about a speech on
the potency of a newly developed medicine.
o A speaker must keep it mind that some members of the audience have
various educational backgrounds. They can be high school graduates,
vocational graduates, college graduates, and so on. In choosing a topic, the
speaker can go for general topics like current events, such as the elections,
employment rates in rural and urban areas, disaster prevention, among
others.
 Ethnicity – The audience is composed of people from various ethnicities. This
means that they differ in race, culture, religion, and so on. A speaker must consider
these factors so as to avoid discussing sensitive topics, such as those that put a
particular ethnic group in a bad light, and to keep himself or herself from making
assumptions or stating stereotypes. For example, in talking about terrorism, a
speaker should be careful in associating terrorists with a specific group of people.

Speech Preparation: Topic

In choosing a topic to discuss, the speaker must consider the following: his or her expertise,
needs and interests of the audience, and the purpose of the event.

 A speaker must choose a topic based on his or her area(s) of expertise. It is

imperative that a speaker is knowledgeable, or an expert, about the topic that he or
she is about to deliver as it establishes credibility. This way, he or she also delivers
the speech better. However, there are instances where the speaker chooses a topic
 that is not of his or her specialization. In this case, he or she should conduct a
comprehensive research to cover important points in the presentation.
 A speaker must consider the needs and interests of the audience. In
considering the interests of the audience, a speaker must think what 15-year-olds
are interested of nowadays. Aside from the speaker, the audience must also be
knowledgeable about the topic that he or she is about to discuss. The speaker must
consider the educational and professional backgrounds of the audience.
o Moreover, when faced with a diverse crowd, the speaker can choose a topic
that is both general and beneficial in nature. For example, considering that a
huge population of the audience are employees, he or she can explain how
taxes are computed for single (with or without dependents), married (with a
specific number of children), etc., employees.
o If the speaker has ample time to prepare for the presentation, he or she can
conduct a survey of the attendees, their profession, age range, what they are
interested to know, etc. This way gives him or her an idea on what to talk
about with the audience.
 A speaker must know the purpose of the event. If a speaker is invited to speak in
a graduation ceremony, he or she can talk about what the students can expect when
they immerse in the corporate world, whether they should pursue further studies,
or recall memories when he or she was still a student. Another example is a product
launch. The purpose of a product launch is to convince the consumers to buy and
use the product. In this case, the speaker will talk about the effectivity of the product
and its value for money.

Gathering Information about the Topic

Once you have carefully selected a speech topic and you have analyzed your audience, the
next step is to gather information about the topic. In most types of speeches, you will have
time to prepare the content of your speech. The speech should contain well-researched
information that will help the audience understand your message or the central idea of
your speech.

Generally, a good speech requires a thorough research about the topic. You need to gather
and read background information to find out what is known about the topic, how much
information is there about the topic, and what kind of information is available on the topic.
Information can be obtained from various sources. Some of these are the following:

 Books ⎼ present comprehensive information about any topic

 Magazines ⎼ contain articles and photographs or illustrations; information is up-to-
date, usually about diverse topics of popular interest and current events
 Journals ⎼ collection of articles about a particular subject, discipline, or profession
 Newspapers ⎼ contain daily (or weekly) information about local, national, and world
events or issues
 Encyclopedias ⎼ a set of books (or a book) arranged alphabetically; contain general
information about many topics or subjects
 Web ⎼ gives access to many types of information available online (e.g., blogs, social
media, catalogs, videos, documents, databases)
 Interviews ⎼ meeting between two (or more) people to get in-depth information
about a particular subject or topic; the interviewer obtains pertinent information
from the interviewee who is knowledgeable or an expert about the subject or topic

Being able to back up your points with research and quality information is essential in
delivering an effective speech. When you gather and read more sources, you broaden
your view of the topic. You also discover new information which leads you to
improve, refine, or enrich your understanding of the topic.

