Speech Writing

Extemporaneous Speech

Barbara P

How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech? A Step-by-Step Guide

Extemporaneous Speech

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Do you have to deliver an extemporaneous speech and don't know where to start? Well, you're in the right place! 

Whether you're a student participating in a debate, or a professional giving an impromptu or extemporaneous speech, this guide will help you write an exceptional speech.

We will not only provide extemporaneous speech definition and examples but also give you professional tips that will help you understand the topic better.

This step-by-step guide will assist you in writing an outstanding extemporaneous speech that captivates your audience. 

So, let’s dive right in!

Arrow Down

  • 1. Understanding Extemporaneous Speech
  • 2. 7 Easy Steps to Writing an Extemporaneous Speech 
  • 3. Extemporaneous Speech Topics
  • 4. Extemporaneous Speech Examples
  • 5. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing an Extemporaneous Speech
  • 6. Tips for Improving Extemporaneous Speech Delivery

Understanding Extemporaneous Speech

Before we dive into the steps of speech writing , it's essential to understand what is meant by extemporaneous speech and why it matters.

An extemporaneous speech is when you deliver a speech without practicing beforehand. You have to rely on what you know and think quickly. 

An example of an extemporaneous speech situation is when a student is asked to give an impromptu talk on a current news headline in front of the class.

Comparing Impromptu and Extemporaneous Speech

The above definition might make you think that impromptu and extemporaneous speech sound similar. But that is not the case. 

Let’s take a look at the key difference between the two speech types:

  • Impromptu speeches do not allow preparation for the speech and they often lack structure and familiarity. 
  • On the other hand, extemporaneous speeches require a little preparation time, some organization, and familiar topics.

Let’s take a look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of extemporaneous speech. 

Advantages of Extemporaneous Speech 

  • Enhanced Communication Skills: Improves public speaking, listening, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Confidence Boost: Regular practice instills self-assurance in various speaking situations.
  • Adaptability: Speakers learn to tailor their message to the interests and concerns of different audiences. 
  • Quick Thinking: Extemporaneous speaking sharpens the ability to think quickly and make decisions on the spot.

Disadvantages of Extemporaneous Speech

  • Lack of Preparation: Speakers may deliver incomplete or less coherent presentations due to limited preparation.
  • Potential for Inaccuracy: The absence of time for thorough research can lead to providing inaccurate information.
  • Nervousness: The pressure of impromptu speaking can lead to anxiety and reduced confidence.
  • Time Constraints: Speakers must manage their time effectively to stay within the allotted timeframes, adding to the pressure.

7 Easy Steps to Writing an Extemporaneous Speech 

Let’s take a look at some easy steps to writing an extemporaneous speech that you can follow along:

Step 1 - Research and Gather Information

To write a compelling extemporaneous speech, you must gather relevant information quickly. This step includes:

  • Identifying the Topic or Prompt: Understand the subject or question you'll be speaking about.
  • Finding Reliable Sources: Utilize trustworthy resources to gather facts, statistics, and arguments.

Step 2 - Create an Extemporaneous Speech Outline

An outline will give you a basic blueprint of the speech and can even help you weed out any potential mistakes in the structure or format of the speech . 

Though the outline can vary depending on the type of speech you are writing, here is a basic outline you can follow:

  • Introduction: Engage your audience with a captivating start, state your main point, and clarify why your topic matters.
  • Body Paragraphs: 
  • Main Point 1: Add supporting details, present your first key idea, and back it up with evidence.
  • Main Point 2: Introduces the second key idea, providing supporting evidence.
  • Main Point 3: Add an optional third key idea with supporting details.
  • Navigating the Conclusion: Recap your main arguments and leave a lasting impression.

Step 3 - Crafting a Strong Introduction 

It is crucial to capture your audience's attention in the introduction and set the tone for your message. 

Here is what you need to keep in mind when writing a speech introduction ;

  • Use an attention-grabbing technique to engage your listeners.
  • Formulate a clear and concise thesis statement that clearly states the main point of your speech.
  • Establishing Significance: Explain why the topic is relevant or important.

Step 4 - Developing Compelling Main Points

The main body of your speech should convey your message effectively and coherently. Here are the things you should keep in mind;

  • Identify key ideas and supporting details to determine the main arguments. If possible, try to gather and mention any evidence to back up your arguments. 
  • Make sure that your speech flows logically and smoothly.
  • Use real-life examples, personal stories, and relevant statistics to make your points more compelling and understandable.

Step 5 - Engaging the Audience

Engaging your audience is essential for an effective extemporaneous speech. You can achieve that by maintaining your body language to establish a connection with your listeners.

You should also develop the audience's interests by tailoring your speech to address their concerns and interests.

Step 6 - Handling Transitions

Transitions are essential for keeping your speech coherent and organized. This step includes:

  • Make sure your ideas flow seamlessly in the speech, creating a natural progression.
  • Use words and phrases that act as guideposts for your audience through your speech.
  • Avoid sudden changes in the topic that could leave your listeners confused.

Step 7 - Navigating the Conclusion

Concluding your speech effectively leaves a lasting impression. Here is what you should keep in mind when writing:

  • Recap key points to ensure your audience leaves with a clear understanding of your main arguments. 
  • Make your message resonate with your listeners by delivering a powerful closing statement.
  • Invite questions or comments from your audience to engage them. 

Extemporaneous Speech Topics

Here are some topics for extemporaneous speech that can be used for practice or in various speaking situations:

  • The impact of social media on society.
  • Climate change: What can individuals do to make a difference?
  • The benefits of reading in the digital age.
  • The role of artificial intelligence in the workplace.
  • Should standardized testing be eliminated in education?
  • The challenges of maintaining work-life balance in a fast-paced world.
  • The importance of mental health awareness.
  • The future of renewable energy sources.
  • The effects of globalization on local cultures.
  • Is social media a force for good or harm?
  • Exploring the pros and cons of remote work.
  • The significance of cultural diversity in a globalized world.
  • The ethics of genetic engineering and designer babies.
  • The impact of the gig economy on job security.
  • The role of women in leadership positions.
  • The effects of video games on children's behavior.
  • The benefits and drawbacks of online education.
  • The impact of fast fashion on the environment.
  • The role of government in addressing income inequality.
  • The ethics of animal testing in scientific research.

Be sure to check out more speech topics to select the one that stands out to you the most.

Extemporaneous Speech Examples

Let’s take a look at an example of an extemporaneous speech situation:

The above example of extemporaneous speech addresses the topic of the impact of social media on modern society. It provides a well-structured, balanced, and informative discussion of the subject while maintaining a clear and engaging delivery style.

Here are some more examples to let you have a better understanding of how to write a speech;

Extemporaneous Speech Example

Extemporaneous Speech Example for Students

Extemporaneous Speech Example About Life

Extemporaneous Speech Example About Education

Be sure to check out more speech examples to have a better understanding of structuring and formatting a speech. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing an Extemporaneous Speech

Here are some common mistakes you should avoid when delivering extemporaneous speeches:

  • Lacking Clarity: Deliver your message clearly and concisely to prevent your audience from becoming perplexed.
  • Overusing Fillers: Repeatedly using fillers like "um" or "uh" can be distracting; practice reducing these verbal crutches.
  • Ignoring Time Constraints: Extemporaneous speeches are typically time-limited; going over your allotted time can disrupt the flow of the event.
  • Monotone Delivery: A lack of vocal variety can make your speech less engaging; vary your tone, pitch, and pace to keep your audience's attention.
  • Lack of Evidence: Backing your points with evidence is crucial; not providing examples, anecdotes, or data can weaken your arguments.
  • Avoiding Controversial Topics: While it's wise to be cautious, completely avoiding controversial subjects can make your speeches less engaging. Instead, learn to navigate these topics with sensitivity and respect.

Tips for Improving Extemporaneous Speech Delivery

Here are some extemporaneous speech tips you can use to improve the delivery of your speech:

  • Know Your Topic: Start by having a solid understanding of your topic. The more you know, the more confident you'll feel when speaking.
  • Speak Clearly and Slowly: Pronounce your words clearly and speak at a moderate pace. Avoid rushing through your speech.
  • Be Mindful of Fillers: Avoid using fillers such as "um," "uh," or "like." Practice eliminating these from your speech.
  • Manage Nervousness: Nervousness is natural. Practice relaxation techniques, like deep breathing, before speaking to manage anxiety.
  • Gestures and Body Language: Use appropriate gestures and body language to emphasize points and maintain audience interest.
  • Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact with your audience. This creates a sense of connection and engagement.
  • Vocal Variety: Vary your tone, pitch, and volume to keep your audience engaged. Avoid speaking in a monotone voice.

So there you have it!

Mastering the art of writing an extemporaneous speech is a valuable skill that can benefit you in various personal and professional situations. 

By following this step-by-step guide, practicing, and learning from your experiences, you can become a confident and effective extemporaneous speaker.

Don't miss the opportunity to improve your extemporaneous speaking skills. Keep practicing, and soon you'll be delivering impressive speeches on the spot with ease.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. what is the purpose of an extemporaneous speech.

FAQ Icon

The main purpose of an extemporaneous speech is to help the speakers develop quick thinking skills. Since these speeches allow limited preparation time, the speaker has to think and organize his ideas quickly and on their feet.

2. What is the key characteristic of an extemporaneous speech?

The key characteristic of this kind of speech is that the speaker has to synthesize facts obtained from outside sources and mix them with his understanding and personal style to convey the message.

3. What are the advantages of extemporaneous speech?

The main advantages of this kind of speech include:

  • The speaker is able to speak in a more conversational tone and style.
  • Budding speakers learn how to think quickly and on their feet.

Besides, it also helps them maintain eye contact with the audience.

4. Is extemporaneous speech formal?

No, this kind of speech is usually informal as the speaker does not have time to memorize everything. However, the speaker is still being judged and, therefore, must follow a structure.

5. What is the difference between memorized and extemporaneous speech?

The extemporaneous speech is delivered with minimum preparation and with the help of note cards. A memorized speech is what it says, ‘memorized,’ and it is delivered without the help of cue cards.

6. Why is extemporaneous speech the best?

This kind of speech is considered the best because it allows the speakers to maintain eye contact with the audience. This includes both verbal and non-verbal communication, which is important in public speaking

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Barbara P

Dr. Barbara is a highly experienced writer and author who holds a Ph.D. degree in public health from an Ivy League school. She has worked in the medical field for many years, conducting extensive research on various health topics. Her writing has been featured in several top-tier publications.

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Speech Writing

Extemporaneous Speech

Caleb S.

The Art of Extemporaneous Speech: Mastering the Unexpected

Published on: Apr 14, 2022

Last updated on: Mar 25, 2024

Extemporaneous Speech

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Public speaking can be intimidating, especially when you're asked to deliver a speech on the spot. The fear of stumbling over words or losing track of thoughts can cripple even the most confident individuals.

However, there is a powerful technique that can help you overcome these challenges and deliver compelling speeches with ease. It's called Extemporaneous Speaking.

But don't worry, we have got you covered!

In this blog, we will explore the art of extemporaneous speaking. We will provide you with valuable insights, techniques, and tips to master this skill. 

Whether you're a student, or someone who simply wants to improve their speaking abilities, this guide is here to help.

So, without further ado, let’s get started.

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Extemporaneous Speech Definition

Extemporaneous speech, also known as impromptu speaking, is a form of public speaking. It requires delivering a speech on a given topic without prior preparation. 

Unlike prepared speeches, extemporaneous speaking tests an individual's ability to think on their feet. They have to present coherent arguments or ideas in a spontaneous manner.

Speakers are typically provided with a topic and given a short amount of time to gather their thoughts before delivering the speech.

This style of speaking is often seen in various settings. This includes competitions, debates, or classrooms.

What are the Elements of an Effective Extemporaneous Speech?

An effective extemporaneous speech incorporates several key elements that contribute to its overall impact and success. Let's explore these elements in detail for this particular type of speech :

Clear Introduction

Begin your speech with a concise and attention-grabbing introduction. Clearly state the topic or question at hand and provide a brief overview of what you'll be discussing. Engage the audience from the start to capture their interest.

Well-Structured Content

Organize your speech into a logical structure that flows smoothly. Use a combination of main points and supporting details to build a coherent and persuasive argument. Consider using techniques like the problem-solution approach, cause-effect analysis, or chronological order, depending on the nature of your topic.

Engaging Delivery

Deliver your speech with energy, confidence, and enthusiasm. Maintain eye contact with the audience, use appropriate gestures and body language, and vary your tone of voice. Aim for a conversational style that connects with your audience on a personal level.

Supporting Evidence

Back up your arguments with relevant and credible evidence. Incorporate statistics, facts, examples, and anecdotes to strengthen your points and provide a deeper understanding of the topic. Use sources such as reputable studies, expert opinions, or real-life experiences to lend credibility to your speech.

Effective Conclusion

End your speech with a memorable conclusion that summarizes your main points and reinforces your thesis statement. Leave the audience with a lasting impression or a call to action, encouraging them to reflect on your speech.

Adaptability

Extemporaneous speaking requires the ability to adapt to unexpected situations or changes in the speaking environment. Be flexible and prepared to adjust your speech as necessary. This may involve addressing counter arguments, responding to audience questions, or incorporating new information that arises during your speech.

How To Deliver An Extemporaneous Speech?

Delivering an extemporaneous speech requires a combination of preparation, confidence, and adaptability. Here are some key tips to help you deliver an effective extemporaneous speech:

Familiarize Yourself with the Topic

Take time to understand the topic or question you'll be speaking about. Research and gather relevant information to develop a solid understanding of the subject matter. This knowledge will give you a foundation to draw upon during your speech.

Structure Your Speech

Create a basic structure for your speech with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Clearly define the main points or arguments you want to address. Organize your supporting ideas in a logical sequence, ensuring a smooth flow from one point to another.

Use Prompts and Keywords

Instead of memorizing your entire speech, use prompts and keywords to guide you through each section. Create cue cards or outline key points on a notecard. This will help jog your memory and keep your speech on track without sounding overly rehearsed.

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Speak Naturally

Avoid sounding robotic or overly scripted. Aim for a conversational tone that reflects your personality and allows you to connect with the audience. Be mindful of your pacing and avoid rushing through your speech. Speak clearly and enunciate your words to ensure clarity.

Use Visual Aids (if available)

If visual aids such as slides or props are available, utilize them to enhance your speech. Visual aids can provide additional support to your main points and make your presentation more engaging. However, be careful not to rely too heavily on them and maintain the focus on your spoken words.

Handle Nervousness

Feeling nervous is natural, but try to manage your nerves by taking deep breaths and maintaining a positive mindset. Remind yourself of your preparation and expertise on the topic. Channel your nervous energy into enthusiasm and passion for your subject.

Practice Active Listening

During your speech, pay attention to the audience's reactions and engagement. Stay alert to any cues or questions they may have. Adjust your delivery based on their responses, such as slowing down or elaborating on certain points to ensure comprehension.

Be Flexible and Adaptable

Extemporaneous speaking requires adaptability. Be prepared to adjust your speech if needed, such as addressing unexpected questions or incorporating new information. Stay composed and respond thoughtfully to any challenges that may arise.

Seek Feedback and Learn

After delivering your extemporaneous speech, seek feedback from others, such as colleagues, mentors, or trusted individuals. Assess areas of improvement, such as clarity, structure, or delivery. Use the feedback to enhance your skills for future extemporaneous speaking engagements.

How to Make Extemporaneous Speech?

When it comes to writing an extemporaneous speech, the goal is to strike a balance between preparation and spontaneity. A few steps can be followed to write a great extemporaneous speech. 

1. Select a Topic

The very first step is selecting a topic. A wise choice would include a topic that you are familiar with. It will take you less time to brainstorm ideas and plan your speech. Take a few minutes to brainstorm all the information you have on the subject. 

2. Create an Outline

Draft a quick outline for your speech. It should have a few lines for your introduction, something that the audience can relate to or will find funny, or a question that will alert the audience. Here is a sample outline for you to get a better idea.

Extemporaneous Speech Outline

3. Begin with the Body Paragraphs

After the outline, start working on your body paragraphs. Keep in mind that you do not have a lot of time to write and practice your speech. So make sure that the body paragraph should have a few key points only. 

4. Give Examples to Support Your Stance

Continue with your main points by giving some examples. Examples help the audience understand your topic better. It also makes them curious so they might have some questions at the end. 

5. Draft a Brief Conclusion

Write your conclusion, but make it very short. If your conclusion is too long it will be redundant for the audience. 

Extemporaneous Speech Examples

If you are still struggling to understand how to deliver an extemporaneous speech or how to write it time efficiently, check out these examples mentioned below:

Example of Extemporaneous Speech

Extemporaneous Speech About COVID-19

Extemporaneous Speech Sample

Example of Extemporaneous Speech About Education

Extemporaneous Speech Topics

When it comes to extemporaneous speech topics, the possibilities are vast. Here are some engaging and thought-provoking topic ideas to inspire your impromptu speeches:

  • Why do I love playing volleyball?
  • When will I become a millionaire?
  • Why is Playstation better than Xbox?
  • The best songwriter is -fill a name-
  • Gays don’t have equal rights, is it true?
  • Political instability in my country is due to?
  • Why is facebook’s popularity falling down so quickly?
  • Why are illegal immigrants not given rights?
  • Are internet crime and piracy penalized?
  • Stopping the war in Afghanistan is important

These are just some of the many extemp speech topics that you can choose from. Feel free to mold these topics according to your knowledge. 

If you need more interesting topics, check out our blog on the best Impromptu speech topics for public speaking .

Expert Tips For Delivering An Extemporaneous Speech 

Here are some brief tips to help you deliver an extemporaneous speech with confidence and impact:

Know your Audience: Tailor your speech to the specific audience you are addressing to ensure relevance and engagement.

  • Practice Impromptu Speaking : Regularly engage in impromptu speaking exercises to sharpen your ability to think on your feet and articulate your thoughts effectively.
  • Use Effective Body Language : Use gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to enhance your message and connect with the audience.
  • Emphasize Key Points : Highlight important ideas through vocal emphasis, pauses, or repetition to ensure they resonate with your audience.
  • Maintain a Steady Pace : Speak at a moderate pace to allow your audience to follow your ideas without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
  • Use Storytelling Techniques : Incorporate anecdotes or stories to make your speech more relatable, memorable, and engaging.
  • Be Concise : Keep your ideas succinct and to the point. Avoid unnecessary tangents or rambling, as it can dilute the impact of your speech.
  • Practice Active Listening : Pay attention to your audience's reactions and adapt your speech accordingly. Respond to their cues, questions, or feedback to maintain a dynamic and interactive presentation.
  • Maintain a Positive Attitude : Approach your extemporaneous speech with a positive mindset. Embrace the challenge, believe in your abilities, and exude confidence in your delivery.

Remember , practice is key to improving your extemporaneous speaking skills. 

In conclusion, extemporaneous speaking is a valuable skill that can elevate your public speaking abilities to new heights. 

By mastering the art of impromptu speeches, you can deliver compelling presentations in any situation. 

Embrace opportunities to practice extemporaneous speaking, whether it's in classrooms, competitions, or professional settings. 

The more you engage in impromptu speaking, the more confident and adept you will become. You can try our AI essay writing tools to generate unique speeches and practice!

If you need further assistance with your college essays or any academic writing, CollegeEssay.org is here to help. 

Our experienced team of writers can provide expert guidance and support to ensure your essays make a lasting impression. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is an extemporaneous speech.

The length of an extemporaneous speech can vary depending on the specific context or requirements. In general, extemporaneous speeches are typically shorter than prepared or formal speeches. They often range from 5 to 7 minutes, but can sometimes be as short as 3 minutes or extend up to 10 minutes. 

What is the difference between impromptu and extemporaneous speech?

The main difference between impromptu and extemporaneous speech is in the level of preparation. Impromptu speeches are delivered on the spot without prior planning or preparation. On the other hand, extemporaneous speeches involve some level of preparation, research, and organization before delivering the speech.

