Lecture Notes on Speech Delivery

Introduction to Speech Delivery

• Speech delivery is considered an art rather than a science.
• What works for one speaker may not work for another.
• Four main delivery styles:
  • Impromptu
  • Extemporaneous
  • Manuscripted
  • Memorized

Impromptu Delivery

• Delivered with little or no preparation.
• Often occurs in unexpected situations (e.g., politicians speaking spontaneously).
• Example: Speaker asked to deliver a 20-minute presentation with 1.5 hours' notice.
• Key aspect: Utilize existing knowledge and prepare a relevant introduction.

Extemporaneous Delivery

• Fully prepared speech, adaptable to circumstances.
• Allows flexibility in length and content based on audience reaction.
• Commonly used by teachers and presenters.
• Involves using an outline to guide the presentation.
• Offers ability to address audience questions or modify content on the fly.

Manuscript Delivery

• Requires precise timing and wording.
• Necessary in situations needing exact communication (e.g., declarations of war, official statements).
• Involves reading verbatim from a prepared script or teleprompter.
• Ensures sentiment and key points are communicated without error.
• Often perceived as less heartfelt but guarantees message clarity.

Memorized Speech Delivery

• Speech committed to memory, delivered verbatim.
• Risks include forgetting parts of the speech and sounding unnatural or rigid.
• Memorization can lead to awkward pauses if the speaker forgets.
• Jumping ahead in speech can confuse the audience due to missing context.
• Not recommended; better to use manuscript or extemporaneous formats.

Conclusion

• Choose the appropriate style based on the context and audience.
• Extemporaneous delivery offers flexibility and adaptability.
• Manuscript delivery is ideal for precision necessary scenarios.
• Avoid memorized delivery to maintain natural flow and audience engagement.