Impromptu SpeakingUnit 6

Essential Questions

Why is impromptu speaking a necessary skill?

How can I prepare a two minute speech in a limited amount of time?

Why should I want to speak on a topic with no prep time?

To what extent is a speakers knowledge on a topic related to their ability to speak on it?

Why are organization and signposting more important in impromptu than in other forms of speeches?

Enduring Understandings

The ability to speak impromptu can impact a person’s level of success

When speaking quickly, it is best to limit research data while expanding on opinionative matter

Strong conclusions have a profound effect on the audience

Unit Assessment

Introduction

In this unit you will learn and practice the fine art of speaking ”off the cuff.” When speaking in an impromptu manner, that means you will have little time to prepare and will not use a script.

Introduction

For many people, this is the most stressful style of public speaking.

However, it is crucial to develop a comfort level with this type of speaking because you will be doing it during the debate unit.

It will also come in handy in the future to give a toast at a party or wedding, or to introduce someone to a large group of people.

Impromptu Vocabulary

Impromptu: speaking with little to no preparation

Off-the-cuff: comments added without previous preparation

Transitions: Words that tie two ideas together

Style: The manner of speaking that is adopted based on topic and audience

Assignment #1: Impromptu Article

Read “Impromptu Speaking” on pg. 3

Answer Questions 1-7 on pg. 4

Intention and Purpose Practice

Deciding how to respond to a particular speech topic based on your intention or purpose for getting your message across to the audience.

Complete pg. 5 in packet

Assignment #2: Develop Impromptu Topics

Name: Cindy Smith

1: underage drinking

2: Should we make texting while driving illegal?

3: college entrance exams

4: mandatory community service

5: “Do one thing every day that scares you.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

Outline for Impromptu Speech

I. Introduction◦-- Use an attention grabber, quote, statistic,

anecdote, question, fact◦-- State your intention Inform, answer the

question, comment on, persuade, describe◦--Rationale: Why is what you have to say

important?◦Roadmap: First.. Next.. Finally

Outline for Impromptu Speech

II. Body◦--2-3 main points required for full credit◦--follow the roadmap you set up in your

introduction

Outline for Impromptu Speech

III. Conclusion◦--Start with a transition to signal your audience

that you are almost done --Finally, In conclusion

◦--Restate your three main points◦--Thank your audience for their attention

Impromptu Speech Sample Using Organizer

As we fill out a sample organizer together, keep in mind the requirements for the intro, body, and conclusion that we just reviewed.

Topic: Should we make texting while driving illegal?

Purpose: Persuade

Should we make texting while driving illegal?

Attention-grabber:Roadmap:

◦First◦Next◦Then◦Finally

Should we make texting while driving illegal?

Main Point #1:

Main Point #2:

Main Point #3:

Main Point #4:

Should we make texting while driving illegal?

Conclusion: