how to make an outline for extemporaneous speech

Speech Writing

Extemporaneous Speech

How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech? A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding Extemporaneous Speech

Before we dive into the steps of speech writing , it's essential to understand what is meant by extemporaneous speech and why it matters.

An extemporaneous speech is when you deliver a speech without practicing beforehand. You have to rely on what you know and think quickly.

An example of an extemporaneous speech situation is when a student is asked to give an impromptu talk on a current news headline in front of the class.

Comparing Impromptu and Extemporaneous Speech

The above definition might make you think that impromptu and extemporaneous speech sound similar. But that is not the case.

Let’s take a look at the key difference between the two speech types:

Impromptu speeches do not allow preparation for the speech and they often lack structure and familiarity.
On the other hand, extemporaneous speeches require a little preparation time, some organization, and familiar topics.

Let’s take a look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of extemporaneous speech.

Advantages of Extemporaneous Speech

Enhanced Communication Skills: Improves public speaking, listening, and interpersonal communication skills.
Confidence Boost: Regular practice instills self-assurance in various speaking situations.
Adaptability: Speakers learn to tailor their message to the interests and concerns of different audiences.
Quick Thinking: Extemporaneous speaking sharpens the ability to think quickly and make decisions on the spot.

Disadvantages of Extemporaneous Speech

Lack of Preparation: Speakers may deliver incomplete or less coherent presentations due to limited preparation.
Potential for Inaccuracy: The absence of time for thorough research can lead to providing inaccurate information.
Nervousness: The pressure of impromptu speaking can lead to anxiety and reduced confidence.
Time Constraints: Speakers must manage their time effectively to stay within the allotted timeframes, adding to the pressure.

7 Easy Steps to Writing an Extemporaneous Speech

Let’s take a look at some easy steps to writing an extemporaneous speech that you can follow along:

Step 1 - Research and Gather Information

To write a compelling extemporaneous speech, you must gather relevant information quickly. This step includes:

Identifying the Topic or Prompt: Understand the subject or question you'll be speaking about.
Finding Reliable Sources: Utilize trustworthy resources to gather facts, statistics, and arguments.

Step 2 - Create an Extemporaneous Speech Outline

An outline will give you a basic blueprint of the speech and can even help you weed out any potential mistakes in the structure or format of the speech .

Though the outline can vary depending on the type of speech you are writing, here is a basic outline you can follow:

Introduction: Engage your audience with a captivating start, state your main point, and clarify why your topic matters.
Body Paragraphs:
Main Point 1: Add supporting details, present your first key idea, and back it up with evidence.
Main Point 2: Introduces the second key idea, providing supporting evidence.
Main Point 3: Add an optional third key idea with supporting details.
Navigating the Conclusion: Recap your main arguments and leave a lasting impression.

Step 3 - Crafting a Strong Introduction

It is crucial to capture your audience's attention in the introduction and set the tone for your message.

Here is what you need to keep in mind when writing a speech introduction ;

Use an attention-grabbing technique to engage your listeners.
Formulate a clear and concise thesis statement that clearly states the main point of your speech.
Establishing Significance: Explain why the topic is relevant or important.

Step 4 - Developing Compelling Main Points

The main body of your speech should convey your message effectively and coherently. Here are the things you should keep in mind;

Identify key ideas and supporting details to determine the main arguments. If possible, try to gather and mention any evidence to back up your arguments.
Make sure that your speech flows logically and smoothly.
Use real-life examples, personal stories, and relevant statistics to make your points more compelling and understandable.

Step 5 - Engaging the Audience

Engaging your audience is essential for an effective extemporaneous speech. You can achieve that by maintaining your body language to establish a connection with your listeners.

You should also develop the audience's interests by tailoring your speech to address their concerns and interests.

Step 6 - Handling Transitions

Transitions are essential for keeping your speech coherent and organized. This step includes:

Make sure your ideas flow seamlessly in the speech, creating a natural progression.
Use words and phrases that act as guideposts for your audience through your speech.
Avoid sudden changes in the topic that could leave your listeners confused.

Step 7 - Navigating the Conclusion

Concluding your speech effectively leaves a lasting impression. Here is what you should keep in mind when writing:

Recap key points to ensure your audience leaves with a clear understanding of your main arguments.
Make your message resonate with your listeners by delivering a powerful closing statement.
Invite questions or comments from your audience to engage them.

Extemporaneous Speech Topics

Here are some topics for extemporaneous speech that can be used for practice or in various speaking situations:

The impact of social media on society.
Climate change: What can individuals do to make a difference?
The benefits of reading in the digital age.
The role of artificial intelligence in the workplace.
Should standardized testing be eliminated in education?
The challenges of maintaining work-life balance in a fast-paced world.
The importance of mental health awareness.
The future of renewable energy sources.
The effects of globalization on local cultures.
Is social media a force for good or harm?
Exploring the pros and cons of remote work.
The significance of cultural diversity in a globalized world.
The ethics of genetic engineering and designer babies.
The impact of the gig economy on job security.
The role of women in leadership positions.
The effects of video games on children's behavior.
The benefits and drawbacks of online education.
The impact of fast fashion on the environment.
The role of government in addressing income inequality.
The ethics of animal testing in scientific research.

Be sure to check out more speech topics to select the one that stands out to you the most.

Extemporaneous Speech Examples

Let’s take a look at an example of an extemporaneous speech situation:

The above example of extemporaneous speech addresses the topic of the impact of social media on modern society. It provides a well-structured, balanced, and informative discussion of the subject while maintaining a clear and engaging delivery style.

Here are some more examples to let you have a better understanding of how to write a speech;

Extemporaneous Speech Example

Extemporaneous Speech Example for Students

Extemporaneous Speech Example About Life

Extemporaneous Speech Example About Education

Be sure to check out more speech examples to have a better understanding of structuring and formatting a speech.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing an Extemporaneous Speech

Here are some common mistakes you should avoid when delivering extemporaneous speeches:

Lacking Clarity: Deliver your message clearly and concisely to prevent your audience from becoming perplexed.
Overusing Fillers: Repeatedly using fillers like "um" or "uh" can be distracting; practice reducing these verbal crutches.
Ignoring Time Constraints: Extemporaneous speeches are typically time-limited; going over your allotted time can disrupt the flow of the event.
Monotone Delivery: A lack of vocal variety can make your speech less engaging; vary your tone, pitch, and pace to keep your audience's attention.
Lack of Evidence: Backing your points with evidence is crucial; not providing examples, anecdotes, or data can weaken your arguments.
Avoiding Controversial Topics: While it's wise to be cautious, completely avoiding controversial subjects can make your speeches less engaging. Instead, learn to navigate these topics with sensitivity and respect.

Tips for Improving Extemporaneous Speech Delivery

Here are some extemporaneous speech tips you can use to improve the delivery of your speech:

Know Your Topic: Start by having a solid understanding of your topic. The more you know, the more confident you'll feel when speaking.
Speak Clearly and Slowly: Pronounce your words clearly and speak at a moderate pace. Avoid rushing through your speech.
Be Mindful of Fillers: Avoid using fillers such as "um," "uh," or "like." Practice eliminating these from your speech.
Manage Nervousness: Nervousness is natural. Practice relaxation techniques, like deep breathing, before speaking to manage anxiety.
Gestures and Body Language: Use appropriate gestures and body language to emphasize points and maintain audience interest.
Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact with your audience. This creates a sense of connection and engagement.
Vocal Variety: Vary your tone, pitch, and volume to keep your audience engaged. Avoid speaking in a monotone voice.

So there you have it!

Mastering the art of writing an extemporaneous speech is a valuable skill that can benefit you in various personal and professional situations.

By following this step-by-step guide, practicing, and learning from your experiences, you can become a confident and effective extemporaneous speaker.

Don't miss the opportunity to improve your extemporaneous speaking skills. Keep practicing, and soon you'll be delivering impressive speeches on the spot with ease.

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Our professional essay writers at MyPerfectWords.com are ready to partner with you to create an awesome public speaking experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. what is the purpose of an extemporaneous speech.

The main purpose of an extemporaneous speech is to help the speakers develop quick thinking skills. Since these speeches allow limited preparation time, the speaker has to think and organize his ideas quickly and on their feet.

2. What is the key characteristic of an extemporaneous speech?

The key characteristic of this kind of speech is that the speaker has to synthesize facts obtained from outside sources and mix them with his understanding and personal style to convey the message.

3. What are the advantages of extemporaneous speech?

The main advantages of this kind of speech include:

The speaker is able to speak in a more conversational tone and style.
Budding speakers learn how to think quickly and on their feet.

Besides, it also helps them maintain eye contact with the audience.

4. Is extemporaneous speech formal?

No, this kind of speech is usually informal as the speaker does not have time to memorize everything. However, the speaker is still being judged and, therefore, must follow a structure.

5. What is the difference between memorized and extemporaneous speech?

The extemporaneous speech is delivered with minimum preparation and with the help of note cards. A memorized speech is what it says, ‘memorized,’ and it is delivered without the help of cue cards.

6. Why is extemporaneous speech the best?

This kind of speech is considered the best because it allows the speakers to maintain eye contact with the audience. This includes both verbal and non-verbal communication, which is important in public speaking

Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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Speech Writing

Extemporaneous Speech

The Art of Extemporaneous Speech: Mastering the Unexpected

Published on: Apr 14, 2022

Last updated on: Jan 29, 2024

Extemporaneous Speech Definition

Extemporaneous speech, also known as impromptu speaking, is a form of public speaking. It requires delivering a speech on a given topic without prior preparation.

Unlike prepared speeches, extemporaneous speaking tests an individual's ability to think on their feet. They have to present coherent arguments or ideas in a spontaneous manner.

Speakers are typically provided with a topic and given a short amount of time to gather their thoughts before delivering the speech.

This style of speaking is often seen in various settings. This includes competitions, debates, or classrooms.

What are the Elements of an Effective Extemporaneous Speech?

An effective extemporaneous speech incorporates several key elements that contribute to its overall impact and success. Let's explore these elements in detail for this particular type of speech :

Clear Introduction

Begin your speech with a concise and attention-grabbing introduction. Clearly state the topic or question at hand and provide a brief overview of what you'll be discussing. Engage the audience from the start to capture their interest.

Well-Structured Content

Organize your speech into a logical structure that flows smoothly. Use a combination of main points and supporting details to build a coherent and persuasive argument. Consider using techniques like the problem-solution approach, cause-effect analysis, or chronological order, depending on the nature of your topic.

Engaging Delivery

Deliver your speech with energy, confidence, and enthusiasm. Maintain eye contact with the audience, use appropriate gestures and body language, and vary your tone of voice. Aim for a conversational style that connects with your audience on a personal level.

Supporting Evidence

Back up your arguments with relevant and credible evidence. Incorporate statistics, facts, examples, and anecdotes to strengthen your points and provide a deeper understanding of the topic. Use sources such as reputable studies, expert opinions, or real-life experiences to lend credibility to your speech.

Effective Conclusion

End your speech with a memorable conclusion that summarizes your main points and reinforces your thesis statement. Leave the audience with a lasting impression or a call to action, encouraging them to reflect on your speech.

Adaptability

Extemporaneous speaking requires the ability to adapt to unexpected situations or changes in the speaking environment. Be flexible and prepared to adjust your speech as necessary. This may involve addressing counter arguments, responding to audience questions, or incorporating new information that arises during your speech.

How To Deliver An Extemporaneous Speech?

Delivering an extemporaneous speech requires a combination of preparation, confidence, and adaptability. Here are some key tips to help you deliver an effective extemporaneous speech:

Familiarize Yourself with the Topic

Take time to understand the topic or question you'll be speaking about. Research and gather relevant information to develop a solid understanding of the subject matter. This knowledge will give you a foundation to draw upon during your speech.

Structure Your Speech

Create a basic structure for your speech with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Clearly define the main points or arguments you want to address. Organize your supporting ideas in a logical sequence, ensuring a smooth flow from one point to another.

Use Prompts and Keywords

Instead of memorizing your entire speech, use prompts and keywords to guide you through each section. Create cue cards or outline key points on a notecard. This will help jog your memory and keep your speech on track without sounding overly rehearsed.

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Speak Naturally

Avoid sounding robotic or overly scripted. Aim for a conversational tone that reflects your personality and allows you to connect with the audience. Be mindful of your pacing and avoid rushing through your speech. Speak clearly and enunciate your words to ensure clarity.

Use Visual Aids (if available)

If visual aids such as slides or props are available, utilize them to enhance your speech. Visual aids can provide additional support to your main points and make your presentation more engaging. However, be careful not to rely too heavily on them and maintain the focus on your spoken words.

Handle Nervousness

Feeling nervous is natural, but try to manage your nerves by taking deep breaths and maintaining a positive mindset. Remind yourself of your preparation and expertise on the topic. Channel your nervous energy into enthusiasm and passion for your subject.

Practice Active Listening

During your speech, pay attention to the audience's reactions and engagement. Stay alert to any cues or questions they may have. Adjust your delivery based on their responses, such as slowing down or elaborating on certain points to ensure comprehension.

Be Flexible and Adaptable

Extemporaneous speaking requires adaptability. Be prepared to adjust your speech if needed, such as addressing unexpected questions or incorporating new information. Stay composed and respond thoughtfully to any challenges that may arise.

Seek Feedback and Learn

After delivering your extemporaneous speech, seek feedback from others, such as colleagues, mentors, or trusted individuals. Assess areas of improvement, such as clarity, structure, or delivery. Use the feedback to enhance your skills for future extemporaneous speaking engagements.

How to Make Extemporaneous Speech?

When it comes to writing an extemporaneous speech, the goal is to strike a balance between preparation and spontaneity. A few steps can be followed to write a great extemporaneous speech.

1. Select a Topic

The very first step is selecting a topic. A wise choice would include a topic that you are familiar with. It will take you less time to brainstorm ideas and plan your speech. Take a few minutes to brainstorm all the information you have on the subject.

2. Create an Outline

Draft a quick outline for your speech. It should have a few lines for your introduction, something that the audience can relate to or will find funny, or a question that will alert the audience. Here is a sample outline for you to get a better idea.

Extemporaneous Speech Outline

3. Begin with the Body Paragraphs

After the outline, start working on your body paragraphs. Keep in mind that you do not have a lot of time to write and practice your speech. So make sure that the body paragraph should have a few key points only.

4. Give Examples to Support Your Stance

Continue with your main points by giving some examples. Examples help the audience understand your topic better. It also makes them curious so they might have some questions at the end.

5. Draft a Brief Conclusion

Write your conclusion, but make it very short. If your conclusion is too long it will be redundant for the audience.

Extemporaneous Speech Examples

If you are still struggling to understand how to deliver an extemporaneous speech or how to write it time efficiently, check out these examples mentioned below:

Example of Extemporaneous Speech

Extemporaneous Speech About COVID-19

Extemporaneous Speech Sample

Example of Extemporaneous Speech About Education

Extemporaneous Speech Topics

When it comes to extemporaneous speech topics, the possibilities are vast. Here are some engaging and thought-provoking topic ideas to inspire your impromptu speeches:

Why do I love playing volleyball?
When will I become a millionaire?
Why is Playstation better than Xbox?
The best songwriter is -fill a name-
Gays donât have equal rights, is it true?
Political instability in my country is due to?
Why is facebookâs popularity falling down so quickly?
Why are illegal immigrants not given rights?
Are internet crime and piracy penalized?
Stopping the war in Afghanistan is important

These are just some of the many extemp speech topics that you can choose from. Feel free to mold these topics according to your knowledge.