What are two qualities that make up an extemporaneous speech?

Two qualities that make up an extemporaneous speech are spontaneity and organization. Spontaneity refers to the ability to think and speak on the spot.

Organization involves structuring the speech with a clear outline, and cohesive content, ensuring that ideas are effectively communicated.

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How To Write An Extemporaneous Speech?

So, you’ve been asked to give an extemporaneous speech, and you’re wondering how to write one that will captivate your audience and leave a lasting impression. Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of crafting an engaging and impactful extemporaneous speech that will wow your listeners. Whether you’re a student preparing for a school competition or an aspiring public speaker, these tips and tricks will help you deliver a speech that shines.

Now, you might be wondering what exactly is an extemporaneous speech? Well, it’s a type of speech where you are given a topic on the spot and are expected to deliver a well-structured and coherent speech without any prior preparation. It can be a challenging task, but with the right techniques and a little practice, you can master the art of extemporaneous speaking.

So, how do you go about writing an extemporaneous speech? The key is to have a solid structure in place. In the next sections, we’ll dive deep into the step-by-step process of writing an extemporaneous speech, from understanding your topic to organizing your ideas and crafting a compelling introduction and conclusion. So, let’s get started and unlock the secrets of writing an impressive extemporaneous speech!

– Choose your topic and gather information. – Create an outline that includes an introduction, main points, and conclusion. – Practice your speech by using cue cards. – Focus on clear and concise delivery. – Use body language and gestures to enhance your message.

With these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to deliver a successful extemporaneous speech!

How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech?

Table of Contents

How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech: Mastering the Art of Impromptu Speaking

Do you have a fear of public speaking? Many people do, but with practice and the right framework, you can become a confident and effective extemporaneous speaker. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of writing an extemporaneous speech, where you’ll learn how to develop a clear structure, gather relevant information, and deliver your presentation with poise. Whether you’re a student preparing for a debate competition or a professional looking to enhance your communication skills, these tips will help you master the art of impromptu speaking.

The Basics: Understanding Extemporaneous Speaking

In order to write an effective extemporaneous speech, it’s important to understand the basics of extemporaneous speaking. Extemporaneous speaking is a form of public speaking in which the speaker is given a limited amount of time to prepare a speech on a given topic. Unlike a prepared speech, where the speaker has ample time to research and practice, an extemporaneous speech requires quick thinking, adaptability, and the ability to present ideas in a concise and organized manner.

Before diving into the details of writing an extemporaneous speech, let’s explore the benefits of mastering this skill. First and foremost, extemporaneous speaking allows you to think on your feet and respond to unexpected situations with confidence. It enhances your critical thinking skills, as you learn to analyze and synthesize information quickly. Additionally, extemporaneous speaking helps you connect with your audience, as you’re able to deliver a speech that feels more natural and conversational.

The Structure: Crafting a Well-Organized Extemporaneous Speech

When it comes to writing an extemporaneous speech, having a solid structure is key. Without a clear framework, your ideas may come across as scattered or disconnected. To avoid this, follow the three-part structure of an introduction, body, and conclusion.

Begin your speech with a strong hook in the introduction to grab your audience’s attention. You can use a captivating anecdote, a shocking statistic, or a thought-provoking question. Then, introduce the topic and provide a concise thesis statement that sets the tone for the rest of your speech.

In the body of your speech, present your main points or arguments. It’s important to have a clear and logical flow between these points. Consider using subheadings or transition phrases to guide your audience through your ideas. Support each point with evidence, such as facts, examples, or expert opinions. Remember to keep your sentences and paragraphs concise and to the point.

In your conclusion, summarize your main points and restate your thesis statement. Leave your audience with a memorable closing statement or call-to-action that ties everything together. Now that you understand the structure of an extemporaneous speech, let’s move on to the next step: gathering relevant information.

Key Takeaways: How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech?

Frequently asked questions.

Are you looking to polish your extemporaneous speech writing skills? Here are some frequently asked questions to guide you on your journey:

Q: How can I choose a compelling topic for my extemporaneous speech?

A: When selecting a topic, consider your interests and the interests of your audience. Choose a topic that is relevant, timely, and thought-provoking to captivate your listeners. Additionally, aim for a topic that allows you to present multiple perspectives, providing a well-rounded discussion.

Start by brainstorming potential ideas and narrow down to a specific theme. Research recent events, current issues, or trends to find a topic that sparks your enthusiasm and has enough readily available information for you to craft your speech effectively.

Q: How should I structure my extemporaneous speech?

A: To structure your extemporaneous speech, begin with a strong introduction that grabs the audience’s attention. Clearly state your main point or thesis and provide a brief overview of what will be discussed. Consider using a captivating story, a compelling statistic, or an intriguing quote to start off on a high note.

Next, develop your main points, supporting each with evidence or examples to strengthen your argument. Use a logical progression to connect your ideas and ensure a smooth flow throughout your speech. Finally, conclude your speech by summarizing your main points and leaving the audience with a memorable closing statement or call to action.

Q: How do I effectively use evidence in my extemporaneous speech?

A: Incorporating evidence is crucial to make your extemporaneous speech persuasive and credible. Start by conducting thorough research on your topic to gather reliable and diverse sources. Look for reputable websites, scholarly articles, books, or expert opinions.

When presenting your evidence, remember to introduce it clearly and provide context. Explain how the evidence supports your argument or adds value to your speech. Avoid overwhelming your audience with excessive data or lengthy quotes. Instead, select the most impactful pieces of evidence that directly contribute to your main points.

Q: How can I enhance my delivery during an extemporaneous speech?

A: Delivery plays a significant role in captivating your audience. Begin by practicing your speech multiple times beforehand to build confidence. Pay attention to your body language, eye contact, and voice projection during rehearsals.

During the actual speech, maintain good posture and make eye contact with different parts of the audience to establish a connection. Vary your vocal tone, pace, and volume to keep your audience engaged. Use gestures and facial expressions to emphasize key points and add visual interest. Remember to breathe deeply and pause at appropriate moments to allow important points to sink in.

Q: How can I handle the pressure of the Q&A session following an extemporaneous speech?

A: The Q&A session can be nerve-wracking, but with preparation and a calm mindset, you can navigate it successfully. Anticipate potential questions related to your speech and brainstorm thoughtful responses in advance. This will help you feel more confident and composed.

When answering questions, listen carefully, and take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding. Be concise, articulate, and respectful in your answers, even if you encounter challenging or critical questions. If you don’t know the answer to a question, it’s okay to admit it, but offer to follow up later with the necessary information.

How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech? 2

How to Deliver an Extemporaneous Presentation or Speech

Writing an extemporaneous speech is easier than it seems! First, choose a topic you’re passionate about. Make a simple outline with three main points, and use clear and concise language. Practice your speech several times, but don’t memorize every word. Above all, be confident and remember to connect with your audience.

Remember, an extemporaneous speech is all about being spontaneous and engaging your listeners. Use eye contact, gestures, and a confident tone of voice to capture their attention. Keep your speech organized and focused, and make sure to include a strong introduction and conclusion. With these tips, you’ll be ready to impress any crowd with your extemporaneous speaking skills!

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14.1 Four Methods of Delivery

Learning objectives.

  • Differentiate among the four methods of speech delivery.
  • Understand when to use each of the four methods of speech delivery.

Lt. Governor Anthony Brown bring greetings to the 13th Annual House of Ruth Spring Luncheon. by Brian K. Slack at Baltimore, MD

Maryland GovPics – House of Ruth Luncheon – CC BY 2.0.

The easiest approach to speech delivery is not always the best. Substantial work goes into the careful preparation of an interesting and ethical message, so it is understandable that students may have the impulse to avoid “messing it up” by simply reading it word for word. But students who do this miss out on one of the major reasons for studying public speaking: to learn ways to “connect” with one’s audience and to increase one’s confidence in doing so. You already know how to read, and you already know how to talk. But public speaking is neither reading nor talking.

Speaking in public has more formality than talking. During a speech, you should present yourself professionally. This doesn’t mean you must wear a suit or “dress up” (unless your instructor asks you to), but it does mean making yourself presentable by being well groomed and wearing clean, appropriate clothes. It also means being prepared to use language correctly and appropriately for the audience and the topic, to make eye contact with your audience, and to look like you know your topic very well.

While speaking has more formality than talking, it has less formality than reading. Speaking allows for meaningful pauses, eye contact, small changes in word order, and vocal emphasis. Reading is a more or less exact replication of words on paper without the use of any nonverbal interpretation. Speaking, as you will realize if you think about excellent speakers you have seen and heard, provides a more animated message.

The next sections introduce four methods of delivery that can help you balance between too much and too little formality when giving a public speech.

Impromptu Speaking

Impromptu speaking is the presentation of a short message without advance preparation. Impromptu speeches often occur when someone is asked to “say a few words” or give a toast on a special occasion. You have probably done impromptu speaking many times in informal, conversational settings. Self-introductions in group settings are examples of impromptu speaking: “Hi, my name is Steve, and I’m a volunteer with the Homes for the Brave program.” Another example of impromptu speaking occurs when you answer a question such as, “What did you think of the documentary?”

The advantage of this kind of speaking is that it’s spontaneous and responsive in an animated group context. The disadvantage is that the speaker is given little or no time to contemplate the central theme of his or her message. As a result, the message may be disorganized and difficult for listeners to follow.

Here is a step-by-step guide that may be useful if you are called upon to give an impromptu speech in public.

  • Take a moment to collect your thoughts and plan the main point you want to make.
  • Thank the person for inviting you to speak.
  • Deliver your message, making your main point as briefly as you can while still covering it adequately and at a pace your listeners can follow.
  • Thank the person again for the opportunity to speak.
  • Stop talking.

As you can see, impromptu speeches are generally most successful when they are brief and focus on a single point.

Extemporaneous Speaking

Extemporaneous speaking is the presentation of a carefully planned and rehearsed speech, spoken in a conversational manner using brief notes. By using notes rather than a full manuscript, the extemporaneous speaker can establish and maintain eye contact with the audience and assess how well they are understanding the speech as it progresses. The opportunity to assess is also an opportunity to restate more clearly any idea or concept that the audience seems to have trouble grasping.

For instance, suppose you are speaking about workplace safety and you use the term “sleep deprivation.” If you notice your audience’s eyes glazing over, this might not be a result of their own sleep deprivation, but rather an indication of their uncertainty about what you mean. If this happens, you can add a short explanation; for example, “sleep deprivation is sleep loss serious enough to threaten one’s cognition, hand-to-eye coordination, judgment, and emotional health.” You might also (or instead) provide a concrete example to illustrate the idea. Then you can resume your message, having clarified an important concept.

Speaking extemporaneously has some advantages. It promotes the likelihood that you, the speaker, will be perceived as knowledgeable and credible. In addition, your audience is likely to pay better attention to the message because it is engaging both verbally and nonverbally. The disadvantage of extemporaneous speaking is that it requires a great deal of preparation for both the verbal and the nonverbal components of the speech. Adequate preparation cannot be achieved the day before you’re scheduled to speak.

Because extemporaneous speaking is the style used in the great majority of public speaking situations, most of the information in this chapter is targeted to this kind of speaking.

Speaking from a Manuscript

Manuscript speaking is the word-for-word iteration of a written message. In a manuscript speech, the speaker maintains his or her attention on the printed page except when using visual aids.

The advantage to reading from a manuscript is the exact repetition of original words. As we mentioned at the beginning of this chapter, in some circumstances this can be extremely important. For example, reading a statement about your organization’s legal responsibilities to customers may require that the original words be exact. In reading one word at a time, in order, the only errors would typically be mispronunciation of a word or stumbling over complex sentence structure.

However, there are costs involved in manuscript speaking. First, it’s typically an uninteresting way to present. Unless the speaker has rehearsed the reading as a complete performance animated with vocal expression and gestures (as poets do in a poetry slam and actors do in a reader’s theater), the presentation tends to be dull. Keeping one’s eyes glued to the script precludes eye contact with the audience. For this kind of “straight” manuscript speech to hold audience attention, the audience must be already interested in the message before the delivery begins.

It is worth noting that professional speakers, actors, news reporters, and politicians often read from an autocue device, such as a TelePrompTer, especially when appearing on television, where eye contact with the camera is crucial. With practice, a speaker can achieve a conversational tone and give the impression of speaking extemporaneously while using an autocue device. However, success in this medium depends on two factors: (1) the speaker is already an accomplished public speaker who has learned to use a conversational tone while delivering a prepared script, and (2) the speech is written in a style that sounds conversational.

Speaking from Memory

Memorized speaking is the rote recitation of a written message that the speaker has committed to memory. Actors, of course, recite from memory whenever they perform from a script in a stage play, television program, or movie scene. When it comes to speeches, memorization can be useful when the message needs to be exact and the speaker doesn’t want to be confined by notes.

The advantage to memorization is that it enables the speaker to maintain eye contact with the audience throughout the speech. Being free of notes means that you can move freely around the stage and use your hands to make gestures. If your speech uses visual aids, this freedom is even more of an advantage. However, there are some real and potential costs. First, unless you also plan and memorize every vocal cue (the subtle but meaningful variations in speech delivery, which can include the use of pitch, tone, volume, and pace), gesture, and facial expression, your presentation will be flat and uninteresting, and even the most fascinating topic will suffer. You might end up speaking in a monotone or a sing-song repetitive delivery pattern. You might also present your speech in a rapid “machine-gun” style that fails to emphasize the most important points. Second, if you lose your place and start trying to ad lib, the contrast in your style of delivery will alert your audience that something is wrong. More frighteningly, if you go completely blank during the presentation, it will be extremely difficult to find your place and keep going.

Key Takeaways

  • There are four main kinds of speech delivery: impromptu, extemporaneous, manuscript, and memorized.
  • Impromptu speaking involves delivering a message on the spur of the moment, as when someone is asked to “say a few words.”
  • Extemporaneous speaking consists of delivering a speech in a conversational fashion using notes. This is the style most speeches call for.
  • Manuscript speaking consists of reading a fully scripted speech. It is useful when a message needs to be delivered in precise words.
  • Memorized speaking consists of reciting a scripted speech from memory. Memorization allows the speaker to be free of notes.
  • Find a short newspaper story. Read it out loud to a classroom partner. Then, using only one notecard, tell the classroom partner in your own words what the story said. Listen to your partner’s observations about the differences in your delivery.
  • In a group of four or five students, ask each student to give a one-minute impromptu speech answering the question, “What is the most important personal quality for academic success?”
  • Watch the evening news. Observe the differences between news anchors using a TelePrompTer and interviewees who are using no notes of any kind. What differences do you observe?

Stand up, Speak out Copyright © 2016 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Speech And Debate

Extemporaneous Essay

Last updated on: Feb 9, 2023

Extemporaneous Speech - How to Write One Successfully?

By: Cordon J.

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Feb 8, 2022

Extemporaneous Speech

Looking forward to working on your extemporaneous speech? Here is a complete guide that will help you understand how to write and deliver this kind of speech.

Debating or speaking in front of a crowd is an art that could be learned with the passage of time. However, it is far from easy, provided that you need to have the right kind of confidence also. Confidence is important for giving any kind of speech.

This way, the speaker is sure about what he is talking about and he could do it without losing his confidence.

Worried about your upcoming speech? This blog is perfect for you to learn about writing and delivering your speech properly and successfully.

Read on to learn and know more.

Extemporaneous Speech

On this Page

What is an Extemporaneous Speech?

An extemporaneous speech is a form of spontaneous speaking or debating. In this kind of speech, the main argument or topic has not been prepared beforehand. And the speaker has to talk about it spontaneously.

These kinds of speeches are often presented as an impromptu speech in which the presenter has limited time to prepare for them.

The extemporaneous speech is different as the speaker does not have any time to outline or prepare for it. He is given a topic instantly and he speaks about it based on the thoughts that come to his mind.

This is what makes this speech somewhat challenging also.

It is focused on informing and persuading the audience and the speech is often a part of public speaking competitions and events.

As an extemporaneous speaker, you will need to organize your thoughts quickly and present them in a coherent and proper manner.

What are the Elements of an Extemporaneous Speech?

Here are the important elements of an extemporaneous speech;

  • You Must Talk About Something Important

When preparing for the speech, you must make sure that you talk about something important and valuable. The aim is to provide the audience with something to ponder after you are done talking.

The first you should consider is to understand how the topic will impact both you and your audience.

  • Show Sincerity in Your Speech

Now, this is very important. When giving your speech, it is important that you make your audience believe what you are saying. Your audience is smarter than you think. They would instantly know when you are being sincere and when you are being dishonest.

Therefore, be genuine about whatever you say.

  • Adopt a Natural and Original Style

An effective speech is the product of an original and conversational style. Speaking extemporaneously simply means you are not trying to imitate anyone’s style at all. Consider and try to develop your personal presentation and debate style.

All of these elements are an important part of an extemporaneous speech.

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Extemporaneous Speech Outline and Format

When formatting your speech, you can do it in two ways. Here are the detailed alphanumeric and decimal outline formats.

Alphanumeric Outline

An alphanumeric outline is an easy way of organizing your speech. Here is how to do it.

I. The scenario: More than 80 percent of employers monitor their employees.

  • To prevent any illegal and wrongdoing.
  • To check the efficiency of the workers.

II. The privacy right of the employees.

  • The US employees have no right to privacy under any laws.

i. No federal or state laws.

ii. Workers can work on their own for their privacy.

  • Managers believe that workers have no right to privacy at the office.

i. Communication must be limited to official matters only.

ii. Offices should monitor the employees to prevent unlawful usage of office resources.

Decimal Outline

The decimal outline is different from the alphanumeric speech outline. Here is how to use this kind of format.

Thesis statement: A Brief History of Liz Claiborne

1.0 Introduction

      1.1 Brief history of Liz Claiborne

      1.2 The Business Scenario

2.0 Career and Work Opportunities

      1. 2.1 Executive Operations

             2.1.1 Traffic

             2.1.2 International business processes

             2.1.3 Distribution

    2. 2.2 Product development

Both of these formats are great to manage your speech. And they will help you write and deliver your speech properly.

How to Get Ready for an Extemporaneous Speech?

Here are the steps involved in preparing for your extemporaneous speech;

1. Consider your Speech’s Topic -  Before your speech begins, think about your topic carefully. Begin brainstorming as soon as you get the topic and try to come up with 3 to 4 significant ideas to talk about.

2. Develop your Speech’s Thesis Statement -  Develop a good and functional thesis statement for your speech. List down your chosen ideas and connect them with the thesis statement.. Make the necessary changes as you go.

3. Practice and Rehearse -  Practice is very important for great speech delivery. Begin with speaking to yourself in the mirror and try to practice as much as possible.

We know that delivering such a speech could be a real challenge. But with practice and organization, you can do it easily.

How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech?

An extemporaneous speech is unlike any other kind of speech. You will have limited time at hand and you need to prepare everything in that limited time.

Often, school and college students get this kind of speech as a part of their competition. Here are the steps involved in writing a great extemporaneous speech.

1. Choose the Topic Wisely -  Instead of going with a topic that is entirely new for you, be wise and choose a familiar topic. Once you have chosen the topic, brainstorm about it in the given 30 minutes and make notes.

2. Develop an Outline -  Create a good and functional outline for your speech. Write the topic at the top of the page and make a list of ideas that come into your mind.

3. Create the Main Section of the Speech -  Create the main body section of your speech. Instead of trying to add everything, add 3 to 4 main and important ideas and details and work on them.

4. Discuss and Explain the Points -  Explain the outlined points and details properly in your speech. This will help you stay focused on explaining everything properly.

5. Present a Clear and Strong Conclusion -  Spend at least two to three minutes preparing the conclusion for your speech. Stick to the main and important points and avoid any irrelevant and lengthy details.

End the speech with a memorable quote for a lasting effect.

These steps will help you write and prepare your speech in time and without any delays.

