MODULE 5: LISTENING AND ART OF PUBLIC SPEAKING

Outline of Module
Unit 1: What is listening and who is a listener?
Unit 2: Guidelines for effective listening
Unit 3: Public speaking
Unit 4: Occasions for public speaking
Unit 5: Methods of speech delivery

UNIT 1: LISTENING AND THE TYPES OF LISTENING

Content

1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main contents
3.1 What is listening?
3.2 Importance of listening
3.3 Types of listening
4.0 Conclusion
5.0 Summary
6.0 Tutor-marked assignment
7.0 References/ further reading

Unit 1

1.0 INTRODUCTION

This Unit introduces you to the concept of listening and why we listen. Listening is a
fundamental aspect of communication and it is essential in our day to day activities. It plays a
crucial role in personal relationships, education, and professional settings. It shapes our
ability to understand, empathize, and engage with others. Instead of simply hearing, a passive
physiological process, listening is an active skill that requires attention, interpretation,
retention, and response. All over the world, people listen to obtain information. In class you
listen to lecturers, in the Church or Mosque you listen to sermons, in political rallies you
listen to speeches from politicians and in our homes we listen to our parents, husbands,
wives, children and others members of the family. This is a very important language skill that
you need in order to be successful in life.

2.0 OBJECTIVES
At the end of the unit, you should be able to:
Define listening
Define effective listening
 State the types of listening
State the importance of listening

3.0 MAIN CONTENT

3.1 WHAT IS LISTENING?

Listening occurs when your ears pick up sound waves being transmitted by a speaker.
Listening is an effort that pays off. It is a process involving the construction, retention and
reaction to meanings we assign to information. I demands making sense of what is being
transmitted and unlike hearing requires sustained attention and focus.

Listening shapes our ability to understand, empathize, and engage with others. Effective
listening, therefore, fosters meaningful interactions, reduces misunderstandings, and enhances
critical thinking. Good listening skills improve communication, relationships, and learning.
It is therefore important that we explore the significance of listening, the different types of
listening and strategies for improving listening skills to enhance communication and
comprehension.

3.2 IMPORTANCE OF LISTENING

Listening is a crucial skill in academic work because it enhances comprehension, critical
thinking, and engagement. In educational settings, active listening enhances comprehension,
critical thinking and promotes meaningful engagement. It is therefore important that we
explore the significance of listening, its different types, and strategies for improving listening
skills to enhance communication and comprehension.

Here’s why it matters:

1. Better Understanding of Concepts – Active listening helps students grasp lectures,

discussions, and explanations more effectively, leading to deeper comprehension.
2. Improved Critical Thinking – By carefully listening to different perspectives,
students can analyze information, ask insightful questions, and develop their own
arguments.
3. Stronger Communication Skills – Good listeners become better speakers and writers
as they learn how to organize their thoughts clearly and respond meaningfully.
4. Increased Retention and Recall – Engaged listening allows students to remember
key details, making it easier to recall information for exams and assignments.
5. Enhanced Collaboration – Listening fosters teamwork in group discussions and
projects, ensuring that all voices are heard and ideas are considered.
6. Respect and Empathy – Academic environments thrive when students listen to peers
and instructors with respect, creating a more inclusive and productive learning
atmosphere.

3.3 TYPES OF LISTENING

There are different types of listening depending on the purpose attached to the act of
listening. These include-

Active listening – Active or effective listening is an activity, not a passive state of being.
It means concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what is being said.
 Critical listening – This type of listening requires you to think deeply as you listen. In
critical listening you evaluate what you hear. Evaluating a message for logic, reasoning,
and value.

Empathetic listening – This type of listening fosters understanding emotions and the
feelings behind the words.

Selective listening – This type of listening only focuses on certain parts of a

conversation.

SELF-ASSESSMENT EXERCISE
What is the difference between listening and hearing?

Explain how active listening can contribute to academic success.

4.0 CONCLUSION
This unit has taken you through the importance of listening, which is very essential in your
day to day activities. You need to listen wherever you are to ensure your safety and that of
your properties. As students of this programme, you need to listen attentively to your
facilitators and your colleagues during group discussions. This will make it easy for you to
achieve success in your examination and other academic pursuits.