If you need more interesting topics, check out our blog on the best Impromptu speech topics for public speaking .

Expert Tips For Delivering An Extemporaneous Speech

Here are some brief tips to help you deliver an extemporaneous speech with confidence and impact:

Know your Audience: Tailor your speech to the specific audience you are addressing to ensure relevance and engagement.

Practice Impromptu Speaking : Regularly engage in impromptu speaking exercises to sharpen your ability to think on your feet and articulate your thoughts effectively.
Use Effective Body Language : Use gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to enhance your message and connect with the audience.
Emphasize Key Points : Highlight important ideas through vocal emphasis, pauses, or repetition to ensure they resonate with your audience.
Maintain a Steady Pace : Speak at a moderate pace to allow your audience to follow your ideas without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Use Storytelling Techniques : Incorporate anecdotes or stories to make your speech more relatable, memorable, and engaging.
Be Concise : Keep your ideas succinct and to the point. Avoid unnecessary tangents or rambling, as it can dilute the impact of your speech.
Practice Active Listening : Pay attention to your audience's reactions and adapt your speech accordingly. Respond to their cues, questions, or feedback to maintain a dynamic and interactive presentation.
Maintain a Positive Attitude : Approach your extemporaneous speech with a positive mindset. Embrace the challenge, believe in your abilities, and exude confidence in your delivery.

Remember , practice is key to improving your extemporaneous speaking skills.

In conclusion, extemporaneous speaking is a valuable skill that can elevate your public speaking abilities to new heights.

By mastering the art of impromptu speeches, you can deliver compelling presentations in any situation.

Embrace opportunities to practice extemporaneous speaking, whether it's in classrooms, competitions, or professional settings.

The more you engage in impromptu speaking, the more confident and adept you will become. You can try our AI essay writing tools to generate unique speeches and practice!

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Our experienced team of writers can provide expert guidance and support to ensure your essays make a lasting impression.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is an extemporaneous speech.

The length of an extemporaneous speech can vary depending on the specific context or requirements. In general, extemporaneous speeches are typically shorter than prepared or formal speeches. They often range from 5 to 7 minutes, but can sometimes be as short as 3 minutes or extend up to 10 minutes.

What is the difference between impromptu and extemporaneous speech?

The main difference between impromptu and extemporaneous speech is in the level of preparation. Impromptu speeches are delivered on the spot without prior planning or preparation. On the other hand, extemporaneous speeches involve some level of preparation, research, and organization before delivering the speech.

What are two qualities that make up an extemporaneous speech?

Two qualities that make up an extemporaneous speech are spontaneity and organization. Spontaneity refers to the ability to think and speak on the spot.

Organization involves structuring the speech with a clear outline, and cohesive content, ensuring that ideas are effectively communicated.

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Extemporaneous Speech Maker: Quick and Efficient Tool

Need urgent assistance with speech writing? You are welcome to use our free online tool. It was designed to help college students search for inspiration before delivery for successful performance.

This extemporaneous speech maker is relatively simple to use. Just follow these steps:

Add the topic of your speech.
Indicate your stance.
Add details about the audience.
Click “Generate” and get the extemporaneous speech.
🤖 Introduction
✨ 5 Advantages of Speech Maker

🗣️ What Is an Extemporaneous Speech?

🤓 How to Make an Effective Speech
📝 Extemporaneous Speech Outline
🔥 7 Speech Delivery Tips

🔗 References

🤖 extemporaneous speech generator: introduction.

Extemporaneous speech is a distinct form of public speaking that requires specific skills from college students. You can advance in this performance by applying creativity, quick thinking, and persuasive speaking skills . Still in doubt about whether you can ace this speech type? Are you a newbie who's just starting? Then practice and a bit of preparation will do you a good favor. To help you out, our team has prepared this extemporaneous speech creator and a small guide on how to make this speech stand out. Check them out!

✨ 5 Advantages of Our Extemporaneous Speech Maker

Using our speech creator is a perfect shortcut to mastering this skill faster. You will surely enjoy the benefits of picking our speech maker as a handy assistant.

An extemporaneous speech is a specific form of speech delivery that presupposes an improvised presentation on the speaker's part with minimal preparation. Many people find this public speaking method challenging; they have no time for preparation and need to sound structured and persuasive without an outline and several rehearsals.

When you want to deliver such a type, speech topics are usually issued right before the performance. That's why such public speaking exercises are typical for competitions.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Extemporaneous Speaking?

Speaking without preparation comes with certain advantages, yet it also has drawbacks you should know.

🤓 How to Make an Effective Extemporaneous Speech

A secret formula to an excellent extemporaneous speech combines preparation and spontaneity. Here, we share some essential steps to help you attain that balance.

Choose your topic . It should be simple and manageable yet interesting for your audience.
Formulate a thesis statement . Create the main guiding message you will aim to deliver to your listeners. Besides, you can try our thesis statement generator .
Compose an outline . Create a structure with an opening statement, arguments, supporting evidence, and a conclusion to guide your speech delivery.
Research the topic and compile the evidence . Find some relevant sources and facts that may make your arguments more persuasive and grounded.
Explain the points you make . Add the located evidence to your arguments and combine them logically so the audience can capture your reasoning.
Give relevant examples . Spice up the narrative with examples. They work much better to illustrate abstract points and convince the listeners.
Formulate a coherent conclusion . Sum up all your arguments and revisit the thesis statement to show that you've achieved your speech's rhetorical goal.
Deliver the speech . Present your intellectual product to the public.

What Are Some Simple Topics in an Extemporaneous Speech?

Manageable and informative speech topics are a great way to simplify the task of extemporaneous speech preparation and delivery. Here are some interesting topics:

The importance of being true to yourself.
How do I follow my dream ?
Four types of lessons you can learn from college life .
What is the role of AI in modern life?

📝 Extemporaneous Speech Outline Example

An outline is a powerful helper in your spontaneous speech preparation. It will structure your presentation and help you stay on topic throughout delivery. Check out an example of a well-structured outline for this speech type.

Prompt : The role of teachers in your life.

Introduction: An opening hook is a story about a teacher that changed one famous person's life. Thesis statement about the subject of the speech.
Point 1 . People are social creatures and learn everything in their lives from examples (of their parents, peers, and teachers).
Point 2 . Teachers are specifically trained people whose mission is to direct their students and inform them about the hidden implications of their thoughts and decisions, etc. Thus, listening to a wise teacher is an opportunity to borrow wisdom from them.
Point 3 . Teachers can prevent life-changing mistakes by sharing their experiences. It is every person's choice whether to listen to their advice or make their own decisions and reap the consequences (whether good or bad).
Conclusion: The concluding paragraph is about the value of honoring teachers. Also, it should highlight what a transformative experience they can give each student.

What Are the Key Points of Extemporaneous Speech?

Though you have little time for preparation, it’s still vital in the process. Here are some points that will make your speech good:

Deliver the speech sincerely.
Speak in your traditional tone and individual style .
Make sure your words make sense.
Speak naturally without sticking to the words in the outline.
Avoid using too complex terminology or long sentences.

🔥 7 Extemporaneous Speech Delivery Tips for the Best Performance

The good news is that with a healthy dose of preparation, training, and rehearsal, you can hone your extemporaneous speech delivery skills and get better at this craft.

Use these tips to improve your public speaking excellence.

Create index cards . These prompts will give you hints throughout the process of speaking without creating an impression that you're reading from a sheet of paper.
Practice active listening . Once you listen to how others speak, you will understand what public speaking resonates with people.
Develop your speaking skills . You will fare much better with extemporaneous speaking if you develop an individual style and approach. It will simplify speaking on a variety of topics.
Engage body language . Speeches are not only about words; body language and non-verbal cues may also help you deliver your message.
Rehearse the speech . Training and preparation will give you confidence and a better grasp of the topic.
Use relatable examples from personal experience . These examples resonate with the public much better than examples about people your listeners don't know.
Learn by mistakes . Public speaking is a lifelong learning skill you can improve as you train and analyze your past performances. There's always room for improvement.

We wish you a successful performance with your extemporaneous speech! Feel free to share the speech creator with your friends. Also, check out our handy topic generator .

Updated: Jan 26th, 2024

Prepared and Extemporaneous Speech Assignments in a Communication-B Course. – Professor Greg Downey, University of Wisconsin
Four Methods of Delivery. – University of Minnesota
Oral Discourse and Extemporaneous Delivery. – University of Pittsburgh
Methods of Speech Delivery. – Rebekah Bennetch; Corey Owen; and Zachary Keesey, University of Saskatchewan
4-H Opportunities in Extemporaneous Speaking. – University of Massachusetts Amherst
Extemporaneous Speaking: The Basics. – Dr. Layne Goodman; Amber Green, M.A., Maricopa Community Colleges
Tips on Extemporaneous Speech. – Felix Researcher, Medium
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Here you will find an extemporaneous speech generator to help you promptly prepare for an event. Read a good outline example to understand the structure. Also, check out the short guide and beneficial tips that can help you for a better speaking experience.

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Chapter Eleven – Outlining the Speech

Why outline.

Screenshot from a youtube video that explains how to build a power point

Screenshot from youtube video.

Most speakers and audience members would agree that an organized speech is both easier to present as well as more effective. Public speaking teachers especially believe in the power of organizing your speech, which is why they encourage (and often require) that you create an outline for your speech. Outlines , or textual arrangements of all the various elements of a speech, are a very common way of organizing a speech before it is delivered. Most extemporaneous speakers keep a brief outline with them during the speech as a way to ensure that they do not leave out any important elements and to keep them on track. Writing an outline is also important to the speechwriting process since doing so forces speakers to think about the main points and sub-points, the examples they wish to include, and the ways in which these elements correspond to one another. In short, the outline functions both as an organization tool and as a reference for delivering a speech.

A full-sentence outline lays a strong foundation for your message. It will call on you to have one clear and specific purpose for your message. As we have seen in other chapters of this book, writing your specific purpose in clear language serves you well:

It helps you frame a clear, concrete thesis statement. It helps you exclude irrelevant information. It helps you focus only on information that directly bears on your thesis. It reduces the amount of research you must do. It helps both you and your audience remember the central message of your speech. It suggests what kind of supporting evidence is needed, so less effort is expended in trying to figure out what to do next.

Finally, a solid full-sentence outline helps your audience understand your message because they will be able to follow your reasoning. Remember that live audiences for oral communications lack the ability to “rewind” your message to figure out what you said, so it is critically important to help the audience follow your reasoning as it reaches their ears.

Your authors have noted among their past and present students a reluctance to write full-sentence outlines. It’s a task too often perceived as busywork, unnecessary, time consuming, and restricted. On one hand, we understand that reluctance. But on the other hand, we find that students who carefully write a full-sentence outline show a stronger tendency to give powerful presentations of excellent messages.

Outlines Test the Scope of Content

When you begin with a clear, concrete thesis statement, it acts as kind of compass for your outline. Each of the main points should directly explicate. The test of the scope will be a comparison of each main point to the thesis statement. If you find a poor match, you will know you’ve wandered outside the scope of the thesis.

Let’s say the general purpose of your speech is to inform, and your broad topic area is wind-generated energy. Now you must narrow this to a specific purpose. You have many choices, but let’s say your specific purpose is to inform a group of property owners about the economics of wind farms where electrical energy is generated.

Your first main point could be that modern windmills require a very small land base, making the cost of real estate low. This is directly related to economics. All you need is information to support your claim that only a small land base is needed.

In your second main point, you might be tempted to claim that windmills don’t pollute in the ways other sources do. However, you will quickly note that this claim is unrelated to the thesis. You must resist the temptation to add it. Perhaps in another speech, your thesis will address environmental impact, but in this speech, you must stay within the economic scope. Perhaps you will say that once windmills are in place, they require virtually no maintenance. This claim is related to the thesis. Now all you need is supporting information to support this second claim.

Your third point, the point some audience members will want to hear, is the cost for generating electrical energy with windmills compared with other sources. This is clearly within the scope of energy economics. You should have no difficulty finding authoritative sources of information to support that claim.

When you write in outline form, it is much easier to test the scope of your content because you can visually locate specific information very easily and then check it against your thesis statement.

Outlines Test the Logical Relation of Parts

You have many choices for your topic, and therefore, there are many ways your content can be logically organized. In the example above, we simply listed three main points that were important economic considerations about wind farms. Often the main points of a speech can be arranged into a logical pattern; let’s review some of these patterns:

A chronological pattern arranges main ideas in the order events occur. In some instances, reverse order might make sense. For instance, if your topic is archaeology, you might use the reverse order, describing the newest artifacts first.

A cause-and-effect pattern calls on you to describe a specific situation and explain what the effect is. However, most effects have more than one cause. Even dental cavities have multiple causes: genetics, poor nutrition, teeth too tightly spaced, sugar, ineffective brushing, and so on. If you choose a cause-and-effect pattern, make sure you have enough reliable support to do the topic justice.

A biographical pattern is usually chronological. In describing the events of an individual’s life, you will want to choose the three most significant events. Otherwise, the speech will end up as a very lengthy and often pointless timeline or bullet point list. For example, Mark Twain had several clear phases in his life. They include his life as a Mississippi riverboat captain, his success as a world-renowned writer and speaker, and his family life. A simple timeline would present great difficulty in highlighting the relationships between important events. An outline, however, would help you emphasize the key events that contributed to Mark Twain’s extraordinary life.

Although a comparison-contrast pattern appears to dictate just two main points, McCroskey, Wrench, and Richmond explain how a comparison-and-contrast can be structured as a speech with three main points. They say that “you can easily create a third point by giving basic information about what is being compared and what is being contrasted. For example, if you are giving a speech about two different medications, you could start by discussing what the medications’ basic purposes are. Then you could talk about the similarities, and then the differences, between the two medications” [1] .

Whatever logical pattern you use, if you examine your thesis statement and then look at the three main points in your outline, you should easily be able to see the logical way in which they relate.

Outlines Test the Relevance of Supporting Ideas

When you create an outline, you can clearly see that you need supporting evidence for each of your main points. For instance, using the example above, your first main point claims that less land is needed for windmills than for other utilities. Your supporting evidence should be about the amount of acreage required for a windmill and the amount of acreage required for other energy generation sites, such as nuclear power plants or hydroelectric generators. Your sources should come from experts in economics, economic development, or engineering. The evidence might even be expert opinion but not the opinions of ordinary people. The expert opinion will provide stronger support for your point.

Similarly, your second point claims that once a wind turbine is in place, there is virtually no maintenance cost. Your supporting evidence should show how much annual maintenance for a windmill costs, and what the costs are for other energy plants. If you used a comparison with nuclear plants to support your first main point, you should do so again for the sake of consistency. It becomes very clear, then, that the third main point about the amount of electricity and its profitability needs authoritative references to compare it to the profit from energy generated at a nuclear power plant. In this third main point, you should make use of just a few well-selected statistics from authoritative sources to show the effectiveness of wind farms compared to the other energy sources you’ve cited.

Where do you find the kind of information you would need to support these main points? A reference librarian can quickly guide you to authoritative statistics and help you make use of them.

An important step you will notice is that the full-sentence outline includes its authoritative sources within the text. This is a major departure from the way you’ve learned to write a research paper. In a research paper, you can add that information to the end of a sentence, leaving the reader to turn to the last page for a fuller citation. In a speech, however, your listeners can’t do that. From the beginning of the supporting point, you need to fully cite your source so your audience can assess its importance.

Because this is such a profound change from the academic habits that you’re probably used to, you will have to make a concerted effort to overcome the habits of the past and provide the information your listeners need when they need it.

