IMPROMPTU SPEECH

Impromptu speeches are delivered with title or no time for preparation. In

most instances, you are called to speak at the spur of the moment because you are
expected to be knowledgeable about the subject.
Strategies in Organizing And Delivering an Impromptu Speech
1. Past, Present, Future
Past
Example: I was not comfortable in making impromptu speeches because I could
not think right away; maybe it was because of nervousness and lack of time to
prepare.
Present
Example: I am enjoying it because I constantly practice and keep on exposing
myself to any speaking situation.
Future
Example: I look forward to teaching others how to survive impromptu speech
situation.

2. Point-Reason-Example/Explanation-Point
Example:
Point I love Facebook.

Reason I have two reasons for this: one, it helps me easily

reconnect with old friends; and, two, I am updated on the
happenings around me.
Example/ Through Facebook, I am able to contract my old friends
Explanation from other countries and reminisce about wonderful
memories. I am glad to reconnect with friends even if it’s
only through online means. Also, through posts on
Facebook, I learn about the current events in the country-a
fact which has a bearing on my role as a citizen of this
nation.
 Point Facebook, indeed, is a useful social network site. That is
why I love it.

3. Opening, Rule of Three, Clincher

Example:
Opening Every time I see homeless families, it breaks my heart.
That is why I try to do at least three little things to help
them.

Rule of Three • First, I feature them in my writings which I submit

to editors for publication. I highlight their sad and
bad experiences living in the streets and their
dreams and aspirations in life.
• Second, I actively participate in organizing and
facilitating livelihood programs for these families.
• Finally, I join different nonprofit organizations in
campaigns and awareness activities against poverty.
Clincher These three are my baby steps toward achieving my
vision of helping homeless people and freeing this nation
from the bondage of poverty.
A. BRIDGING. This entails building a connection between what you do know
and what you do not know.

TOPIC You are asked about your reaction on the conflict in Russia

PROBLEM You have no knowledge about the existing conflict in Russia

because you do not follow them.

SOLUTIO Find a way to bridge what you don’t know and what you do know.
N

“I would imagine the conflict in Russia to be like a conflict in my

own family. The following are some steps that I observed in
RESPONS
patching up the conflict, which, in a micro level, may be considered
E
by the Russian government…”

B. REFRAMING. This means rephrasing or redefining the topic into

something that you want to talk about. This usually occurs if you think the
topic is inappropriate or it is not meant for you.

Topic You are asked to compare two forms of government: democratic

and parliamentary.

Problem You think that it is not right for you because you are a science
major.

Solution Find a pair of anything that you think is worth comparing. You
can compare natural science and social science in terms of
concepts and processes, or computers and humans in terms of
capacity and efficiency.
 Response “This question reminds me of the complexities in differentiating
two concepts in science. Just like democratic and parliamentary,
these two differ in terms of concepts and processes…”

C. PLAYING DEVIL’S ADVOCATE. This refers to you standing on the

opposite side.

TOPIC You are asked whether or not the government should allocate a bigger
budget for national defense.

PROBLEM You have no idea about the defense system and you are more
knowledgeable with education.

Say no to defense and yes to education.

SOLUTION

“Instead of allocating more money to national defense, why not allot it

RESPONSE to education? Let me tell you why education should be prioritized…”

SOME USEFUL TIPS IN EFFECTIVE IMPROMPTU SPEECH

DELIVERY
BEFORE THE SPEECH
1. Smile
2. Relax by thinking about positive things. Keep telling yourself, “I am
brilliant speaker. I will nail this presentation.
3. Identify your purpose. Is it to inform, to entertain, to welcome, to
congratulate, to apologize, or to give birthday greetings?
 4. Think of one big word that can serve you as your main point. If you think
you have enough, think of the rule of three.
5. Start outlining in your head. Focus on what to say first. Be reminded that
your first few words are crucial, so make them strong, powerful and catchy.
DURING THE SPEECH
1. When you are called, keep composed. Walk slowly to the lectern or the
center stage.
2. Shake hands with the one who introduced you, if necessary.
3. As you stand to deliver, establish eye contact, and begin right away with
your opening statements. Part of your opening is greeting your audience.
4. From your initial idea to the next, use appropriate transitional devices.
5. Observe appropriate and effective non-verbal cues.
6. Observe time limit. Remember, you barely have five minutes to say
something.
AFTER THE SPEECH
1. Say thank you.
2. Return to your place comfortably.