5.0 SUMMARY
The unit has exposed you to the main reasons why you must listen. For instance, it is
important that you listen to your lecturers, parents, spouses, children, neighbours, colleagues
and many other people you may need to listen when the situation demand.

6.0 TUTOR- MARKED ASSIGNMENT

 Explain with examples, the main reasons why you listen?
 What is meant by listening for specific purpose?

7.0 REFERENCES/ FURTHER READING

James, K., Jordan, R.R. &Matthews, A.J.(1988). Listening-Comprehension and Note-Taking
Course. London: Collins ELT.

Olaofe, I.A.(2014). English and Communication Skills for Academic

Purposes. Zaria: Tamaza Publishing Co. (Revised Edition)

Olaofe, I.A. (2014). Communicate English Skills. Zaria: Tamaza Publishing Co. (Revised
Edition)

Omachonu, G.S. (2013) Effective Use of English and the Use of Library for Higher
Education. Jos. Eiwa Publishing Press.
UNIT 2: GUIDELINES FOR EFFECTIVE LISTENING

CONTENT

1.0 INTRODUCTION

2.0 OBJECTIVES

3.0 MAIN CONTENT

3.1 Guidelines for effective listening

4.0 CONCLUSION

5.0 SUMMARY

6.0 TUTOR- MARKED ASSIGNMENT

7.0 REFERENCES/ FURTHER READING

Unit 2: GUIDELINES FOR EFFECTIVE LISTENING

1.0 INTRODUCTION

In the previous unit, you have been introduced to the concept of listening, the difference
between listening and hearing as well as the types of listening. In this Unit, you will be
shown the guidelines for effective listening. This is because apart from having functioning
ears, you must also practice building your accuracy. For instance, if you can, get video typed
documentaries with written transcriptions, listen and watch a portion of the programme, then
write what you think you heard-details and main ideas. Play the tape again, listening for the
points you wrote. Correct what you wrote and then read the transcript to check your accuracy.

2.0 OBJECTIVES

At the end of the unit, you should be able to:

 Define an effective listening.

 State the guidelines for effective listening.
 Identify main ideas from the details in a listening exercise

3.0 MAIN CONTENT

3.1 Guidelines for Effective Listening in Academic Discussions

1. Be Fully Present
o Focus on the lecturer and avoid distractions (e.g., phones, side conversations).
o Sit in a position where you can clearly hear and engage.
 2. Listen with an Open Mind

o Approach discussions with curiosity, not just to confirm your own ideas.
o Be willing to consider new perspectives and challenge your assumptions.
2. Take Notes Strategically
o Jot down key arguments, concepts, and supporting evidence.
o Avoid excessive note-taking that distracts from active engagement.
3. Avoid Interrupting
o Let speakers finish their points before responding.
o Use brief pauses before jumping in to ensure the speaker is done.
4. Use Active Listening Techniques
o Paraphrase key points to confirm understanding (“So you’re arguing that…?”).
o Ask clarifying questions (“Could you expand on that?”).
o Acknowledge ideas with verbal affirmations (“That’s an interesting point”).
5. Pay Attention to Nonverbal Cues
o Observe body language, tone, and facial expressions for deeper understanding.
o Use nodding and engaged expressions to show attentiveness.
6. Engage Respectfully in Debate
o Disagree constructively by addressing ideas, not attacking individuals.
o Use phrases like “I see your point, but I interpret it differently…” instead of
dismissive statements.
7. Synthesize Ideas
o Connect different points made by others to build a more comprehensive
understanding.
o Relate discussions to previous knowledge or coursework.
8. Encourage Participation
o If you notice someone struggling to contribute, invite their input.
o Be mindful of dominating the discussion—balance speaking and listening.
9. Follow Up After the Discussion

Reflect on key insights and how they fit into your academic understanding.
If needed, continue the conversation with peers or professors to deepen comprehension.

SELF ASSISSEMENT EXERCISE

1. What do you understand by effective listening?

2. Write and explain five guidelines for effective listening.

4.0 CONCLUSION

This unit has taken you through the guidelines for effective listening. As a listener, You must
concentrate on three things: (1) determine the speaker’s purpose so that you can frame what
you hear in a larger context.(2) pick out the main ideas, which should follow a logical pattern.
(3)listen for transition words that show direction, such as, next,secondly,on the other hand, as
a result, however etc.
5.0 SUMMARY

This unit has exposed you to guidelines for effective listening which include functioning ears,
listening with full concentration, and controlling your emotions when you listen among
others.