Outlines Test the Balance and Proportion of the Speech

Part of the value of writing a full-sentence outline is the visual space you use for each of your main points. Is each main point of approximately the same importance? Does each main point have the same number of supporting points? If you find that one of your main points has eight supporting points while the others only have three each, you have two choices: either choose the best three from the eight supporting points or strengthen the authoritative support for your other two main points.

Remember that you should use the best supporting evidence you can find even if it means investing more time in your search for knowledge.

As you write the preparation outline, you may find it necessary to rearrange your points or to add or subtract supporting material. You may also realize that some of your main points are sufficiently supported while others are lacking. The final draft of your preparation outline should include full sentences, making up a complete script of your entire speech. In most cases, however, the preparation outline is reserved for planning purposes only and is translated into a speaking outline before you deliver the speech.

Outlines Serve as Notes during the Speech

Although we recommend writing a full-sentence outline during the speech preparation phase, you should also create a shortened outline that you can use as notes, a speaking outline, which allows for strong delivery. If you were to use the full-sentence outline when delivering your speech, you would do a great deal of reading, which would limit your ability to give eye contact and use gestures, hurting your connection with your audience.

Although some cases call for reading a speech verbatim from the full-sentence outline (manuscript delivery), in most cases speakers will simply refer to their speaking outline for quick reminders and to ensure that they do not omit any important information. For this reason, we recommend writing a short phrase speaking outline on 5×7 notecards to use when you deliver your speech.

In the next section, we will explore more fully how to create preparation and speaking outlines.

Outline Structure

Because an outline is used to arrange all of the elements of your speech, it makes sense that the outline itself has an organizational hierarchy and a common format. Although there are a variety of outline styles, generally they follow the same pattern. Main ideas are preceded by Roman numerals (I, II, III, etc.). Sub-points are preceded by capital letters (A, B, C, etc.), then Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, etc.), and finally lowercase letters (a, b, c, etc.). Each level of subordination is also differentiated from its predecessor by indenting a few spaces. Indenting makes it easy to find your main points, sub-points, and the supporting points and examples below them. Since there are three sections to your speech— introduction, body, and conclusion— your outline needs to include all of them. Each of these sections is titled and the main points start with Roman numeral I.

OUTLINE FORMATTING GUIDE

Title: Organizing Your Public Speech

Topic: Organizing public speeches

Specific Purpose Statement: To inform my audience about the various ways in which they can organize their public speeches.

Thesis Statement: A variety of organizational styles can used to organize public speeches.

Introduction Paragraph that gets the attention of the audience, establishes goodwill with the audience, states the purpose of the speech, and previews the speech and its structure.

(Transition)

I. Main point

A. Sub-point B. Sub-point C. Sub-point

1. Supporting point 2. Supporting point

Conclusion Paragraph that prepares the audience for the end of the speech, presents any final appeals, and summarizes and wraps up the speech.

Bibliography

In addition to these formatting suggestions, there are some additional elements that should be included at the beginning of your outline: the title, topic, specific purpose statement, and thesis statement. These elements are helpful to you, the speechwriter, since they remind you what, specifically, you are trying to accomplish in your speech. They are also helpful to anyone reading and assessing your outline since knowing what you want to accomplish will determine how they perceive the elements included in your outline. Additionally, you should write out the transitional statements that you will use to alert audiences that you are moving from one point to another. These are included in parentheses between main points. At the end of the outlines, you should include bibliographic information for any outside resources you mention during the speech. These should be cited using whatever citations style your professor requires. The textbox entitled “Outline Formatting Guide” above provides an example of the appropriate outline format.

Preparation Outline Examples

This book contains the preparation outline for an informative speech the author gave about making guacamole (see third section). In this example, the title, specific purpose, and thesis precedes the speech. Depending on your instructor’s requirements, you may need to include these details plus additional information (like visual aids). It is also a good idea to keep these details at the top of your document as you write the speech since they will help keep you on track to developing an organized speech that is in line with your specific purpose and helps prove your thesis. At the end of this text, in Part 3, you will find full-length examples of Preparation (Full Sentence) Outlines, written by students just like you!

Using the Speaking Outline

“TAG speaks of others first” by Texas Military Forces. CC-BY-ND .

A speaking outline is the outline you will prepare for use when delivering the speech. The speaking outline is much more succinct than the preparation outline and includes brief phrases or words that remind the speakers of the points they need to make, plus supporting material and signposts. [2] The words or phrases used on the speaking outline should briefly encapsulate all of the information needed to prompt the speaker to accurately deliver the speech. Although some cases call for reading a speech verbatim from the full-sentence outline, in most cases speakers will simply refer to their speaking outline for quick reminders and to ensure that they do not omit any important information. Because it uses just words or short phrases, and not full sentences, the speaking outline can easily be transferred to index cards that can be referenced during a speech.

Speaking instructors often have requirements for how you should format the speaking outline. When formatting your speaking outline, here are a few tips:

First, write large enough so that you do not have to bring the cards close to your eyes to read them. Second, make sure you have the cards in the correct order and bound together in some way so that they do not get out of order. Third, just in case your cards do get out of order (this happens too often!), be sure that you number each in the top right corner so you can quickly and easily get things organized. Fourth, try not to fiddle with the cards when you are speaking. It is best to lay them down if you have a podium or table in front of you. If not, practice reading from them in front of a mirror. You should be able to look down quickly, read the text, and then return to your gaze to the audience.

Any intelligent fool can make things bigger and more complex… It takes a touch of genius – and a lot of courage to move in the opposite direction. – Albert Einstein

McCroskey, J. C., Wrench, J. S., & Richmond, V. P., (2003). Principles of public speaking . Indianapolis, IN: The College Network.
Beebe, S. A. & Beebe, S. J. (2003). The public speaking handbook (5th edition). Boston: Pearson. ↵

LICENSES AND ATTRIBUTIONS

Cc licensed content, shared previously.

Stand up, Speak out by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.
Chapter 8 Outlining Your Speech. Authored by : Joshua Trey Barnett. Provided by : University of Indiana, Bloomington, IN. Located at : http://publicspeakingproject.org/psvirtualtext.html . Project : The Public Speaking Project. License : CC BY-NC-ND: Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives
TAG speaks of others first. Authored by : Texas Military Forces. Located at : https://www.flickr.com/photos/texasmilitaryforces/5560449970/ . License : CC BY-ND: Attribution-NoDerivatives

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4 Extemporaneous Speaking: The Basics

Learning Objectives

Demonstrate an understanding of proper speech delivery by learning the key elements of extemporaneous speaking and the time it will take to deliver the well-developed speech.

Extemporaneous Speaking

Extemporaneous speaking is a fancy way of saying: delivering a well-prepared speech. Extemporaneous speaking is not delivering a monologue or a memorized speech. Public speaking students often fall into the trap of under-preparing and under-practicing their speeches. This results in an, “Oh! no! I am not prepared and now I must read this outline word-for-word and hope for the best.” However, the best does not come to fruition and students that engage in this practice are disappointed when they lose substantial points from their speech grade due to lack of preparation, practice, and reading word-for-word from an outline. Just – don’t – do -it.

Here are a few ways you can engage in extemporaneous speaking:

Know your speech topic
Research your topic
Create a timeline – research, writing, peer-review, practicing, editing, practicing again
Create note cards to guide your speech
Practice, practice, practice
connecting with your audience is key in extemporaneous speaking

Dialogue vs. Monologue

The first tenet of the dialogic perspective is that communication should be a dialogue and not a monologue. Lev Yakubinsky argued that even public speaking situations often turn into dialogues when audience members actively engage speakers by asking questions. He even claimed that nonverbal behavior (e.g., nodding one’s head in agreement or scowling) functions as feedback for speakers and contributes to a dialogue (Yakubinsky, 1997). Overall, if you approach your public speaking experience as a dialogue, you’ll be more actively engaged as a speaker and more attentive to how your audience is responding, which will, in turn, lead to more actively engaged audience members.

Build a Proper Timeline

To ensure you have enough time for the assignment, create a timeline that works for your schedule
Week 1 – Brainstorm your speech topic and conduct an audience analysis
Week 2 – Research, gather support, plan outline, and write a speech
Week 3 – Edit, peer-review, begin practicing your speech
Week 4 – Revise, practice, create note cards, create a visual aid, and refine your delivery

Building on This Information

As you progress through this course, you will revisit proper extemporaneous speaking, the use of outlining, proper use of notecards, and delivering a strong speech. It is important to note that your audience deserves a speech that is interesting, thoughtful, and well-rehearsed. The audience is listening to you as the credible speaker in the room; in order to remain credible and professional, you will want to deliver an extemporaneous speech.

Key Takeaways

Students will want to become familiar with extemporaneous speaking in order to work towards a speech delivery that relies on effective speech strategies and not reading word-for-word from an outline.

Extemporaneous speaking is a skill that public speaking students must hone in on before delivering their speech to an audience.
Students will want to plan ahead to deliver a strong speech in the informative and persuasive speech weeks of this course.
Creating a proper timeline will assist in delivering a well-developed extemporaneous speech.

Public Speaking Copyright © by Dr. Layne Goodman; Amber Green, M.A.; and Various is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Speech And Debate

Extemporaneous Essay

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

Extemporaneous Speech - How to Write One Successfully?

By: Cordon J.

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Feb 8, 2022

Looking forward to working on your extemporaneous speech? Here is a complete guide that will help you understand how to write and deliver this kind of speech.

Debating or speaking in front of a crowd is an art that could be learned with the passage of time. However, it is far from easy, provided that you need to have the right kind of confidence also. Confidence is important for giving any kind of speech.

This way, the speaker is sure about what he is talking about and he could do it without losing his confidence.

Worried about your upcoming speech? This blog is perfect for you to learn about writing and delivering your speech properly and successfully.

Read on to learn and know more.

On this Page

What is an Extemporaneous Speech?

An extemporaneous speech is a form of spontaneous speaking or debating. In this kind of speech, the main argument or topic has not been prepared beforehand. And the speaker has to talk about it spontaneously.

These kinds of speeches are often presented as an impromptu speech in which the presenter has limited time to prepare for them.

The extemporaneous speech is different as the speaker does not have any time to outline or prepare for it. He is given a topic instantly and he speaks about it based on the thoughts that come to his mind.

This is what makes this speech somewhat challenging also.

It is focused on informing and persuading the audience and the speech is often a part of public speaking competitions and events.

As an extemporaneous speaker, you will need to organize your thoughts quickly and present them in a coherent and proper manner.

What are the Elements of an Extemporaneous Speech?

Here are the important elements of an extemporaneous speech;

You Must Talk About Something Important

When preparing for the speech, you must make sure that you talk about something important and valuable. The aim is to provide the audience with something to ponder after you are done talking.

The first you should consider is to understand how the topic will impact both you and your audience.

Show Sincerity in Your Speech

Now, this is very important. When giving your speech, it is important that you make your audience believe what you are saying. Your audience is smarter than you think. They would instantly know when you are being sincere and when you are being dishonest.

Therefore, be genuine about whatever you say.

Adopt a Natural and Original Style

An effective speech is the product of an original and conversational style. Speaking extemporaneously simply means you are not trying to imitate anyone’s style at all. Consider and try to develop your personal presentation and debate style.

All of these elements are an important part of an extemporaneous speech.

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Extemporaneous Speech Outline and Format

When formatting your speech, you can do it in two ways. Here are the detailed alphanumeric and decimal outline formats.

Alphanumeric Outline

An alphanumeric outline is an easy way of organizing your speech. Here is how to do it.

I. The scenario: More than 80 percent of employers monitor their employees.

To prevent any illegal and wrongdoing.
To check the efficiency of the workers.

II. The privacy right of the employees.

The US employees have no right to privacy under any laws.

i. No federal or state laws.

ii. Workers can work on their own for their privacy.

Managers believe that workers have no right to privacy at the office.

i. Communication must be limited to official matters only.

ii. Offices should monitor the employees to prevent unlawful usage of office resources.

Decimal Outline

The decimal outline is different from the alphanumeric speech outline. Here is how to use this kind of format.

Thesis statement: A Brief History of Liz Claiborne

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Brief history of Liz Claiborne

1.2 The Business Scenario

2.0 Career and Work Opportunities

1. 2.1 Executive Operations

2.1.1 Traffic

2.1.2 International business processes

2.1.3 Distribution

2. 2.2 Product development

Both of these formats are great to manage your speech. And they will help you write and deliver your speech properly.

How to Get Ready for an Extemporaneous Speech?

Here are the steps involved in preparing for your extemporaneous speech;

1. Consider your Speech’s Topic - Before your speech begins, think about your topic carefully. Begin brainstorming as soon as you get the topic and try to come up with 3 to 4 significant ideas to talk about.

2. Develop your Speech’s Thesis Statement - Develop a good and functional thesis statement for your speech. List down your chosen ideas and connect them with the thesis statement.. Make the necessary changes as you go.

3. Practice and Rehearse - Practice is very important for great speech delivery. Begin with speaking to yourself in the mirror and try to practice as much as possible.

We know that delivering such a speech could be a real challenge. But with practice and organization, you can do it easily.

How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech?

An extemporaneous speech is unlike any other kind of speech. You will have limited time at hand and you need to prepare everything in that limited time.

Often, school and college students get this kind of speech as a part of their competition. Here are the steps involved in writing a great extemporaneous speech.

1. Choose the Topic Wisely - Instead of going with a topic that is entirely new for you, be wise and choose a familiar topic. Once you have chosen the topic, brainstorm about it in the given 30 minutes and make notes.

2. Develop an Outline - Create a good and functional outline for your speech. Write the topic at the top of the page and make a list of ideas that come into your mind.

3. Create the Main Section of the Speech - Create the main body section of your speech. Instead of trying to add everything, add 3 to 4 main and important ideas and details and work on them.

4. Discuss and Explain the Points - Explain the outlined points and details properly in your speech. This will help you stay focused on explaining everything properly.

5. Present a Clear and Strong Conclusion - Spend at least two to three minutes preparing the conclusion for your speech. Stick to the main and important points and avoid any irrelevant and lengthy details.

End the speech with a memorable quote for a lasting effect.

These steps will help you write and prepare your speech in time and without any delays.

Here is a sample extemporaneous speech;

Extemporaneous Speech

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Extemporaneous Speech Topics

Looking for good topic ideas for your extemporaneous speaking? Though the speaker hardly has any say in it, here are some topics that would make a good extemporaneous speech.

What is the reason behind celebrating Thanksgiving?
Who is the laziest person in your class and why?
Which teacher inspired you to study harder?
Is it important to monitor and restrict people in public?
How did your parents motivate you to pick your majors?
What are the advantages of diversity in educational institutions?
What is the most important skill for better job opportunities?
What are the problems of kids coming from broken families?
What can we do to control global warming?
How does automation affect the job environment?

All of these topics will make an excellent extemporaneous speech.

This blog explains everything that you need to know about this kind of speech.

Still, need help? Contact 5StarEssays.com for the best essay writing service .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of an extemporaneous speech.

The key purpose of an extemporaneous speech is to help the speakers develop spontaneous talking skills.

What is the main characteristic of an extemporaneous speech?

The main characteristic and aspect of an extemporaneous speech is that the speaker has to understand, synthesize and convey his thoughts in a proper and coherent manner.

Speech, Business

Cordon. is a published author and writing specialist. He has worked in the publishing industry for many years, providing writing services and digital content. His own writing career began with a focus on literature and linguistics, which he continues to pursue. Cordon is an engaging and professional individual, always looking to help others achieve their goals.

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PRDV008: Preparing and Delivering Presentations

Extemporaneous speeches.

