Quote “People’s number one fear is public speaking. Number two is death. This means if you go to a funeral, you’re better off in the casket than doing the eulogy.” Jerry Seinfeld

Speech Communication English 12a Barrows

Types of Communication

Communication an attempt to understand and/or to be understood.

Formal Communication Prepared speeches and questions are used

Informal Communication Prepared speeches and questions are not used

Intrapersonal Communication Communicating with oneself Intra = within

Interpersonal Communication Communicating with another person Inter = between A) Relationship Centered B) Task Oriented

Group Communication Informal communication with two or more people

Public Communication Formal communication with a large number of people

Verbal Communication Message sent in form of words (either written or spoken)

Nonverbal Communication Message sent in a form other than in words

Aspects of the Speech Process

Inflection Varying the tone of voice during words and sentences (allows the voice to be expressive and interesting)

Rate Speed with which words are spoken Effective speakers learn to vary their speaking rate to enhance the message

Resonation Volume, pitch, tone, voice quality (e.g. harsh, gentle, strong, etc.)

Articulation Clear and accurate pronunciation

Methods of Speech Delivery

Manuscript Entire speech is written down. Speaker reads the speech to audience. E.g. political speech, graduation address Advantage – no danger of forgetting material Disadvantage – no eye contact, no voice variety

Memorization Speaker delivers a prepared manuscript speech from memory E.g. short speeches such as award presentations Advantage – effective eye contact Disadvantage – speaker may forget parts of speech

Impromptu (“off the cuff”) speaker has no time to prepare speech, made up as he goes E.g. thank you speech after receiving unexpected award Advantage – requires no preparation time Disadvantage – delivery is usually difficult, awkward, and choppy

Extemporaneous Prepared outlines and note cards are used, speaker delivers prepared ideas but does not read or memorize the speech E.g. work-related presentation Advantage – conversational style, effective eye contact Disadvantage – choppy delivery unless transitions used effectively