Here is a sample extemporaneous speech;

Extemporaneous Speech

extemporaneous speech sample

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Extemporaneous Speech Topics

Looking for good topic ideas for your extemporaneous speaking? Though the speaker hardly has any say in it, here are some topics that would make a good extemporaneous speech.

  • What is the reason behind celebrating Thanksgiving?
  • Who is the laziest person in your class and why?
  • Which teacher inspired you to study harder?
  • Is it important to monitor and restrict people in public?
  • How did your parents motivate you to pick your majors?
  • What are the advantages of diversity in educational institutions?
  • What is the most important skill for better job opportunities?
  • What are the problems of kids coming from broken families?
  • What can we do to control global warming?
  • How does automation affect the job environment?

All of these topics will make an excellent extemporaneous speech.

This blog explains everything that you need to know about this kind of speech.

Still, need help? Contact 5StarEssays.com for the best essay writing service .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of an extemporaneous speech.

The key purpose of an extemporaneous speech is to help the speakers develop spontaneous talking skills.

What is the main characteristic of an extemporaneous speech?

The main characteristic and aspect of an extemporaneous speech is that the speaker has to understand, synthesize and convey his thoughts in a proper and coherent manner.

Cordon J.

Speech, Business

Cordon. is a published author and writing specialist. He has worked in the publishing industry for many years, providing writing services and digital content. His own writing career began with a focus on literature and linguistics, which he continues to pursue. Cordon is an engaging and professional individual, always looking to help others achieve their goals.

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How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech

How to Write a 3-Minute Speech Fast

How to Write a 3-Minute Speech Fast

An extemporaneous speech is one prepared quickly, within a half hour or less. Many schools offer extemporaneous speaking competitions. When practiced, writing extemporaneous speeches can improve public speaking skills as well as promote on-the-fly thinking. These speeches are generally not very long although even five minutes can seem a long time when you are speaking. Like all speeches, they are designed to inform, inspire or persuade.

Identify your topic and start brainstorming on topic details. If possible, choose a topic with which you are familiar. If you have thirty minutes, spend the first ten minutes brainstorming to think of everything you can about the subject in that time. For example, if you want to persuade your audience to recycle, write down as many reasons as you can think of to recycle. Jot down quick notes like "reduce pollution," "setting example for future generations," "conserve resources," "conserve land" and "create new jobs." Write everything that comes to mind; you may later decide to delete some ideas.

Outline your speech. Start with the title, then list a few sentences for the introduction. For example, write "This morning I had a soda, and I almost threw away the can. But then I thought I should recycle." Then write what you will be talking about, specifically "Everyone should recycle and today I'm going to tell you why." Use a highlighter to stress your main point, "everyone should recycle."

Create the body of your speech. Limit yourself to the most important points you want to make and be sure they all relate directly to your subject as you do not have time to go off topic. Choose a few notes from your initial list and further clarify them. For example, write a paragraph about conserving land, another about reducing pollution and a third about creating new jobs.

Expand your main points. Take your three or four main topics and list a few examples, quotes or statistics for each section. Provide three pieces of supportive information for each of the three sections that are legitimate and backed by source. For example,"recycling reduces air pollution because the production of glass releases harmful gasses into the environment."

Write your conclusion. Use only about two or thee minutes of your preparation time to do this; conclusions don't need to be long. Restate your main arguments. End with an anecdote, quote or call to action. For example, "I encourage you all to go home tonight and gather up your old bottles to take to the recycling center tomorrow."

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5 Ways of Delivering Speeches

Understanding Delivery Modes

In this chapter . . .

In this chapter, we will explore the three modes of speech delivery: impromptu, manuscript, and extemporaneous. Each offers unique advantages and potential challenges. An effective public speaker needs to be familiar with each style so they can use the most appropriate mode for any speech occasion.

In writing, there’s only one way of delivering the text: the printed word on a page. Public Speaking, however, gives you different ways to present your text. These are called the delivery modes , or simply, ways of delivering speeches. The three modes are impromptu delivery , manuscript delivery , and extemporaneous delivery . Each of these involves a different relationship between a speech text, on the one hand, and the spoken word, on the other. These are described in detail below.

writing an extemporaneous speech

Impromptu Delivery

Impromptu speaking is a short form speech given with little to no preparation. While being asked to stand in front of an audience and deliver an impromptu speech can be anxiety-producing, it’s important to remember that  impromptu speaking is something most people do without thinking in their daily lives . If you introduce yourself to a group, answer an open-ended question, express an opinion, or tell a story, you’re using impromptu speaking skills. While impromptus can be stressful, the more you do it the easier it becomes.

Preparation for Impromptu Delivery

The difficulty of impromptu speaking is that there is no way to prepare, specifically, for that moment of public speaking. There are, however, some things you can do to stay ready in case you’re called upon to speak unrehearsed.

For one, make sure your speaking instruments (your voice and body) are warmed up, energized, and focused. It could be helpful to employ some of the actor warm-up techniques mentioned earlier as part of an everyday routine. If appropriate to the impromptu speaking situation, you could even ask to briefly step aside and warm yourself up so that you feel relaxed and prepared.

Furthermore, a good rule when brainstorming for an impromptu speech is that your first idea is your best. You can think about impromptu speaking like improvisation: use the “yes, and” rule and trust your instincts. You’ll likely not have time to fully map out the speech, so don’t be too hard on yourself to find the “perfect” thing to say. You should let your opinions and honest thoughts guide your speaking. While it’s easy to look back later and think of approaches you should have used, try to avoid this line of thinking and trust whatever you come up with in the moment.

Finally, as you prepare to speak, remind yourself what your purpose is for your speech. What is it that you hope to achieve by speaking? How do you hope your audience feels by the end? What information is most important to convey? Consider how you’ll end your speech. If you let your purpose guide you, and stay on topic throughout your speech, you’ll often find success.

Delivery of Impromptu Speeches

Here is a step-by-step guide that may be useful if you’re called upon to give an impromptu speech:

  • Thank the person for inviting you to speak. Don’t make comments about being unprepared, called upon at the last moment, on the spot, or uneasy.
  • Deliver your message, making your main point as briefly as you can while still covering it adequately and at a pace your listeners can follow.
  • Stay on track. If you can, use a structure, using numbers if possible: “Two main reasons . . .” or “Three parts of our plan. . .” or “Two side effects of this drug. . .” Past, present, and future or East Coast, Midwest, and West Coast are common structures.
  • Thank the person again for the opportunity to speak.
  • Stop talking when you are finished (it’s easy to “ramble on” when you don’t have something prepared). If in front of an audience, don’t keep talking as you move back to your seat. Finish clearly and strong.

Impromptu speeches are most successful when they are brief and focus on a single point.

Another helpful framing technique for impromptus is to  negate the premise.  This is the deliberate reframing of a given prompt in a way that acknowledges the original but transitions into talking about the topic in a different way than expected. Negating the premise can be an effective rhetorical technique if used carefully and can help you focus your response on a topic that you’re interested in talking about.

If you suddenly run out of things to say in the middle of your speech, be open to  pivoting . Giving another example or story is the easiest way to do this. What’s important is to not panic or allow yourself to ramble aimlessly. No matter what, remember to keep breathing.

Finally, the greatest key to success for improving impromptu speaking is practice. Practice speaking without rehearsal in low-stakes environments if you can (giving a toast at a family dinner, for example). But remember this: no one is expecting the “perfect” speech if you’re called upon to speak impromptu. It’s okay to mess up. As Steven Tyler of the rock band Aerosmith would say: dare to suck. Take a risk and make a bold choice. What is most important is to stay sure of yourself and your knowledge.

Manuscript Delivery

The opposite of an impromptu speech is the manuscript speech. This involves having the complete text of your speech written out on paper or on notecards. You may be reading the speech from a computer or a teleprompter. In some cases, the speaker memorizes this manuscript.

Manuscript delivery  is the word-for-word iteration of a written message. In a manuscript speech, the speaker maintains their attention on the printed page except when using visual aids. The advantage of reading from a manuscript is the exact repetition of original words. In some circumstances, this can be extremely important.

Advantages & Disadvantages to Manuscript Delivery

There are many advantages in speaking from a manuscript. Some people find they are less nervous when they have the whole text in front of them. If you get lost or flustered during the speech you can glance down and get back on track. For speakers who struggle with vocalized pauses, it can be easier to know exactly what you want to say so that you’re not searching for the right word. Some people prefer to carefully craft the language of their speech instead of just having a sense of the main point and expounding upon it. Particularly if there are a lot of statistics or quotations, it can be helpful to have the whole passage written out to make sure you not only convey it correctly but frame it in the right context. It’s also easier to rehearse and time a manuscript speech, thus making sure it stays within time limits and isn’t unexpectedly too short or long. For some formal occasions or events that may be emotional for the speaker, such as a funeral, using a manuscript may be the best approach.

There are some disadvantages in delivering a speech from a manuscript. Having a manuscript in front of you often encourages looking down and reading the speech instead of performing it. A lack of eye contact makes the audience feel less engaged. The speech can feel stilted and lacking energy. Some speakers may feel constrained and that they can’t deviate from their script. Furthermore, while some find it easier to find their place with a quick glance down having the full manuscript, others find it difficult to avoid losing their place. If you go off script it can be harder to recover.

Successful Manuscript Delivery

A successful manuscript delivery requires a dynamic performance that includes lots of eye contact, animated vocals, and gestures. This can only be accomplished if you’re very familiar with the manuscript. Delivering a manuscript that you have written but only spoken aloud once before delivery will most often result in stumbling over words and eyes locked to the page. You’ll be reading aloud  at  your audience, instead of speaking  to  them. Remember what it’s like in school when a teacher asks a student to stand up and read something aloud? If the student isn’t familiar with the text, it can be a struggle both for the reader and the audience.

The key to avoiding this problem is to practice your written speech as much as you can, at least five or six times. You want to get so familiar with your speech that you can take your eyes off the page and make frequent eye contact with your audience. When you’re very familiar with your speech, your tone of speaking becomes more conversational. The text flows more smoothly and you begin to sound like a speaker, not a reader. You can enjoy the presentation and your audiences will enjoy it as well.

To improve your skills at manuscript delivery, practice reading written content aloud. This allows you to focus exclusively on delivery instead of worrying about writing a speech first. In particular, reading dialogue or passages from theatre plays, film/television scripts, or books provides material that is intended to be expressive and emotive. The goal is to deliver the content in a way that is accessible, interesting, alive, and engaging for the audience.

To Memorize or Not to Memorize

One way to overcome the problem of reading from the page is to memorize your word-for-word speech. When we see TED Talks, for example, they are usually memorized.

Memorized speaking  is the delivery of a written message that the speaker has committed to memory. Actors, of course, recite from memory whenever they perform from a script. When it comes to speeches, memorization can be useful when the message needs to be exact, and the speaker doesn’t want to be confined by notes.

The advantage to memorization is that it enables the speaker to maintain eye contact with the audience throughout the speech. However, there are some real and potential costs. Obviously, memorizing a seven-minute speech takes a great deal of time and effort, and if you’re not used to memorizing, it’s difficult to pull off.

For strategies on how to successfully memorize a speech, refer to the “Memorization” section in the chapter “ From Page to Stage .”

Extemporaneous Delivery

Remember the fairy tale about Goldilocks and the Three Bears? One bed is too soft, the other bed is too hard, and finally one is just right? Extemporaneous delivery combines the best of impromptu and manuscript delivery. Like a manuscript speech, the content is very carefully prepared. However, instead of a word-for-word manuscript, the speaker delivers from a carefully crafted outline. Therefore, it has elements of impromptu delivery to it. We call this type of speaking extemporaneous ( the word comes from the Latin  ex tempore,  literally “out of time”).

Extemporaneous delivery  is the presentation of a carefully planned and rehearsed speech, spoken in a conversational manner using brief notes. By using notes rather than a full manuscript, the extemporaneous speaker can establish and maintain eye contact with the audience and assess how well they understand the speech as it progresses. Without all the words on the page to read, you have little choice but to look up and make eye contact with your audience.

For an extemporaneous speech, the speaker uses a carefully prepared outline. We will discuss how to create an effective outline in the chapters on speechwriting.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Extemporaneous Delivery

Speaking extemporaneously has some major advantages. As mentioned above, without having a text to be beholden to it’s much easier to make eye contact and engage with your audience. Extemporaneous speaking also allows flexibility; you’re working from the solid foundation of an outline, but if you need to delete, add, or rephrase something at the last minute or to adapt to your audience, you can do so. Therefore, the audience is more likely to pay better attention to the message. Furthermore, it promotes the likelihood that you, the speaker, will be perceived as knowledgeable and credible since you know the speech well enough that you don’t need to read it. The outline also helps you be aware of main ideas vs. subordinate ones. For many speakers, an extemporaneous approach encourages them to feel more relaxed and to have more fun while speaking. If you’re enjoying presenting your speech the audience will sense that and consequently, they will enjoy it more.

A disadvantage of extemporaneous speaking is that it requires substantial rehearsal to achieve the verbal and nonverbal engagement that is required for a good speech. Adequate preparation can’t be achieved the day before you’re scheduled to speak. Be aware that if you want to present an engaging and credible extemporaneous speech, you’ll need to practice many times. Your practice will need to include both the performative elements as well as having a clear sense of the content you’ll cover. As mentioned previously, an extemporaneous speech can also be harder to have consistent and predictable timing. While delivering the speech it’s more likely you’ll wander off on a tangent, struggle to find the words you want, or forget to mention crucial details. Furthermore, if you get lost it may be harder to get yourself back on track.

Successful Extemporaneous Delivery

Like other delivery modes, a dynamic performance on an extemporaneous delivery is one that includes lots of eye contact, animated vocals, and gestures. At the same time, you want a speech that is structured and focused, not disorganized and wandering.

One strategy to succeed in extemporaneous speaking is to begin by writing out a full manuscript of your speech. This allows you to map out all the information that will be covered in each main point and sub-point. This method also gives you a better sense of your timing and flow than starting from just an outline. Another approach is to write out an outline that is less complete than a manuscript but still detailed. This will be used only for preparation; once you have a clear sense of the content you can reduce it down to a streamlined performance outline which you’ll use when delivering the actual speech.

By the time of presentation, an extemporaneous speech becomes a mixture of memorization and improvisation. You’ll need to be familiar enough with your content and structure that you cover everything, and it flows with logical transitions. Simultaneously, you must be willing to make changes and adapt in the moment. Hence, thorough rehearsal is critical. While this approach takes more time, the benefits are worth the extra effort required.

When you’re asked to prepare a speech for almost any occasion except last-minute speeches, you must choose either a manuscript or extemporaneous approach. As you experiment with assorted styles of public speaking, you’ll find you prefer one style of delivery over the other. Extemporaneous speaking can be challenging, especially for beginners, but it’s the preferred method of most experienced public speakers. However, the speaking occasion may dictate which method will be most effective.

Online Delivery

Impromptu, manuscript, and extemporaneous speaking are delivery modes . They describe the relationship between the speaker and the script according to the level of preparation (minutes or weeks) and type of preparation (manuscript or outline). Until now, we have assumed that the medium for the speech is in-person before an audience. Medium means the means or channel through which something is communicated. The written word is a medium. In art, sculpture is a medium. For in-person public speaking, the medium is the stage. For online public speaking, the medium is the camera.

The Online Medium

Public speakers very often communicate via live presentation. However, we also use the medium of recordings, shared through online technology. We see online or recorded speaking in many situations. A potential employer might ask for a short video self-presentation. Perhaps you’re recording a “How-To” video for YouTube. A professor asks you to create a presentation to post to the course website. Or perhaps an organization has solicited proposals via video. Maybe a friend who lives far away is getting married and those who can’t attend send a video toast. While this textbook can’t address all these situations, below are three important elements to executing recorded speeches.

Creating Your Delivery Document

As with an in-person speech, it’s important to consider all the given circumstances of the speech occasion. Why are you speaking? What is the topic? How much time do you have to prepare? How long is this speech? In online speeches, having a sense of your audience is critical. Not only who are they, but where are they? You may be speaking live to people across the country or around the world. If they are in a different time zone it may influence their ability to listen and respond, particularly if it’s early, late, or mealtime. If you’re recording a speech for a later audience, do you know who that audience will be?

As with in-person speeches, different speech circumstances suggest one of three delivery modes: impromptu, extemporaneous, or manuscript. Whether your medium is live or camera, to prepare you must know which of the three delivery modes  you’ll be using. Just because a speech is online does not mean it doesn’t need preparation and a delivery text.

Technical Preparation

To prepare for online speaking, you’ll want to practice using your online tools. To begin, record yourself speaking so you have a sense of the way your voice sounds when mediated. Consider practicing making eye contact with your camera so that you feel comfortable with your desired focal point. In addition, consider how to best set up your speaking space. It may take some experimenting to find the best camera angle and position. Consider lighting when deciding your recording place. Make the lighting as bright as possible and ensure that the light is coming from behind the camera.

You should put some thought into what you’ll be wearing. You’ll want to look appropriate for the occasion. Make sure your outfit looks good on camera and doesn’t clash with your background. In general, keep in mind what your background will look like on-screen. You’ll want a background that isn’t overly distracting to viewers. Furthermore, ensure that there is a place just off-screen where you can have notes and anything else you may need readily at hand. Your recording location should be somewhere quiet and distraction-free.

You should test your camera and microphone to make sure they are working properly, and make sure you have a stable internet connection. But, even when you complete pre-checks of equipment, sometimes technology fails. Therefore, it’s helpful to know how to troubleshoot on the spot. Anticipate potential hiccups and have a plan for how to either fix issues that arise or continue with your presentation.

Vibrant Delivery

The tools for successful public speaking discussed in the rest of this textbook still apply to online speaking, but there are some key differences to consider before entering the virtual space. Online speaking, for example, will not have the same energy of a back-and-forth dialogue between speaker and live audience. If you’re recording without an audience, it might feel like you’re speaking into a void. You must use your power of imagination to keep in mind the audience who will eventually be watching your speech.

It’s important to utilize all your vocal tools, such as projection, enunciation, and vocal variety. Most important is having a high level of energy and enthusiasm reflected in your voice. If your voice communicates your passion for your speech topic, the audience will feel that and be more engaged. Use humor to keep your speech engaging and to raise your own energy level. Some experts recommend standing while giving an online speech because it helps raise your energy level and can better approximate the feeling of presenting in public.

If you’re presenting online to an audience, be sure to start the presentation on time. However, be aware that some participants may sign in late. Likewise, be cognizant about finishing your speech and answering any questions by the scheduled end time. If there are still questions you can direct the audience to reach out to you by your preferred means of communication. You may be able to provide the audience with a recording of the talk in case they want to go back and rewatch something.

Finally, consider ways you can enhance your performance by sharing images on the screen. Be sure you have that technology ready.

Other suggestions from experts include:

  • Your anxiety does not go away just because you can’t see everyone in your “web audience.” Be aware of the likelihood of anxiety; it might not hit until you’re “on air.”
  • During the question-and-answer period, some participants will question orally through the webcam set-up, while others will use the chat feature. It takes time to type in the chat. Be prepared for pauses.
  • Remember the power of transitions. The speaker needs to tie the messages of their slides together.
  • Verbal pauses can be helpful. Since one of the things that put audiences to sleep is the continual, non-stop flow of words, a pause can get attention.

As you begin delivering more public speeches you will likely find a preference for one or more of these delivery modes. If you are given a choice, it’s often best to lean into your strengths and to utilize the method you feel most comfortable with. However, the speech occasion may dictate your presentation style. Therefore, it’s important to practice and become comfortable with each mode. In an increasingly technological world online speaking in particular is likely going to be a required method of communication.

Media Attributions

  • Delivery Modes and Delivery Document © Mechele Leon is licensed under a CC BY-NC-SA (Attribution NonCommercial ShareAlike) license

Public Speaking as Performance Copyright © 2023 by Mechele Leon is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Extempore Speech – Topics, Tips and Benefits

What is an extempore speech.