6.0 TUTOR- MARKED ASSESSMENT

 What clues in a speaker’s speech enable you to understand his line of thought?
 Write short notes on the guidelines for effective listening
 Listen to any radio programme of your choice and identify the main sentence and the
supporting sentences. Write out your answers and compare them with your
colleagues.

7.0 REFERENCES/ FURTHER READING

Olaofe, I.A. (2014). Communicate EnglishSkills. Zaria: Tamaza PublishingCo. (Revised

Edition)

Omachonu, G.S. (2013) Effective Use of English and the Use of Library for Higher
Education.Jos. Eiwa Publishing Press.

UNIT 3: PUBLIC SPEAKING

1.0 INTRODUCTION
2.0 OBJECTIVES
3.0 MAIN CONTENTS
3.1 DEFINITION OF PUBLIC SPEAKING AND KEY ASPECTS
3.2 COMPONENTS OF PUBLIC SPEAKING
3.2.1 The Speaker
3.2.2 The message
3.2.3 The receiver
3.2.4 The medium
3.2.5 The feedback
3.2.6 Interference
3.2.7 Delivery
4.0 SUMMARY
5.0 CONCLUSION
6.0 TUTOR- MARKED ASSIGNMENT
7.0 REFERENCES/ FURTHER READING

UNIT 3

1.0 INTRODUCTION

In the previous unit, we looked at the guidelines for effective listening. In this unit, we shall
look at public speaking and its components. Public speaking as the name applies means
speaking to a group of people called audience or listeners. For instance, a lecturer giving
lecture to students, a politician presenting his speech at a rally or a health personnel
addressing the public on the outbreak of a disease can be classified as public speaking. Public
speeches have different functions based on why they are given. They also have some
components which will be discussed in the following.

2.0 OBJECTIVES

At the end of the unit, you will be able to

 Define public speech

 Give examples of public speech
 List and explain the components of public speech
 Explain the importance of listening to public speeches.

3.0 Main Content

3.1 Definition of Public Speaking and Key Aspects

Public speaking is the act of delivering a speech or presentation to an audience with the goal
of informing, persuading, or entertaining. It involves effective communication skills,
audience engagement, and confidence in conveying a message.

Key Aspects of Public Speaking:

1. Purpose

Informative: Sharing knowledge or facts (e.g., academic lectures, presentations).

Persuasive: Convincing the audience to adopt a viewpoint or take action (e.g.,

debates, speeches).

Entertaining: Engaging and captivating the audience (e.g., storytelling, stand-up

comedy).

2. Audience Awareness

Understanding the audience’s background, interests, and expectations.

Tailoring content and delivery style to connect effectively.

3. Effective Communication

Verbal: Clear articulation, appropriate tone, and structured speech.

Non-verbal: Body language, facial expressions, and gestures.

4. Confidence and Delivery

Maintaining eye contact and a strong posture.

Using appropriate pacing, volume, and emphasis to keep engagement.

5. Speech Structure

Introduction: Grabs attention and states the purpose.

Body: Presents key points with supporting evidence.

Conclusion: Summarizes main ideas and leaves a lasting \impression.

6. Use of Visual Aids (if applicable)

Slides, charts, and props to enhance understanding.

Ensuring visuals complement rather than distract from the speech.

7. Handling Questions and Interaction

Encouraging audience participation where appropriate.

Responding confidently and thoughtfully to questions.

8. Practice and Preparation

Rehearsing to improve fluency and confidence.

Anticipating potential challenges and preparing responses.

SELF-ASSESSMENT EXCERCISE
 What is public speaking?
 What is the role of a speaker in a communication process?
 What is the major concern of the speaker?

3.2 COMPONENTS OF PUBLIC SPEAKING

3.2.1 The Speaker: This is the person who prepares and delivers a speech to the public. For
instance, in a classroom situation, the speaker is the teacher or lecturer. When you are a
speaker, you are the source, or originator of a message that is transmitted to a listener. The
speaker may be speaking to a small group of ten people or a group of as large as five hundred
people. The major concern of a speaker is to make the communication a success. You should
try to get through your listeners so as to engage their minds and full attention.

