LESSON 5: PUBLIC SPEAKING

INTRODUCTION

Public speaking is one form of communication wherein one delivers a message

or speech in front of an audience. A skilled public speaker has the ability to get across
his/her message effectively to an interested audience so as the audience can arrive at a
good decision thus influence people’s outlook and character.
Styles and play is important to achieve the power to influence your audience to
act and do something. It is also important to know the components of public speaking
that would result to an efficient and effective speech delivery.
Efficient and effective delivery requires the use of both audible and the visible
codes. If, in any way, the content of one’s view is deficient, he/she can still save his/her
performance through vocal and physical delivery.

Whether you're a small business owner, a student, or just someone who's

passionate about something—you'll benefit if you improve your public speaking skills,
both personally and professionally. Some benefits to public speaking include:  
   
 Improves confidence 
 Better research skills
 Stronger deductive skills
 Ability to advocate for causes
 And more

ELEMENTS OF VOCAL DELIVERY:

The following are the helpful elements of vocal delivery. They help one realize the
objectives in the objective of the speech.
1. Pitch. This refers to the highness or lowness of the tone of the voice. The speaker
knowledge of when to raise or lower the tone of his/her voice is important. The pitch
must be varied.

2. Volume. This refers to the loudness and softness of the sound: modulating is one
thing while shouting is another. The speaker must know which parts he/she should
speak louder or softer.

3. Rate. This refers to the speed at which words are spoken. The rate must be adapted
to the type of audience with which the speaker communicates.
4. Pause. This refers to the temporary stop in the vocal delivery, which serves a good
purpose. It allows the listener some time to process the information while, at the same
time, allowing the speaker to recall something that he/she might have forgotten about
the presentation.

5. Animation. This refers to the liveliness of the voice. The speaker’s ability to animate
his/her voice will definitely make the presentation dynamic.

6. Vocal Clarity. This refers to proper pronunciation. The speaker must be able to utter
the words properly and clearly. He/she must likewise avoid disruptive speech sound as
uh, well, um, and you know.

7. Vocal Quality. This refers to the distinct characteristic of one’s voice. It can be thin,
hoarse, hinky, rough, or airy, etc. since vocal quality can be improved and even
changed, it is important for the speaker to explore the beauty of his/her own voice,
knows its strengths and weaknesses, and optimize it to his/her advantage.
 PHYSICAL DELIVERY

1. Facial Expression. No matter how speakers project their voice or dancers move
their body, if they do not show appropriate facial expression, they fail. Their facial
expression must be reflective of the message they wish to express to the audience.

2. Eye Contact. The eyes must be directed not toward the ceiling nor the floor, but the
audience. Looking directly to the audience will make them feel that they are significant
part of the presentation. Effective eye contact will establish connection with the
audience.

3. Gesture. Too much gesture might be an overkill; too little of them might make the
presentation dull. Hence, it is imperative that speakers consider the size if the audience,
that is, whether or not their gesture must involve only the fingers or the wrist or if they
must be extended to the use of the elbow or the shoulder.

4. Posture. Good posture does not have to be very stiff like that of a police officer when
coming to a position of attention nor does it have to be relaxed that the speaker appears
lousy or even arrogant. Standing straight and tall, with feet flat and slightly apart, chin
up, shoulders relaxed, coupled with that charming smile can make up a good posture.
Just do it natural!

5. Movement. Knowing when to move to and fro must be clear to every speaker.
Moving too much and aimlessly can be very distracting. Effective movements must be
purposeful, that is, the speaker moves only when making or emphasizing a point.
Especially in formal settings, movement must be limited such that it reinforces the
message instead of distracting its presentation. Observe timing, and move smartly.

6. Appearance. While people are basically there to listen to what the speaker has to
say, how he/she looks can make the audience interested and pay attention to his/her
presentation. Dress appropriately for both your audience and the occasion. Avoid flashy
jewelry. A little makeup for women and a clean haircut for men will definitely be
appealing.

PREPARATION FOR A BETTER SPEECH

In speech preparation, some of the interrelated components, the speaker,

occasion, and audience are very important things to consider. Also, the gathering of
materials is significant as discussed in this topic.

1. The Speaker. For you to be an effective speaker, you may want to do the following
prior to delivering your speech:

 Draw from your personal experience.

 Make use of your hobbies.
 Use the knowledge you gained from your other subjects both in high school and
in college.
 Pick a topic regarding current events.
 Choose a controversial topic.

2. Occasion

A. Time. The audience may have different moods and feeling according to the time the
speech is delivered. Before the meal, the audience may think of food while in the middle
of your speech. In the afternoon, they might feel drowsy. In the evening, the audience
may expect too much from you.
B. Place. The place of gathering may be a factor in the success of your speech. You
should consider the venue of your speaking engagement. Will it be indoor or outdoor?
Will there be enough ventilation and chairs? The speech will need to be adjusted
according to the place where the speech will be held.

C. Program. Your role in the program will determine the length of your speech. If you
are the major speaker, then you have more time to speak. While if you are to introduce
a guest speaker, your speech should not be longer than that of the speaker.

