Public Speaking Techniques

Public Speaking Preparation

• Experience: Have you previously delivered a public speech?
• Preparation Methods: How did you prepare for a previous speech?
• Importance of Preparation: Why is preparation needed for public speaking?

Speech Script Structure

• Structure: The basic parts of a speech script include: introduction, body, and conclusion.

Introduction Strategies

• Rhetorical Question: Begin with a question designed to engage the audience. Example: "Who says age is an obstacle to education?"
• Startling Statement: Use a surprising statement to grab the audience's attention. Example: "Hindi pa kami laos!" (Not yet exhausted!)
• Narrative Opening/Anecdote: Begin with a brief story or anecdote to relate to the audience and attract them to the topic. Example: Mrs. Prado dividing her day between school and her sari-sari store, a Filipino entrepreneur.
• Quoted Remarks: Start with a quote relevant to the topic. Example: "I earn while I learn."
• Maxim/Aphorism: Employ a well-known proverb or aphorism to provide context or convey a message. Example: "Water, water, everywhere, but not a drop to drink."
• Background/History: Present a concise history or background of the topic or subject discussed. Example: The Muslim observance of Ramadan.

Body of Speech Script

• Thesis Statement(s): This will be a central claim of the presentation

• Supporting Detail(s): These details will support the thesis statement(s) in the speech

Conclusion Strategies

• Summary: Summarize the main points of the speech. Example: "Smoking is definitely harmful to health."
• Question: End with a thought-provoking question to pique the listener's interest. Example: "Do you have these kinds of hands?"
• Significance/Results: Indicate the significance of the speech’s message. Example: "Let us conserve our forests now if we want to save the future of our country and our children."
• Forecast/Prophecy: Offer a prediction or prophecy for the future. Example: The forecast about population growth.
• Repetition: Briefly restate elements of the introduction to reinforce the main points of the topic discussed
• Quotation/Aphorism/Saying: Close with a powerful quote, maxim or proverb; Example: "Poverty is not a hindrance to succeed!"

Additional Writing Strategies

• Citation/Authority: Acknowledge credible sources appropriately.
• Discourse Markers: Utilize transitional words/phrases to enhance organization. Avoid filler words
• Conciseness: Present information efficiently.
• Visual Aids: Allow visual aids to support the script. Avoid cluttered presentation materials

Exercise

• Exercise Instructions: Apply these strategies in writing a speech about gender inclusivity.

This quiz explores essential techniques for effective public speaking, including preparation methods, speech script structure, and engaging introduction strategies. Test your knowledge on how to captivate and connect with your audience through various rhetorical approaches.