3.2.2 The Message: The message is the subject- matter or content to be delivered to the
public. In the classroom, the message is the lesson. The message is sent in the form of
symbols-verbal or non-verbal. Verbal symbols are words used to represent things and ideas
the speaker is talking about while non-verbal symbols are what the speaker conveys the
message with his tone of voice, eyes, facial expression, gestures, posture and appearance.

3.2.3 The Receiver: the receiver is the target audience who listens to the speaker. In
classroom situation, the students are the receivers of the information. You are also a receiver
in this class and as the receiver you must pay attention to the speaker so as to benefit from the
information being conveyed. You have to listen with an open mind; do not let your mind to
wander out of the class.

3.3.4 The Channel: the channel is the medium used to communicate the message. A speech
can reach the audience by a variety of channels: such as radio, television, the internet, public
address system or face-to face. In the class, the channel of communication is the teacher’s
voice through face-to-face medium of communication. The teacher’s voice may be
accompanied by visual channels such as gestures, facial expressions, visual aids among
others. For speeches outside the classroom, you may need to use a public address system
which enables you to speak in an easy and conversational style without over tasking your
voice.

SELF-ASSESSMENT EXERCISE
What is the role of the receiver in the communication process?
Explain the function of the channel during communication.
List five channels of communication.

3.3.5 Feedback: this is the response given by the listeners. The response may be verbal or
non-verbal. Verbal response involves asking questions or making contributions during
lectures. In some public speeches, listeners give feedback at the end of the speech during
question- and-answer session. Listeners could also give non-verbal responses such as smiling,
nodding of head, clapping of hands, frowning, yawning sleeping, etc. While frowning and
sitting with folded arms by listeners signify negative feedback, smiling, clapping of hands,
nodding of heads by listeners may connote positive feedback. Moreover, if the listeners yawn
or look at you with gazed expression, it may be a sign of boredom or fatigue. It therefore rests
on you as the speaker to adjust your presentation so as to achieve the desired success.

3.3.6 Interference (Noise): Any distraction that may affect communication, such as
background noise, technical issues, or misunderstandings is interference. Effective speakers
minimize interference by staying focused and adapting to challenges.

3.3.7 Delivery: How the speech is presented, including voice modulation, body language,
and pacing. A strong delivery makes the message more compelling and memorable.

SELF ASSESSMENT EXERCISE

 What do you understand by the term feedback?

 What is the role of feedback in speech communication?
 Can there be a communication without feedback?

4.0 CONCLUSION

This unit has looked at the components of public speech communication. These components
are very vital in both verbal and non-verbal communication. They are also referred to as
elements of communication because without them there can be no communication. You
should know that everyone, including yourself is either a speaker or listener, because you talk
and write for to others to listen or read, also, others do the same for your sake. It is therefore
necessary that you read and plan very well anytime you intend to give a speech or write for
others to read.

5.0 SUMMARY

This unit has exposed you to the definition and the components or elements of public speech.
These components are: the speaker or encoder, the message or subject- matter, the receiver or
decoder, the channel or medium and the feedback or response. Each of these elements is very
useful to the entire communication process.

6.0 TUTOR-MARKED ASSESSMENT

 Write short notes on five components of speech communication.

 If you are invited to give a speech to a three hundred people, what things would you
consider to ensure success in the assignment?

7.0 REFERENCES/ FURTHER READING

Atkinson, M. (2004). Lend Me Your Ears: All You Need to Know About Making Speeches
and Presentations. Random House.

Gallo, C. (2014). Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World's Top Minds.
St. Martin’s Press.
 Beebe, S. A., & Beebe, S. J. (2017). Public Speaking Handbook (6th ed.). Pearson.

Lucas, S. E. (2020). The Art of Public Speaking (13th ed.). McGraw-Hill.