Characteristics of Good Information

Not all pieces of information you have gathered are helpful and valuable to your topic.
Thus, it is important to determine if the information you have is “good information.” Here
are some characteristics of good information:

 It is up-to-date. Do not use outdated information. For instance, when you use
statistics in your speech, see to it that the figures you provide are based on the most
current information available.
 It comes from a credible source. Credible sources (e.g., articles, books, essays) are
those that have gone through a review and an evaluation process before they are
published or uploaded, or those that are written by people who are respected or
authorities in their fields of study.
 It is objective or unbiased. Make sure that the information presents the whole truth,
not only one side of the topic. Check if the author’s purpose favors a particular view
of the topic. Ensure that the information you will use is not biased.
  It is accurate. See to it that the information does not contain vague or sweeping
generalizations. Good information must be factual, detailed, exact, and verifiable.

To sum it up, you can use the guide questions below to see if you have good information.

 Is the information current? When was it published or last updated?

 Does the information come from a credible source? Who is the author? What are his
or her credentials (i.e., education, title and position, training, and experience) and
are the credentials relevant to the information given?
 Is the information complete and objectively written? Does it offer a balanced or fair
argument?
 Is the information factual and verifiable? Does it contain any sweeping statements?

(Note : For good information, your answers should be “yes” to all questions in italics.)

Evaluating the Credibility of Online Sources

Although the easiest way to gather information is through the Web, it is very important to
evaluate the credibility of online sources since anyone can put any information on the Web.
So, how can you determine whether the online source is credible or not? The following are
some helpful tips on how to evaluate the credibility of online sources.

1. Start with sources you know are reputable. In general, you select a speech topic
because you are knowledgeable or interested about it. Based on your knowledge or
interest on the topic, you probably have an idea which online sources are reputable.
For example, if your speech discusses about the effects of typhoon Yolanda in the
Philippines, you know that the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management
Council is a reliable source of quality information about the topic. Then think about
what other organizations (e.g., World Health Organization) may have good
information about the topic.
2. Read the information about the author or publisher. Most Web sites contain
information about the author or publisher (e.g., government site, academic
institution, professional organization). You can usually find this information in the
“About Us” or “Who We Are” link. Check the qualifications of the author or the
reputation of the publisher. If (a) there is no author; (b) there is no indication that
the author is qualified to write about the topic; (c) the publisher does not seem
reputable; or (d) there are no contact details provided, do not use the information.
 3. Check the currency of information. Find out how often the site is updated or when
the site was last updated or modified. Click on each of the links to see if it still works.
4. Identify the purpose of the Web site. Some Web sites appear to be trustworthy, but
they have a hidden agenda (e.g., they may be trying to persuade you to buy
something, they may be promoting something). To find out if the purpose of the site
(or the author) is commercial, scan the Web pages and check if there are many
advertisements. Think twice before using any information from Web sites which
contain advertisements as the information may be biased.

Any factual information you will use in your speech should be obtained only from credible
sources whether printed or online. Note that not all sites having “.org” or “.edu” domain
names are credible. The best way is still to verify the legitimacy and reputation of the
institution or organization through research. Bear in mind also that sources of
information should be properly cited or acknowledged.

!!! How do you prepare for a speech? Recall the principles of speech writing that you have
learned so far:

1. Choosing a topic. You should choose a topic that you know about, want to know
more about, or the audience can identify with. The topic should also fit the occasion
or the purpose of the event.
2. Analyzing the audience. The effectiveness of a speech will partly depend upon the
audience. It is very important to build rapport with the audience. To do this, you
should know your audience (e.g., age, ethnic diversity, views, occupation), or the
target listeners of the speech to determine if your selected topic will suit or interest
them.
3. Sourcing the information. You should gather information about the topic to make
your speech substantial. Information can be obtained from various sources such as
books, magazines, journals, newspapers, encyclopedias, the Web, and interviews.
Good information is up-to-date, comes from a credible source, objective or unbiased,
and accurate.

Now that you have chosen a topic, analyzed your audience, and gathered information about
your topic, the final step in the preparation of your speech is to make a speech outline.

Speech Outline
Before you actually start to write the speech, you must first make an outline to organize
your ideas and the information you have gathered. A speech outline serves as the
framework or backbone of the speech. It organizes the contents (i.e., main points,
subpoints, sub-subpoints) of the speech. By making a speech outline, you can see how your
ideas connect with each other. It also allows you to identify where you need to add, remove,
or revise some pieces of information.

A basic speech outline has three parts: introduction, body, and conclusion.

I. Introduction

Usually written in one paragraph only, this first part of the speech aims to arouse the
attention of the audience, present the main idea (or thesis) and the purpose of the speech,
and give an overview of the main points of the speech. The following parts compose the
introduction:

A. Hook: This is a statement that grabs the audience’s attention. It intrigues, draws in, and
motivates the audience to keep on listening to the speech. Some commonly used attention-
grabbing techniques are the following:

 Telling an anecdote
 Citing a quotation
 Asking rhetorical or thought-provoking questions
 Sharing some background information
 Giving a riddle or puzzle

B. Thesis statement: This is a sentence that states the central idea of the speech.

C. Purpose: This reveals the goal of the speech. It explains how the audience can benefit
from listening to the speech.

D. Overview of the main points: This provides the audience a brief overview of the main
points that the speech will tackle. It gives the audience an idea of the flow of the speech.

II. Body

Following the introduction is the body of the speech. The body explains, develops, and
supports the thesis statement using details, evidence (e.g., statistics, testimony), and
examples. It is typically composed of three paragraphs. Each paragraph has a topic
sentence (or the main idea of the paragraph) and several supporting sentences. To link one
paragraph to the next, transitions are used. These are words or phrases that show
relationships between ideas and ensure a smooth flow from one point to the next. Here are
some examples of transitions:

 To add an idea: in addition, moreover, further, also

 To show similarity: similarly, likewise, in the same way, in like manner
 To contrast: on the other hand, however, but, on the contrary
 To illustrate: for example, specifically, in particular, notably
 To emphasize: more importantly, above all, indeed, in fact

III. Conclusion

This is the last part of the speech. The conclusion reiterates the thesis statement and
summarizes the main points covered in the body of the speech. It also contains a final,
memorable statement (e.g., quote, metaphor, advice, challenge or call to action) that
provides closure or helps the audience remember the speech.

When making a speech outline, focus on the specific purpose of the speech to sift out
aimless or irrelevant ideas. Then, review or go over the outline and see if your main points
clearly support the thesis statement and if they are logically connected. Remember, the
outline serves as a tool to organize the contents of the speech. Once you have prepared the
outline, use it in writing the actual speech contents. Consider the following when writing
the actual speech: duration (appropriate length or time allotted for the speech), proper
word choice, and grammatical correctness.

Below is the basic structure of a speech outline. Follow it in making your own speech
outline of your chosen topic.

Topic/Subject: −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−_

Purpose: (To inform, to persuade, or to entertain the audience about . . . )−−−

−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−(To inform, to
persuade, or to entertain the audience about . . . )_

I. Introduction
A. Hook:
B. Thesis statement:
C. Purpose:
D. Overview of main points:

II. Body

A. First main point

1. Supporting detail/point
2. Supporting detail/point
3. Supporting detail/point

B. Second main point

1. Supporting detail/point
2. Supporting detail/point
3. Supporting detail/point

C. Third main point

1. Supporting detail/point
2. Supporting detail/point
3. Supporting detail/point

III. Conclusion

A. Restatement of thesis and summary of main points:

B. Final statement:

CANCER

Topic: Cancer

INTRODUCTION

Attention Getter: More than 1/2 million people are expected to die of cancer
this year. That's more than 1,500 a day. An average of 1/2 of men and 1/3 of
women will develop cancer.

Purpose: To inform my audience about cancer.

Importance to Audience: Cancer can affect anyone, so you can gain something
from this speech by being informed about cancer, and how to prevent it

Thesis Statement: Cancer is a serious disease that may be preventable and

curable.

Preview: I will discuss what cancer is, ways to prevent cancer growth, and the
different types of treatment for cancer.

(Transition: To start off, I will explain what cancer is.)

BODY

I. First Main Point: Cancer is a condition of uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells.

A. Subpoint: Normal cells usually grow and divide to replace old or dead cells.
B. Subpoint: Cancer cells continue to grow and divide.
1. Cancer cells accumulate in one place.
2. The accumulated cells form tumors.
3. Tumors destroy body cells.
C. Subpoint: 2 types of tumors
1. Malignant
2. Benign
D. Subpoint: Cancers are classified according to the body part in which it originates. `
Example: If there is cancer growth in your prostate and it spreads to
another pact of your body, it would be classified as prostate cancer. Although the cancer
has spread
to another part of your body, it only counts where the cancer originated.

(Transition: Next, I will talk about ways to prevent cancers from forming.)

II. Second Main Point: A person can take different measures to lower his/her chances of
developing cancer.
A. Subpoint: Lifestyles can affect the chances of future cancer development.
1. Smoking/Drinking (1/3)
2. Be active and maintain healthy weight.
3. Eat healthy avoid fat foods (animal products) and eat plant
sources (fruits, vegetables) (1/3)

(Transition: Finally I will discuss the treatments for cancer.)

III. Third Main Point: There are various treatments for cancer.
A. Subpoint: Surgery
1. Oldest form of treatment.
 2. Offers greatest chance for cure.
3. 60% cancer patients receive surgery/operation.
B. Subpoint: Radiation therapy high energy particles
C. Subpoint: Chemotherapy use of drugs. Effective because the drugs go into your
bloodstream which circulates throughout your body.

(Transition: In conclusion,)

CONCLUSION

Summary Statement: Cancer is a condition of uncontrolled growth of abnormal

cells that evolve into tumors. Fatty foods, smoking, and drinking all affect the
chances of developing cancer. Treatments for cancer include surgery, radiation,
and chemotherapy.

Concluding Remarks: Anyone can become a victim of cancer but we can

decrease our chances of getting cancer by being more informed on the disease
and how to prevent it.

Principles of Speech Delivery

No matter how clearly and thoughtfully written a speech is, the success of a speech equally
depends on its delivery. Effective speech delivery requires learning, practice, and extra
effort. There are several factors to consider to deliver a speech effectively. In this lesson, we
will focus on the following principles of speech delivery: articulation; modulation; stage
presence; facial expressions, gestures, or movements; and rapport with the audience.

Articulation

The shaping of speech sounds (consonants and vowels) by the tongue, lips, palate, jaw, and
teeth, called the articulators, is what is referred to as articulation. It includes both the
utterance of words or pronunciation, and the clarity of speech sounds or enunciation. In
delivering a speech, a speaker has to distinctly enunciate the individual speech sounds and
correctly pronounce each word so the audience will be able to understand the words
clearly. Failure to enunciate the sounds clearly and to pronounce the words correctly can
lead to misunderstanding of the intended meaning of words or sentences. To improve
articulation, you can practice by reading the individual speech sounds or the syllables of
words while exaggerating or prolonging each sound or syllable. Open your mouth fully and
relax your tongue as you say each sound or syllable of a word.
Tongue twisters are a good way to practice your articulation. Recite each tongue twister
fast and repeatedly while maintaining precision and clarity in the spoken words.

• I have got a date at a quarter to eight; I’ll see you at the gate, so don’t be late.

• Fuzzy Wuzzy was a bear. Fuzzy Wuzzy had no hair. Fuzzy Wuzzy wasn't very fuzzy,
was he?

• I can think of six thin things, but I can think of six thick things too.

Modulation

Modulating the voice or varying it in terms of pitch, power, and pace makes a speech more
pleasing to the ear and allows a speaker to convey the right emotions.