Read this article, which summarizes the basics of extemporaneous presentations, as compared to impromptu speeches.

Extemporaneous, the most natural method of delivery, involves glancing at notes while maintaining crucial eye contact with the audience.

Key Takeaways

There are two popular methods for organizing ideas to create a graphical representation for speaker notes – outlining and mind or concept mapping .
An outline is a list of items with each item divided into additional sub-items. Each level in an outline has at least two subcategories. There are three basic types of hierarchical outlines – sentence , topic and phrase .
Topic and phrase are the most useful for speaker notes since they allow the speaker to quickly glance at the notes while maintaining eye contact with the audience.
Mind mapping and concept mapping are visual representation of ideas and concepts. Both mind maps and concept maps can be used to graphically show the relationship between ideas for a speech and as speaker notes for delivery.
A mind map diagram starts with a single word as a central branch node and lesser categories as sub-branches going off from the central node. A concept maps can have multiple hubs or nodes with clusters of concepts labeled to show the kind of relationship.
While extemporaneous speaking may be free of the constraints of memorization and manuscript speaking, it is not careless talk; the speaker prepares notes in advance to deliver an organized speech.
Concept Map : A diagram showing the relationships among concepts, with the concepts drawn in rectangular boxes, which are connected with labelled arrows that denote the relationships between concepts, such as "is a", "gives rise to", "results in", "is required by", or "contributes to".
Mind Map : A diagram used to represent words, ideas, tasks or other items linked to and arranged radially around a central key word or idea.
Extemporaneous : A type of speech delivery which involves preparation of speaker notes prior to delivery, associated with conversational style of delivery.

Extemporaneous Speech

Extemporaneous speaking is one of the most natural methods for delivering a prepared speech. You can use an extemporaneous speech to achieve a more natural tone, flow, and style with the audience.

First, think about your topics and anticipate the audience's reception to your speech. You can develop speech notes based on this preparation and use them to aid you during the presentation.

Preparing Speech Notes

There are two popular methods for creating a graphical representation for notes: outlining, and mind or concept mapping.

An outline is a list of items with each item divided into additional sub-items. Each level in an outline has at least two subcategories. There are three basic types of outlines:

Sentence outline – Each complete sentence includes a heading or single sentence about the subject of the outline.
Topic outline – Each topic is listed and functions as a subtopic of the outline's subject.
Phrase outline – Each short phrase entry is a subtopic of the aforementioned main entry.

Speaking notes, topic outlines, and phrase outlines have an advantage over sentence outlines. For example, you can easily look at your notes for reference and as a personal reminder of which topics to discuss as you're speaking.

Outlines commonly take two forms: alphanumeric and decimal.

Alphanumeric Outline

An alphanumeric outline includes a capitalized number or letter at the beginning of each topic. Look at the sample:

I. Thesis statement: Email and internet monitoring is an invasion of employees' rights

Decimal Outline

The decimal outline shows how each item at every level relates to the whole sample.

Thesis statement:

1.0 Introduction

….1.1 Brief history of Liz Claiborne

….1.2 Corporate environment

2.0 Career opportunities

….2.1 Operations management

……..2.1.1 Traffic

……..2.1.2 International trade and corporate customs

……..2.1.3 Distribution

….2.2 Product development

The outline could be printed or handwritten as in this expert from Richard Nixon's Checkers speech.

Speech Notes : Notes from Richard Nixon's Checkers speech.

Mind Mapping and Concept Mapping

Mind mapping and concept mapping are visual representations of ideas and concepts. A mind map is a diagram that starts with a single word and then branches out from the central node, with lesser categories as sub-branches of the larger branches. Concept maps are more freeform, since multiple hubs and clusters can be created. Unlike mind maps, concept maps do not fix on a single conceptual center.

For example, in the mind map for student learning, you can view the main component idea and related ideas which connect to its branch nodes. You can also use a mind map as speaking notes.

Mind Map : A mind map is a diagram that starts with one word and expands into additional categories.

Practice and Rehearsal Guidelines

The following guidelines are best practices on how to practice and rehearse an extemporaneous speech:

Speak in a conversational style by pretending you are with your audience.
Rehearse with your graphics and coordinate them with your talk.
Display your graphics only when you are talking about them.
Rehearse in front of others and solicit feedback.
Record and listen to your timed practice speech.
Prepare for interruptions and questions at the end.

Although extemporaneous speaking may not require memorization and manuscript speaking, organize and prepare your content and notes ahead of time to deliver a speech that will be well received by your audience.

Free Speech : "Free speech doesn't mean careless talk!" produced by the Office for Emergency Management.

Extemporaneous Speech

Mastering an Extemporaneous Speech requires a balance of preparation and spontaneity. This guide, enriched with engaging speech examples , offers key insights into delivering compelling and impromptu speeches. Extemporaneous speaking, a valuable skill in both academic and professional settings, involves presenting a well-organized speech with limited preparation. Through our examples, learn how to effectively structure your thoughts, employ persuasive techniques, and deliver a speech that resonates with your audience, all while maintaining a natural and spontaneous delivery style.

What is Extemporaneous Speech? Extemporaneous speech refers to a speaking format where the speaker delivers a presentation with little to no specific preparation time but has a general understanding of the topic . Unlike impromptu speeches, which are entirely unprepared, or manuscript speeches, which are read verbatim, extemporaneous speeches strike a balance by allowing speakers to prepare and organize their thoughts in advance, often with the help of notes or outlines. This method encourages speakers to speak in a more natural and spontaneous manner, yet with a coherent structure and well-developed content. Extemporaneous speaking is highly regarded in both educational settings and professional environments for its ability to combine preparation with the flexibility to adapt to audience reactions or questions, showcasing the speaker’s knowledge, eloquence, and ability to think on their feet.

Download Extemporaneous Speech Bundle

The truth is, nobody claims to be perfect at public speaking. Everyone gets that unsettling feeling before a presentation where their hands grow cold and the butterflies run wild. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of how good you are at masking the anxiety. But public speaking can be especially challenging when giving an extemporaneous speech. Given the limited time available to prepare for the professional speech , you need to know how can make the best out of the situation for a successful delivery.

The Purposes of an Extemporaneous Speech

Informing : To educate the audience about a specific topic, providing insights, data, and explanations to enhance understanding.
Persuading: To convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action on an issue, using logical arguments, emotional appeals, and credible evidence.
Motivating : To inspire the audience to pursue a goal, change behavior, or overcome challenges, often involving stories of resilience or success.
Entertaining : To provide enjoyment, capturing the audience’s interest through humor, storytelling, or thought-provoking content.
Adapting : To adjust the message based on the audience’s reactions, feedback, or the specific context of the speech, ensuring relevance and engagement.
Engaging: To foster a connection with the audience, encouraging interaction, questions, or further discussion about the topic.
Reflecting: To share personal insights, experiences, or reflections that can resonate with the audience, making the speech more relatable and impactful.

How to Give an Extemporaneous Speech?

An extemporaneous speech involves a blend of preparation and the ability to adapt your message dynamically. Here’s how to effectively deliver an extemporaneous speech:

Research and Understand Your Topic
Plan Your Main Points
Practice with Notes
Know Your Audience
Start Strong
Use Natural Language
Incorporate Pauses and Emphasis
Maintain Eye Contact
Adapt and Be Flexible
Conclude Effectively
Reflect and Improve
Stay Confident and Positive

Extemporaneous Speech Format

Introduction.

Hook: Start with an engaging statement to capture the audience’s attention. Thesis Statement : Clearly state the main argument or purpose of your speech. Preview: Briefly outline the main points you will cover.

Point 1: Present your first main point, supported by evidence, examples, or anecdotes. Support: Provide data, quotes, or specific examples to substantiate your point. Point 2: Move to your second main point, again with supporting details. Support: Use additional evidence or examples to strengthen your argument. (Optional) Point 3: If time allows, present a third point with corresponding support.

Summary: Recap the main points you’ve discussed, reinforcing your thesis. Closing Statement: End with a powerful statement, call to action, or a thought-provoking question to leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Extemporaneous Speech Samples

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Extemporaneous Speech Example

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Extemporaneous vs Impromptu Speech

The basics of extemporaneous speaking.

Imagine that you’re working hard on a new project that’s due in about three weeks when suddenly, a coworker comes in to inform you that the client is waiting at the conference room down the hall for an update on the latest model. You tell your coworker that you’d be there in five minutes tops, then reality dawns on you that 300 seconds may not be enough to prepare a clear and meaningful presentation. You may also see 8 steps in speech composition .

Can you deliver a concise and compelling message in such short notice? Or will you stammer through each word that leaves your lips?

If you identify yourself as someone belonging to the second category, you’re not alone. A lot of people, even the most respected executives of an organization, struggle with impromptu communication. This is a problem that many individuals consider as one of their major weaknesses that have hindered their performance at work. You may also like speech examples for students .

Luckily, extemporaneous speaking is actually a skill that may be developed and even mastered. Though many of the techniques used in formal presentations may not apply to extemporaneous speaking, they may be enhanced and incorporated into an individual’s presentation skills in more ways than one. You may also check out how do you write a speech ?

Extemporaneous speaking, otherwise known as impromptu (from the word improvisation) or off-the-cuff speaking, is a speech event that involves limited preparation regarding a topic based on the speaker’s research and personal analysis. Although this may be one of the most difficult types of simple speech to deliver, it can also be a fun and rewarding experience that can help boost your confidence and career.

Extemporaneous Speaking: How to Perform under Pressure

An extemporaneous speech is only considered as such if it is created quickly without a script to follow. With just a few days’, hours’, or even minutes’ notice, the speaker must be smart enough to utilize the remaining time to prepare for his or her speech.

Some speakers possess this natural ability to create an improvised speech that can sound logical yet unforced, but it’s not because their minds are quick enough to process information, but because they’ve developed this clever method to organize their thoughts in such a way that is time-bound and sensible. You may also see launch speech examples .

1. Use a proper structure.

Think about it this way. When we work under a strict time pressure, our body immediately sets itself into maximum overdrive. Somehow, we manage to do multiple things at a time just so we could meet the proposed deadlines. When this happens, we fail to complete each item on the list as successfully as the other due to the lesser amount of attention given to these tasks. You may also like campaign speech examples .

Similarly, when delivering an extemporaneous speech, the mind divides itself in order to perform two essential activities.

One part of your brain would focus on determining the right message to convey, while the other part would concentrate on the desired structure of the speech . But the human brain can only do so much at a time, which means you’ll only be able to use half of your total brain power to perform each task, this can then lead to poor execution.

For this reason, it’s important to prepare a solid structure for your speech. A speech outline will make it easier for you to follow an imaginary structure without putting too much thought into it. Once you have developed a structure that works for you, all that’s left to do is to fit your content into it. This method can help you deliver articulate and concise extemporaneous speeches like a pro.

2. Formulate thoughts about the topic.

Having a great outline is one thing, but creating your content is a whole other factor that must be addressed for the outline to be put into good use. If you don’t know much about the topic, then the structure alone won’t be able to save you. You might be interested in appreciation speech examples & samples .

As a professional, you need to be aware of everything that goes on around you. This includes projects, deadlines, and milestones that concern you.

Coming unprepared to a meeting or interview can be extremely dangerous, especially if you haven’t been paying attention to your assigned workload. Keep in mind that not everyone is an expert at remembering content. And if you happen to be one of these people, then maybe an index card , a paper, or even the notes app on your mobile phone would come in handy.

Rather than complete sentences, make a list of important words or phrases that can help you remember key points about the topic. Quick glances at this copy allows you to maintain eye contact with your audience at all times. Though you might not use it during your presentation, it can help keep your mind at ease just in case. You may also see special occasion speech examples .

3. Create an outline.

Since you have already formulated an appropriate structure for your speech, it’s not time to fill your outline with useful content. This means putting the major points of your formal speech into actual sentences that are relevant to your cause.

Though memorizing an entire speech is highly discouraged, you still need to give yourself an idea on how the topic may be delivered. The ideas included in your outline will make it easier for you to emphasize important concepts that must be shared to the group. This way, you’d only have to worry about filling the spaces between each subpoint for a quick and coherent speech delivery. You may also like dedication speech examples .

4. Utilize extemporaneous style methods.

Extemporaneous speaking usually involves a conversational tone. This requires you to speak directly to your audience, with the frequent scanning, eye contact, and smiling (if applicable) in order to keep listeners engaged. Though lengthy pauses are more common in extemporaneous speeches compared to other forms of speaking, this should not be something to worry about. You may also check out after dinner speech examples .

More often than not, a strategic pause can add a dramatic effect to your speech. This allows an audience to ponder on a thought that had just been shared, which can also make your points more profound. As long as you can keep it short, a well-placed pause offers you the opportunity to think about your next thought for a split second or so. You might be interested in how do you write a speech ?

5. Practice! Practice! PRACTICE!

One of the challenges involved in extemporaneous speaking is your inability to practice at whatever time you have. It can be difficult to enhance your skills if there isn’t anyone there to judge the outcome. If possible, you can have a friend or a coworker help you out during these practice sessions. This gives you the chance to practice in front of a potential audience member, and criticize your mistakes or lapses that might need some improvements. You may also see tribute speech examples .

What NOT to Do in Public Speaking

An extemporaneous speech, or any types of speech in that matter, can be a struggle to deliver without the proper guidance. To help you improve your skills in speech delivery, here are some tips on what you shouldn’t do in public speaking:

1. DON’T memorize!

Rather than memorizing your piece word for word, focus on familiarizing each line. This will make it easier for you to improvise whenever it gets difficult to recall a particular word or sentence from your speech. Keeping an index card in your pocket might also be useful just in case you desperately need it. You may also see narrative speech examples .

2. DON’T stress over detail.

Admittedly, you might not be the best at pronunciations. Grammar seems more like an acquaintance rather than a best friend as well. But stressing over every word and detail of your speech isn’t going to do you any favors. Instead, practice eloquently on a regular basis. This will soon become a habit that will help enhance your performance. You may also like leadership speech examples .

3. DON’T be intimidated by others.

Many people hate speaking in front of an audience in fear of being judged. But the only thing that’s really stopping you from taking the opportunity is the negative mind-set that you possess. You need to practice speaking in front of other people in order to overcome this fear. Although it may take time before you grow completely comfortable, this is a skill that must be developed for your own personal and professional sake. You may also check out after dinner speech examples .

4. DON’T speak too quickly.

If you let the nerves get the best of you, you’d end up speaking too quickly. This will make it difficult for listeners to understand what you’re trying to convey as you constantly stumble over your own words.

So the next time you stand in front of a microphone, remember to take a deep breath before you let your confidence take over. A few strategic pauses will also give you enough time to think thoroughly before you continue on with your speech. You might be interested in school speeches examples .

5. DON’T assume your audience knows everything.

Whether you’re delivering a motivational speech or a school welcome speech , remember to be yourself. People can’t predict every word that’s about to come out of your mouth, which is why they’re staring at you so intently. These people aren’t there to judge you rather, they’re there to listen to what you have to share with them. The best you can do is to let your personality in order to make the speech meaningful and memorable to your audience.

Now that we’re aware of how we can improve our skills in public speaking, it’s time that we erase the perception that extemporaneous speakers are born that way. Nobody was born to be an impromptu speaker, not even the CEO of a respected firm, nor the leader of the free world. You may also see dedication speech examples .

Extemporaneous speaking is a skill that one can only develop through constant practice and improvement. With the proper mind-set and attitude in place, you can deliver an impressive extemporaneous speech in no time!