UNIT 4: OCCASIONS FOR PUBLIC SPEAKING

1.0 INTRODUCTION
2.0 OBJECTIVES
3.0 MAIN CONTENTS
3.1 WHAT IS PUBLIC SPEAKING?
3.2 OCCASIONS FOR PUBLIC SPEAKING
3.2.1 Academic Settings
 3.2.2 Professional and Business events
3.2.3 Ceremonial & Social Occasions
3.2.4 Political & Advocacy Events
3.2.5 Motivational & Inspirational Speaking
4.0 MAJOR TIPS FOR A POLICY-MAKING SPEECH
5.0 CONCLUSION
6.0 SUMMARY
7.0 TUTOR- MARKED ASSIGNMENT
8.0 REFERENCES/ FURTHER READING

Unit 4
1.0 INTRODUCTION
In public speech, many people are involved in listening to the speaker and this implies that
there must be a cogent reason behind giving the speech. Motives behind public speaking can
therefore be divided into four general categories. They are: Policy- forming, Professional,
Social and Ceremonial.

2.0 OBJECTIVES
At the end of the unit, you should be able to:
 List the occasions for public speech
 Explain each of the occasions
 Give examples for each of the occasions.

3.0 MAIN CONTENT

3.1 WHAT IS PUBLIC SPEAKING?

Public speaking is the act of delivering a speech or presentation to an audience with the goal
of informing, persuading, or entertaining. It is a valuable skill used in various settings,
including business, education, politics, and social events. Effective public speaking involves
clear communication, confidence, engagement with the audience, and strong delivery
techniques.

Key elements of public speaking include:

Preparation: Researching and organizing content to ensure clarity and coherence.

Delivery: Using vocal variation, body language, and eye contact to enhance engagement.

Audience Awareness: Understanding the needs and expectations of the listeners.

Overcoming Anxiety: Managing nervousness through practice and relaxation

techniques.

Mastering public speaking can boost self-confidence, enhance leadership skills, and improve
one’s ability to communicate ideas persuasively.

3.2 OCCASIONS FOR PUBLIC SPEAKING

Public speaking is essential in various contexts, ranging from formal events to casual
gatherings. Below are some common occasions where public speaking plays a crucial role:

3.2.1. Academic Settings

Lectures & Seminars – Professors, researchers, and students present academic topics or
findings.

Conferences & Symposiums – Experts share research and insights with a professional or
academic audience.

Debates & Panel Discussions – Structured arguments on various topics, often requiring
critical thinking and persuasion.

Oral Examinations & Defenses – Thesis and dissertation defenses where students
present and defend their research.

3.2.2 Professional & Business Events

 Meetings & Presentations – Employees or executives present ideas, project updates,

or reports.
 Public Relations & Media Appearances – Spokespersons address the public or
media on behalf of an organization.
 Sales Pitches & Product Launches – Persuasive presentations to market a product or
service.
 Workshops & Training Sessions – Educators or industry experts teach new skills or
concepts.

3.2.3 Ceremonial & Social Occasions

 Weddings – Best man, maid of honor, or family members give speeches.

 Funerals & Memorials – Eulogies honoring the deceased.
 Graduations – Valedictorian, guest speakers, or school officials deliver motivational
speeches.
 Award Ceremonies – Recipients or hosts express gratitude and recognition.

3.2.4 Political & Advocacy Events

 Political Campaigns & Rallies – Politicians persuade voters and rally support.
 Public Policy Discussions – Officials or activists address societal issues and propose
solutions.
 Protests & Activism Speeches – Advocates inspire and mobilize people toward a
cause.

3.2.5. Motivational & Inspirational Speaking

 Self-Improvement & Leadership Seminars – Speakers inspire personal and

professional growth.
 Religious & Spiritual Gatherings – Sermons, worship talks, or faith-based
4.0 MAJOR TIPS FOR A POLICY-MAKING SPEECH
A policy-making speech is designed to propose, advocate, or explain a policy to an audience,
often in a governmental, organizational, or public setting. Here are key tips to deliver an
effective policy speech:
1. Understand Your Audience

 Identify stakeholders (e.g., lawmakers, officials, citizens, business leaders).

 Tailor your speech to their concerns, knowledge level, and interests.
 Anticipate potential objections and prepare counterarguments.

2. Clearly Define the Problem

 Provide a compelling introduction that highlights the issue.

 Use statistics, case studies, or real-world examples to establish urgency.
 Frame the problem in a way that resonates with the audience’s values.

3. Present a Well-Structured Policy Proposal

 Clearly outline the proposed policy.