  • Key Components of Extempore Speech

Tips for Extempore Speech

  • Why is Extempore Speech Important?
  • Some More Extempore Speech Tips and Tricks

Extempore Speech Topics

  • What is the Importance of Learning Extemporaneous Speech?

FAQ Section

writing an extemporaneous speech

One can define extempore  speech  as an impromptu amalgamation of thoughts culminating into a self-composed speech, the topic for which one receives then and there. Extempore speech is typically used to gain a deeper knowledge of a participant’s many points but it also comes with a lot of problems.

No prior preparation for which is permissible. It won’t be wrong to say that catching hold over the art of delivering extempore speeches becomes the primary characteristic of a public speaker. Furthermore, being able to present the extempore topic to the audience without any proper preparation is a genuinely exceptional achievement.

How to Give a Good Extempore Speech?

To succeed in an extempore speech round, one needs to follow certain  tips  which can prove to be very helpful in your extempore speech. An extempore speech is always delivered on a random  topic  given. Always remember to prepare with some previously used extempore topics. We don’t say  Practice  makes a man perfect, just for the sake of it, it truly is so. One should always  practice  speaking on random topics. That is how we get an idea of a good extempore speech and its concoction.

Below are some checkpoints on giving a good extempore speech.

Know Your Direction

You’ve got to know how you want to deliver your speech before you start it. Whether you wish to begin on a lighter note by giving your opening a pinch of humour or with an awe-inspiring serious remark. The easiest approach to decide is to acquire a rapid sense of your target audience. What type of people are they? What direction would they accept? Your speech will be appreciated significantly more if you speak in a  language  that works with those listening to it.

Watch Your Words

You’ve got to listen to yourself. Do not say something that makes you regret it later. As a few matters could be personal to your audience while certain words can be offensive to others. Mind your tone as well, as it may simply affect the reception of your speech. Listen to the words coming out of you to make sure you’re saying what you want your audience to hear.

Plot A Course

Before you speak, try making a quick mental outline of what you want to say. Some of the worst speeches came when people didn’t take a moment to organize their thoughts before opening with their speeches. Your outline doesn’t even have to be a detailed one; all you require is a guide to help you keep track of your thoughts.

Prepare Some Back-up

Have some backup in mind. Forgetting your next statement which you wished to propose, isn’t unnatural. What separates a good speech from a disaster is how well you catch yourself before making a blunder. It’s good to have a backup plan for the times when your mind suddenly goes blank. That way, if you find yourself in a circumstance where you don’t have anything to say, you’ll be able to gracefully exit the situation. You can also bail yourself out with a polite way of excusing yourself. If you wish to attract a few laughs, it’s okay to explicitly talk about your mental block.

Keep It Short

Last but not least keep your speech short. Your extempore speeches are not supposed to be epic  narratives . The crisper and to the point you get the better. Use of certain words results in reflecting it to your audience that you lack in prior preparation. By doing so, you simply miss the point here. Speaking clearly and with as few words as possible you reflect  confidence  in your own opinions and that makes you a much refined public speaker  than  those who just seem to rely on their wide vocabularies.

Key Components of  Extempore Speech

To be able to give a good extempore speech, one must practice a lot of extempore topics but more importantly, understand the structure of a good extempore speech and presentation. The three most important aspects of a good extempore speech are-

Fluency is of the utmost importance when it comes to giving an extempore speech. Understanding the relationship between the various  parts of speech  and keeping track of the  new words  learnt is a way of developing grammar and vocabulary.  Good grammar  isn’t the only thing that gives you fluency. Practising speaking in the language is as important as grammar.

When a person is fluent in a particular language it becomes easier for them to recover from a grammatical error or any such error made while making a speech. Recovering from an error is not difficult at all, simply repeat the sentence correctly, excuse yourself and Move on. Being afraid is normal, but never let fear overtake you.

Shortcut to Complete English Fluency - Learn How to Produce Instant English  Speech | English Harmony-speech concoction

Never try to talk about something you do not have any idea about, rather limit your extempore to the fact you possess and go on. When you are unfamiliar with the theme in the level of detail for just about any reason, talk about what you know about it. Additionally, too much content is never a good sign, limited but meaningful content is what we should aim for.

Listen! It is an important lesson which people forget to revise. Preparation for any topic can only happen when you have sufficient knowledge of the topic, and that is only possible when you listen to the topic given and the instructions provided.

writing an extemporaneous speech

Structure of Extempore Speech

The last wheel on this three-wheeler is Structure. One can build an extempore on varied topics and for multiple  time  spans. The structure of any such speech acts as a framework, the content acts as the functional unit, and fluency acts like its muscular power.

An extempore speech should be structured in a way to maximize efficiency and effectiveness. The following is one of many structures to ensure the best results.

writing an extemporaneous speech

Always open your extempore by grabbing the attention of the audience. A smart line, concise observation or a famous quote is always a good way to go and contains what it takes an extempore to be a winner.

Try sticking to a few factors so that your extempore doesn’t seem overcrowded, interrupted, boring, or hard to remember. Be specific and stick to a point. As a listener, an individual might begin to feel boring and lose interest, the moment your extempore becomes too general. The extempore becomes a complete buzzkill. There will be no reason for the audience to remember you or the topic you’re speaking on.

An anecdote is nothing but an account of a particular incident or event, specifically a short one that is of amusing  nature . Something that happened to either you or someone close to you. Include personal experiences to make your piece relatable and engaging. Getting to know how a particular incident made you feel also helps the audience to relate better. You may even talk about how you came up with this extempore speech and its concoction at that very moment.

Ending with a bang is the final criteria of an excellent extempore. The previous points stated, should naturally pave way for the  conclusion . Attempting to cover too many points in a single go can even dilute the impact of your speech. Use Pauses to highlight the points and lead up to a great closing.

The Latin word extempore translates to “at the time.” It’s necessary to keep in mind that there are certain baseline rules to follow when giving an extempore speech.

Here are a few extempore speech tips to follow. If you don’t get straight to the point, you’ll get a bad grade.

  • Firstly, each participant is given a 2-to-5-minute time frame to talk and present their ideas.
  • If the time limit is not met, points may be deducted.
  • Switching from one language to another earns negative marking.
  • The jury’s or judges’ decision is conclusive.

Why is Extempore Speech  Important?

writing an extemporaneous speech

When a person tries to talk freely, it  boosts their confidence  and helps them overcome stage fright and  public speaking  fears. This typically allows the children to express themselves without masking their feelings.

In comparison to other  types  of talks, extemporaneous speeches have a number of advantages. Extemporaneous presentations are more authentic and unscripted, and they keep the audience engaged and motivated in the extempore topic. A well-prepared extemporaneous speaker will also know his topic very well and in-depth, making him sound like an authority in his field and earning the audience’s trust.

Because of its  adaptability , extempore speeches encourage audience participation. During the extempore presentation, the speaker has the option of involving the audience. He can also take questions during his speech to ensure that the audience understands the topic of the presentation while it is being delivered. This allows the person to ensure that everyone is aware of the situation and that no one loses interest in the middle of a talk due to a lack of extempore topic understanding.

Some other  benefits  of extempore speech and presentation include:

  • Boosts  Confidence
  • Improves  Communication  skills
  • Ability to think on the spot
  • Develops logical and analytical thinking

Some More Extempore Speech Tips  and Tricks

  • Extempore should always be practised with a variety of topics. This will allow you to list points, arrange them, and deliver them without feeling rushed.
  • If you find yourself becoming nervous, try moving about or making some coordinated movements.
  • Avoid sounding emotional or disclosing too many confidential info when giving your extempore speech.
  • When dealing with delicate issues or when selecting one side is difficult, always remain impartial and speak on behalf of both sides. However, you must bear in mind the time limit and avoid going overboard.
  • One of the most important things to remember is to provide a few small  examples  related to your extempore topic to liven things up. With practise, you should be able to ace the extempore topic.

writing an extemporaneous speech

Extempore speech is a method of assessing and judging a person’s speaking abilities, as well as the flow of their thoughts and the manner in which they communicate their views. The way you approach a subject and the points you make, whether you realise it or not, are quite essential.

Following are some of the most common extempore speech topics:

  • Why is junk food bad?
  • Are outdoor games good?
  • Why is social media important?
  • All that glitters is not gold
  • Hard Work Vs Smart Work
  • Are Scores a good measure of Intelligence?
  • The significance of a person’s  handwriting
  • Why books are important
  • Great things about the ocean
  • How to save money
  • Animals are stress relievers
  • Online communication and real-life friendship
  • Creativity  cannot be taught
  • Why is a failure the greatest teacher?

What is the Importance of Learning Extemporaneous Speech ?

  • Throughout an extempore session, a person’s capacity to think quickly is put to the test. Because the individual must talk on the spot, it assesses his or her capacity to analyze, coordinate, and express in the moment.
  • If adequate preparation is not done before to the speech, an extempore speech has a great consequences of going in a chaotic and disorientated direction. Before rationally positioning them to form a cohesive and well-knitted presentation, it is essential that the candidate first grasp the important issues that must be discussed.
  • The most challenging aspect of presenting an extempore speech is arriving up with a fresh chain of thoughts. Due to the restricted time available for the assignment, this takes on even greater proportions.
  • Prioritization and sequencing to exhibit logical thinking: The challenge isn’t just speaking quickly. But also making logical sense by stating things in a systematic and rational manner. This is especially true if the topic is vague and strongly dependant on the viewpoint of the person.
  • Interaction with the panel: A one- to five-minute extempore presentation is standard. The applicant must do justice to the issue within this constrained time span. Which, is more likely if he connects well with the panel.
  • Communication skills : These are essential because communication skills, both verbal and nonverbal, have an impact on the presentation’s efficacy. Arrangement, smoothness, and intonation are all important characteristics of successful verbal communication. Enthusiasm, eye contact, and mannerisms are common examples of  nonverbal communication.

The basic feat is the deliverance of an extempore speech and its concoction. Here’s a blog from  Podium School  to give you a few tips on extempore.

What is the procedure for conducting an extempore?

An extempore speech is one in which the person is offered a topic and one minute to prepare and deliver their opinions about it.

What is the thing that is different between extempore and impromptu?

Impromptu  and extempore are the same in that they are both improvised without any prior preparation, planning, or practise. The distinction is in the delivery method: an  impromptu speech  is composed and delivered on the spot, but an extemporaneous speech is composed and delivered with only a few notes.

How do you begin an extempore speech?

1. To begin an extempore speech, begin with a quote or a brief narrative related to the topic; this will give you an excellent start. 2. If you’re short on ideas, quickly apply what you’ve gained to your own life and move on. 3. Because extempore only lasts a few minutes, people try to speak rapidly.

On what basis are participants taking part in extempore speech judged?

The following criteria are used to evaluate participants 1. Opening/conclusion 2. Presentation 3. Composure/Confidence 4. Inflection/projection of voice 5. Diction/Enunciation 7. Expressions on the Face 8. Persuasiveness 9. Gestures 10. Ideas should be presented clearly

Why is extempore important?

Extempore allows students to think on their feet and outside of the box. It’s a fantastic way to hone your communication and  time management  abilities. Encourages one to think of and develop ideas without any prior planning. It forces students to deal with and analyse the problem at the moment.

Is it necessary to memorise extempore speeches?

Because extemporaneous speeches are not read or memorised, the speaker must stay in the present and “think on their feet”-a process that can be stressful. But it also allows for a high level of spontaneity, resulting in a natural, conversational style.

Extempore speech is a method of assessing and judging a person’s speaking abilities, as well as the flow of their thoughts and the manner in which they communicate their views. As a result, always strive to speak in a way that is pertinent to the topic and do not go beyond, as one only has a certain amount of time to speak on the subject.

There is no perfect method to begin an Extempore, but one of the finest ways to begin an extempore is as follows:

  • Begin with a quote, a true story, or an example.
  • Always talk in a way that is pertinent to the topic.
  • If you recall any quantitative data regarding the subject, use it to back up your arguments.
  • Only discuss the subject at hand.
  • Maintain your composure and calm.
  • Also, FINISH on a positive note.

It’s always without a question of doubt a little difficult to walk up to the stage and give a speech. be it prepared or unprepared. But we should never back down from a  challenge  because you would succeed. the question is will it be with flying colours or would it be a little short of it. If it is a little short of it, we always have the next time. When it will be even better than flying colours. Therefore, work on giving an extempore speech and its concoction.

Podium School  offers  Public Speaking  lessons to help you develop and master your speaking talents. At every stage, we also believe in growth and creativity. For this reason, our Blog Site leaves no stone untouched in terms of branching out. We value your input and eagerly await further direction.

Until then, engage on a smooth knowledge journey!

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How To Write an Extemporaneous Speech: A Comprehensive Guide For Students

Delivering an extemporaneous speech can be a nerve-wracking experience for students as well as in professional setting. However, it’s an essential skill for anyone who wants to become a confident public speaker. Unlike a prepared speech, an extemporaneous speech requires you to speak off the cuff and think on your feet, making it a valuable tool for anyone who wants to improve their communication skills.

Whether you’re speaking in a classroom setting, at a conference, or in a business meeting, being able to deliver an extemporaneous speech can help you connect with your audience and make a lasting impression.

In this blog post, our team at  my homework help  will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to write an extemporaneous speech that will capture your audience’s attention and leave a lasting impression.

Table of Contents

Definition of an extemporaneous speech.

An extemporaneous speech is a type of public speaking in which a speaker speaks on the fly without notes or scripts and presents his or her arguments and ideas with confidence, poise, and enthusiasm. Read more about arguments from our illustrative guide on how to write an  argumentative speech .

Prior to giving the speech, it is important to carefully plan it, and in most cases, the speaker must memorize it in order to deliver it effectively. So, to ensure that all the topics are made clear in the allocated time, giving this kind of speech demands preparation, concentration, research, good communication skills, and creativity.

Benefits of Delivering an Extemporaneous Speech

The ability to deliver an extemporaneous speech provides numerous advantages, both for the individual presenting it and for those listening to it.

  • Presenters can engage their audience in discussion by using spontaneous language, which helps to foster relationships between speakers and listeners as well as understanding and acceptance between parties;
  • Because speakers use no predetermined words or phrases in these speeches, they tend to appear more natural & less rehearsed than if using scripts;
  • The lack of reliance on written material encourages the more effective use of rhetorical devices such as metaphors & analogies within speeches, thus making them easier for audiences to comprehend;
  • Last but not least, due to its spontaneous nature, extemporaneous speeches offer the chance for greater levels of improvisation among listeners, giving speakers the freedom to modify their messages in real-time, if necessary, based on feedback from listeners, leading to improved levels of engagement and comprehension among those hearing it spoken live.

Related:  How to write an impromptu speech .

Preparation for Writing an Extemporaneous Speech

A. brainstorming topic ideas and choosing a focus for the speech.

Before you start making an  impromptu speech , you should come up with some ideas for topics that will be interesting to your audience. This entails taking into account their backgrounds, ideologies, and any prior information they may have regarding the topic you plan to cover in your speech.

Presenters must take the time to outline the precise points or arguments they intend to make during their presentation once a topic has been decided upon in order to start their study and preparation.

B. Researching Your Topic Thoroughly

In order for an extemporaneous speech to be successful, thorough research needs to be conducted prior to delivery. This includes:

  • Utilizing Traditional Sources of Information (i.e., books, magazines, journals)
  • Gathering Data from the Internet on  sources such as google scholar , Jstor , among others.
  • Consulting Experts in the Subject Area

These efforts should be directed toward gathering knowledge about the subject under discussion that is both directly and indirectly related to it. This information, once gathered, enables speakers to formulate persuasive arguments and viewpoints on subjects by being aware of all relevant viewpoints before making public statements about them.

Extemporaneous presenters should use current events and industry trends that are pertinent to the topics they are discussing to strengthen their content and believability.

Related:  How to write a persuasive essay .

C. Creating a Logical Structure for Your Speech

In order to effectively communicate your message, it is important to create a logical structure for the speech that is easy to follow and understand. This entails creating a list of the essential topics that must be covered throughout the speech and then coming up with ideas for each topic so that it may be covered in depth.

Presenters should bear in mind certain elements while constructing an extemporaneous speech, such as offering  introductions  and  conclusions , which will create obvious transitions between sections and guarantee that all essential material is included in what is being stated. Also, it helps speakers make more powerful presentations by segmenting their arguments into smaller parts that are each supported by supporting data or examples.

D. Collecting Supporting Materials That Will Strengthen Your Argument or Prove Your Points

Strong supporting materials and evidence give credibility and value to any speech that is made up on the spot. This facilitates comprehension of the speech’s substance and increases the likelihood that the audience will accept what is spoken.

This kind of information can be found anywhere, including in personal narrative essays , published research studies, expert opinions from many fields related to the subjects covered, etc.

When giving a speech, it is crucial to locate these sources so that the speaker may confidently present their position using facts and figures rather than conjecture.

Related:  How to write a demonstration speech .

Writing Out the Body Paragraphs for Your Extemporaneous Speech

A. composing opening sentences that introduce main points.

Your speech’s introduction should give the audience a taste of what’s to come and set their expectations for what they’ll hear. This implies that speakers must come up with succinct introductory lines that set the stage for the topics being discussed and establish any important ideas they want to expand on later.

It’s crucial to employ descriptive language that effectively communicates the presentation’s key idea while crafting these introduction sentences. The audience remains engaged the entire time because of this.

B. Constructing Factual Statements with Relevant Evidence and Examples

For an impromptu speech to be effective, the  body paragraphs  must include facts that are backed up by evidence and examples. This entails mentioning studies or research on subjects associated with the ones being discussed and incorporating it into arguments while making sure to always provide appropriate credit.

If any visual aids are available, such as diagrams, charts, etc., it can even be necessary to use them. Real facts assist presenters captivate their listeners’ thoughts and demonstrate their subject matter expertise.

Having visual sources can also assist people grasp what is being said during speeches since many individuals find it simpler to understand information when it is displayed rather than stated.

C. Developing Transitions Between Ideas

For an impromptu speech to go well, the speaker must be able to smoothly move from one point to the next in the body paragraphs. This keeps listeners engaged and enables the speaker to deliver the information in an approachable manner. Also, by making it simpler for listeners to visualize what you’re talking about, rhetorical devices like metaphors can assist others grasp what you’re saying.

During an impromptu speech, the speaker should try to use the right words and phrases to move from one idea to the next without getting sidetracked or losing track of themselves.

Moreover, using rhetorical tools like metaphors can help people better understand what you’re saying by making it easier for them to picture what you’re talking about.

Related:  How to write a rhetorical analysis essay .

Before using them, speakers can decide to practice these transitions a few times to ensure that they flow smoothly. This allows them to be adjusted and guarantees that they appear natural when they are used in real life.

Delivering an Effective Extemporaneous Speech

For a presenter to give a successful speech on the spot, they need to know how to use note cards properly. This entails arranging the cards such that they may quickly and properly refer to crucial information while speaking, eliminating pauses or blank spaces that can lose the audience’s attention.

Instead of utilizing whole sentences while using notecards, speakers should aim to utilize short phrases so that they can discover and grasp information quickly without having to take time away from communicating their message. Add  color-coding , or putting a different color on each card’s content, makes it easier to tell what is being talked about and helps speakers move from one idea to the next more quickly.

Also, it’s beneficial for those preparing these presentations to become accustomed to the many cues they may employ, such as body language gestures or facial emotions when reading their notes, since these signals frequently aid in improving the delivery as a whole.

Concluding the Speech

A. summarizing key points.

At the end of an impromptu speech, the speaker should give a brief summary of their main points to help the audience remember them and make sure that all of the important information has been covered.

Speakers should make an effort to employ succinct words and sentences to rapidly convey what has previously been mentioned throughout the presentation when summarizing these key topics. If necessary, they should additionally include any statistics or real-world instances that support their arguments. For more on statistics, check out our  statistics homework help .