Rules for Extemporaneous Speaking

Extemporaneous speaking involves delivering a speech with little preparation, using notes or brief outlines rather than a full script. The key rules include understanding your topic deeply, practicing structured delivery, keeping within time limits, engaging with the audience through eye contact, and using clear and concise language. This format balances preparedness with spontaneity, allowing flexibility in addressing the audience’s reactions or questions.

Example of Extemporaneous Speech

An example of an extemporaneous speech might begin with an introduction to the topic, such as the importance of renewable energy, followed by structured points like current energy challenges, benefits of renewable sources, and ending with a call to action or solution. The speaker uses notes for reference but relies on their knowledge and speaking skills to engage the audience.

Example of an Extemporaneous Speech Situation

A common situation for extemporaneous speaking could be a debate competition where participants are given topics shortly before they speak. Another scenario is a business meeting where a team member is asked to present a project update without prior preparation. These situations require speakers to organize their thoughts quickly and convey their message effectively within a short timeframe.

how to make an outline for extemporaneous speech

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How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech

How to Write a 3-Minute Speech Fast

An extemporaneous speech is one prepared quickly, within a half hour or less. Many schools offer extemporaneous speaking competitions. When practiced, writing extemporaneous speeches can improve public speaking skills as well as promote on-the-fly thinking. These speeches are generally not very long although even five minutes can seem a long time when you are speaking. Like all speeches, they are designed to inform, inspire or persuade.

Identify your topic and start brainstorming on topic details. If possible, choose a topic with which you are familiar. If you have thirty minutes, spend the first ten minutes brainstorming to think of everything you can about the subject in that time. For example, if you want to persuade your audience to recycle, write down as many reasons as you can think of to recycle. Jot down quick notes like "reduce pollution," "setting example for future generations," "conserve resources," "conserve land" and "create new jobs." Write everything that comes to mind; you may later decide to delete some ideas.

Outline your speech. Start with the title, then list a few sentences for the introduction. For example, write "This morning I had a soda, and I almost threw away the can. But then I thought I should recycle." Then write what you will be talking about, specifically "Everyone should recycle and today I'm going to tell you why." Use a highlighter to stress your main point, "everyone should recycle."

Create the body of your speech. Limit yourself to the most important points you want to make and be sure they all relate directly to your subject as you do not have time to go off topic. Choose a few notes from your initial list and further clarify them. For example, write a paragraph about conserving land, another about reducing pollution and a third about creating new jobs.

Expand your main points. Take your three or four main topics and list a few examples, quotes or statistics for each section. Provide three pieces of supportive information for each of the three sections that are legitimate and backed by source. For example,"recycling reduces air pollution because the production of glass releases harmful gasses into the environment."

Write your conclusion. Use only about two or thee minutes of your preparation time to do this; conclusions don't need to be long. Restate your main arguments. End with an anecdote, quote or call to action. For example, "I encourage you all to go home tonight and gather up your old bottles to take to the recycling center tomorrow."

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How To Write an Extemporaneous Speech: A Comprehensive Guide For Students

Delivering an extemporaneous speech can be a nerve-wracking experience for students as well as in professional setting. However, it’s an essential skill for anyone who wants to become a confident public speaker. Unlike a prepared speech, an extemporaneous speech requires you to speak off the cuff and think on your feet, making it a valuable tool for anyone who wants to improve their communication skills.

Whether you’re speaking in a classroom setting, at a conference, or in a business meeting, being able to deliver an extemporaneous speech can help you connect with your audience and make a lasting impression.

In this blog post, our team at my homework help will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write an extemporaneous speech that will capture your audience’s attention and leave a lasting impression.

Definition of an extemporaneous speech.

An extemporaneous speech is a type of public speaking in which a speaker speaks on the fly without notes or scripts and presents his or her arguments and ideas with confidence, poise, and enthusiasm. Read more about arguments from our illustrative guide on how to write an argumentative speech .

Prior to giving the speech, it is important to carefully plan it, and in most cases, the speaker must memorize it in order to deliver it effectively. So, to ensure that all the topics are made clear in the allocated time, giving this kind of speech demands preparation, concentration, research, good communication skills, and creativity.

Benefits of Delivering an Extemporaneous Speech

The ability to deliver an extemporaneous speech provides numerous advantages, both for the individual presenting it and for those listening to it.

Presenters can engage their audience in discussion by using spontaneous language, which helps to foster relationships between speakers and listeners as well as understanding and acceptance between parties;
Because speakers use no predetermined words or phrases in these speeches, they tend to appear more natural & less rehearsed than if using scripts;
The lack of reliance on written material encourages the more effective use of rhetorical devices such as metaphors & analogies within speeches, thus making them easier for audiences to comprehend;
Last but not least, due to its spontaneous nature, extemporaneous speeches offer the chance for greater levels of improvisation among listeners, giving speakers the freedom to modify their messages in real-time, if necessary, based on feedback from listeners, leading to improved levels of engagement and comprehension among those hearing it spoken live.

Related: How to write an impromptu speech .

Preparation for Writing an Extemporaneous Speech

A. brainstorming topic ideas and choosing a focus for the speech.

Before you start making an impromptu speech , you should come up with some ideas for topics that will be interesting to your audience. This entails taking into account their backgrounds, ideologies, and any prior information they may have regarding the topic you plan to cover in your speech.

Presenters must take the time to outline the precise points or arguments they intend to make during their presentation once a topic has been decided upon in order to start their study and preparation.

B. Researching Your Topic Thoroughly

In order for an extemporaneous speech to be successful, thorough research needs to be conducted prior to delivery. This includes:

Utilizing Traditional Sources of Information (i.e., books, magazines, journals)
Gathering Data from the Internet on sources such as google scholar , Jstor , among others.
Consulting Experts in the Subject Area

These efforts should be directed toward gathering knowledge about the subject under discussion that is both directly and indirectly related to it. This information, once gathered, enables speakers to formulate persuasive arguments and viewpoints on subjects by being aware of all relevant viewpoints before making public statements about them.

Extemporaneous presenters should use current events and industry trends that are pertinent to the topics they are discussing to strengthen their content and believability.

Related: How to write a persuasive essay .

C. Creating a Logical Structure for Your Speech

In order to effectively communicate your message, it is important to create a logical structure for the speech that is easy to follow and understand. This entails creating a list of the essential topics that must be covered throughout the speech and then coming up with ideas for each topic so that it may be covered in depth.

Presenters should bear in mind certain elements while constructing an extemporaneous speech, such as offering introductions and conclusions , which will create obvious transitions between sections and guarantee that all essential material is included in what is being stated. Also, it helps speakers make more powerful presentations by segmenting their arguments into smaller parts that are each supported by supporting data or examples.

D. Collecting Supporting Materials That Will Strengthen Your Argument or Prove Your Points

Strong supporting materials and evidence give credibility and value to any speech that is made up on the spot. This facilitates comprehension of the speech’s substance and increases the likelihood that the audience will accept what is spoken.

This kind of information can be found anywhere, including in personal narrative essays , published research studies, expert opinions from many fields related to the subjects covered, etc.

When giving a speech, it is crucial to locate these sources so that the speaker may confidently present their position using facts and figures rather than conjecture.

Related: How to write a demonstration speech .

Writing Out the Body Paragraphs for Your Extemporaneous Speech

A. composing opening sentences that introduce main points.

Your speech’s introduction should give the audience a taste of what’s to come and set their expectations for what they’ll hear. This implies that speakers must come up with succinct introductory lines that set the stage for the topics being discussed and establish any important ideas they want to expand on later.

It’s crucial to employ descriptive language that effectively communicates the presentation’s key idea while crafting these introduction sentences. The audience remains engaged the entire time because of this.

B. Constructing Factual Statements with Relevant Evidence and Examples

For an impromptu speech to be effective, the body paragraphs must include facts that are backed up by evidence and examples. This entails mentioning studies or research on subjects associated with the ones being discussed and incorporating it into arguments while making sure to always provide appropriate credit.

If any visual aids are available, such as diagrams, charts, etc., it can even be necessary to use them. Real facts assist presenters captivate their listeners’ thoughts and demonstrate their subject matter expertise.

Having visual sources can also assist people grasp what is being said during speeches since many individuals find it simpler to understand information when it is displayed rather than stated.

C. Developing Transitions Between Ideas

For an impromptu speech to go well, the speaker must be able to smoothly move from one point to the next in the body paragraphs. This keeps listeners engaged and enables the speaker to deliver the information in an approachable manner. Also, by making it simpler for listeners to visualize what you’re talking about, rhetorical devices like metaphors can assist others grasp what you’re saying.

During an impromptu speech, the speaker should try to use the right words and phrases to move from one idea to the next without getting sidetracked or losing track of themselves.

Moreover, using rhetorical tools like metaphors can help people better understand what you’re saying by making it easier for them to picture what you’re talking about.

Related: How to write a rhetorical analysis essay .

Before using them, speakers can decide to practice these transitions a few times to ensure that they flow smoothly. This allows them to be adjusted and guarantees that they appear natural when they are used in real life.

Delivering an Effective Extemporaneous Speech

For a presenter to give a successful speech on the spot, they need to know how to use note cards properly. This entails arranging the cards such that they may quickly and properly refer to crucial information while speaking, eliminating pauses or blank spaces that can lose the audience’s attention.

Instead of utilizing whole sentences while using notecards, speakers should aim to utilize short phrases so that they can discover and grasp information quickly without having to take time away from communicating their message. Add color-coding , or putting a different color on each card’s content, makes it easier to tell what is being talked about and helps speakers move from one idea to the next more quickly.

Also, it’s beneficial for those preparing these presentations to become accustomed to the many cues they may employ, such as body language gestures or facial emotions when reading their notes, since these signals frequently aid in improving the delivery as a whole.

Concluding the Speech

A. summarizing key points.

At the end of an impromptu speech, the speaker should give a brief summary of their main points to help the audience remember them and make sure that all of the important information has been covered.

Speakers should make an effort to employ succinct words and sentences to rapidly convey what has previously been mentioned throughout the presentation when summarizing these key topics. If necessary, they should additionally include any statistics or real-world instances that support their arguments. For more on statistics, check out our statistics homework help .

These summaries must also include comments related to future actions presenters may take as a result of delivering a speech such as answering questions providing resources etc.

B. Offering Final Thoughts

It’s crucial for the speaker to leave the audience with something memorable that will make them reflect on what they just heard while concluding an impromptu speech.

This may be accomplished by using motivational sayings or tales that are connected to the main points being made in order to more effectively drive home a point and leave a lasting impact on the audience.

This could also entail expressing gratitude to spectators for their favorable comments on certain topics raised in speeches. This enables speakers to make an impression long after their lectures are over.

Audience Interaction

For an impromptu speech to go well, the speaker should pay attention to any questions or comments from the audience. This provides the speaker with an opportunity to engage with the audience and demonstrate their level of expertise on the subject at hand. Also, it offers the speaker insightful criticism that may be used to subsequent presentations.

Related: PowerPoint Presentation help service.

Presenters must provide clear, succinct responses to these questions in order to ensure that the audience fully understands the concepts discussed throughout the presentation. This enhances the presentation as a whole and makes it easier for the audience to comprehend.

Also, it’s advisable to employ strategies like deflecting inquiries or seeking out other people’s opinions if you’re unsure how to respond to them in order to gain more precise information from individuals who are more knowledgeable than you are.

Can I Hire Someone to Write My Extemporaneous Speech Papers?

At our homework help service , we understand that crafting an effective and engaging extemporaneous speech can be a challenge. For this reason, our “ do my homework ” service provide our clients with the expert writing assistance they need to draft their ideal speeches. To guarantee that your speech fulfills all of your expectations and specifications, our team of skilled paper writers will collaborate with you at every stage.

Our essay typer services include:

Brainstorming possible topics & research
Developing a logical structure for the speech
Collecting supporting materials & evidence
Writing out the body paragraphs for the speech
Delivering an effective extemporaneous presentation
Concluding the speech effectively

With our assistance, you can be certain that you will receive timely delivery of high-quality material. Also, our “ do my essay ” staff offers you advice on how to deliver speeches that have the most influence on the audience.

Please get in contact with us immediately away if you require immediate assistance with speech composition or delivery. We look forward to assisting you in making your upcoming presentation a success!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Usually, an extemporaneous speech lasts between seven and ten minutes. It’s crucial to make sure your message is conveyed clearly within this window of time.

It’s crucial to consider the speech’s aim and audience while composing an impromptu speech. Also, you should organize your presentation logically, support each argument with pertinent examples or data, make sure there are seamless transitions between concepts, and talk professionally.

Use note cards with short phrases rather than complete sentences so you can look up information quickly. Use appropriate cues, such as body language or facial expressions. Summarize key points at the end of your presentation. Leave listeners with something they’ll remember. Answer any audience questions to keep them interested and demonstrate your knowledge.

We Write Speech provides clients with expert writing assistance to help them create outstanding speeches! From coming up with ideas and conducting research to presenting your presentation, our team will support you at every stage to ensure its success and that it has the greatest possible impact on your audience.

An extemporaneous speech may employ a variety of sources to develop its arguments, including first-hand knowledge, current research on relevant subjects, expert opinions from many fields linked to the themes presented, and so on.

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14.1 Four Methods of Delivery

Learning objectives.

Differentiate among the four methods of speech delivery.
Understand when to use each of the four methods of speech delivery.

Lt. Governor Anthony Brown bring greetings to the 13th Annual House of Ruth Spring Luncheon. by Brian K. Slack at Baltimore, MD

Maryland GovPics – House of Ruth Luncheon – CC BY 2.0.

The easiest approach to speech delivery is not always the best. Substantial work goes into the careful preparation of an interesting and ethical message, so it is understandable that students may have the impulse to avoid “messing it up” by simply reading it word for word. But students who do this miss out on one of the major reasons for studying public speaking: to learn ways to “connect” with one’s audience and to increase one’s confidence in doing so. You already know how to read, and you already know how to talk. But public speaking is neither reading nor talking.

Speaking in public has more formality than talking. During a speech, you should present yourself professionally. This doesn’t mean you must wear a suit or “dress up” (unless your instructor asks you to), but it does mean making yourself presentable by being well groomed and wearing clean, appropriate clothes. It also means being prepared to use language correctly and appropriately for the audience and the topic, to make eye contact with your audience, and to look like you know your topic very well.

While speaking has more formality than talking, it has less formality than reading. Speaking allows for meaningful pauses, eye contact, small changes in word order, and vocal emphasis. Reading is a more or less exact replication of words on paper without the use of any nonverbal interpretation. Speaking, as you will realize if you think about excellent speakers you have seen and heard, provides a more animated message.

The next sections introduce four methods of delivery that can help you balance between too much and too little formality when giving a public speech.

Impromptu Speaking

Impromptu speaking is the presentation of a short message without advance preparation. Impromptu speeches often occur when someone is asked to “say a few words” or give a toast on a special occasion. You have probably done impromptu speaking many times in informal, conversational settings. Self-introductions in group settings are examples of impromptu speaking: “Hi, my name is Steve, and I’m a volunteer with the Homes for the Brave program.” Another example of impromptu speaking occurs when you answer a question such as, “What did you think of the documentary?”

The advantage of this kind of speaking is that it’s spontaneous and responsive in an animated group context. The disadvantage is that the speaker is given little or no time to contemplate the central theme of his or her message. As a result, the message may be disorganized and difficult for listeners to follow.

Here is a step-by-step guide that may be useful if you are called upon to give an impromptu speech in public.

Take a moment to collect your thoughts and plan the main point you want to make.
Thank the person for inviting you to speak.
Deliver your message, making your main point as briefly as you can while still covering it adequately and at a pace your listeners can follow.
Thank the person again for the opportunity to speak.
Stop talking.