3. The Audience. The message is intended for the audience. Therefore, the audience’s
attention should be focused on the topic of your speech. The speaker should consider
the common characteristics of the audience. Audience interest will depend on their age
and gender. Female teenagers will differ in interest from older women. Teenagers might
be interested in topics like popular fashions and celebrities, while older ones will be
more interested growth and financial success.

4. Gathering of Materials. After knowing your speech purpose, you need to gather
materials. The following are your sources:

 Yourself as the speaker. Think of your own ideas and experience regarding the
topic.

 More materials. Interview some experts who are more knowledgeable about the
topic.
 Library. Make sure to take note of the sources from the library where you gather
your materials and organize them as well.

Speech Content Organization

1. Creating a Speech Outline. An outline serves as an overview to give focus and
attention to some of the topics that need more details, or at least balance the
information in each category in the outline. The body of the speech may be outlined
using the following format:

I. First Major Ideas II. Second Major Idea

A. Secondary Idea
1. Supporting material
2. Supporting material
B. Secondary Idea
1. Supporting material
2. supporting material
A. Secondary Idea
1. Supporting material
2. Supporting material
B. Secondary Idea
1. Supporting material
2. Supporting material

III. Third Major Idea

A. Secondary Idea
1. Supporting material
2. Supporting material
B. Secondary Idea
1. Supporting material
2. Supporting material

2. Creating the introduction of the Speech. The two considerations in creating the
speech introduction are getting the attention of the audience and stating the topic and
speech purpose clearly.
a. To get the audience’s attention and show the following
 Significant of your subject;
 Humor;
  Illustration, comparison, or quotation;
 Common bond with your audience;
 The occasion or purpose of the meeting; and
 Sincere compliment
b. To clarify the topic and purpose, discuss the following
 Your point or purpose of the speech; and
 Your plan to develop your topic
3. Collation and integration of materials (Body of Speech). The next step after
making an outline of your topic is to be able to present some supporting materials that
will help clarify and prove the major ideas in your speech.

4. Creating the conclusion. In creating the summary, you need to reiterate the
intention of your speech. You can end your speech by stating a famous quotation, a
comparison or an illustration, or a restatement of your major ideas.
Why People Fear Public Speaking?
Many, if not people have stage fright. Once they set foot on stage, their knees
and hands start trembling. Where does such fear come from?

According to BDO, Seidman, & LLP (2009), people who deliver speeches look at
themselves as the “center stage”. Once they see the crowd, their anxiety grows even
stronger. They are also scared of looking foolish, particularly when they stumble in their
delivery.
BDO, Seidman, & LLP (2009) offer three steps to overcome stage fright.

1. Be prepared.
2. Keep on practicing.
3. Relax before speaking.
Agravante and Buenaventura (1999) also provide some strategies to control tension
when you are on stage.

1. Think of presenting your message, not yourself.

2. Be prepared
3. Relax. Take several deep breaths.
4. Try to be physical and mentally active.
5. Act confident and you’ll be confident.
6. Use gestures and movements.
Preparation for Oral Delivery

Before you deliver your speech, keep in mind the following (BDO, Seidman, & LLP,
2009):

1. Use your voice properly. Your voice reflects your character, personality, and
familiarity with the subject. The volume and your speed in speaking have to be
properly handled. However, there should be vocal variety. In case of pauses, do
not use filters like “um, er, uh,” etc. the audience might doubt the speaker’s
expertise the subject (BDO, Seidman, LLP, 2009).

2. Relax and speak fluently. Before speaking, make sure you are in the right
position, and start just soon as the audience is prepared to listen.

3. Use the language effectively. Use more precise and concise words in expressing
your ideas. As much as possible, go over your speech repeatedly until you have
absorbed its message.
 4. Be careful in articulation and pronunciation. Avoid mispronouncing words and
cutting off syllables. If you are not familiar with the pronunciation of words,
consult a dictionary.

5. Avoid nervous filters and slang words. Nervous fillers, code switching, and slang
words must be intensively prevented in public speaking.

6. Show passion and sincerity. Be audience – centered. Show concern and

courtesy to the audience.

7. Use nonverbal sign. Use your movement, gestures, and facial expressions to add
interest and emphasis.

8. Be prepared. Bring small, clean, and comprehensible note card to serve as a

guide while speaking. Practice your speech continually until you have gained
enough confidence to face the audience.

INFORMATIVE SPEECH OUTLINE

Name:
Date:

I. Topic
II. General Purpose
III. Central Idea
IV. Pattern of Organization

I. Introduction
A. Preview main ideas and/or presentation agenda
B. Tie topic to yourself (Build Creditability)

(Transition to next concept)

II. Body
A. Main Point #1
i. Sub- point
a.
b.
ii. a.
b.

(Transition to next concept)

A. Main Point #2
i. Sub-point
a.
b.
ii. a.
b.
(Transition to next concept)
B. Main Point #3
i. Sub-point
a.
b.
ii. a.
b.

(Transition to next concept)

III. Conclusion
a. Summary (Summarize the main ideas as mentioned in the body of the
speech).
b. Concluding statement (“Let me end by saying,” “To finalize my thinking on
this topic.”)

Bibliography: (Cite a minimum of 3 sources: text, one URL, magazine, periodical, expert
opinion/testimony, research journal, newspapers). APA/MLA Formatted.
1.
2.
3.