Public Speaking Techniques

Extemporaneous Speech

• A well-prepared speech, relying on research, organization, and practiced delivery.
• It is neither read nor memorized.
• Delivered with prepared notes.
• Preparation time can range from a few minutes to half an hour.

Impromptu Speech

• Unrehearsed and delivered on the spot.

Impromptu Speech Topics

• Topics should be designed to inform or persuade the audience.
• Generally, speakers have 1-3 minutes of preparation time for a 5-8 minute speech.
• Time constraints for preparation can reduce to 30 seconds.

Language

• A system of symbols, structured by grammar and syntax.
• Symbols represent something else.
• Words trigger thoughts, concepts, or feelings.

Denotative Meaning

• Conveys the literal meaning of a word.
• For example, "apartment" means a room or suite of rooms used as a residence.

Connotative Meaning

• Conveys feelings.
• The meaning is personal and subjective. For example, “apartment” could evoke feelings of comfort, dread, or guilt.

Concrete Meaning

• Refers to experience.
• Concrete meaning can be perceived with the senses.
• For example, “It’s 45 degrees outside.”

Abstract Meaning

• Cannot be perceived with the senses.
• For example, democracy, patriotism, justice, truth are abstract concepts.

Extemporaneous Speeches

• A well-prepared speech, not read or memorized
• Relies on research, clear organization, and practice
• Preparation time: few minutes to half an hour

Impromptu Speeches

• Unrehearsed, delivered on the spot
• Preparation time: 1-3 minutes for a 5-8 minute speech
• Goal is to inform or persuade the audience

Language

• System of symbols (words and vocabulary) structured by grammar (rules and standards) and syntax (patterns in the arrangement of words)
• Words are symbols that represent something else, triggering thoughts, concepts, or feelings
• Symbol sharing involves denotative and connotative meanings

Denotative Meaning

• Conveys context
• Literal meaning of a word
• Example: "Apartment" - a room or suite of rooms used as a residence

Connotative Meaning

• Conveys feelings
• Personal and subjective meanings of words
• Example: "Apartment" - feelings of comfort, guilt, dread, etc.

Concrete Meanings

• Refer to experience
• Tangible and can be perceived through senses
• Example: "It's 45 degrees outside"

Abstract Meanings

• Difficult to understand
• Cannot be perceived or experienced with senses
• Examples: Democracy, Patriotism, Justice, Truth