Name _________________________
Date__________________
Speech and Debate/Mrs. Shepard
The Four Modes of Delivery
The four modes of delivering a speech are (1) extemporaneous, (2)
manuscript, (3) impromptu, and (4) memorized. These four modes are
appropriate for different topics, audiences, speakers, and situations. When you
finish reading these notes and examples of these types of delivery, you should
be able to decide which mode to use in various situations.
(1) Extemporaneous: This is the one most commonly taught in the public
speaking classroom. Extemporaneous speaking sounds conversational,
looks spontaneous, and seems effortless, but extemporaneous speaking
is the result of much effort. The speaker selects a topic appropriate for
the audience, completes research on the topic, organizes the main points
and supporting materials, practices the speech with a working outline or
key words on note cards, and then delivers the speech with maximum
eye contact, gestures, and movement. The speaker may occasionally
glance at notes, but the emphasis is on communicating the message to a
live audience.
(2) Manuscript: Use the manuscript format when delivering a speech that
will appear in official records or conference proceedings. Use the
manuscript as a support, but avoid reading it word-for-word. If you read
directly from a manuscript, your audience will get bored unless you work
very hard on your delivery, especially your eye contact, vocal variety, and
facial expressions, which help engage your audience. You can
counteract the problems of the manuscript format by focusing on key
phrases and practicing your speech repeatedly. Highlight key words on
your manuscript. As you read through your speech, glance at the
highlighted words to remember which idea comes next. Don't attempt to
memorize every word. Instead, thoroughly familiarize yourself with the
substance of your speech and the sequence of your main points.
Although your speech will vary somewhat from the manuscript, it will
sound more natural.
(3) Impromptu: Use the impromptu method when you give a short speech
with little or no time for preparation. Even in an impromptu situation,
pause to organize your speech. Focus on your main point, give proof to
support your main point, and end with a conclusion.
(4) Memorization: A fully memorized speech usually sounds as mechanical
as one read from a manuscript. This method is seldom used or
recommended anymore. If you choose to memorize a speech, keep it
short and work to add inflection to your voice. When practicing a speech
that must be memorized, remember to include expression in your voice,
rehearse your use of eye contact, appropriate gestures and movement.
Suggestions on when to use each mode of delivery:
Use the extemporaneous method to present a carefully prepared speech
from brief notes.
Use manuscript method to deliver a speech that will become part of an
official record or conference proceedings.
Use the impromptu method to present a single point in an unscheduled
speech.
Use the memorization method sparingly, if at all, for short speeches such as
toasts and introductions.