• Pitch refers to the highness or lowness of a voice. A speaker should vary the pitch to
reinforce the message. A high pitch is usually used to express lighter emotions like
excitement and delight, while a low pitch is suitable for serious emotions like sadness and
sorrow. Using the same pitch can be quite boring and monotonous for the audience.

• Power is the vocal energy or intensity exerted by a speaker. The speaker should
create power or intensity in his or her voice to emphasize points without being loud.

• Pace, also called rate, is the speed of a speaker’s utterance. Complex or important
ideas are usually said slowly (but not too slow that the audience lose concentration or
become impatient), while light or exciting matters are often said rapidly (but not too fast
that words become slurred or unintelligible). A speaker should use a flexible rate that will
convey the message clearly and will give the audience time to hear and understand it.

When delivering a speech, add variety to your voice. Proper voice modulation makes the
words stand out and allows you to be clearly heard and understood by the audience.

Do the following exercises to help you practice modulating your voice.

1. Say the following statements aloud by using the right pitch of voice based on the
situation:

a. An excited husband says to his wife: “I’m now the new department manager!”

b. A police officer breaks the bad news to a family: “I have some very bad news to tell you.
Your son was shot last night and he’s dead. I’m very sorry for your loss.”

2. Vary the force in saying “How dare you” in the following manner:

a. Ballistically or explosively angry

b. Controlled but hurt

3. Recite the Panatang Makabayan at varying speeds.

Stage Presence

A good public speaker does not only entail having the ability to speak eloquently, but also
the ability to command the attention of the audience. This is called stage presence. It
involves the speaker’s appearance, projection, and manner on the stage. A speaker needs to
have stage presence for the audience to be willing to listen to the speech and be interested
enough to keep on listening. To achieve stage presence, you have to take the stage
confidently and deliver the speech wholeheartedly. If you wholly believe in what you are
saying, the audience will be more likely to believe in you, too.

Facial Expressions, Gestures, and Movements

In public speaking, actions are as important as the spoken words. The coordination of
verbal and nonverbal messages is essential to successfully deliver the message of the
speech. Recall that facial expressions, gestures, and movements fall under kinesics or body
language. A good public speaker must use body language, among others, that supports the
verbal message.

• Facial expressions reveal the speaker’s emotions and signal to the audience the
interpretation of the given message. The audience can read if you are being funny,
sarcastic, or serious through facial cues. Make sure that your facial expressions do not
contradict your verbal message.

• Gestures are purposeful movements of the head, arms, hands, and other parts of the
body. A good public speaker uses a wide variety of gestures to support and illustrate ideas.
For example, using the fingers to signal order or sequence and clenching the fist to
emphasize a point are purposeful gestures. However, gripping the lectern, scratching the
body, and putting the hands in and out of the pockets are distracting gestures.

• Movements, or the act of moving from one spot to another during delivery, can
signal transition from one idea to the next. A good public speaker considers the proper
timing of his or her movements. Moving toward the audience, for instance, is appropriate
when asking questions, making critical connections, or offering a revelation. On the other
hand, aimless pacing back and forth and bouncing are very distracting movements.

A good public speaker utilizes the body as a tool for illustrating and emphasizing ideas.
Facial expressions, gestures, and movements should be genuine, appropriate, well-timed,
and clearly visible without being overwhelming.

Rapport with the Audience

Building rapport means engaging the audience and connecting with them. The following
are some ways you can do to establish rapport with the audience:

• Make regular eye contact. Look in the eye one member of the audience at a time.
Vary your eye contact throughout the room. Do not look down at the floor or stare at the
ceiling or walls.

• Speak naturally. Talk as if you are having a conversation with the audience. When
delivering the speech, make it look effortless, not overly rehearsed or robotic.

• Relate with the audience. Identify with the audience by being open or sharing what
you have in common with them. Tell a personal story or an anecdote that the audience can
relate with.

Prepared by:
RB S. MECHA, MT II SHS DEPARTMENT