 Explain how it addresses the problem effectively.
 Highlight key components such as goals, implementation strategies, and expected
outcomes.

4. Use Credible Evidence & Data

 Support your arguments with research, expert opinions, and case studies.
 Use comparisons to show the success of similar policies in other regions.
 Cite reputable sources to enhance credibility.

5. Address Feasibility & Practicality

 Outline the steps for implementation, including timelines and responsible parties.
 Discuss budget, resources, and potential challenges.
 Provide solutions for anticipated obstacles.

6. Appeal to Logic & Emotion

 Use logical reasoning to persuade with facts and figures.
 Incorporate emotional appeal through personal stories or testimonials.
 Balance rational arguments with human impact.
7. Engage Your Audience
 Use rhetorical questions to provoke thought.
 Encourage participation through discussion or Q&A.
 Maintain eye contact and confident body language.
8. Call to Action
 Clearly state what you want the audience to do (support, vote, advocate).
 Provide specific steps for engagement (sign a petition, contact officials, spread
awareness).
 End with a strong, memorable closing statement.
SELF-ASSESSMENT EXERCISE
Explain the subject matter of policy-forming communication.
Have you ever attended a policy-forming occasion? If yes, what was your experience?
What is the main purpose of social speech?

4.0 CONCLUSION
The primary aim of speech is to communicate. In order to convey our thoughts or ideas
effectively, the speaker must understand the meaning of what he wants to communicate and
the appropriate situation or occasion in which to do it. He/she must be able to evaluate the
effects of his speech on his audience and must also know the principles underlying all speech
situations and occasions so as to achieve the desired purpose.

5.0 SUMMARY
This unit has exposed you the different occasions or types of public speech. The four main
types of public speech discussed in this unit are policy-forming or political speech,
professional occasion, social and ceremonial occasion. This unit is very important to you as it
prepares you to pay attention to the principles underlying these occasions any time you find
yourself in any of them.

7.0 TUTOR-MARKED ASSESSMENT

True/ False Questions

1.___ A policy-making speech should always include statistics and expert opinions to
strengthen credibility.
2.___ Engaging with the audience through questions and participation can make a policy
speech more effective.
3.___ The feasibility of a policy is not important as long as the idea is innovative.
4.___ Emotional appeal alone is enough to convince an audience in a policy-making
speech.
5___ A well-structured policy speech should clearly explain both the problem and the
proposed solution.

UNIT 5: METHODS OF SPEECH DELIVERY

Content
1.0 Introduction
2.0 Objectives
3.0 Main content
3.1Methods of speech delivery
 3.1.1 Manuscript delivery
3.1.2 Memorized Delivery
3.1.3 Impromptu Delivery
3.1.4 Extemporaneous delivery

4.0 Examples of historic and political speeches

5.0 Conclusion

6.0 Summary
7.0 Tutor-marked assessment
8.0 References/ further reading

Unit 5

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The previous units have introduced you to public speaking including the components and the
occasions that call for it. This unit shall expose you to the different methods of delivering
public speech. The purpose of the speech as well as the speaker may play a vital role in
determining what method of speech deliver to adopt. The following sections of the unit
would introduce you to the different methods by which public speech can be delivered.

2.0 OBJECTIVES

At the end of the unit, you should be able to:

 List the four methods of speech delivery

 Identify the merits and demerits of the methods of delivery
 Adopt the best method of delivery for future use

3.0 MAIN CONTENT

3.1 Methods of Speech Delivery Speech

delivery refers to how a speaker presents their message to an audience. There are four
primary methods of speech delivery:

3.1.1 Manuscript delivery

The speaker reads a fully written speech word-for-word.
 Often used for formal or official speeches (e.g., political addresses, news reports).
Advantages: Ensures precision, useful for complex or sensitive topics.
Disadvantages: Can sound robotic, reduces eye contact, and limits audience engagement.

3.1.2. Memorized Delivery

The speech is written and then memorized completely.
Common in performances, competitions, or TED-style talks.
Advantages: Allows for strong eye contact and movement.
Disadvantages: Risk of forgetting lines, can sound unnatural, and limits flexibility.