These summaries must also include comments related to future actions presenters may take as a result of delivering a speech such as answering questions providing resources etc.

B. Offering Final Thoughts

It’s crucial for the speaker to leave the audience with something memorable that will make them reflect on what they just heard while concluding an impromptu speech.

This may be accomplished by using motivational sayings or tales that are connected to the main points being made in order to more effectively drive home a point and leave a lasting impact on the audience.

This could also entail expressing gratitude to spectators for their favorable comments on certain topics raised in speeches. This enables speakers to make an impression long after their lectures are over.

Audience Interaction

For an impromptu speech to go well, the speaker should pay attention to any questions or comments from the audience. This provides the speaker with an opportunity to engage with the audience and demonstrate their level of expertise on the subject at hand. Also, it offers the speaker insightful criticism that may be used to subsequent presentations.

Related:  PowerPoint Presentation help  service.

Presenters must provide clear, succinct responses to these questions in order to ensure that the audience fully understands the concepts discussed throughout the presentation. This enhances the presentation as a whole and makes it easier for the audience to comprehend.

Also, it’s advisable to employ strategies like deflecting inquiries or seeking out other people’s opinions if you’re unsure how to respond to them in order to gain more precise information from individuals who are more knowledgeable than you are.

Can I Hire Someone to Write My Extemporaneous Speech Papers?

At our  homework help service , we understand that crafting an effective and engaging extemporaneous speech can be a challenge. For this reason, our “ do my homework ” service provide our clients with the expert writing assistance they need to draft their ideal speeches. To guarantee that your speech fulfills all of your expectations and specifications, our team of skilled  paper writers  will collaborate with you at every stage.

Our  essay typer  services include:

  • Brainstorming possible topics & research
  • Developing a logical structure for the speech
  • Collecting supporting materials & evidence
  • Writing out the body paragraphs for the speech
  • Delivering an effective extemporaneous presentation
  • Concluding the speech effectively

With our assistance, you can be certain that you will receive timely delivery of high-quality material. Also, our “ do my essay ” staff offers you advice on how to deliver speeches that have the most influence on the audience.

Please get in contact with us immediately away if you require immediate assistance with speech composition or delivery. We look forward to assisting you in making your upcoming presentation a success!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Usually, an extemporaneous speech lasts between seven and ten minutes. It’s crucial to make sure your message is conveyed clearly within this window of time.

It’s crucial to consider the speech’s aim and audience while composing an impromptu speech. Also, you should organize your presentation logically, support each argument with pertinent examples or data, make sure there are seamless transitions between concepts, and talk professionally.

Use note cards with short phrases rather than complete sentences so you can look up information quickly. Use appropriate cues, such as body language or facial expressions. Summarize key points at the end of your presentation. Leave listeners with something they’ll remember. Answer any audience questions to keep them interested and demonstrate your knowledge.

We Write Speech provides clients with expert writing assistance to help them create outstanding speeches! From coming up with ideas and conducting research to presenting your presentation, our team will support you at every stage to ensure its success and that it has the greatest possible impact on your audience.

An extemporaneous speech may employ a variety of sources to develop its arguments, including first-hand knowledge, current research on relevant subjects, expert opinions from many fields linked to the themes presented, and so on.

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4 Extemporaneous Speaking: The Basics

Learning Objectives

  • Demonstrate an understanding of proper speech delivery by learning the key elements of extemporaneous speaking and the time it will take to deliver the well-developed speech.

Extemporaneous Speaking

Extemporaneous speaking is a fancy way of saying: delivering a well-prepared speech. Extemporaneous speaking is not delivering a monologue or a memorized speech. Public speaking students often fall into the trap of under-preparing and under-practicing their speeches. This results in an, “Oh! no! I am not prepared and now I must read this outline word-for-word and hope for the best.” However, the best does not come to fruition and students that engage in this practice are disappointed when they lose substantial points from their speech grade due to lack of preparation, practice, and reading word-for-word from an outline. Just – don’t – do -it.

Here are a few ways you can engage in extemporaneous speaking:

  • Know your speech topic
  • Research your topic
  • Create a timeline – research, writing, peer-review, practicing, editing, practicing again
  • Create note cards to guide your speech
  • Practice, practice, practice
  • connecting with your audience is key in extemporaneous speaking

Dialogue vs. Monologue

The first tenet of the dialogic perspective is that communication should be a dialogue and not a monologue. Lev Yakubinsky argued that even public speaking situations often turn into dialogues when audience members actively engage speakers by asking questions. He even claimed that nonverbal behavior (e.g., nodding one’s head in agreement or scowling) functions as feedback for speakers and contributes to a dialogue (Yakubinsky, 1997). Overall, if you approach your public speaking experience as a dialogue, you’ll be more actively engaged as a speaker and more attentive to how your audience is responding, which will, in turn, lead to more actively engaged audience members.

Build a Proper Timeline

  • To ensure you have enough time for the assignment, create a timeline that works for your schedule
  • Week 1 – Brainstorm your speech topic and conduct an audience analysis
  • Week 2 – Research, gather support, plan outline, and write a speech
  • Week 3 – Edit, peer-review, begin practicing your speech
  • Week 4 – Revise, practice, create note cards, create a visual aid, and refine your delivery

Speech making timeline

Building on This Information

As you progress through this course, you will revisit proper extemporaneous speaking, the use of outlining, proper use of notecards, and delivering a strong speech. It is important to note that your audience deserves a speech that is interesting, thoughtful, and well-rehearsed. The audience is listening to you as the credible speaker in the room; in order to remain credible and professional, you will want to deliver an extemporaneous speech.

Key Takeaways

Students will want to become familiar with extemporaneous speaking in order to work towards a speech delivery that relies on effective speech strategies and not reading word-for-word from an outline.

  • Extemporaneous speaking is a skill that public speaking students must hone in on before delivering their speech to an audience.
  • Students will want to plan ahead to deliver a strong speech in the informative and persuasive speech weeks of this course.
  • Creating a proper timeline will assist in delivering a well-developed extemporaneous speech.

Public Speaking Copyright © by Dr. Layne Goodman; Amber Green, M.A.; and Various is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Extemporaneous Speech – Definition, Tips, List of 100 Topics.

24 May, 2020

15 minutes read

Author:  Mathieu Johnson

Do you belong to that type of people who fear to speak on education topics in public? Then check our list of extemporaneous speech topics to get yourself started.

Extemporaneous Speech Topics

 Definition of Extemporaneous Speech

Extemporaneous Speech Topics

What is an extemporaneous speech you may ask? The essence of this type of speech lies in answering the question in a school assignment or tournament in front of the audience. In comparison to impromptu speech that requires zero time for topic preparation, extemporaneous speaking does allow us to take some time and take notes before entering the stage.

While giving a speech looks like a terrifying task, the art of extemporaneous delivery is not that hard to master. After all, there is a reliable essay writer , that can provide you with a brilliant text if you don’t know how to write an extemporaneous speech.

Extemporaneous Speech Tips

Extemporaneous Speech Tips

Stick to One Presentation Structure

For those who don’t know what is extemporaneous delivery – the answer is simple. It’s a natural ability to speak on a topic without or with little preliminary preparation for a speech. The best way to develop your extemporaneous style is to use a solid structure, like the SEE one. The abbreviation stands for statement, evidence, and emotion. This scheme is a useful tool for you to utilize when you need to speak extemporaneously during a speech. For example, when you’re asked to speak on your recent class project in an extemporaneous speech, divide your answer into blocks. First, provide a statement that tells about your success on the project. Then, give some evidence of your hard work on the task to back up your initial statement. Finally, appeal to emotion by sharing an interesting story associated with the project.

Tap into the Power of Extemporaneous Presentation Methods

There might be situations when you’ll feel uncomfortable speaking to a large – or not very – number of people. Your audience will sense this inner tension during the speech unless you find a way to maintain communication with them. One of the time-proven means of delivering an excellent speech is to be kind and speak nicely. Keep eye contact with people you talk to, smile naturally, and visually scan the audience to make them feel that you’re confident. Another great trick to use in case of confusion or oblivion during an extemporaneous speech is to create an intentional pause whenever you forget the text. This way, you’ll heat the interest of listeners for your speech even more.

Don’t Strive to Memorize Everything at Once

Learning texts by heart is a great practice anytime, except when it comes to giving an extemporaneous speech. Memorizing everything you want to pronounce in front of the audience will only distract you from what’s important – the message you want to speak on. You’ll only want to remember words from the notes instead of focusing on the essence of your speech.

Extemporaneous speaking is a skill that requires the ability to engage listeners to the topic and naturally discloses the idea with the mighty power of words. With little practice and devotion, you can make listeners genuinely interested in your personality and your manner of presenting any subject. If you have struggles defining your topic or keep asking “ can someone write my speech ?”, there are writing services that are ready to help. Stay confident, forget about fear, and strive to deliver the most memorable extemporaneous speech ever.

How to Prepare for Your Next Extemporaneous Speech in 3 Steps?

How to Prepare for Extemporaneous Speech in 3 Steps

Step 1 – Think of Your Topic

Before the speech starts, you will, in most cases, be given a subject to speak about. At this point, it’s more than important to choose the topic for a speech which is closer to you, or which you have a burning desire to speak on with others. Whether it’s connected with controversial issues or even socially disturbing ones, choose wisely and confidently.

Step 2 – Develop a Thesis Statement

A thesis is an essential element of any writing or speech piece. It’s a form of instruction that helps speakers better swim in the ocean of thoughts that spring to mind with regard to this or that extemporaneous speech topic. Write down, in two-three short sentences, what your feelings and opinions about the issue are. Then, reread your thesis and add some more information to speak about if necessary.

Step 3 – Practice in Advance

The practice is the key to success in any situation, and especially in cases when you’ll need to give an extemporaneous speech. Start with something as simple as speaking to yourself in the mirror. Try to observe the manner you speak, the body language you use, and if there are blind spots, fill them with more practice to avoid such mistakes. Alternatively, consider recording yourself to evaluate how good you speak and how decent your articulation is. Keep training until you are satisfied with the result.

3 Things You Should Not do While Presenting Your Extemporaneous Speech

Things You Should Not Do While Presenting Extemporaneous Speech

Don’t be Afraid of Your Audience

Your palms are probably sweating as you try to imagine how others will judge you or make premature conclusions when you speak to them during a speech. In reality, it’s just a delusion that lives in your head. Try to relax and enjoy the experience of being listened to.

Don’t Speak Fast

The human brain always needs some to process the information it receives while you speak. Accelerated speech makes it harder for listeners not only to digest your ideas but also to figure out what you want to say. To get away with nerves and calm down, it’s always a good idea to take a deep breath before you start an extemporaneous speech.

Don’t Pretend to be Smarter Than You Are

Many speakers make a huge mistake when they try to be experts in the topic, when in fact they’re not. Such an attitude to an extemporaneous speech will only diminish the trust of your audience that will otherwise detect your false intentions. Hence, be sincere with the public you speak to and take a personal stance on any topic you discuss during a speech .

Extemporaneous speaking is a skill that requires the ability to engage listeners to the topic and naturally discloses the idea with the mighty power of words. With little practice and devotion, you can make listeners genuinely interested in your personality and your manner of presenting any subject. If you have struggles defining your topic or keep asking “can someone write my speech?”, there are writing services that are ready to help. Stay confident, forget about fear, and strive to deliver the most memorable extemporaneous speech ever.

extemporaneous speech

To facilitate your work on a speech, we’ve prepared a list of 100 speech topics on a wide range of disciplines that’ll guide you in the right direction.

List Of 100 Speech Topics.

  • How can unequal conditions for different social classes be combated?
  • Should people be restricted by social rules and ethical codes, and why?
  • How has the environmental pollution worsened our quality of life?
  • Speak on why is apathy about politics more widespread now than in past decades?
  • Should the government constantly encourage people to convert waste into reusable material?
  • How can you foster environmental responsibility in your community?
  • What environmental issue keeps menacing the environment in America?
  • Tell us about yourself, and share some unusual trait that you have
  • Speak on the best day of your life. How did you feel then and why?
  • Tell the class about where you see your life in 10 years
  • Describe the ten best things you like about your city
  • What are the ten things you dislike about your school/ college?
  • An incident of your bravest act
  • A story from my life with a lesson and a message
  • Speak about who is your favorite author, and why?
  • Present a word portrait about one of your friends
  • Recall on the time when you had to give honest feedback
  • What is one thing that you think will make you successful?
  • Speak on a person who motivates you
  • Why do people celebrate Thanksgiving?
  • Why is Paris a unique place for traveling to?
  • What television show you think should be canceled, and why?
  • Speak on what is the best way to combat internet crime and piracy
  • Will the problem of water supply be the top geopolitical problem we will be ought to resolve?
  • Can workers do anything to resist automation?
  • Is big tech eroding American concerns about personal privacy?
  • Speak on your biggest concern for the future
  • Real wealth is never measured in money, what do you think about it?
  • How do you see the killing of animals that keep happening all over the world to produce food or other leather materials?
  • Do you believe in fate/ destiny?
  • What is the most useless invention do you think?
  • If you got a chance to choose between born as a boy or a girl, which one do you prefer?
  • Speak on how important communication is to you?
  • What is more important – skills or education?
  • Beauty is always in the eye of the beholder, do you agree with it?
  • If you were extremely rich, what would you do with your money?
  • What goes around comes around, how would you explain it?
  • If you were a president, what would you do?
  • Do you want to live in a kingdom? Why?
  • If you could choose a country to live in, what country would it be?
  • Describe the happiest moment in your life
  • If you were an animal, what kind of animal do you want to be?
  • What could we do to save the earth?
  • Speak on why is it important to learn a second language
  • Should exams be replaced by other forms of testing performance?
  • Tell us what can we do to increase our patience?
  • How can world peace be achieved?
  • Every change should start with the man in the mirror, do you agree with it?
  • What is the meaning of life in the moment for you?
  • Should we cherish everything we have?
  • Which is more important do you think, being smart or beautiful?
  • Do you think the doomsday is real?
  • Speak about your favorite family tradition?
  • If you were alone on a lonely island, what would you do there?
  • How does technology affect our lives?
  • Can we reach our goals without working hard?
  • What does being fair mean for you?
  • Imagine how people will look like in 1000 years.
  • Actions speak louder than words, how do you see it?
  • Speak on whether smoking should be allowed in public places?
  • If your life was a movie, what title would you give it?
  • Speak on your biggest fear
  • Is it important to have a sense of humor?
  • What is your idea of a perfect job?
  • Speak about your role model?
  • What do you think being educated means?
  • Is it necessary to make plans before doing something?
  • Conservation is survival, do you agree with this statement?
  • What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done?
  •  All that glitters is not gold, explain it
  • If you had a chance to invent something useful, what would it be?
  • If you knew you only had 24 hours left to live, what would you do?
  • What does a family mean for you?
  • Speak on your idea of a perfect day?
  • Speak on whether it is a good idea to be a vegetarian?
  • Do you prefer tea or coffee? Why?
  • What is the biggest thing you’ve done that you’re proud of?
  • What do you think is a healthy lifestyle?
  • When you go for shopping, which one is more important for you, price or quality?
  •  People say the biggest challenge in life is discovering who you are, do you agree?
  • The world is full of nice people. In your own opinion, are you one of them?
  • When you are in a room full of people, do you mostly feel happy or lonely?
  • You are what you do, not what you say you will do. Do you agree?
  • If you could take a year off from school, what would you do?
  • Speak on what do your dreams mean to you
  • Explain the meaning of life for you
  • Do you think all people are selfish?
  • Speak on how can society affect your character
  • What are the benefits of homework?
  • Could final testing in senior high schools reflect your effort for the past few years?
  • Should hunting be illegal?
  • Is it right to ban fur clothing?
  • Speak on the ways to reduce homelessness
  • Should the death penalty be banned?
  • Do you think being a leader is easy?
  • Speak on what do you think your life purpose is
  • How do you start a conversation with a stranger?
  • What human quality do we need more of and why?
  • What do you miss most from your childhood?
  • Will life be better in the next century?

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Ethical Research Paper Topics

Ethical Research Paper Topics

Writing a research paper on ethics is not an easy task, especially if you do not possess excellent writing skills and do not like to contemplate controversial questions. But an ethics course is obligatory in all higher education institutions, and students have to look for a way out and be creative. When you find an […]

Art Research Paper Topics

Art Research Paper Topics

Students obtaining degrees in fine art and art & design programs most commonly need to write a paper on art topics. However, this subject is becoming more popular in educational institutions for expanding students’ horizons. Thus, both groups of receivers of education: those who are into arts and those who only get acquainted with art […]

PRDV008: Preparing and Delivering Presentations

Extemporaneous speeches.

Read this article, which summarizes the basics of extemporaneous presentations, as compared to impromptu speeches.

Extemporaneous, the most natural method of delivery, involves glancing at notes while maintaining crucial eye contact with the audience.

Key Takeaways

  • There are two popular methods for organizing ideas to create a graphical representation for speaker notes – outlining and mind or concept mapping .
  • An outline is a list of items with each item divided into additional sub-items. Each level in an outline has at least two subcategories. There are three basic types of hierarchical outlines – sentence , topic and phrase .
  • Topic and phrase are the most useful for speaker notes since they allow the speaker to quickly glance at the notes while maintaining eye contact with the audience.
  • Mind mapping and concept mapping are visual representation of ideas and concepts. Both mind maps and concept maps can be used to graphically show the relationship between ideas for a speech and as speaker notes for delivery.
  • A mind map diagram starts with a single word as a central branch node and lesser categories as sub-branches going off from the central node. A concept maps can have multiple hubs or nodes with clusters of concepts labeled to show the kind of relationship.
  • While extemporaneous speaking may be free of the constraints of memorization and manuscript speaking, it is not careless talk; the speaker prepares notes in advance to deliver an organized speech.
  • Concept Map : A diagram showing the relationships among concepts, with the concepts drawn in rectangular boxes, which are connected with labelled arrows that denote the relationships between concepts, such as "is a", "gives rise to", "results in", "is required by", or "contributes to".
  • Mind Map : A diagram used to represent words, ideas, tasks or other items linked to and arranged radially around a central key word or idea.
  • Extemporaneous : A type of speech delivery which involves preparation of speaker notes prior to delivery, associated with conversational style of delivery.

Extemporaneous Speech

Extemporaneous speaking is one of the most natural methods for delivering a prepared speech. You can use an extemporaneous speech to achieve a more natural tone, flow, and style with the audience.

First, think about your topics and anticipate the audience's reception to your speech. You can develop speech notes based on this preparation and use them to aid you during the presentation.

Preparing Speech Notes

There are two popular methods for creating a graphical representation for notes: outlining, and mind or concept mapping.

An outline is a list of items with each item divided into additional sub-items. Each level in an outline has at least two subcategories. There are three basic types of outlines:

  • Sentence outline – Each complete sentence includes a heading or single sentence about the subject of the outline.
  • Topic outline – Each topic is listed and functions as a subtopic of the outline's subject.
  • Phrase outline – Each short phrase entry is a subtopic of the aforementioned main entry.

Speaking notes, topic outlines, and phrase outlines have an advantage over sentence outlines. For example, you can easily look at your notes for reference and as a personal reminder of which topics to discuss as you're speaking.

Outlines commonly take two forms: alphanumeric and decimal.

Alphanumeric Outline

An alphanumeric outline includes a capitalized number or letter at the beginning of each topic. Look at the sample:

I. Thesis statement: Email and internet monitoring is an invasion of employees' rights

Decimal Outline

The decimal outline shows how each item at every level relates to the whole sample.

Thesis statement:

1.0 Introduction

….1.1 Brief history of Liz Claiborne

….1.2 Corporate environment

2.0 Career opportunities

….2.1 Operations management

……..2.1.1 Traffic

……..2.1.2 International trade and corporate customs

……..2.1.3 Distribution

….2.2 Product development

The outline could be printed or handwritten as in this expert from Richard Nixon's Checkers speech.

image of a handwritten speech outline

Speech Notes : Notes from Richard Nixon's Checkers speech.

Mind Mapping and Concept Mapping

Mind mapping and concept mapping are visual representations of ideas and concepts. A mind map is a diagram that starts with a single word and then branches out from the central node, with lesser categories as sub-branches of the larger branches. Concept maps are more freeform, since multiple hubs and clusters can be created. Unlike mind maps, concept maps do not fix on a single conceptual center.

For example, in the mind map for student learning, you can view the main component idea and related ideas which connect to its branch nodes. You can also use a mind map as speaking notes.

Mind Map : A mind map is a diagram that starts with one word and expands into additional categories.

Practice and Rehearsal Guidelines

The following guidelines are best practices on how to practice and rehearse an extemporaneous speech:

  • Speak in a conversational style by pretending you are  with  your audience.
  • Rehearse with your graphics and coordinate them with your talk.
  • Display your graphics  only   when you are talking about them.
  • Rehearse in front of others and solicit feedback.
  • Record and listen to your timed practice speech.
  • Prepare for interruptions and questions at the end.

Although extemporaneous speaking may not require memorization and manuscript speaking, organize and prepare your content and notes ahead of time to deliver a speech that will be well received by your audience.

Free Speech : "Free speech doesn't mean careless talk!" produced by the Office for Emergency Management.

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Social Sci LibreTexts

11.2: Methods of Delivery

  • Last updated
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  • Page ID 136216

  • Lisa Schreiber and Morgan Hartranft
  • Millersville University via Public Speaking Project

There are four basic methods(sometimes called styles) of presenting a speech: manuscript, memorized, extemporaneous, and impromptu. Each has a variety of uses in various forums of communication.

manuscript style

The word manuscript is the clue to the style. The speech is written and the speaker reads it word for word to the audience. Originally, it was done from the hand-written paper manuscript. Today the manuscript style is common, but the paper is gone. Who reads the speech to the audience? Answer: Newscasters and television personalities. In the old days, the manuscript was hand-lettered on cue cards, which were held next to the camera lens. Then paper scrolls, like printed piano rolls were used, especially in Soap Operas. Today, a special teleprompter (working like a periscope) is attached to the camera so the newscaster is looking at the lens while reading.

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Why is the manuscript important and in use? Precision. In the news- reporting industry, every fraction of a second counts because broadcast time is costly. Also, the facts and names must be exact and accurate so there is no room for error. Errors in reporting decrease the credibility of the news organization and the newscaster.

The most regular use of the teleprompter for manuscript delivery is by the U.S. President. In fact, the teleprompter, used by every President since Reagan, is called a “Presidential Teleprompter.” It is made of two pieces of glass, each flanking the podium. They reflect the text from a monitor on the floor like a periscope. The glass on both sides has the same text, and the speaker looks alternately from one glass to the other as though looking at the audience through the glass. The audience cannot see the projected text. The speeches a President gives will often reflect national policy, define international relationships, and the press will scrutinize every syllable. It has to be more than brilliantly accurate; it has to be impeccably phased. Professional writers and policy experts compose the speech; and the President delivers it as though he not only wrote it, but made it up on the spot. That is the skill of a good politician, actor, or speaker. Those who are not skilled using a teleprompter or manuscript will sound stilted and boring.

memorized style

The memorized style of speaking is when the manuscript is committed to memory and recited to the audience verbatim (word for word). In the days when elocution was taught, this was a typical approach. A speech was a recitation. The Optimists Club (a national organization) used to have a “Oratory” contest for high school students. Contestants wrote essays on a given theme, to create a speech at a specific time length (e.g.: three minutes). The essay was memorized and the delivery was judged by 1) the quality of the writing, 2) the accuracy with which it was recited; and 3) the precise length of time. Such contests seem archaic by today’s more casual and somewhat less formal standards.

Where is a memorized delivery style still common? Due to copyright laws and licensing contract agreements (other than scripts that are in the public domain), actors on stage are obligated to memorize the script of the play and perform it verbatim exactly as written. It is typical for speakers on high school and university speech and debate teams to memorize their competitive speeches. Corporate conventions often use large LCD monitors on the front of the stage as teleprompters. This allows the speaker to move more freely across the stage while sticking to his or her script. Some monologists (such as the stand-up comics mentioned at the start of the chapter) also use a memorized delivery style. In all cases, they create the impression that the speech is using the memorized delivery style if your speech is relatively short, or you know you will have to deliver your speech repeatedly such as a tour operator would.

Try This! Manuscript Delivery

Watch the local or national 6 p.m., 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. newscasts on the same T.V. station. Make notes on which news items repeat and how closely, or exactly, the phrasing is, even if different personalities are presenting the same item.

impromptu style

Theoretically, an “impromptu” speech is “made up on the spot.” It is unprepared and unrehearsed. Often ceremonial toasts, grace before meals, an acknowledgement, an introduction, offering thanks and so on, fall into this category. While there are some occasions when a speech in those categories is actually prepared (prepare your acceptance for the Academy Award BEFORE you are called!), there are many occasions when there is little or no opportunity to prepare.

Impromptu speeches are generally short and are often given with little or no notice. Notes are rare and the speaker generally looks directly at the audience. It would be presumptuous and arrogant to declare rules for Impromptu Speaking. It is fair to explain that “impromptu” describes a range from absolutely no preparation, to a modest amount of preparation (mostly thought) and rarely incorporates research or the formalities of outlines and citations that more formal speeches would include.

Be still when you have nothing to say; when genuine passion moves you, say what you've got to say, and say it hot. ~ D. H. Lawrence

An indelibly memorable example occurred to me when my siblings threw a surprise 10\(^{th}\) anniversary party for my Mom (Margaret) and our stepdad (Lidio). It was the third marriage for both of them, and they were in their 60’s. As soon as the yells of “surprise” subsided, Lidio picked up his wine glass and proposed a toast:

“I can’t believe this surprise! I don’t know what to say... um, Dino [his brother] when was that Yankee game Dad took us to when we were kids? It was 4\(^{th}\) of July, wasn’t it? 1939? And it was like it was yesterday; and today reminds me of that day, when Lou Gehrig came out to the mound. He was slow, but we were all cheering the ‘Pride of the Yankees.’ He wasn’t playing anymore, he was too sick, but he looked around the crowd, and said ‘I’m the luckiest man alive.’ That’s how I feel with you all here today; to celebrate our 10\(^{th}\) anniversary. I’m here with you and with Margaret; and I’m the luckiest man alive.”

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The speech was short, emotionally charged, wonderfully articulate, and absolutely unprepared. The speech had one central emotionally charged message; simple, in words and phrasing, but complex by bringing an image of great sentimentality to the occasion. He was able to react to the moment, and speak “from the heart.”

In contrast, legendary magician Harry Houdini was often asked to perform for the amusement of his fellow passengers when sailing to Europe. I always associate “impromptu” with the stories of Houdini’s shipboard conjuring. Nothing was further from “impromptu.” The skill of the great magician was in making his illusions seem spontaneous with what appeared to be ordinary items that “happened” to be on hand. Houdini spent endless hours planning and rehearsing. The true illusion was that they “appeared” to be impromptu.

Take advantage of every opportunity to practice your communication skills so that when important occasions arise, you will have the gift, the style, the sharpness, the clarity, and the emotions to affect other people.~ Jim Rohn

extemporaneous style

Sandwiched between the memorized and impromptu delivery styles you find the extemporaneous speech style. For this style, the speech is not completely written out. It is usually delivered with keynotes for reference. Most public speaking courses and books describe extemporaneous speeches as carefully prepared and rehearsed, but delivered using notes of key words and phrases to support the speaker. Phrasing is pre- rehearsed, words are pre-chosen, and the organization is fluid and well constructed. There should be no fumbling for words, no rambling, and length of time should be carefully monitored. The style does offer the speaker flexibility to include references to the immediate surroundings, previous speeches, news of the day, and so on.

The trouble with talking too fast is you may say something you haven't thought of yet." ~ Ann Landers

How you develops the notes and what they look like are up to the individual, but a natural extemporaneous delivery is difficult if you are relying on a manuscript. Under no circumstances should the speaker be spending more than 20% of the speaking time looking at the notes. It would be ideal to practice so you only glance at your notes approximately 5% of the time of the speech.

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Those who have limited experience in formal speaking find it helpful to write out the speech as though it were an essay, then read it, edit it, then create speaking notes from the text. This helps with editing and with thinking through the phrases. This process of public speaking was taught decades ago to my contemporaries and me and has fallen out of fashion. But it is a useful way of thoroughly thinking through the speech. If this procedure is used, it is advisable to rehearse the speech with the notes without the essay prior to delivering the speech. But be warned: having the fully written essay at the podium might detract from the delivery.

The extemporaneous style is the method most often recommended (and often required) in today’s public speaking courses, and is generally the best method in other settings as well. While it is not the only method of delivering a speech, it is the most useful for presentations in other courses, in the corporate world and in pursuing future careers.

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10 Extemporaneous Speech Examples

Ah, the extemporaneous speech. The perfect balance of preparation and improvisation. It’s the type of speech that allows you to sound like a total pro without spending hours pouring over notes and rehearsing every single word. But if you’re anything like me, the idea of giving an extemporaneous speech can still be intimidating. What if you forget something important? What if you completely blank out and can’t think of a single thing to say?

Definition of Extemporaneous Speech

Flexibility and adaptability, improvisation skills, authenticity, improved public speaking skills, elements of an extemporaneous speech, research your topic thoroughly, organize your ideas, practice your delivery, anticipate questions and objections, 1. barack obama, 2. bill clinton, 3. ellen degeneres, 4. steve jobs, 5. jimmy fallon, 6. stephen colbert, 7. tony robbins, 8. tina fey, 9. martin luther king jr., 10. john f. kennedy, 1. follow a single presentation style, 2. don’t be scared of the audience, 3. don’t try to memorize every detail.

Fear not, dear reader. I’ve compiled a list of 10 extemporaneous speech examples to inspire you. These examples come from politicians, comedians, and everyday people who have mastered the art of speaking off the cuff.

However, before we dive in, let’s talk some more about what extemporaneous speech actually means.

writing an extemporaneous speech

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An extemporaneous speech is a type of public speaking that is given with minimal prior preparation. Unlike prepared speeches, which are rehearsed and memorized beforehand , extemporaneous speeches are spontaneous and rely on the speaker’s ability to think on their feet.

In an extemporaneous speech, the speaker may have a general outline or set of ideas to follow, but they do not have a fully written out or memorized speech .

Instead, they must rely on their knowledge, research, and improvisation skills to present their ideas in a clear and compelling way.

Extemporaneous speeches are often given in response to a specific prompt or topic, such as a question from an audience member or a discussion topic in a debate. They may also be given in situations where the speaker has limited time to prepare, such as impromptu talks or debates.

Benefits of Extemporaneous Speeches

There are several benefits to using extemporaneous speeches in public speaking. Here are just a few:

One of the main advantages of extemporaneous speeches is that they allow speakers to be flexible and adaptable. By not being tied to a specific script or set of notes, speakers can respond to the needs and concerns of their audience in real-time.

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This can help to create a more engaging and dynamic presentation, as the speaker can tailor their message to the specific audience and situation.

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Giving an extemporaneous speech requires a high level of improvisation skills. Speakers must be able to think on their feet and come up with responses to unexpected questions or objections.

This can help to build confidence and poise, as well as improve problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Extemporaneous speeches can also help speakers to come across as more authentic and genuine.

By not being tied to a script, speakers can speak more naturally and from the heart, which can help to build trust and credibility with their audience.

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Overall, giving extemporaneous speeches can help to improve public speaking skills, including the ability to research and organize ideas, think critically and creatively, and engage with an audience.

Whether you are a student, professional, or simply looking to improve your public speaking abilities, developing your skills in extemporaneous speaking can be a valuable investment.

There are several elements that go into creating a successful extemporaneous speech.

writing an extemporaneous speech

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First, it’s important to choose a topic that you are knowledgeable about and passionate about.

This will help you to speak with confidence and enthusiasm, and engage the audience. It’s also helpful to choose a topic that is relevant to your audience and that they will find interesting.

Next, you’ll want to do your research and gather all of the information that you’ll need to support your points.

This may include statistics, examples, and quotes from experts in the field. Be sure to organize your information into an outline so that you can easily access it during your speech.

Another important element of an extemporaneous speech is the introduction. This is your opportunity to grab the audience’s attention and set the stage for your presentation.

You may want to start with a question or a statement that will grab their attention, or use a personal story to draw them in.

The body of your speech should be well-organized and flow smoothly from one point to the next. Use transitions to help your audience follow along and make connections between your points.

It’s also important to use a variety of speaking techniques, such as rhetorical questions, repetition, and using your voice and body language to emphasize your points.

Finally, the conclusion of your speech is an opportunity to summarize your main points and leave a lasting impression on your audience. You may want to end with a call to action , encouraging your audience to take some type of action based on what they’ve learned.

How to Prepare for an Extemporaneous Speech?

While extemporaneous speeches rely on improvisation, that doesn’t mean that you can’t prepare in advance. Here are a few tips and strategies for preparing for an extemporaneous speech:

The more you know about your topic, the better equipped you will be to improvise and respond to questions and objections. Be sure to do thorough research and have a good understanding of the key points and arguments you want to make.

writing an extemporaneous speech

Even though you won’t have a script, it can still be helpful to have a general outline or set of ideas that you can follow. This can help you to stay focused and on track, and make it easier to improvise and adapt to the needs of your audience.

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writing an extemporaneous speech

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While you won’t be able to rehearse a specific script, you can still practice your delivery and get a feel for how you want to present your ideas. This can help you to feel more confident and comfortable when it comes time to give your speech.

Think about the types of questions or objections that your audience might have, and come up with responses in advance. This can help you to feel more prepared and confident when faced with these types of challenges.

Examples of Extemporaneous Speeches

Extemporaneous speeches are a common and effective tool in many different settings, including politics, business, and public policy. Here are a few examples of extemporaneous speeches that showcase the style and effectiveness of this type of public speaking:

No list of extemporaneous speech examples would be complete without mentioning the 44th President of the United States. Obama was known for his smooth, confident delivery and ability to think on his feet.

Obama had several great moments during his presidency and one of which was during a press conference in 2010. A reporter asked him a question about the economy, to which Obama responded with a perfectly crafted analogy about the economy being like a “car that got stuck in a ditch.”

The analogy not only helped Obama explain a complex topic in a relatable way, but it also showed his ability to improvise and think on the spot.

Bill Clinton was another president who had experience speaking spontaneously. In truth, Clinton was renowned for his capacity to engage crowds and give them the impression that he was speaking to them directly.

During a town hall meeting in 1992 during Clinton’s presidential debate, an audience member questioned him on his strategy for “improving the economy and people’s lives.”

In addition to being intelligent and well-reasoned, Clinton’s statement demonstrated his capacity to comprehend and solve the concerns of regular Americans. You can see the transcript of the exchange here .

Okay, I know Ellen DeGeneres isn’t a politician, but she’s definitely someone who knows how to speak extemporaneously (and make us all laugh in the process).

One of the best moments from her show was during a segment called “ What’s Wrong with These Signs .” Ellen and her team had set up fake storefronts with hilarious and absurd signs, and Ellen had to improvise jokes and commentary on the fly.

Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, was known for his captivating and persuasive presentations. And while many of his speeches were rehearsed and planned out, he also had a knack for extemporaneous speaking.

Steve Jobs gave one of the most spontaneous speeches ever in 2001 when the iPod was initially released. One of the journalists in the room where Jobs was announcing the new device asked Jobs why the iPod was better than other MP3 players on the market.

Without missing a beat, Jobs launched into a passionate and persuasive explanation of the iPod’s superiority. You can watch the entire presentation here .

Like Ellen DeGeneres, Jimmy Fallon is a master of extemporaneous speaking and making his audience laugh. Fallon is the host of “The Tonight Show,” and one of the best extemporaneous moments from his show was during a segment called “Thank You Notes.”

In this segment, Fallon writes and performs humorous “thank you” notes to various people, places, and things. The catch is that he has to come up with the jokes and gags on the spot.

Another comedian who excels at extemporaneous speaking is Stephen Colbert. Colbert is the host of “The Late Show,” and like Fallon, one of the best extemporaneous moments was also from his show.

During a segment called “The Werd”, Colbert delivers a monologue on current events and political issues. He had to come up with the jokes and commentary on the fly, without any prior preparation.

Colbert’s quick wit and ability to think on his feet make this segment a must-watch for anyone interested in current events and politics.

Self-help guru Tony Robbins is known for his energetic and motivational speeches. And while many of his talks are planned and rehearsed, he also has a knack for extemporaneous speaking.

During a seminar on goal setting, a participant asked Robbins a question about how to overcome fear and self-doubt, and Robbins launched into a powerful and inspiring response here .

Tina Fey is an everyday actress and comedian who became an internet sensation thanks to her extemporaneous speaking skills.

In 2021, Fey and her fellow Golden Globe host, Amy Poehler, presented the award show to an unusually empty hall , no thanks to Covid.

Rather than getting flustered or thrown off, Fey handled the situation with poise and humor. She improvised witty remarks and carried on with her presentation as if it was business as usual, including taking a dig at HFPA for its lack of diversity.

Fey’s ability to think on her feet and handle a difficult situation with grace and humor made her a viral hit and an inspiration to anyone who has ever had to deal with such circumstances.

While Martin Luther King Jr. is best known for his planned and rehearsed speeches, such as his “I Have a Dream” speech, he was also skilled at extemporaneous speaking.

In 1968, King was speaking to a crowd of civil rights activists when he delivered a powerful and dynamic speech.

In his “I Have Been to the Mountaintop” speech , he spoke about the civil rights movement and its progress, as well as the challenges that remained ahead. He also spoke about the importance of nonviolence and unity in the face of adversity.

Despite being an impromptu speech, “I Have Been to the Mountaintop” has been widely hailed as one of King’s most powerful and memorable speeches.

John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, was known for his charm and charisma. And while many of his speeches were planned and rehearsed, he also had a knack for extemporaneous speaking.

He had a memorable extemporaneous moment during a press conference in 1962 when a reporter asked Kennedy a question about the Cuban Missile Crisis.

The president explained the steps that the United States was taking to address the situation, and he reassured the American people that the government was doing everything it could to ensure their safety.

Kennedy’s response to the Cuban Missile Crisis was widely praised, and it helped to defuse the situation and prevent a potential nuclear conflict. It is remembered as one of the defining moments of his presidency, and it is an example of his ability to handle difficult situations with poise and grace.

Tips to Present Your Extemporaneous Speech

If you want to give an extemporaneous speech, here are some tips to help you present it effectively.

It is important to follow a single presentation style when giving an extemporaneous speech, as it helps to create cohesiveness and structure in your presentation.

writing an extemporaneous speech

Photo by Pavel Danilyuk

A presentation style refers to the way in which you deliver your speech, including elements such as your posture, gestures, and facial expressions.

When following a single presentation style, it is important to be consistent and maintain the same level of energy and enthusiasm throughout your speech.

This can help to engage your audience and keep their attention. It is also important to use natural and appropriate gestures and facial expressions, as they can help to convey your message and emotions effectively.

Another aspect of presentation style to consider is your posture. Stand up straight and maintain good posture throughout your speech, as it projects confidence and professionalism. Avoid fidgeting or pacing excessively, as it can be distracting to your audience.

Finally, consider the tone of your speech. Are you trying to persuade, inform, or entertain your audience? Choose the appropriate tone to match your purpose and maintain it throughout your presentation.

It is natural to feel a little nervous when speaking in front of an audience, but it is important not to let your fear get the best of you.

One of the best ways to reduce anxiety is to be well-prepared. Make sure you fully understand your topic and the purpose of your presentation and spend time rehearsing and fine-tuning your outline. The more confident you are in your material, the less nervous you will be.

writing an extemporaneous speech

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Before you give your speech, take a few minutes to close your eyes and visualize yourself giving a successful presentation. See yourself speaking confidently, using natural gestures, and engaging your audience. This can help to boost your confidence and reduce anxiety.

Instead of worrying about what the audience is thinking, try to focus on connecting with them. Make eye contact, use appropriate facial expressions, and respond to their questions and comments. This will help you feel more present and less self-conscious.

writing an extemporaneous speech

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The way you talk to yourself can have a big impact on your confidence and anxiety levels. Avoid negative self-talk such as “I can’t do this” or “I’m going to mess up,” and instead, use positive affirmations such as “I am well-prepared” or “I am confident in my abilities.”

If you start to feel anxious, take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. This can help to relax your body and clear your mind.

There are a variety of relaxation techniques that can help to reduce anxiety, such as progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness meditation, or deep breathing exercises. Experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you.

When it comes to extemporaneous speech, it can be tempting to try and memorize every single detail of your topic in order to feel prepared. However, this approach is often not effective and can even be counter-productive.

writing an extemporaneous speech

First of all, the human brain is simply not designed to store vast amounts of information in the form of raw details. Instead, our brains are better at organizing and synthesizing information and creating connections and patterns between different pieces of information.

This means that memorization is not a sustainable or effective way to learn complex concepts or information.

Furthermore, relying too heavily on memorization can actually hinder your ability to think on your feet and improvise during an extemporaneous speech.

If you’re too focused on reciting memorized details, you may struggle to respond to unexpected questions or challenges that come up during your speech.

writing an extemporaneous speech

A better approach is to focus on understanding the material you’re speaking about rather than trying to memorize every detail. This means actively engaging with the material, asking questions, and making connections between different concepts.

This will not only help you to retain the information better in the long term, but it will also make it easier for you to apply your knowledge to new situations and adapt your message as needed during an extemporaneous speech.

Additionally, there are often more efficient ways to learn certain types of information, such as using mnemonic devices or visual aids to help you remember key points.

By taking a more holistic approach to learning, you can save time and energy while still gaining a thorough understanding of the material.

In conclusion, extemporaneous speeches are a dynamic and effective tool for public speaking. By relying on their knowledge, research, and improvisation skills, speakers are able to deliver spontaneous and authentic presentations that can engage and inspire their audiences.

Whether you are a student, professional, or simply looking to improve your public speaking abilities, learning how to give an extemporaneous speech can be a valuable skill to have in your toolkit.

With the right preparation and practice, you too can become a confident and effective extemporaneous speaker, able to adapt and engage with any audience.

writing an extemporaneous speech

Tom loves to write on technology, e-commerce & internet marketing. I started my first e-commerce company in college, designing and selling t-shirts for my campus bar crawl using print-on-demand. Having successfully established multiple 6 & 7-figure e-commerce businesses (in women’s fashion and hiking gear), I think I can share a tip or 2 to help you succeed.

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Extemporaneous Speech

Extemporaneous Speech

Mastering an Extemporaneous Speech requires a balance of preparation and spontaneity. This guide, enriched with engaging speech examples , offers key insights into delivering compelling and impromptu speeches. Extemporaneous speaking, a valuable skill in both academic and professional settings, involves presenting a well-organized speech with limited preparation. Through our examples, learn how to effectively structure your thoughts, employ persuasive techniques, and deliver a speech that resonates with your audience, all while maintaining a natural and spontaneous delivery style.

What is Extemporaneous Speech? Extemporaneous speech refers to a speaking format where the speaker delivers a presentation with little to no specific preparation time but has a general understanding of the topic . Unlike impromptu speeches, which are entirely unprepared, or manuscript speeches, which are read verbatim, extemporaneous speeches strike a balance by allowing speakers to prepare and organize their thoughts in advance, often with the help of notes or outlines. This method encourages speakers to speak in a more natural and spontaneous manner, yet with a coherent structure and well-developed content. Extemporaneous speaking is highly regarded in both educational settings and professional environments for its ability to combine preparation with the flexibility to adapt to audience reactions or questions, showcasing the speaker’s knowledge, eloquence, and ability to think on their feet.

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The truth is, nobody claims to be perfect at public speaking. Everyone gets that unsettling feeling before a presentation where their hands grow cold and the butterflies run wild. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of how good you are at masking the anxiety. But public speaking can be especially challenging when giving an extemporaneous speech. Given the limited time available to prepare for the professional speech , you need to know how can make the best out of the situation for a successful delivery.

The Purposes of an Extemporaneous Speech

  • Informing : To educate the audience about a specific topic, providing insights, data, and explanations to enhance understanding.
  • Persuading: To convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action on an issue, using logical arguments, emotional appeals, and credible evidence.
  • Motivating : To inspire the audience to pursue a goal, change behavior, or overcome challenges, often involving stories of resilience or success.
  • Entertaining : To provide enjoyment, capturing the audience’s interest through humor, storytelling, or thought-provoking content.
  • Adapting : To adjust the message based on the audience’s reactions, feedback, or the specific context of the speech, ensuring relevance and engagement.
  • Engaging: To foster a connection with the audience, encouraging interaction, questions, or further discussion about the topic.
  • Reflecting: To share personal insights, experiences, or reflections that can resonate with the audience, making the speech more relatable and impactful.

How to Give an Extemporaneous Speech?

An extemporaneous speech involves a blend of preparation and the ability to adapt your message dynamically. Here’s how to effectively deliver an extemporaneous speech:

  • Research and Understand Your Topic
  • Plan Your Main Points
  • Practice with Notes
  • Know Your Audience
  • Start Strong
  • Use Natural Language
  • Incorporate Pauses and Emphasis
  • Maintain Eye Contact
  • Adapt and Be Flexible
  • Conclude Effectively
  • Reflect and Improve
  • Stay Confident and Positive

Extemporaneous Speech Format

Introduction.

Hook: Start with an engaging statement to capture the audience’s attention. Thesis Statement : Clearly state the main argument or purpose of your speech. Preview: Briefly outline the main points you will cover.
Point 1: Present your first main point, supported by evidence, examples, or anecdotes. Support: Provide data, quotes, or specific examples to substantiate your point. Point 2: Move to your second main point, again with supporting details. Support: Use additional evidence or examples to strengthen your argument. (Optional) Point 3: If time allows, present a third point with corresponding support.
Summary: Recap the main points you’ve discussed, reinforcing your thesis. Closing Statement: End with a powerful statement, call to action, or a thought-provoking question to leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Extemporaneous Speech Samples

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  • Extemporaneous Speech for High School
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  • Extemporaneous Speech about Poverty
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  • Extemporaneous Speech for My Family
  • Extemporaneous Speech for Global Environmental Issues
  • Extemporaneous Speech for Technological Advancements and Society
  • Extemporaneous Speech for Leadership in the 21st Century
  • Extemporaneous Speech for The Impact of Social Media on Youth
  • Extemporaneous Speech for Mental Health Awareness
  • Extemporaneous Speech for Cultural Diversity and Inclusion
  • Extemporaneous Speech for Economic Trends and Their Global Effects
  • Extemporaneous Speech for Climate Change and Sustainable Living

Extemporaneous Speech Example

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Extemporaneous Speech For Students

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Extemporaneous Speech For High School

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Extemporaneous College Graduation Speech Example

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Extemporaneous Graduation Speech Example

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Extemporaneous Speech for Retirement Example

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Extemporaneous Speech Topic Example

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Extemporaneous Speech on Corruption Example

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Simple Extemporaneous Speech Example

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Extemporaneous Wedding Speech Example

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Extemporaneous Welcome Speech Example

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Short Extemporaneous Speech Example

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Extemporaneous vs Impromptu Speech

The basics of extemporaneous speaking.

Imagine that you’re working hard on a new project that’s due in about three weeks when suddenly, a coworker comes in to inform you that the client is waiting at the conference room down the hall for an update on the latest model. You tell your coworker that you’d be there in five minutes tops, then reality dawns on you that 300 seconds may not be enough to prepare a clear and meaningful presentation. You may also see  8 steps in speech composition .

Can you deliver a concise and compelling message in such short notice? Or will you stammer through each word that leaves your lips?

If you identify yourself as someone belonging to the second category, you’re not alone. A lot of people, even the most respected executives of an organization, struggle with impromptu communication. This is a problem that many individuals consider as one of their major weaknesses that have hindered their performance at work. You may also like speech examples for students .

Luckily, extemporaneous speaking is actually a skill that may be developed and even mastered. Though many of the techniques used in formal presentations may not apply to extemporaneous speaking, they may be enhanced and incorporated into an individual’s presentation skills in more ways than one. You may also check out how do you write a speech ?

Extemporaneous speaking, otherwise known as impromptu (from the word improvisation) or off-the-cuff speaking, is a speech event that involves limited preparation regarding a topic based on the speaker’s research and personal analysis. Although this may be one of the most difficult types of simple speech to deliver, it can also be a fun and rewarding experience that can help boost your confidence and career.

Extemporaneous Speaking: How to Perform under Pressure

An extemporaneous speech is only considered as such if it is created quickly without a script to follow. With just a few days’, hours’, or even minutes’ notice, the speaker must be smart enough to utilize the remaining time to prepare for his or her speech.

Some speakers possess this natural ability to create an improvised speech that can sound logical yet unforced, but it’s not because their minds are quick enough to process information, but because they’ve developed this clever method to organize their thoughts in such a way that is time-bound and sensible. You may also see launch speech examples .

1. Use a proper structure.

Think about it this way. When we work under a strict time pressure, our body immediately sets itself into maximum overdrive. Somehow, we manage to do multiple things at a time just so we could meet the proposed deadlines. When this happens, we fail to complete each item on the list as successfully as the other due to the lesser amount of attention given to these tasks. You may also like campaign speech examples .

Similarly, when delivering an extemporaneous speech, the mind divides itself in order to perform two essential activities.

One part of your brain would focus on determining the right message to convey, while the other part would concentrate on the desired structure of the speech . But the human brain can only do so much at a time, which means you’ll only be able to use half of your total brain power to perform each task, this can then lead to poor execution.

For this reason, it’s important to prepare a solid structure for your speech. A speech outline will make it easier for you to follow an imaginary structure without putting too much thought into it. Once you have developed a structure that works for you, all that’s left to do is to fit your content into it. This method can help you deliver articulate and concise extemporaneous speeches like a pro.

2. Formulate thoughts about the topic.

Having a great outline is one thing, but creating your content is a whole other factor that must be addressed for the outline to be put into good use. If you don’t know much about the topic, then the structure alone won’t be able to save you. You might be interested in appreciation speech examples & samples .

As a professional, you need to be aware of everything that goes on around you. This includes projects, deadlines, and milestones that concern you.

Coming unprepared to a meeting or interview can be extremely dangerous, especially if you haven’t been paying attention to your assigned workload. Keep in mind that not everyone is an expert at remembering content. And if you happen to be one of these people, then maybe an index card , a paper, or even the notes app on your mobile phone would come in handy.

Rather than complete sentences, make a list of important words or phrases that can help you remember key points about the topic. Quick glances at this copy allows you to maintain eye contact with your audience at all times. Though you might not use it during your presentation, it can help keep your mind at ease just in case. You may also see special occasion speech examples .

3. Create an outline.

Since you have already formulated an appropriate structure for your speech, it’s not time to fill your outline with useful content. This means putting the major points of your formal speech into actual sentences that are relevant to your cause.

Though memorizing an entire speech is highly discouraged, you still need to give yourself an idea on how the topic may be delivered. The ideas included in your outline will make it easier for you to emphasize important concepts that must be shared to the group. This way, you’d only have to worry about filling the spaces between each subpoint for a quick and coherent speech delivery. You may also like dedication speech examples .

4. Utilize extemporaneous style methods.

Extemporaneous speaking usually involves a conversational tone. This requires you to speak directly to your audience, with the frequent scanning, eye contact, and smiling (if applicable) in order to keep listeners engaged. Though lengthy pauses are more common in extemporaneous speeches compared to other forms of speaking, this should not be something to worry about. You may also check out after dinner speech examples .

More often than not, a strategic pause can add a dramatic effect to your speech. This allows an audience to ponder on a thought that had just been shared, which can also make your points more profound. As long as you can keep it short, a well-placed pause offers you the opportunity to think about your next thought for a split second or so. You might be interested in how do you write a speech ?

5. Practice! Practice! PRACTICE!

One of the challenges involved in extemporaneous speaking is your inability to practice at whatever time you have. It can be difficult to enhance your skills if there isn’t anyone there to judge the outcome. If possible, you can have a friend or a coworker help you out during these practice sessions. This gives you the chance to practice in front of a potential audience member, and criticize your mistakes or lapses that might need some improvements. You may also see tribute speech examples .

What NOT to Do in Public Speaking

An extemporaneous speech, or any types of speech in that matter, can be a struggle to deliver without the proper guidance. To help you improve your skills in speech delivery, here are some tips on what you shouldn’t do in public speaking:

1. DON’T memorize!

Rather than memorizing your piece word for word, focus on familiarizing each line. This will make it easier for you to improvise whenever it gets difficult to recall a particular word or sentence from your speech. Keeping an index card in your pocket might also be useful just in case you desperately need it. You may also see narrative speech examples .

2. DON’T stress over detail.

Admittedly, you might not be the best at pronunciations. Grammar seems more like an acquaintance rather than a best friend as well. But stressing over every word and detail of your speech isn’t going to do you any favors. Instead, practice eloquently on a regular basis. This will soon become a habit that will help enhance your performance. You may also like leadership speech examples .

3. DON’T be intimidated by others.

Many people hate speaking in front of an audience in fear of being judged. But the only thing that’s really stopping you from taking the opportunity is the negative mind-set that you possess. You need to practice speaking in front of other people in order to overcome this fear. Although it may take time before you grow completely comfortable, this is a skill that must be developed for your own personal and professional sake. You may also check out after dinner speech examples .

4. DON’T speak too quickly.

If you let the nerves get the best of you, you’d end up speaking too quickly. This will make it difficult for listeners to understand what you’re trying to convey as you constantly stumble over your own words.

So the next time you stand in front of a microphone, remember to take a deep breath before you let your confidence take over. A few strategic pauses will also give you enough time to think thoroughly before you continue on with your speech. You might be interested in school speeches examples .

5. DON’T assume your audience knows everything.

Whether you’re delivering a motivational speech or a school welcome speech , remember to be yourself. People can’t predict every word that’s about to come out of your mouth, which is why they’re staring at you so intently. These people aren’t there to judge you rather, they’re there to listen to what you have to share with them. The best you can do is to let your personality in order to make the speech meaningful and memorable to your audience.

Now that we’re aware of how we can improve our skills in public speaking, it’s time that we erase the perception that extemporaneous speakers are born that way. Nobody was born to be an impromptu speaker, not even the CEO of a respected firm, nor the leader of the free world. You may also see dedication speech examples .

Extemporaneous speaking is a skill that one can only develop through constant practice and improvement. With the proper mind-set and attitude in place, you can deliver an impressive extemporaneous speech in no time!

Rules for Extemporaneous Speaking

Extemporaneous speaking involves delivering a speech with little preparation, using notes or brief outlines rather than a full script. The key rules include understanding your topic deeply, practicing structured delivery, keeping within time limits, engaging with the audience through eye contact, and using clear and concise language. This format balances preparedness with spontaneity, allowing flexibility in addressing the audience’s reactions or questions.

Example of Extemporaneous Speech

An example of an extemporaneous speech might begin with an introduction to the topic, such as the importance of renewable energy, followed by structured points like current energy challenges, benefits of renewable sources, and ending with a call to action or solution. The speaker uses notes for reference but relies on their knowledge and speaking skills to engage the audience.

Example of an Extemporaneous Speech Situation

A common situation for extemporaneous speaking could be a debate competition where participants are given topics shortly before they speak. Another scenario is a business meeting where a team member is asked to present a project update without prior preparation. These situations require speakers to organize their thoughts quickly and convey their message effectively within a short timeframe.

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Speech Writing

Extemporaneous Speech

Last updated on: Dec 31, 2023

Extemporaneous Speech | Intro, Examples, and Tips

By: Donna C.

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Jan 4, 2023

Extemporaneous Speech

Have you ever had to give a speech without any preparation?

It can be really tough to have so many people looking at you and waiting for you to say something. This is called extemporaneous speech. Extemporaneous speeches are when you give a speech without any advance preparation.

If you're giving a speech without any preparation, don't worry! Just stay calm and confident.

This blog has some tips and examples to help you when you have to give a speech without any preparation. Since it is delivered without much practice, it's important to practice it in advance so you can do well.

Extemporaneous Speech

On this Page

Extemporaneous Speech Definition

Extemporaneous speeches are planned, but they are also very spontaneous. This means that you get a topic assigned to you right before delivering the speech. You have to speak in a clear way and share factual data. Even though it is spontaneous, it should be well-structured and based on research.

This speech is not read or memorized, so the speaker usually keeps short notes with them or on PowerPoint to help them deliver the speech. The spontaneous nature of this speech is what makes it a preferred way of delivering a speech.

In order to give a captivating speech, you should dress well, speak in a loud and clear voice, and be engaged with the audience. It is also important to deliver information to the audience in an interesting way.

When to Use Extemporaneous Speech?

You can give an extemporaneous speech at any time, but it's important to have some background information before you start. You might deliver it during an office meeting, inside a classroom, or at a speech contest.

You will have time to prepare and practice the speech, but you won't be able to read it from a paper or memorize it. You need to speak in a conversational style and do proper research.

How to Write a Extemporaneous Speech?

When you have to give an extemporaneous speech, you don't have a lot of time to prepare. But there are a few steps that you can take to make sure your speech is great.

1. Select a Topic Usually, the topic is assigned by the committee members or your teacher. In case you have the choice to choose it yourself, choose a topic that you are familiar with. This will help you think of ideas and plan your speech more easily. Take a few minutes to brainstorm all the information you know about the topic.

2. Create an Outline Draft a quick outline for your speech. Introduce the topic. Share an anecdote or statistic that the audience can relate to. Pose a question that will get the audience thinking about your topic.

A pdf has been attached here to get a better understanding of its outline.

Extemporaneous Speech Outline

3. Begin with the Body Paragraphs Now that you have your outline, start working on your body paragraphs. Remember that you don't have a lot of time to write and practice your speech, so the body paragraph should only have a few key points.

4. Give Examples to Support Your Stance Provide some examples of how you can continue with your main points by giving more detail or by providing specific examples. This will help the audience understand your topic better and also make them curious, which might result in some questions at the end.

5. Draft a Brief Conclusion After giving a perfect speech it is necessary to conclude your speech on good notes. You must conclude with some quotation or a question that stays in the mind of the audience. Moreover, your conclusion must be short but thought-provoking.

Extemporaneous Speech Delivery

“How to deliver an extemporaneous speech?”

This type of speech means you are prepared, but you don't have notes. An extemporaneous speech is different from an impromptu speech because, with an extemporaneous speech, you have more time to prepare.

“What is the difference between extemporaneous and impromptu speech?”

There is no time for a rehearsal in an impromptu speech. But in an extemporaneous speech, the speaker does have some time to get prepared. The speech is delivered from these notes, but you cannot read them directly.

You should use your time wisely when giving a speech. Pay attention to how you deliver your speech, including the way you speak and the rhythm of your words.

Extemporaneous Speech Advantages and Disadvantages

There are some pros and cons to giving a speech this way. Read these to understand the concept of extemporaneous speech.

