Overview
This lecture covers the fundamentals of speech delivery, including delivery methods, the differences between public speaking and conversation, and key characteristics of effective oral presentations.
Public Speaking vs. Conversation
- Public speaking is a planned, organized, and often researched form of communication, unlike spontaneous conversation.
- Public speaking is more formal than conversation in terms of language, posture, eye contact, and attire.
- Roles are fixed: the speaker sends the message, and the audience primarily receives it, while conversation roles switch rapidly.
Four Basic Methods of Delivery
- Manuscript Speaking: Reading a speech word-for-word from a written text.
- Memorized Delivery: Reciting a speech completely from memory with no notes.
- Impromptu Speaking: Delivering a speech with little or no preparation.
- Extemporaneous Speaking: Speaking with well-prepared notes, but choosing words during the presentation for a conversational tone.
Choosing a Delivery Method
- Manuscript is best when exact wording is essential, but can sound unnatural.
- Memorized delivery fits short speeches, but often sounds rehearsed.
- Impromptu is for unexpected situations but can seem unorganized; requires subject knowledge and quick thinking.
- Extemporaneous is preferred for its naturalness and preparation, commonly used in business and education.
Characteristics of Speech Delivery
- Vocal delivery involves appropriate volume, clear articulation, pronunciation, pitch, rate, and sincere tone.
- Avoid monotone voice (lack of vocal variety) and fillers like “um,” “uh,” and “like,” which lower credibility.
- Effective eye contact builds trust and engages the audience.
- Confident and enthusiastic body movement, gestures, posture, and facial expressions enhance delivery.
- Personal appearance affects how the audience perceives the speaker.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Manuscript Speaking — Delivering a speech by reading a written text verbatim.
- Memorized Delivery — Reciting a fully memorized speech with no notes.
- Impromptu Speaking — Speaking with minimal or no preparation.
- Extemporaneous Speaking — Speaking with prior preparation and brief notes; not memorized.
- Vocal Variety — Variation in pitch, rate, and tone to maintain audience interest.
- Filler Words/Disfluencies — Unhelpful sounds or phrases (e.g., “um,” “uh”) that interrupt speech fluency.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on which delivery method you prefer as a speaker and as an audience member.
- Identify which characteristics of speech delivery you find most important and plan to focus on them in your next presentation.