Overview
This lecture covers tips for effective speech delivery, focusing on the manuscript and memorized types of speeches, along with delivery techniques to engage audiences.
Tips for Effective Speaking
- Good speakers use confident body movements, facial expressions, and clear speech to engage audiences.
- Managing stage fright is normal; use breathing, facial, hand, and finger exercises to calm nerves.
- Feedback from the audience is valuable; delivery should prioritize what listeners receive, not just content.
Types of Speeches According to Delivery
Manuscript Speech
- Delivered by reading a prepared text word-for-word.
- Suitable for formal events like presidential addresses or school graduation speeches.
- Advantage: Well-prepared and less likely to omit information.
- Disadvantage: Can lack emotion, making it less engaging.
- Tips: Read at ~140 words per minute, memorize opening/closing lines, maintain eye contact, pause at commas/periods, and practice regularly.
Memorized Speech
- Speech is written and practiced until recalled verbatim, without reading notes.
- Often used in school competitions and formal ceremonies.
- Advantage: Appears impressive and confident without notes.
- Disadvantage: Requires significant memorization; risk of forgetting lines and increased nervousness.
- Tips: Maintain ideal speaking speed, use hand gestures and voice modulation, include facial expressions, and memorize the outline for easier recovery if distracted.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Manuscript Speech — Delivering a speech by reading it directly from a written text.
- Memorized Speech — Delivering a speech by recalling it word-for-word from memory.
- Speech Rate — The speed at which a person speaks, ideally about 140 words per minute.
- Stage Fright — Nervousness or anxiety before speaking publicly.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice breathing and relaxation techniques before speaking.
- Prepare and rehearse speeches, focusing on delivery techniques discussed.
- Watch public speaking examples (e.g., Toastmasters, TED Talks) for inspiration.
- Memorize outlines in addition to speech content for more effective delivery.