another language   
“If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.”
― C.S. Lewis

PREPARED SPEECH

1. Writing your speech

a.  Choice of Topic

You can be enthusiastic, energetic and passionate about a subject that suits you, and that interests you. You will motivate the listeners only if you have interest, knowledge and belief in your subject. Be sensitive to the needs and interests of the audience.

 b.  Preparation and Construction

  • Brainstorm/ Plan: Use Mind Map, Flow Chart, Plot lines. Do not to repeat the same verbs. Use synonyms/ figurative language.

  • Research: Research your topic well. Text always needs substance and truth. Do not use chunks of information directly from encyclopedias or the internet. Reduce and translate into “normal speak-language”.        

  • Introduction: Greet audience. Must be gripping, interesting. Must immediately hold  the audience’s attention. DO NOT SAY: “GOOD DAY. TODAY I AM TALKING ABOUT…”

  • Body: Develop this logically. Imagine someone asking you “Who? What? Why? Where? When? How?” and answer the questions during the course of your speech. Personal stories never form the basis of your speech, but can add flavour - if it is relevant. Use some of the following techniques in the body of the speech: Emotive language, strong imagery, alliteration, assonance, repetition, humour (do not try to be funny), facts, figures or statistics as evidence, and quotes.

  • Conclusion:  Use words like “To conclude…, Finally…, To sum up…”, to let your audience know that you are ending your speech. Provide listeners with food for thought, encouraging action. Restate main points in one sentence or catchphrase.

 Do not over-use quotes and statistics. Sometimes say something unexpected. Use rhetorical questions.

 2. Presentation:  

Practice makes perfect. More preparation = less nerves.

Practise in a mirror, and record yourself. Listening to yourself will help you to be aware of your pace, pitch, emphasis and voice modulation.

 Stand up straight – in one place, feet slightly apart. If you look confident, the listeners will feel comfortable.

  • Speak slowly – do not rush your speech. Your content deserves to be heard. Pause – this gives the listener time to digest the information.
  • Crisp articulation and projection are essential. If the listeners cannot understand or hear what is being said, then the ideas, opinions and facts are worthless.
  • Facial and vocal inflections enhance interest.
  • Avoid ‘ers’ and ‘uhms’, which detract from the fluency and the sense of what is being said.
  • Modulate your voice effectively with regard to volume, pitch, pace, pause and inflection. Speak clearly, so that everyone in the back of the venue can also hear clearly, but do not shout.

 

Never memorize your speech. You will sound like a parrot. Listen to what you are trying to say to your listeners. Mean it. Be natural and sincere. 

3. Audience Contact

  • Eye contact: Not just a quick glance every now and then – ‘meet’ with your listeners. Their eyes will tell you if they are listening – adapt accordingly.

  • Body Language: Your body must tell the same story as your words and ‘carry’ the same tone. Avoid distracting movements or mannerisms.  DO NOT ROCK FROM SIDE TO SIDE WHILE YOU SPEAK.

  • Gestures: Use natural movements of the body to stress important/humorous/emotional points. Do not overdo this. 

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4. Cue Cards

Look at your notes openly. You may!

  • Reduce: Once you have written your speech, reduce it to key words on cue cards. Do not keep the original with you. This will encourage you to speak rather than read.

  • Numbered: Number cards top left or right – this helps to avoid confusion.

  • Size: Cards must not be too small – NO SLITHERS OF PAPER. Use A5 or A6.

  • Paper: Use firm cardboard. Normal paper folds too easily. Bright colours can be distracting.

  • Position: Hold at comfortable level – not too high or too low. If you look down at your notes, your voice goes down. Do not hold the cards in front of your face.



BIBLIOGRAPHY

Barnes, A., 1977. English Made Easy. Goodwood [Cape Town]: Nasou, pp.198-199.

Lutrin, B. and Pincus, M., 2007. English Handbook and Study Guide. 3rd ed. Birnam Park: Berlut Books, pp.112-119.

Ogram, B., n.d. English FAL. 1st ed. Pietermaritzburg: Shuter & Shooter (Pty) Ltd, pp.9-10.


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