3.7 Enrichment
Discussion Questions
- As a class or with a group of friends, discuss what makes an effective speaker. Write the traits or characteristics on the board.
- Why do many people think that Memorized Speaking is the best method of delivery? What do you think? Which method do you feel best suits most occasions?
- How does delivery of a presentation differ between in-person and online settings?
- Which aspects of delivery discussed in Section 3:5: What to do When Delivering Your Speech are you most concerned about for your speech delivery? Discuss with a classmate or group. Do you have any tips for improving those aspects of speech delivery?
Activities
- Volunteer to take turns delivering a sample speech using the ABCs or your favorite poem or song in conversational form in front of the class. Be sure to incorporate facial expressions, gestures, movement, vocal characteristics, and eye contact. Discuss your feelings and thoughts as you presented. Provide feedback to others after they present.
- Set a timer on your phone for one to two minutes and record yourself presenting an impromptu speech. Choose a topic you are able to speak about like, “What is the best vacation you have ever taken?” or “What is your favorite book or movie?” or “Why did you come to OSU?” Speaking off the cuff can help mitigate anxiety and give you priceless practice and mental confidence when a presentation counts.
- List three areas of delivery that you would like to improve this semester. Based on tips in Section 3:5: What to do When Delivering Your Speech, how will you improve these aspects of delivery in your next speech?
- The entire class forms a circle (sitting or standing). Each class member thinks of their favorite childhood cartoon or film and a couple of reasons why it is the best. Each class member will deliver an impromptu speech about their favorite cartoon or film while making eye contact with everyone in the circle and without using a vocalized pause. If the speaker uses a vocalized pause, other class members let them know and they will begin their impromptu speech again until everyone can make eye contact with the circle without using a vocalized pause.
