Becoming a Better Speaker

T or F: Public speaking is the greatest fear among people, greater than the fear of dying, flying, or failure.

• True

• False

What is "constructive feedback"?

• Feedback on learning models.

• Feedback that is hurtful or derogatory.

• Criticism that is given on a routine basis.

• Feedback or criticism that is helpful and productive.

Many educated people find themselves giving impromptu speeches without the benefit of research and planning.

If you are one of these people, what technique would you recommend to others when they give these types of speeches?

• Focus your speech on the demographics of the audience.

• Try a format like: "Past, Present, and Future."

• Be sure to practice beforehand.

• Use natural pauses like: "Uh," "You know," and "Oh, wait," when you are thinking what you want to say next.

Study the diagram and select the option (A-D) that correctly indicates the type of speech described.

Types of Speeches:

Y. "I would like to summarize by saying

that you will never have another class

that will be as challenging, interesting,

and rewarding, as JROTC. With that said,

I hope that you will make the

commitment and become a Cadet in

our school's JROTC program. Thank

you."

Z. "Members of the jury, the evidence

shows that my client is not only

innocent of the charges brought by the

prosecution, but that he has been

unfairly targeted by reason of his

economic standing. Thank you very

much."

• Y = Persuasive;

  Z = Argumentative

• Y = Informative;

  Z = Entertaining

• Y = Impromptu;

  Z = Informative

• Y = Argumentative;

  Z = Persuasive

Providing feedback on a person's speech should not be negative or destructive. It should be in the form of constructive criticism, and should be straightforward and honest. It should also be respectful of the speaker's feelings and self-esteem.

To give effective feedback, which of the following should you not focus on?

• The content of the speech.

• The actions that occurred during the speech.

• The observed factors that affected performance of the speech.

• The negative factors that make up constructive criticism.

Which of the following are coping strategies for lessening the fear of public speaking?

• Remember that your audience shares your fear of public speaking; Remember the audience is there to hear you

• Concentrate on the subject; Remember your nervousness does not show

• Prepare; Practice; Breathe deeply

• All of the above

Choose the term that best completes the sentence below.

Another _____ to deal

with nervousness is to realize that you look more confident than you actually feel.

• constructive strategy

• coping strategy

• speech structure

• constructive criticism

Study the list and select the option (A-D) that correctly places the steps for preparing a speech in order.

Preparing a Speech:

1. Analyze the purpose of the speech and the audience.

2. Conduct research and gather information.

3. Support your ideas.

4. Organize all the material.

5. Draft and edit the speech.

6.

Practice and get feedback.

• It is in the correct order

• Switch Step 1 with Step 2

• Switch Step 3 with Step 4

• Switch Step 5 with Step 6

How do you best communicate with your target audience?

• Bribe them

• Knowing your target audience and communicate to their interest

• Memorize your speech

• Just be yourself

Choose the term that best completes the sentence below.

Sometimes you will be called upon to provide _____ on another person's speech to help him/her improve his/her performance in some way.

• constructive strategy

• coping strategy

• speech structure

• constructive criticism