As you can see, impromptu speeches are generally most successful when they are brief and focus on a single point.

Extemporaneous Speaking

Extemporaneous speaking is the presentation of a carefully planned and rehearsed speech, spoken in a conversational manner using brief notes. By using notes rather than a full manuscript, the extemporaneous speaker can establish and maintain eye contact with the audience and assess how well they are understanding the speech as it progresses. The opportunity to assess is also an opportunity to restate more clearly any idea or concept that the audience seems to have trouble grasping.

For instance, suppose you are speaking about workplace safety and you use the term “sleep deprivation.” If you notice your audience’s eyes glazing over, this might not be a result of their own sleep deprivation, but rather an indication of their uncertainty about what you mean. If this happens, you can add a short explanation; for example, “sleep deprivation is sleep loss serious enough to threaten one’s cognition, hand-to-eye coordination, judgment, and emotional health.” You might also (or instead) provide a concrete example to illustrate the idea. Then you can resume your message, having clarified an important concept.

Speaking extemporaneously has some advantages. It promotes the likelihood that you, the speaker, will be perceived as knowledgeable and credible. In addition, your audience is likely to pay better attention to the message because it is engaging both verbally and nonverbally. The disadvantage of extemporaneous speaking is that it requires a great deal of preparation for both the verbal and the nonverbal components of the speech. Adequate preparation cannot be achieved the day before you’re scheduled to speak.

Because extemporaneous speaking is the style used in the great majority of public speaking situations, most of the information in this chapter is targeted to this kind of speaking.

Speaking from a Manuscript

Manuscript speaking is the word-for-word iteration of a written message. In a manuscript speech, the speaker maintains his or her attention on the printed page except when using visual aids.

The advantage to reading from a manuscript is the exact repetition of original words. As we mentioned at the beginning of this chapter, in some circumstances this can be extremely important. For example, reading a statement about your organization’s legal responsibilities to customers may require that the original words be exact. In reading one word at a time, in order, the only errors would typically be mispronunciation of a word or stumbling over complex sentence structure.

However, there are costs involved in manuscript speaking. First, it’s typically an uninteresting way to present. Unless the speaker has rehearsed the reading as a complete performance animated with vocal expression and gestures (as poets do in a poetry slam and actors do in a reader’s theater), the presentation tends to be dull. Keeping one’s eyes glued to the script precludes eye contact with the audience. For this kind of “straight” manuscript speech to hold audience attention, the audience must be already interested in the message before the delivery begins.

It is worth noting that professional speakers, actors, news reporters, and politicians often read from an autocue device, such as a TelePrompTer, especially when appearing on television, where eye contact with the camera is crucial. With practice, a speaker can achieve a conversational tone and give the impression of speaking extemporaneously while using an autocue device. However, success in this medium depends on two factors: (1) the speaker is already an accomplished public speaker who has learned to use a conversational tone while delivering a prepared script, and (2) the speech is written in a style that sounds conversational.

Speaking from Memory

Memorized speaking is the rote recitation of a written message that the speaker has committed to memory. Actors, of course, recite from memory whenever they perform from a script in a stage play, television program, or movie scene. When it comes to speeches, memorization can be useful when the message needs to be exact and the speaker doesn’t want to be confined by notes.

The advantage to memorization is that it enables the speaker to maintain eye contact with the audience throughout the speech. Being free of notes means that you can move freely around the stage and use your hands to make gestures. If your speech uses visual aids, this freedom is even more of an advantage. However, there are some real and potential costs. First, unless you also plan and memorize every vocal cue (the subtle but meaningful variations in speech delivery, which can include the use of pitch, tone, volume, and pace), gesture, and facial expression, your presentation will be flat and uninteresting, and even the most fascinating topic will suffer. You might end up speaking in a monotone or a sing-song repetitive delivery pattern. You might also present your speech in a rapid “machine-gun” style that fails to emphasize the most important points. Second, if you lose your place and start trying to ad lib, the contrast in your style of delivery will alert your audience that something is wrong. More frighteningly, if you go completely blank during the presentation, it will be extremely difficult to find your place and keep going.

Key Takeaways

There are four main kinds of speech delivery: impromptu, extemporaneous, manuscript, and memorized.
Impromptu speaking involves delivering a message on the spur of the moment, as when someone is asked to “say a few words.”
Extemporaneous speaking consists of delivering a speech in a conversational fashion using notes. This is the style most speeches call for.
Manuscript speaking consists of reading a fully scripted speech. It is useful when a message needs to be delivered in precise words.
Memorized speaking consists of reciting a scripted speech from memory. Memorization allows the speaker to be free of notes.
Find a short newspaper story. Read it out loud to a classroom partner. Then, using only one notecard, tell the classroom partner in your own words what the story said. Listen to your partner’s observations about the differences in your delivery.
In a group of four or five students, ask each student to give a one-minute impromptu speech answering the question, “What is the most important personal quality for academic success?”
Watch the evening news. Observe the differences between news anchors using a TelePrompTer and interviewees who are using no notes of any kind. What differences do you observe?

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How to Give An Extemporaneous Speech?

To give an extemporaneous speech, prepare key points beforehand and practice speaking in a clear and confident manner. Having a solid foundation of knowledge on the topic will also aid in delivering a well-structured and engaging speech.

Additionally, maintain eye contact, use gestures to emphasize important points, and manage time effectively to ensure an impactful delivery. By following these guidelines, individuals can effectively give an extemporaneous speech that engages the audience and delivers key messages concisely. In today’s fast-paced world, being able to give impromptu speeches is a valuable skill that can be used in various professional and personal settings, making effective communication an essential attribute.

Table of Contents

Choosing A Topic For Your Extemporaneous Speech

When giving an extemporaneous speech , choosing the right topic is crucial. Discover how to select a compelling and engaging subject that will captivate your audience and make your speech memorable. Master the art of delivering an impromptu speech with confidence and clarity.

When it comes to giving an extemporaneous speech, choosing the right topic is crucial. It sets the foundation for your speech and determines whether your audience will stay engaged throughout. Here are some key points to consider when selecting a topic:

Narrowing down your options to ensure a focused speech:
Select a topic that you are knowledgeable and passionate about.
Brainstorm potential ideas and identify the main points you want to address.
Consider the time limit of your speech and choose a topic that can be adequately covered within that duration.
Considering your audience and their interests:
Research your audience demographics and understand their preferences.
Tailor your topic to their interests, ensuring it resonates with them.
Think about what your audience wants to learn or gain from your speech.
Finding a unique angle for your topic:
Avoid choosing popular or overused topics to stand out from the competition.
Look for a unique perspective or fresh approach to engage your audience.
Incorporate personal anecdotes, relevant stories, or recent examples to make your speech memorable.

By narrowing down your options, considering your audience, and finding a unique angle, you can ensure that your extemporaneous speech captivates and leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

Researching And Gathering Information

To deliver an extemporaneous speech successfully, it is crucial to prioritize researching and gathering relevant information. This ensures that your speech is well-informed and engaging, captivating your audience with knowledgeable insights delivered in a confident and spontaneous manner.

Giving an extemporaneous speech can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with the right research and preparation, you can deliver a compelling and informative presentation. One of the key aspects of preparing for an extemporaneous speech is researching and gathering information.

In this section, we will explore the steps you can take to find credible sources and references, as well as effectively organize the gathered information.

Searching For Credible Sources And References:

Start by identifying your topic and the key points you want to cover in your speech.
Utilize search engines like google to find reputable websites, scholarly articles, and publications related to your topic.
Look for reliable sources such as government websites, academic journals, and reputable news outlets.
Consider the expertise and credentials of the authors or organizations behind the information you find.
Verify the credibility of the sources by cross-referencing information from multiple reliable sources.
Take note of any statistics, facts, or quotes that you may want to include in your speech.

Taking Notes And Organizing The Information Effectively:

As you gather information, take detailed notes that include key ideas, supporting evidence, and sources.
Use bullet points or headings to categorize different aspects of your topic for easier organization.
Highlight or underline important information that you want to emphasize in your speech.
Consider using a digital note-taking tool or an organized system like index cards to keep track of your notes.
Group similar ideas or points together to create a logical flow of information in your speech.
Use subheadings or markers to differentiate different sections or themes within your speech.

Identifying Key Points And Supporting Evidence:

Review your gathered information and identify the key points that align with your speech objectives.
Look for supporting evidence, examples, or anecdotes that strengthen your key points.
Ensure that the information you include is relevant, up-to-date, and offers a clear connection to your topic.
Consider using visual aids like graphs, charts, or images to support your key points.
Aim for a balance between providing enough information to convey your message without overwhelming your audience.
Keep in mind the time constraints of your speech and prioritize the most impactful information.

By undertaking thorough research and effectively organizing your information, you can develop a strong foundation for your extemporaneous speech. The next section will explore techniques for structuring and outlining your speech, allowing you to confidently deliver a well-prepared presentation.

Structuring Your Extemporaneous Speech

Learn how to give an extemporaneous speech by following these 6 guidelines: avoid starting sentences with overused phrases, keep sentences brief, write in an seo friendly and human-like manner, use a variety of phrases at the beginning of paragraphs, exclude a conclusion paragraph, and aim for human-like writing while avoiding any repetitive terms.

Capturing The Audience’S Attention With A Compelling Opening:

Begin your extemporaneous speech with a captivating anecdote or a thought-provoking question that relates to your topic. This will immediately grab the attention of your audience and pique their curiosity.
Use a powerful quote or a surprising statistic to captivate your listeners. This will help establish your credibility and create a sense of importance surrounding your speech’s subject matter.

Providing A Clear Thesis Statement:

Clearly state your main point or argument in a concise and straightforward manner. This will set the tone for the rest of your speech and ensure that your audience understands your central message.
Make sure your thesis statement is specific and focused, allowing your listeners to easily comprehend what you will be discussing in your speech.

Organizing Main Points And Sub-Points Logically:

Structure your speech in a logical manner by organizing your main points and sub-points in a clear and coherent way.
Start by identifying the key ideas that support your thesis statement and arrange them in a logical order, such as in chronological or order of importance.
Ensure that your main points flow smoothly and logically, connecting one idea to the next in a way that is easy for your audience to follow.

Using Transitions To Smoothly Transition Between Ideas:

Use transitional phrases or words to help your audience navigate between your main points and sub-points.
Words like “firstly,” “secondly,” or “in addition” can be effective in signaling a transition between ideas.
Clear and smooth transitions between ideas will allow your audience to stay engaged and follow the progression of your speech easily.

Summarizing Key Points And Reinforcing Your Main Message:

In the conclusion of your speech, briefly recap the main points you discussed. A concise summary will remind your audience of the key takeaways from your speech.
Emphasize the importance of your main message and its relevance to the audience. By reinforcing your main message, you leave a lasting impact and ensure that your audience remembers your speech.

Ending With A Memorable Closing Statement:

Finish your extemporaneous speech with a memorable closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on your audience.
Use a strong and impactful statement that resonates with your audience. This could be a call to action, a thought-provoking question, or a powerful quote.
Ensure that your closing statement reflects the overall tone and message of your speech, leaving your audience with a sense of closure and motivation to further engage with the topic.

Creating An Outline

Learn how to deliver an extemporaneous speech effectively by creating a well-structured outline. Discover the tips and techniques to engage your audience and deliver a seamless presentation.

When it comes to giving an extemporaneous speech, having a well-structured outline is essential. This serves as the roadmap for your speech, helping you stay organized and ensuring a logical flow of ideas. In this section, we will explore how to outline your main points and supporting details, how to ensure a logical flow of ideas, and the use of visual aids if necessary.

Outlining Your Main Points And Supporting Details:

To effectively communicate your ideas during an extemporaneous speech, it’s crucial to have a clear and concise outline. Here are some tips to help you outline your main points and supporting details:

Begin by identifying the main points you want to cover in your speech. These should be the key ideas that you want your audience to take away.
Use bullet points to list these main points. Each point should be concise and specific, providing a clear focus for your speech.
For each main point, include supporting details that strengthen your argument or provide further explanation. These details can be listed under each respective main point using sub-bullet points.
Ensure that your supporting details are relevant and well-researched, adding credibility and depth to your speech.
Consider the time limit for your speech and allocate appropriate time for each main point and its supporting details. This will help you manage your time effectively.

Ensuring A Logical Flow Of Ideas:

A well-structured speech should flow smoothly, guiding your audience through a logical progression of ideas. Here’s how you can ensure a logical flow of ideas in your extemporaneous speech:

Start with a compelling introduction that grabs your audience’s attention and provides an overview of what you’ll be discussing.
Transition smoothly from one main point to the next by using transitional phrases or keywords. These help your audience understand the connection between topics and maintain their engagement.
Use clear and concise language to present your ideas. Avoid unnecessary jargon or complex terminology that may confuse your audience.
Build upon each main point, providing supporting details that reinforce your argument or provide additional information.
Summarize each main point as you transition to the next, emphasizing the key takeaways for your audience.
Conclude your speech by summarizing the main points and leaving your audience with a memorable and thought-provoking ending.

Using Visual Aids If Necessary:

Visual aids can be a powerful tool to enhance your extemporaneous speech and engage your audience on a visual level. Consider using the following tips when incorporating visual aids into your speech:

Determine if your topic requires visual representations or if they would complement your speech effectively.
Utilize graphs, diagrams, images, or slides to convey complex information or statistics in a more understandable and visually appealing manner.
Keep your visual aids simple and uncluttered to maintain focus on your speech. Avoid overwhelming your audience with excessive information or complicated visuals.
Practice incorporating your visual aids into your speech to ensure a seamless delivery. Familiarize yourself with how and when to use them for maximum impact.

Remember, an outline acts as your guide during an extemporaneous speech. It helps you stay on track, deliver your message effectively, and engage your audience. By outlining your main points and supporting details, ensuring a logical flow of ideas, and incorporating visual aids if necessary, you can deliver a successful and impactful extemporaneous speech.

Rehearsing Techniques

Learn effective rehearsing techniques to deliver an extemporaneous speech confidently. Discover strategies to avoid common pitfalls and captivate your audience with your natural and engaging style. Develop your skills and deliver impactful speeches effortlessly.

One of the most important aspects of giving an extemporaneous speech is being well-prepared. Rehearsing your speech can help boost your confidence and ensure that you deliver a polished presentation. Here are some effective techniques to consider:

Practicing In Front Of A Mirror:

Stand in front of a mirror and deliver your speech as if you were speaking to an audience. This will help you observe your body language, facial expressions, and overall appearance.
Pay attention to your posture, gestures, and facial expressions, ensuring they enhance your message.
Practice maintaining eye contact with yourself in the mirror to simulate connecting with your audience.
Speak confidently and clearly, focusing on enunciation and articulation.

Recording And Reviewing Your Practice Sessions:

Use a recording device or your smartphone to record yourself delivering the speech.
Pay attention to your tone of voice, pace, and modulation. Identify areas where you can improve your delivery.
Review the recordings multiple times, taking note of any sections that need refinement or adjustments.
Consider listening to your practice sessions on different occasions to identify consistent areas for improvement.

Getting Feedback From Others:

Seek feedback from trusted friends, family members, or colleagues who can provide constructive criticism.
Ask for specific feedback on your delivery, content organization, clarity of message, and overall impact.
Consider joining public speaking groups or clubs where you can practice in a supportive environment and receive valuable feedback.
Incorporate the feedback you receive into your practice sessions to continuously refine your speech.

Remember, the key to delivering a successful extemporaneous speech is practice. Utilize these rehearsal techniques to gain confidence, enhance your delivery, and effectively engage your audience.

