Unit 4: Communication for Various Purposes
Lesson 13: Talking that Fits the Occasion
Learning Objectives
At the end of this module, you should be able to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
explain the advantages and disadvantages of an impromptu speech;
identify appropriate methods in organizing an impromptu speech;
perform functional speeches effectively; and
organize and deliver an effective impromptu speech.
Presentation of Contents
The test of an excellent public speaker is to challenge himself or herself to have an onthe-spot or impromptu speech. To deliver such speech, a speaker needs to have great
organizational skills, wit, and composure. Speaking in front of people is a fearsome task,
more so if you have very little time to prepare. We are sometimes asked to “say a few
words” in an event that usually rattles us especially when we are not used to it.
Impromptu Speech
The feature that distinguishes impromptu from other types of speech is time. Impromptu
speech involves unrehearsed speaking with very short time for preparation. In fact, many
of the speeches you give are impromptu. You can be asked to speak to introduce, to
thank, to inspire, to welcome, to entertain, and to congratulate. No matter what the
purpose is, all entails little time to prepare. The challenge is how you can deliver such
speech effectively.
Methods or Patterns of Organizing an Impromptu Speech:
1. PREP method
Point: State your position on the topic.
Reason: State your reason for taking the position.
Example: Provide an example that helps explain your reason.
Restatement of Point: Summarize and Restate your position.
P
The point I wish to make is that Impromptu Speaking is an essential skill
to have.
R
Being able to speak effectively with little preparation is very empowering
E
I can remember my sister being called to speak in front of her colleagues.
At first, she struggled; but because she knows some techniques in delivering an
impromptu speech, the struggles were turned into opportunities – opportunities
to showcase her speaking skills and wit. Now, she is more confident, more
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Unit 4: Communication for Various Purposes
vibrant, more alive, more willing to take risks not only in speaking but also in
whatever she does.
P
When a person becomes more comfortable in speaking even with less
preparation, he or she becomes empowered and stronger.
2. Point-Support-Conclusion (PSC) Method
Point:
Provide your point of view, key idea, or objective.
Support:
Provide stories or examples that help prove your point.
Conclusion: End by restating your point of view or key idea and by making
your call to action.
3. Past-Present-Future (PPF) Method
Point:
State your Key Point
Past:
Discuss what happened in the past.
Future:
Tell your audience about what will or could happen in the future.
Point:
Summarize by restating your key point.
Delivering Functional Speeches
No matter what the situation is, we need to consider these points:
1. Functional speeches must be brief.
2. Functional speeches concern emotions.
3. Functional speeches, especially the language used, must be appropriate to the
situation. You do not want a highly entertaining speech during a funeral.
Introducing a Speaker
Generally, introducing speakers should not be longer than two minutes. Do not be a
catalyst to the boredom of the audience by enumerating the full biography of the speaker.
Use the following sequence when introducing a speaker:
1.
2.
3.
4.
What is the topic?
Why is it important to the audience?
Why is the speaker qualified to talk about the topic?
Who is the speaker?
Welcoming Attendees and Guests
The purpose of a welcoming address is to make the participants feel comfortable. As the
person designated to welcome the quest, you stand as the representative of the organizer.
Your credibility and performance may influence how the guests perceive the whole
event. Use the following tips when welcoming the participants:
1. Limit the speech between three to five minutes.
2. Mention the organizer, the type of participants, and the important locations and
facilities.
3. Start with a high note.
4. Describe some highlights of the event.
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Unit 4: Communication for Various Purposes
Accepting and Thanking
Use the following tips when thanking those who recognize us:
1. Keep the speech short, usually not more than two minutes.
2. Do not forge to thank the Award-giving organization
3. Do not forget to thank those who are instrumental to your success.
Wedding Wishes
A wedding is a day of hope, love and celebration. Giving wedding wishes to the couples
need not be fancy; however, you can be creative. Here are some tips on how you can give
your warm wishes to the newlyweds:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Be sincere.
A love poem or quotation can be a good way to begin the speech.
Speak about your personal thoughts and relate to the couples.
You may use humor.
Reference:
Barut, Jessie S. (2011) “Speak Successfully, A Guide for Effective Speaking for College
Students.” Rex Bookstore. Sampaloc, Manila
Manzano, et. al (2018). Purposive Communication. St. Andrews Publishing.
Bulacan
Plaridel,
“Organizing an impromptu Speeech Using Unified Analysis” Retrieved 15, February 2019
from http://www.vvm.educ/debate/NFL/nostrumlib/impcanol10998.pdf
“Public Speaking Advice” Retrieved 15, February 2019 from
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBJodzolITg
“Persuasive
Speech
Topics”
Retrieved
16,
February
2019
https://www.presentationmagazine.com/persuasive_speech_topic.htm
from
“Persuasive
Speech
Outline”
Retrieved
16,
http.www.erruptingmind.com/persuasivespeech
February
from
“Informative Speech” Retrieved 16,
guru.com/informative_speech.php
from
February
2019
2019
http://www.speech-
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