3.1.3. Impromptu Delivery

The speech is given with little or no preparation.
Often occurs in meetings, interviews, or Q&A sessions.
Advantages: Feels natural and spontaneous, showcases quick thinking.
Disadvantages: Higher risk of disorganization, lack of supporting evidence.

3.1.4. Extemporaneous delivery

The speech is well-prepared but delivered using notes or key points instead of a full script.
Used in academic presentations, business meetings, and public events.
Advantages: Balanced between structure and being spontaneous, allows for audience
interaction.
Disadvantages: Requires strong preparation and adaptability.

Some guidelines to help you out-

a. Do not bring in points that you lack the time or knowledge to handle.
b. Explain or prove your points by using specific details, examples, anecdotes, and other
supporting materials.
c. Be brief
d. Conclude by a restatement of your points.

SELF-ASSESSMENT EXERCISE
What are the merits and demerits of impromptu speech delivery?

What are advantages and disadvantages of extemporaneous speech delivery?

Why is extemporaneous method of speech delivery popular among speakers?

Explain the disadvantage of manuscript method of speech delivery

4.0 Examples of historic and political speeches

Here are some of the best public speeches in history, known for their impact, rhetoric, and
delivery:

1. Martin Luther King Jr. – "I Have a Dream" (1963)

o Delivered during the March on Washington, this speech called for civil rights
and racial equality, using powerful imagery and repetition.
 o Famous line: "I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out
the true meaning of its creed..."
2. Winston Churchill – "We Shall Fight on the Beaches" (1940)
o A powerful wartime speech rallying British resistance against Nazi Germany.
o Famous line: "We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing
grounds, we shall fight in the fields and in the streets..."
3. John F. Kennedy – Inaugural Address (1961)
o Emphasized civic duty and unity during the Cold War.
o Famous line: "Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can
do for your country."
4. Barack Obama – "Yes We Can" (2008)
o A victory speech after the 2008 U.S. presidential election, inspiring hope and
unity.
o Famous line: "Yes we can."

Inspirational and Motivational Speeches

5. Nelson Mandela – Inaugural Address (1994)

o A speech of reconciliation and hope after apartheid in South Africa.
o Famous line: "Let there be justice for all. Let there be peace for all."
6. Steve Jobs – Stanford Commencement Speech (2005)
o Encouraged graduates to follow their passions and trust in life's journey.
o Famous line: "Stay hungry, stay foolish."
7. J.K. Rowling – Harvard Commencement Speech (2008)
o Spoke about failure, resilience, and the power of imagination.
o Famous line: "We do not need magic to transform our world. We carry all the
power we need inside ourselves already."

Speeches on Social Issues

8. Malala Yousafzai – United Nations Speech (2013)

o Advocated for girls’ education after surviving an assassination attempt.
o Famous line: "One child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can change the
world."
9. Greta Thunberg – UN Climate Action Summit Speech (2019)
o A passionate call for urgent action on climate change.
o Famous line: "How dare you!"

5.0 CONCLUSION

This unit has taken you through the different methods of delivering public speech. The most
important thing about any speech delivery is adequate preparation. You need to be well
prepared to avoid embarrassment. You also need to make your speech interesting by taking
your audience along.

6.0 SUMMARY
This unit exposed to you to four main methods of delivering public speech. These methods
are impromptu, which is referred to as an unplanned for speech; extemporaneous delivery
where you speak from notes or outline of the speech; manuscript which involves reading
from a manuscript and memorization which involves committing the entire speech into
memory.

7.0 TUTOR-MARKED ASSESSMENT

Write short notes on the four methods of speech delivery

Which of the four methods of speech delivery do you recommend?

8.0 REFERENCE/ FURTHER READING

Lucas, S. E. (2020). The Art of Public Speaking (13th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.

Carnegie, D. (2017). The Quick and Easy Way to Effective Speaking. Pocket Books.

Beebe, S. A., & Beebe, S. J. (2021). Public Speaking Handbook (6th ed.). Pearson.

Duarte, N. (2012). Resonate: Present Visual Stories That Transform Audiences. Wiley.

Gallo, C. (2014). Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World's Top Minds.
St. Martin’s Press.

Toastmasters International. (n.d.). How to Improve Your Public Speaking Skills.

https://www.toastmasters.org

Harvard Business Review. (n.d.). How to Give a Killer Presentation. https://hbr.org