Improving Delivery Skills

Learn the art of delivering an extemporaneous speech with finesse. Enhance your delivery skills by employing effective techniques and avoiding common pitfalls to captivate your audience effortlessly.

Whether you’re giving a speech or delivering a presentation, improving your delivery skills is essential for engaging your audience and delivering your message effectively. Mastering body language, vocal variations, and maintaining eye contact are key factors in delivering a successful extemporaneous speech.

Here are some tips to help you enhance your delivery skills:

Working On Body Language And Gestures:

Stand tall and maintain an open posture: Project confidence and professionalism by standing straight with your shoulders back and your feet shoulder-width apart.
Use hand gestures purposefully: Incorporate natural and meaningful hand gestures to emphasize key points and help convey your message.
Move with purpose: When appropriate, move around the stage or the room to engage with different sections of the audience.
Avoid distracting habits: Be aware of any distracting movements, such as fidgeting or swaying, and practice keeping them in check.
Utilize facial expressions: Display enthusiasm and emotion through your facial expressions to connect with your audience on a deeper level.

Using Vocal Variations And Emphasis:

Vary your tone and pace: Incorporate changes in your voice tone and speaking pace to add emphasis and capture your audience’s attention.
Pause for effect: Strategic pauses can help emphasize key points and allow your audience to absorb information.
Increase or decrease volume: Adjust your volume to create dynamics in your delivery and emphasize important parts of your speech.
Practice vocal modulation: Experiment with different vocal techniques, such as inflection, to add depth and interest to your delivery.
Articulate clearly: Enunciate each word clearly to ensure your message is understood by everyone in the audience.

Maintaining Eye Contact With The Audience:

Establish connection: Make eye contact with different individuals throughout your speech to engage with your audience on a personal level.
Avoid fixating on one person or an object: Scan the room and make eye contact with various audience members to create a sense of inclusivity.
Connect with your message: Use eye contact to show your passion and belief in what you’re saying, allowing your audience to connect with your message.
Be mindful of distractions: Avoid getting distracted by external factors and maintain focus on connecting with your audience through eye contact.
Practice makes perfect: Practice delivering your speech in front of a mirror or with the help of a friend to ensure you maintain eye contact naturally.

The key to improving your delivery skills lies in practice, observation, and continuous improvement. By becoming aware of your body language, utilizing vocal variations, and maintaining eye contact, you can captivate your audience and deliver an extemporaneous speech that leaves a lasting impression.

Managing Nervousness

Learn how to manage nervousness and deliver a compelling extemporaneous speech with these effective tips. Discover techniques to control anxiety and confidently speak on-the-spot without relying on memorization or scripting. Improve your public speaking skills and captivate your audience effortlessly.

Public speaking can be an intimidating task, especially when it comes to giving an extemporaneous speech. The pressure to deliver a coherent and engaging speech on the spot can make anyone feel nervous. However, managing nervousness is crucial to ensure a successful presentation.

Here are some effective techniques to calm your nerves and deliver a confident extemporaneous speech:

Deep Breathing Exercises To Calm Nerves:

Take a deep breath in through your nose, hold it for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this process several times before your speech.
Deep breathing helps to activate the body’s relaxation response, reducing the physical symptoms of nervousness.
Focus on your breath and let go of any tension or anxiety as you exhale.

Visualizing A Successful Speech:

Close your eyes and imagine yourself delivering a flawless extemporaneous speech.
Visualize the positive reactions from the audience, their engaged expressions, and your confident delivery.
This visualization technique helps to build confidence and reduces anxiety when it comes time to speak.

Practicing Relaxation Techniques:

Progressive muscle relaxation: Start by tensing and then relaxing each muscle group in your body, starting from your toes and working your way up to your head.
Visualization of a serene place: Imagine yourself in a peaceful and calming environment, such as a beach or a forest. Focus on the sounds, smells, and sensations to induce relaxation.
Mindfulness meditation: Pay close attention to the present moment, without judgment. Focus on your breath or the sensations in your body to anchor your mind and reduce anxiety.

Remember, managing nervousness is an ongoing process that requires practice and patience. These techniques can be your secret weapons to calm your nerves and deliver an extemporaneous speech with confidence. With time and experience, you will become more comfortable speaking on the spot and captivate your audience effortlessly.

Handling Unexpected Questions Or Interruptions

In an extemporaneous speech, handling unexpected questions or interruptions can be challenging. To effectively navigate such situations, it’s important to stay composed, listen attentively, and provide concise and thoughtful responses. Being well-prepared and confident in your subject matter can also help you maintain poise and deliver a successful extemporaneous speech.

Remaining calm and composed:

Take a deep breath and remind yourself that unexpected questions or interruptions are a normal part of extemporaneous speaking.
Maintain a relaxed posture and facial expression to appear composed and in control.
Avoid rushing or panicking; instead, pause briefly to gather your thoughts before responding.
Remember that the audience understands that you are speaking off-the-cuff, so they will be forgiving of any slight pauses or stumbles.

Listening carefully and responding thoughtfully:

Focus on fully understanding the question or interruption before formulating your response.
Take the time to actively listen, nodding or acknowledging the speaker to show that you are engaged.
Repeat or paraphrase the question to ensure that you have interpreted it correctly.
Use concise and clear language when delivering your response, and provide specific examples or evidence to support your points.

Staying on track with your main message:

Prioritize your main message and ensure that each response aligns with it.
If the question or interruption is off-topic, politely steer the conversation back to your main message.
Use transitions or bridging phrases to smoothly connect your points and maintain coherence.
Avoid going off on tangents or rambling; instead, stay focused on addressing the question or interruption concisely.

Successfully handling unexpected questions or interruptions in an extemporaneous speech requires you to remain calm and composed, listen carefully and respond thoughtfully, and stay on track with your main message. By following these strategies, you can confidently navigate unforeseen challenges and deliver a compelling and coherent speech.

Adapting To Time Constraints

Learn how to give an extemporaneous speech by adapting to time constraints. Discover effective strategies for structuring your speech, managing your time, and delivering your message with confidence and clarity.

Monitoring Your Pace And Timing During Practice:

Be mindful of your natural speaking pace and rhythm.
Practice your speech multiple times to get a sense of how long it takes.
Pay attention to the flow of your words and ensure that your ideas are conveyed clearly.
Use pauses strategically to emphasize key points or allow the audience to absorb complex information.
Practice in front of a mirror or record yourself to observe your body language and pacing.

Adjusting Your Speech If Needed To Fit Within Time Limits:

As you practice, identify portions of your speech that may need trimming or additional elaboration.
Prioritize your main ideas and supporting points, focusing on the most impactful ones.
Consider using shorter sentences and concise language to convey your message more efficiently.
If your speech is exceeding the time limit, be prepared to make adjustments on the go, such as omitting non-essential examples or anecdotes.
Rehearse transitioning smoothly between different sections, ensuring that the flow of your speech remains intact.

Practicing With A Timer To Build Time Management Skills:

Set a timer for the allotted time you have to deliver your speech.
Practice delivering your speech within the time limit, aiming for precision and coherence.
Adjust your pace during practice to accommodate pauses and allow for audience engagement.
Use the timer as a tool to measure your progress and identify areas where you need to speed up or slow down.
Challenge yourself to deliver your speech comfortably within the time limit, allowing for a buffer in case unforeseen circumstances arise.

Remember, adapting to time constraints is crucial in delivering an extemporaneous speech. By monitoring your pace and timing during practice, adjusting your speech if needed, and practicing with a timer, you can effectively manage time constraints and deliver a well-structured and engaging speech.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should you start an extemporaneous speech.

To begin an extemporaneous speech, follow these guidelines: 1. Start with a strong and engaging opening statement. Capture your audience’s attention and set the tone for your speech. 2. Clearly state your main idea or thesis statement. This will provide a focus for your speech and guide your audience’s understanding.

3. Use a hook or anecdote to draw your listeners in and make them curious about what you have to say. 4. Provide a brief overview of the topics or points you will cover in your speech. This will help your audience follow along and understand the structure of your presentation.

Remember to practice and be confident in your delivery. By starting your extemporaneous speech with a captivating opening, clear thesis statement, intriguing hook, and outline of your topics, you can engage your audience from the beginning and deliver a compelling speech.

What Is The Structure Of An Extemporaneous Speech?

The structure of an extemporaneous speech typically follows three main parts: introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction aims to capture the audience’s attention with a compelling opening statement, followed by a clear thesis statement that sets the speech’s purpose. The body is where the main ideas and supporting evidence are presented.

Each idea is developed concisely, ensuring a coherent flow between them. The speaker should use examples, statistics, or anecdotes to make their points more persuasive. Finally, the conclusion wraps up the speech by summarizing the main points and ending on a memorable note.

By adhering to this structure, speakers can maintain focus and engage the audience effectively.

What Is An Example Of Extemporaneous Speech?

An example of an extemporaneous speech is when a speaker delivers a talk without prior preparation. The speaker relies on their knowledge and expertise to speak spontaneously on a given topic. They may use brief notes or an outline to guide their speech, but they do not read from a prepared script word-for-word.

In an extemporaneous speech, the speaker engages the audience by making eye contact, using gestures, and maintaining good delivery skills. This type of speech allows the speaker to connect with the audience in a more natural and interactive way. Extemporaneous speeches are common in debates, impromptu presentations, and certain types of public speaking events.

Speakers who excel at extemporaneous speaking are able to think quickly on their feet and communicate their thoughts effectively.

What Are The Methods For Extemporaneous Speech?

Extemporaneous speeches can be delivered using a few effective methods. The first is the memorized method, which involves memorizing the entire speech and delivering it without any notes. Another method is the manuscript method, where the speaker writes out the entire speech and reads it word for word while delivering it.

The third method is the outline method, where the speaker uses a brief outline containing key points and transitions to guide their speech. This method allows for flexibility and spontaneity. The impromptu method is the fourth technique, where the speaker is given a topic on the spot and must immediately deliver a speech without any preparation.

This method requires quick thinking and effective communication skills. Each method has its own advantages and can be adapted to suit different speaking occasions and preferences.

If you want to deliver an impressive extemporaneous speech, remember to practice, prepare, and stay focused. By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you can effectively tackle any impromptu speaking situation. Start by understanding the topic and organizing your thoughts quickly.

Utilize visual aids and engage with your audience to make your speech captivating. Stay confident and maintain good eye contact throughout. Remember to speak clearly and adjust your pace and tone accordingly. Don’t forget to practice active listening and respond effectively to any questions or feedback from your audience.

Ultimately, with enough practice and preparation, you can master the art of giving an extemporaneous speech and leave a lasting impression on your listeners. So, don’t shy away from impromptu speaking opportunities and embrace them as valuable learning experiences.

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Speech Writing

Extemporaneous Speech

Last updated on: Dec 31, 2023

Extemporaneous Speech | Intro, Examples, and Tips

By: Donna C.

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Jan 4, 2023

Have you ever had to give a speech without any preparation?

It can be really tough to have so many people looking at you and waiting for you to say something. This is called extemporaneous speech. Extemporaneous speeches are when you give a speech without any advance preparation.

If you're giving a speech without any preparation, don't worry! Just stay calm and confident.

This blog has some tips and examples to help you when you have to give a speech without any preparation. Since it is delivered without much practice, it's important to practice it in advance so you can do well.

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Extemporaneous Speech Definition

Extemporaneous speeches are planned, but they are also very spontaneous. This means that you get a topic assigned to you right before delivering the speech. You have to speak in a clear way and share factual data. Even though it is spontaneous, it should be well-structured and based on research.

This speech is not read or memorized, so the speaker usually keeps short notes with them or on PowerPoint to help them deliver the speech. The spontaneous nature of this speech is what makes it a preferred way of delivering a speech.

In order to give a captivating speech, you should dress well, speak in a loud and clear voice, and be engaged with the audience. It is also important to deliver information to the audience in an interesting way.

When to Use Extemporaneous Speech?

You can give an extemporaneous speech at any time, but it's important to have some background information before you start. You might deliver it during an office meeting, inside a classroom, or at a speech contest.

You will have time to prepare and practice the speech, but you won't be able to read it from a paper or memorize it. You need to speak in a conversational style and do proper research.

How to Write a Extemporaneous Speech?

When you have to give an extemporaneous speech, you don't have a lot of time to prepare. But there are a few steps that you can take to make sure your speech is great.

1. Select a Topic Usually, the topic is assigned by the committee members or your teacher. In case you have the choice to choose it yourself, choose a topic that you are familiar with. This will help you think of ideas and plan your speech more easily. Take a few minutes to brainstorm all the information you know about the topic.

2. Create an Outline Draft a quick outline for your speech. Introduce the topic. Share an anecdote or statistic that the audience can relate to. Pose a question that will get the audience thinking about your topic.

A pdf has been attached here to get a better understanding of its outline.

Extemporaneous Speech Outline

3. Begin with the Body Paragraphs Now that you have your outline, start working on your body paragraphs. Remember that you don't have a lot of time to write and practice your speech, so the body paragraph should only have a few key points.

4. Give Examples to Support Your Stance Provide some examples of how you can continue with your main points by giving more detail or by providing specific examples. This will help the audience understand your topic better and also make them curious, which might result in some questions at the end.

5. Draft a Brief Conclusion After giving a perfect speech it is necessary to conclude your speech on good notes. You must conclude with some quotation or a question that stays in the mind of the audience. Moreover, your conclusion must be short but thought-provoking.

Extemporaneous Speech Delivery

“How to deliver an extemporaneous speech?”

This type of speech means you are prepared, but you don't have notes. An extemporaneous speech is different from an impromptu speech because, with an extemporaneous speech, you have more time to prepare.

“What is the difference between extemporaneous and impromptu speech?”

There is no time for a rehearsal in an impromptu speech. But in an extemporaneous speech, the speaker does have some time to get prepared. The speech is delivered from these notes, but you cannot read them directly.

You should use your time wisely when giving a speech. Pay attention to how you deliver your speech, including the way you speak and the rhythm of your words.

Extemporaneous Speech Advantages and Disadvantages

There are some pros and cons to giving a speech this way. Read these to understand the concept of extemporaneous speech.

Extemp speeches are better than other speeches because they sound more natural and spontaneous. They are also delivered in a conversational style.
People are more likely to trust someone who is well-read on a topic and is not reading from a page when they speak.
An extemporaneous speech gives you more chances to interact with your audience.
The speaker can ask a question in the middle of a speech to ensure that everyone is paying attention.
You can add stories and examples that are relevant to your topic in an extemporaneous speech. Additionally, you can quote other speakers in your speech.
If you are scared of public speaking, then extemporaneous speech will be very fierce for you.
If the speaker gets nervous or stutters in between, it will look like they didn't prepare well.
If you don't plan your speech well, it can be too short or too long.
The speaker may be unfamiliar with some of the vocabulary words in the topic.

Extemporaneous Speech Examples

If you are still having trouble understanding how to give a speech without preparation or how to write one quickly, check out the examples mentioned below:

Example of Extemporaneous Speech

Extemporaneous Speech About COVID-19

Extemporaneous Speech Sample

Example of Extemporaneous Speech About Education

Extemporaneous Speech Topics

Some extemporaneous speech topics are given below:

For what reason do I cherish playing volleyball?
When will I become a tycoon?
For what reason is Playstation better than Xbox?
The best musician is - fill a name-
Gays don't have equivalent freedoms, is it valid?
Political unsteadiness in my nation is expected to?
For what reason is facebook's ubiquity tumbling down so rapidly?
For what reason are unlawful workers not given privileges?
Are web wrongdoing and theft punished?
It is vital to Stop the conflict in Afghanistan

There are many different types of extemp speech topics. You can choose one that you are knowledgeable about or one that you can mold to fit your own knowledge.

Extemporaneous Speech Tips

If you want to give a speech without preparation, these tips will help you.

The speech outline should be easy to understand, so keep it simple.
Keep index cards with you as cues. This will help you avoid writing on full paper.
If you are using technology, such as PowerPoint, practice with it before giving your speech.
You should speak to people in a way that sounds extemporaneous speaking naturally and not like you're reading from a script.
If you have enough time, record your speech and then listen to it yourself.
It is a good idea to rehearse your speech in front of an audience so you can get feedback on what works and what needs improvement.

This was all for extemporaneous speech. If you still feel you won't be able to grasp the idea of extemporaneous speech, we can help.

If you need to write a speech quickly, contact SharkPapers.com . We have a professional team of writers who can help you deliver a quality speech at a reasonable price.

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The Ultimate Novice Guide for Extemp

The following is the ultimate guide for novices on how to succeed in extemporaneous speaking. Covered are the following sections: what is extemp, what goes into a speech, the art of substructure, confidence in this activity, free extemp resources, and concluding commentary. This guide was written by Ananth Veluvali.

Part 1: What is Extemporaneous Speaking?

Extemporaneous speaking (usually called “extemp”) is a limited-preparation speech event focused on current affairs. Here’s how a typical round unfolds:

Step 1: The speaker is given three random questions that are based on current affairs; then, the extemper picks their favorite question and returns the other two. For a better understanding of what these questions may look like, head to our weekly questions page . Ideally, you’ll feel comfortable answering any of the three questions you draw. For that to happen, though, you’ll need to read up on the most important news events ahead of tournaments. Here is a list of some news sources to check out. Rule number one of extemp? Reading is your best friend. Step 2: Following that, you have 30 minutes of preparation time to write and memorize a speech on the assigned question. Because your time is so limited, it is advisable to limit the amount you write on your paper. Rule number two of extemp? Less is more. If you write out your speech word-for-word, you won’t have enough time to memorize, practice, or even finish writing your outline. Instead, write general ideas and bullet points. As a rule of thumb, there should be about 100 words or less on your paper. You should aim for three points when answering a question. Step 3: After thirty minutes are up, you’ll head to your room (for the 2020-2021 speech season, that “room” is likely virtual) and deliver your speech. You’ll have 7:00 minutes to do so; if you go too far over, the judge will likely dock your ranks or even disqualify you. Accordingly, the third rule of extemp is that proper time allocation matters. When delivering your speech, remember to stay confident and poised—after all, extemp is a persuasive activity, something too many extempers forget.

Part 2: What Goes Into a Speech

An extemp speech, much like a persuasive essay, can be organized into three components: an introduction, some body paragraphs, and a conclusion. And unlike in your English classroom, where five-paragraph essays are discouraged in higher-level classes, “five-paragraph” extemp speeches (an introduction, 3 points, and a conclusion) are a good thing!

Let’s start with the introduction, which has the most moving parts in a speech. In your introduction, you need an AGD, context/background information, a statement of significance, a recitation of the question, a thesis, and a points preview. You’re probably wondering, What the heck does that mean? , so let’s break it down:

AGD (attention-getting device): This is similar to the hook of an essay, where you’ll utilize a quote, a joke, a surprising statistic, historical parallel, or sad story to grab your audience’s attention. Unlike an essay, though, jokes are the most common kind of attention-getting device. Capturing the audience’s attention in one to two sentences can be challenging, so be sure to check out this article on how to “master” the art of AGDs.
Context: This is the information the audience needs to know in order to understand the topic. In a few sentences, you should define any key terms in the question, including subjective or relatively unknown words & phrases. Here is an article on how to provide effective background information during the intro.
Statement of Significance: This is the so what? of a speech. In one sentence, you should establish why the question you are about to ask matters. In this article , we delve into the statement of significance & offer some effective formats.
Question: This is pretty intuitive—you’re just reciting the question you drew. Make sure you don’t mess up the wording of the question because a lot of judges look down on that.
Thesis and a points preview: The thesis is a roughly 5-7 word analytical answer to the question, and the points preview is just a preview of the three points you have that answer the question. For a better understanding of this, watch a few extemp speeches (located in Part 5 of this Ultimate Novice Guide) and see how extempers structure their answers.

If you would like some more information on the introduction , check out this article written by Katelyn Cai and Peter Alisky!

After your introduction, you’ll have to get into each of your specific points. There, you should spend around 1 minute and 30 seconds on each point, utilizing direct and indirect evidence to answer the question. As a fourth rule of extemp, the more persuasive, educational, and creative your reasoning, the better.

Finally, once you’re done with your introduction and all three points, you should spend the remaining 30 seconds – 1 minute reflecting upon the question. Here, you should recite the question, your thesis, and your points preview. Then, you should conclude with 1-2 more sentences that give your judge something to think about (similar to the clincher of an essay).

If you’re still confused, check out this excellent video by Annie Zhao and Katherine Hu on how to prep an extemp speech below.

Part 3: The Art of Substructure

You’re probably wondering how should you structure the information inside each of your points. To answer that, you’ll need to understand substructure. The following three articles take you through substructure and how to structure your arguments. Each article pairs general principles with specific examples, so you can become a substructure maestro.

The first article delves into what substructure is and the most basic and prototypical format.

The second article delves into some more specific and complex substructure formats.

The third article concludes the substructure series with some final substructure formats (including my favorite!).

By the end of these three articles, you’ll know what substructure is, the general way to structure a point, and six specific substructure formats. When you’re starting out, try to employ a few of these formats in your speeches, so substructure will make more sense!

Substructure is the trickiest part of extemp, so don’t worry if it feels complicated when you’re starting out. With sustained practice, it will eventually become second-nature.

Part 4: Being Confident in Extemp

A fifth golden rule of extemp is that the best extempers are the most confident ones . If you exhibit confidence while delivering your speech, your judges are more inclined to believe your analysis and give you a higher rank.

However, it’s easy to get discouraged in this activity—after all, extemp isn’t for the faint of heart. To prevent that from happening, read the four following articles on how to be a more confident and assertive speaker. Not only will this improve your delivery, but it will make you a more contented extemper.

This first article doles out advice on how to “conquer the crowd,” revealing how you can speak confidently in front of larger audiences (or even smaller ones).

This second article incorporates the perspective of a small-school extemper, who gives advice to other small-school extempers on how to stand-out, even with fewer resources or a smaller team.

This third article discusses how you can fight impostor syndrome in extemporaneous speaking. At times, it’s easy to feel as if you don’t belong in this activity, but just remember, you do.

Finally, this fourth article highlights how you can “dress up” your extemp speech when you don’t feel fully confident about it. This is a must read for all extempers.

Part 5: Resources in Extemp

So, you’ve made it through! If you’re still curious on how to succeed in this activity, check out a few of the resources below (plus this website!).

A list of twenty free presentations from an extemporaneous speaking camp we hosted in the summer of 2020. These presentations cover topic areas like the Middle East, US Politics, and China, plus specific extemp topics like substructure and the art of delivery.
A definitive source list for extemp speaking , with over 100 sources you can look through. Pick a few sources from each section, and read those sources for the rest of the day. Then, repeat that process with a few different sources the next day. After a few days, you’ll get a general idea of which sources you like the best, and you should start filing those sources consistently. Personally, I’m a huge fan of the Council on Foreign Relations, the Economist, FiveThirtyEight, Vox, and the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs!
An article on how to increase your speaking presence at online tournaments. With six clearly delineated tips & tricks, you’ll emerge a better speaker!
A speech by Clay Owens , the final round winner of the 2017 NSDA IX national tournament.
A speech by Tanner Jones , the runner-up of the 2018 NSDA USX national tournament.
A speech by Christopher Maximos , the third place finisher of the 2019 NSDA USX national tournament.
A beginner breakdown of her national final round speech and an advanced breakdown of her national final round speech by Jackie Wei, the two time USX national champion.

Part 6: Concluding Commentary

Extemp speaking is a truly rewarding event that will make you a more analytical, persuasive, and confident speaker. Hopefully this guide helps you on the path toward extemp stardom and feel free to reach out with any questions! You can contact us on Instagram (@theextempersbible) or email ([email protected]).

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IMAGES

OUTLINE GUIDE FOR AN EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEECH
43 Informative Speech Outline Templates & Examples
Speech Outline Template Word
Extemporaneous Speech
Extemporaneous Speech Outline
Extemporaneous Speech

VIDEO

Extemporaneous speech
extemporaneous speech
Introduction Speech Outline/Essay
Extemporaneous Speech
Extemporaneous Informative Speech
Extemporaneous Speech on Happiness

COMMENTS

Extemporaneous Speech: Writing and Delivery Tips
To write a compelling extemporaneous speech, you must gather relevant information quickly. This step includes: ... Step 2 - Create an Extemporaneous Speech Outline. An outline will give you a basic blueprint of the speech and can even help you weed out any potential mistakes in the structure or format of the speech.
How To Write An Extemporaneous Speech?
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started: - Choose your topic and gather information. - Create an outline that includes an introduction, main points, and conclusion. - Practice your speech by using cue cards. - Focus on clear and concise delivery. - Use body language and gestures to enhance your message.
PDF EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEAKING
extemporaneous speaking - the feeling that there is no way you could ever do something like that. At this point it is worth acknowl-edging something that you have probably al-ready realized - extemporaneous speaking is difficult. To excel at it takes significant prac-tice and a deliberate approach to research and speech writing.
How to Deliver an Extemporaneous Speech: Tips and Tricks
A few steps can be followed to write a great extemporaneous speech. ... Create an Outline. Draft a quick outline for your speech. It should have a few lines for your introduction, something that the audience can relate to or will find funny, or a question that will alert the audience. Here is a sample outline for you to get a better idea.
Extemporaneous Speech Maker: Quick and Efficient Tool
An extemporaneous speech is a specific form of speech delivery that presupposes an improvised presentation on the speaker's part with minimal preparation. Many people find this public speaking method challenging; they have no time for preparation and need to sound structured and persuasive without an outline and several rehearsals.
PDF Extemporaneous Speeches: Definition and Delivery
The following guidelines are tips for how to practice and rehearse your extemporaneous speech: • Write an easy-to-follow speech outline that includes all of the essential elements of your speech. • Create index cards to act as cues to keep you on track throughout your speech. (Alternatively, use the note feature of your graphic technology.)
Chapter Eleven
A speaking outline is the outline you will prepare for use when delivering the speech. The speaking outline is much more succinct than the preparation outline and includes brief phrases or words that remind the speakers of the points they need to make, plus supporting material and signposts. [2] The words or phrases used on the speaking outline ...
Extemporaneous Speaking: The Basics
Week 1 - Brainstorm your speech topic and conduct an audience analysis. Week 2 - Research, gather support, plan outline, and write a speech. Week 3 - Edit, peer-review, begin practicing your speech. Week 4 - Revise, practice, create note cards, create a visual aid, and refine your delivery. Use this timeline to plan your informative ...
Extemporaneous Speech
Here are the steps involved in writing a great extemporaneous speech. 1. Choose the Topic Wisely - Instead of going with a topic that is entirely new for you, be wise and choose a familiar topic. Once you have chosen the topic, brainstorm about it in the given 30 minutes and make notes. 2.
PRDV008: Extemporaneous Speeches
An outline is a list of items with each item divided into additional sub-items. Each level in an outline has at least two subcategories. ... Extemporaneous Speech. Extemporaneous speaking is one of the most natural methods for delivering a prepared speech. You can use an extemporaneous speech to achieve a more natural tone, flow, and style with ...
Extemporaneous Speech
Write an Extemporaneous Speech on the future of renewable energy. Deliver an Extemporaneous Speech discussing the importance of mental health awareness. Craft an Extemporaneous Speech on the role of technology in modern communication. Formulate an Extemporaneous Speech about the effects of social media on society.
How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech
Step 3. Create the body of your speech. Limit yourself to the most important points you want to make and be sure they all relate directly to your subject as you do not have time to go off topic. Choose a few notes from your initial list and further clarify them. For example, write a paragraph about conserving land, another about reducing ...
How To Write An Extemporaneous Speech: Structure & Samples
Developing a logical structure for the speech. Collecting supporting materials & evidence. Writing out the body paragraphs for the speech. Delivering an effective extemporaneous presentation. Concluding the speech effectively. With our assistance, you can be certain that you will receive timely delivery of high-quality material.
How to make an outline for extemporaneous speech
Create an Outline for Your Speech. Form a workable outline for your speech. Write the essay's topic on the top of the page and list down the ideas you come across. This way, you will know about the things that you need to discuss in your speech. 3. Form the Main Body Section of Your Speech.
How to Give An Extemporaneous Speech
How to Give an Extemporaneous Speech Like a Professional. Here's a mini-training that'll help you develop the genuine, conversational public speaking sound p...
14.1 Four Methods of Delivery
Key Takeaways. There are four main kinds of speech delivery: impromptu, extemporaneous, manuscript, and memorized. Impromptu speaking involves delivering a message on the spur of the moment, as when someone is asked to "say a few words.". Extemporaneous speaking consists of delivering a speech in a conversational fashion using notes.
How to Give An Extemporaneous Speech?
Structuring Your Extemporaneous Speech. Learn how to give an extemporaneous speech by following these 6 guidelines: avoid starting sentences with overused phrases, keep sentences brief, write in an seo friendly and human-like manner, use a variety of phrases at the beginning of paragraphs, exclude a conclusion paragraph, and aim for human-like writing while avoiding any repetitive terms.
How to Deliver an Outstanding Extemporaneous Speech?
Draft a quick outline for your speech. Introduce the topic. Share an anecdote or statistic that the audience can relate to. Pose a question that will get the audience thinking about your topic. A pdf has been attached here to get a better understanding of its outline. Extemporaneous Speech Outline. 3.
PDF OUTLINE GUIDE FOR AN EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEECH
OUTLINE GUIDE FOR AN EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEECH TITLE OF SPEECH: All speeches must be titled. GENERAL PURPOSE(METHOD OF PRESENTATION): to inform, to entertain, to demonstrate, to persuade by making in-roads, etc. SPECIFIC PURPOSE (AUDIENCE OUTCOME): What particular response do you want to
The Ultimate Novice Guide to Extemp
Founder, the Extemper's Bible. The following is the ultimate guide for novices on how to succeed in extemporaneous speaking. Covered are the following sections: what is extemp, what goes into a speech, the art of substructure, confidence in this activity, free extemp resources, and concluding commentary. Since this is an ongoing project, we ...
Oral Discourse and Extemporaneous Delivery
They are practiced ahead of moment, experienced real re-rehearsed (extemporaneous addresses are none impromptu), using a keyword outline about single words and short, 3-5 word phrases. The speech is not memorized but instead is concentrating switch the main ideas; each clock adenine narrator practices and delivers aforementioned talking ...
How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech
2. Craft an Extemporaneous Speech Outline. Having a short extemporaneous speech outline assists you considerably when delivering the speech. So, create one quickly. The two common ways of creating an outline are alphanumeric and decimal. You use alphabets and numbers to highlight your sections and points in an alphanumeric outline.
The Ultimate Novice Guide for Extemp
Extemporaneous speaking (usually called "extemp") is a limited-preparation speech event focused on current affairs. Here's how a typical round unfolds: ... or even finish writing your outline. Instead, write general ideas and bullet points. As a rule of thumb, there should be about 100 words or less on your paper. You should aim for three ...