  • Extemp speeches are better than other speeches because they sound more natural and spontaneous. They are also delivered in a conversational style.
  • People are more likely to trust someone who is well-read on a topic and is not reading from a page when they speak.
  • An extemporaneous speech gives you more chances to interact with your audience.
  • The speaker can ask a question in the middle of a speech to ensure that everyone is paying attention.
  • You can add stories and examples that are relevant to your topic in an extemporaneous speech. Additionally, you can quote other speakers in your speech.
  • If you are scared of public speaking, then extemporaneous speech will be very fierce for you.
  • If the speaker gets nervous or stutters in between, it will look like they didn't prepare well.
  • If you don't plan your speech well, it can be too short or too long.
  • The speaker may be unfamiliar with some of the vocabulary words in the topic.

Extemporaneous Speech Examples

If you are still having trouble understanding how to give a speech without preparation or how to write one quickly, check out the examples mentioned below:

Example of Extemporaneous Speech

Extemporaneous Speech About COVID-19

Extemporaneous Speech Sample

Example of Extemporaneous Speech About Education

Extemporaneous Speech Topics

Some extemporaneous speech topics are given below:

  • For what reason do I cherish playing volleyball?
  • When will I become a tycoon?
  • For what reason is Playstation better than Xbox?
  • The best musician is - fill a name-
  • Gays don't have equivalent freedoms, is it valid?
  • Political unsteadiness in my nation is expected to?
  • For what reason is facebook's ubiquity tumbling down so rapidly?
  • For what reason are unlawful workers not given privileges?
  • Are web wrongdoing and theft punished?
  • It is vital to Stop the conflict in Afghanistan

There are many different types of extemp speech topics. You can choose one that you are knowledgeable about or one that you can mold to fit your own knowledge.

Extemporaneous Speech Tips

If you want to give a speech without preparation, these tips will help you.

  • The speech outline should be easy to understand, so keep it simple.
  • Keep index cards with you as cues. This will help you avoid writing on full paper.
  • If you are using technology, such as PowerPoint, practice with it before giving your speech.
  • You should speak to people in a way that sounds extemporaneous speaking naturally and not like you're reading from a script.
  • If you have enough time, record your speech and then listen to it yourself.
  • It is a good idea to rehearse your speech in front of an audience so you can get feedback on what works and what needs improvement.

This was all for extemporaneous speech. If you still feel you won't be able to grasp the idea of extemporaneous speech, we can help.

If you need to write a speech quickly, contact SharkPapers.com . We have a professional team of writers who can help you deliver a quality speech at a reasonable price.

Donna C.

Education, Marketing

Donna writes on a broad range of topics, but she is mostly passionate about social issues, current events, and human-interest stories. She has received high praise for her writing from both colleagues and readers alike. Donna is known in her field for creating content that is not only professional but also captivating.

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Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

113 Extemporaneous Speech Topics

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Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

extemporaneous speech topics

If you are asking yourself: What should I do in the extemp speech? Then keep this rule of thumb in mind: the extemporaneous speech topics must answer the question in a school assignment or tournament. Simple and easy. Although the best spontaneous speaker can speak almost without any notes. But avoid that if you feel not confident enough.

In this article:

Preparation In 3 Steps

Extemporaneous speaking without preparation, extemporaneous speech topic examples, outline examples, how to prepare, how to deliver, tips/h2>.

In general, we can define three specified types of extemporaneous speeches:

  • High School And College Assignments – Always do what your teacher asks you to do! Often you have to pick out forms of informative, analytical, international, domestic or economic questions about current events. Your extemporaneous speech topics should answer the question exactly.Check if some written notes are permitted in classroom.
  • Tournaments – An event where speakers receive their questionnaire forms. Check the tournament entry to see which format and which rules will be used. Successful extempers don’t use cards.However, if you are allowed to use notes, then use a card for each element in the form below. Just use keywords.
  • Business Presentations – The are considered as difficult by those who must give presentations in business. Here I limit myself to good class hints for at school, college and for tournaments.

These three steps for preparing extemporaneous speech topics will help you to do what you have to do: answering the question in case of school assignments or tournaments.

The First Step – Analyze what extemporaneous question you have to answer:

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  • Questions of fact – Characterized by is and are , or will or would .
  • Questions of value – Characterized by should .
  • Questions of policy – Characterized by can and could . Often used for an political discour.

The Second Step – Determine if it is informative or persuasive. The words what , which and  who indicate that it is an informative issue. The words should and why indicate that it is a persuasive issue.

The Third Step – Always stay with your subject. In other words: never change the ideas. Now, organize your ideas and points effectively. You can use the outline technique below. Focus on your subject and think about the various angles.

Now write those first thoughts quickly down. Catch them in keywords.

Extemporaneous speaking speech topics in three parts to help you do a better job next time you have to speak without preparation. Almost everyone is going to have to speak extemporaneously at some point in their lives, whether it is a simple introduction to a group, presentation for work, or something more complex occasion.

Most natural communication can fall under the umbrella of the term extemporanous speech. But just what is it, and what are the best rules to follow so that you know you are giving a real winner extemporaneous speaking talk or address and cure your on stage fear?

Let’s take a look at my tricks that will help you do a better job next time you have to speak without preparation:

Ready for a couple of extemporaneous speech topics? Here we go:

  • Can We Blame – fill in a team – For Its Defeat?
  • Why Do I Play Golf? Or another kind of sports
  • Should – fill in a name – Win A MTV Award?
  • I’m Just A Paperboy Now, Will I Become A Millionaire?
  • Who Is The Laziest Person On The Campus And Why?
  • Should We All Buy – fill in a product – ?
  • Why Do We Celebrate Thanksgiving?
  • Which Moviestar Earns Too Much Money In Comparison To His / Her Merits?
  • Why Is Barcelona A Special Place To Be? Or any other city or region
  • Is The X-Box Better Than Playstation?
  • Will – fill in a name- Become Senator?
  • Who Is The Best Songwriter?
  • Could We Really Say To Our Bosses What’s On Our Mind?
  • What Television Program Should Be Banned And Why?
  • Should cruel and very authoritarian principals be sacked – or are there any degrees in domineering the campus population with accordingly disciplinary fines for them?
  • Why do we need a Whistle Blower Protection Act – whether we like it or not they always serve as a replacement or scape goat anyway?
  • Does the Bharatiya Janata Party represents a pan Indian ideology and how did it evolve over the years?
  • Must we focus more on improving basic education for the poor and historically disadvantaged – and what are the chain reactions for the overall well-being of human beings in society?
  • Do gays have as many rights as the rest of society does?
  • Does global warming makes the Arctic Sea ice melting or is it a conspiracy theory to make us believe to invest in alternative power sources? Both sides of the same coin are extemporaneous public speaking topics you could consider to try out anyway.
  • Does the world community really want to solve the Darfur Sudan problem even the states are now separated?
  • How India can be persuaded to participate in efforts to tackle global warming, or is it not prerequisite?
  • Is the growing population and economy a threat to India’s environment?
  • Does the development of tourism in Malaysia open new opportunities?
  • Should the Indian society invest in maintaining peace between Hindus and Muslims?
  • What are the causes of political instability in Pakistan?
  • Can prime-minister and Democratic Party leader Yukio Hatoyama give a boost to the Japanese economy?
  • Reasons why Facebook’s popularity is falling down?
  • Is Wikipedia sometimes more reliable than for example the Online Encyclopaedia Britannica?
  • Should illegal immigrants receive no doctor care?
  • Will petroleum be the major fuel till 2050?
  • The quality of health care in America is the best in the world, or is it a myth?
  • Do pharmaceuticals profit too much from Swine Flu or other mondial diseases?
  • Should the Cash for Clunkers program be continued due to its success?
  • Should we prosecute individual American intelligence personnel involved in outrages committed during the hunt for al-Qaeda members?
  • Will microloans and community banking be the lifesaver for developing countries?
  • Did bankers caused the recession and are ordinary people paying the price?
  • Should we be afraid of internet crime and piracy?
  • Is this the time to increase taxes?
  • Should we lower our tolerance for repeat drunk driving?
  • Does the number of abandoned and abused pets swell as the economy has worsened or even closer at home: when the vacation season will soon be in sight …
  • Will on-campus housing problems worsen in the future – what are botherations and squeezing annoyances that should be cleaned up right away>
  • Should there be fines for running out of petrol on the motorway?
  • Should we consider free public transportation (metro, bus, or other forms) in large cities?
  • Should the time high school students spend on homework each school night be limited to two hours maximum?
  • Is Barack Obama the next John F. Kennedy but better because he is an expert in auticue teleprompting reading …
  • Does the fight against the Taliban in Afghanistan become tougher over time?
  • Should internet service providers and hosts be prohibited from blocking any content?
  • Is the Hugo Chavez controlled legislature in Venezuela a serious threat to free thought and freedom of speech in that country?
  • Is the reappointement of Ben Bernanke as chairman of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors a good and wise decision?
  • Should lobbyists in our financial and political capitals work transparent and open?
  • Do we need a government funded campaign to transform our capitalist economy to a clean and green energy economy?
  • Will freezing the construction of Jewish settlements in the West Bank favors the Middle East peace process?
  • Is prison and jail reform more than just reworking tough legislative packages of criminal sentencing laws?
  • Does fanatic animal rights extremists endanger the universal human rights, or vice versa?
  • Will a flexible timetable to withdraw American troops from Iraq will best serve our national needs and interests?
  • Is seizing laptops or other computers indefinitely by the customs a proper instrument to fight the border crime?
  • Does lifting the moratorium on commercial whaling cause more slaughter by commercial vessels in the oceans?
  • Is it acceptable to force American laborers or employees to be fingerprinted at the working place?
  • Should all young girls up to 15 years be required to get the vaccine against the human papillomavirus H P V to avoid cancer of the cervix?
  • Should NASA abandon plans and blueprints for colonization of the Moon by 2021 – or even Mars?
  • Should we improve mental health care for returning veterans and servicemembers – longer than five years after they have returned home?
  • Should India and China work together to counter western economic power? Or is it still under construction and do we see and hear less about that successful joint venture?
  • Could the conflict between Georgia and Russia implode to a threat to world peace? Pick some other regional conflict if you like, as long as you stay close to actual politics.
  • Do the Six-Party Talks on North Korea’s nuclear program lead to a satisfying package solution? What if they progress on down to earth nuclear tests …
  • Does the Arab television stations al-Arabiya, al-Jazeera and the Saudi financed Middle East Broadcasting Center in the United Arab Emirates together reach more people worldwide watching television than CNN?
  • Does the system to register and grant patents for new innovations needs to be reformed?
  • Does Venezuela really need to nationalize private rice-processing plants? And why the powerplant supplies branches …
  • Is legalizing the opium cultivation in Afghanistan a better option than forcing it down?
  • Is Osama bin Laden still alive? Or has the conspiracy ended a couple of years ago with the sniper action …
  • Should the federal Attorney General be chosen by the people?
  • Is the NATO nuclear policy consistent with our federal nuclear policy
  • Is Vladimir Putin the real almighty political and national strength that Russia needs now?
  • May U S military authorities hire private security contractors in doubtful areas?
  • Must the international community assembled in the ASEAN nations (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) work collaboratively to reduce greenhouse gas emissions – or is that a so-called mission impossible for lots of nations? (You can fill in other organizations as alternative extemporaneous topics)
  • Must we make the immigration system consistent with national economic precedences and priorities – what are the exceptions anyway?
  • Will the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty C T B T have more positive ramifications for arms control – or is it ‘paper tiger’?
  • Reasons why Facebook’s popularity is not falling down despite the critics.
  • The controversy over President Obama’s broadcast education speech to schoolchildren.
  • Why we have to preserve architecturally significant historic-cultural monuments and heritage.
  • Should we make legal alcohol limits the same for both car drivers as well as boaters?
  • Should the labels light and low tar be banned on in tobacco and nicotine products? And what to say about the mandatory illustrations on the packaging in some countries that are supposed to shock and deter people?
  • A Few Extemporaneous Topic Ideas To Test Your and Your Public Audience Intelligence.
  • Bailouts and have prevented that our economy become worse in current and future times.
  • Does Europe rely too much on Russian gas petrol fuel sources? And what about the border conflicts in relation to vulnerable pipeline transports.
  • Must all college and university textbooks also be available in easy to update and cheaper electronic ebook versions – to save money and easily updatable versions?
  • Why releasing Abdel Basset Ali al-Megrahi from a Scottish prison is an insult of the relatives of the Lockerbie victims.
  • The government of India should advocate for a nationwide census; regarding the population growth and in spite of the totally understandable privacy concerns that could override the need for credible statistics to rule a country?
  • Should the African Union nations and organizations end direct military aid to the Transitional Federal Government?
  • Why we should not be afraid of the Swine Flue and trust on the precautions.
  • How former vice president Dick Cheney breaks the tradition of being not critical towards a new Washington administration.
  • Pre-existing conditions may never be a reason to to deny coverage by insurance companies.
  • Or choose the opposite side for an extemporaneous topic: Bailouts will cost us, the taxpayers, in the end mucht more?
  • Should we accept a sky-high federal budget deficit number?
  • Why church ministers should have lifelong, monogamous, stable relationships.
  • The three pillars of a labor union: higher salaries, secondary benefits and job security.
  • Will freshwater supply to millions become the next huge world problem besides the global warming issue?
  • Does marijuana has a therapeutic and medicinal value for cancer patients and what about the legal consequences.
  • Why do bush fires often occur immediately after a rainy season in spring and autumn is there an scientific explanation for this annually natural phenomenon?
  • Should mayors keep a daily blog concerning their whereabouts and policies – just for squaring up at the next election time?
  • The requirement to register to vote in general elections. Should we end, keep / alter that practice – what is the reason behind it, is there some kind of a preambule in the laws concerning registration?
  • Should we outlaw taxpayer-funded events in political campaigns?
  • Should the Justice Department release information more often and sooner to local media to involve the local residents in crime fighting and solving almost undoable cases?
  • Is it ethical to wipe away illegal migrant or asylum camps in Europe?
  • Are teens with free access to a car more at risk to get involved in accidents?
  • Will Hispanic immigrants – like other foreigners – adapt to the American society?
  • Is the new G-20 summit effective in solving the economic crisis?
  • Must judges sentence drunk drivers who for long terms in jail?
  • Is the decision to stop the development of an Eastern-Europe air missile defense system a threat to the national security of the nations involved?
  • Or: alternative best speech topics could be the position of the western world, or even Russia’s point of view.
  • Could we lose the war in Afghanistan now the insurgent troops are multipying their forces?
  • Are the rich G-20 nations buying out their efforts to reduce the negative climate change effects?
  • Will water supply be the next geopolitical problem we must face seriously?

Use this outline to prepare ideas quick and properly. Remember: all information that you want to cover should answer the mandatory question of the teacher or jury members.

Your Theoretical Outline Method

YOUR TITLE In one complete summarizing sentence: _______

THE INTRODUCTION

Grab the attention of your public in a oneliner that state the theme. Relate the oneliner to question. State the extemporaneous speech topics question and tell why it is important. Briefly answer it. Tease your main points.

THE BODY TEXT TO SPEECH

The main points should be phrased as argumentative statements. Devote an equal amount of time at each point. Try to come up with three points.

Try to come up with three sub-points. Construct your sub-points with credible arguments and factual evidence.

Perhaps you can add relevant statistics and references. Think about the pros and cons, likes and dislikes, advantages and disadvantages.

Refer to reliable sources, it will enhance your credibility. Write down your the points in one sentence for each point.

Just pick out the elements which are appropriate within the time limit!

MAIN POINT I:

SUB POINT 1:

Arguments? Evidence? Statistics? References?

SUB POINT 2: Arguments? Evidence? Statistics?

References?

SUB POINT 3: Arguments? Evidence? Statistics? References?

MAIN POINT II:

SUB POINT 1: Arguments? Evidence? Statistics? References?

SUB POINT 2: Arguments? Evidence?

Statistics? References?

MAIN POINT III:

SUB POINT 2:

SUB POINT 3: Arguments? Evidence? Statistics?

YOUR CONCLUSION

Summarize the main points of your extemporaneous topics. State the question again. State your answer in a catchy one-liner.

Extemporaneous speech topic outline for students who have to deal with actual themes using ordinairy news articles to formulate arguments and evidence in a snap. For this writing I used four articles as basics to filter out information, listed in the sources paragraph below:

My step by step method: First I decided on the angle of view. Secondly, I simply choose for this extemp question:  Does President Obama deserve the Nobel Peace Prize?  And thirdly, I follow the instructions in the template below. Remember, you can also take side  in favor  of the laureate. This is  not  my personal opinion, but just an  example  to show you how to write an extemp pattern yourself.

INTRODUCTION OF YOUR EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEECH TOPIC

I. INTEREST STEP The award of the Nobel Peace Prize 2009 to Barack Obama is a surprise pick which raise lots of doubts. A peace award winner who has not directed any winning peace project so far.

II. THESIS So, does he realy deserve it? No, he has not achieved any real success in foreign policy matters.

III. CLARIFICATION The Norwegian Committee has praised his extraordinary efforts in international diplomacy. But world reactions expressed surprise. The honor comes too soon, according to worldleaders, there are no  real  peace achievements.

IV. PREVIEW (This is a short compelling summary of the vital body bricks) The laureate does not deserve the prize because of Iraq, the Middle East and Afghanistan, the President himself has spoken openly about his doubts, and other preeminent political figures who won before sure had achieved real substantial diplomatic peace successes. And they are openly credited for it internationally.

THE BODY RUBRIC

I. MAIN POINT OF YOUR EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEECH TOPICS There have not been any concrete achievements in Afghanistan, Iraq or Middle East.

A. EVIDENCE He ordered thousands of US troops extra to Af. The Palestinians claim he has does nothing concrete for their rights. Ir. has been suffering from the deadliest year since the 2003 invasion.

B. REASONING (Explain here how the first argument of the extemporaneous speech topic is constructed, based on your evidence)

More troops could to Af. violence and civilian casualties in the end, the enemy proclaims. There still is no working M E peace plan in which both parties, Israel and Palestinians trust. The schedule of the person in charge for the withdrawal of troops is still discussed, the oppositional forces still try to create disorder.

C. RELATIONSHIP TO THESIS Can we call that peace efforts? Yes, we can. Can we call that substantial peace achievements? No, we can not – at this moment.

II. MAIN POINT The chief of state himself has spoken openly about his doubts less than a year in office.

A. EVIDENCE He says to be surprised and deeply humbled.

B. REASONING Hw further said that he not feel he ‘deserve to be in the company of so many of the transformative figures who have been honoured by this prize’.

C. RELATIONSHIP TO THESIS O. has stated that he doesn’t see it as a recognition of his accomplishments, but ‘rather as an affirmation of American leadership on behalf of aspirations held by people in all nations’.

III MAIN POINT These are other cardinal political persons who won before. Who are those transformative figures as the 2009 laureate describes them?

A. EVIDENCE In 1994 Shimon Peres, Foreign Minister of Israel, won. In 1994 Yitzhak Rabin, Prime Minister of Israel, in 1978 Menachim Begin, Prime Minister of Israel, and in 1973 Henry Kissinger, U S Secretary of State.

B. REASONING Their peace efforts resulted in concrete historical peace making moments: Shimon Peres, and Yitzhak Rabin were honoured for their historic agreement between Israel and Palestinians. Menachim Begin for the peace treaty he co-concluded between Israel and Egypt. And Henry Kissinger was praised for helping to establish a ceasefire and U S withdrawal from Vietnam.

C. RELATIONSHIP TO THESIS Yes, they all accomplish concrete diplomatic successes. Obama not.

I. SUMMARY There have not been any real substantial peace achievements at this moment. The laureate himself refers to the lack of peace making moments. And he refers to Nobel Peace Prize winners who are awarded because of their historical agreements.

II. RESTATEMENT So, now again: is President Obama entitled? No, he has not achieved any real success in foreign policy matters, and predecessors have.

III. APPEAL OF YOUR EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEECH TOPIC Some call the award a politically motivated insult. I don’t. I prefer to look ahead and cite 1984 Winner South Africa’s Archbishop Desmond Tutu ‘it’s a magnificent endorsement for the first African-American leader in history’. But the Commander in Chief of Hope has sure achieved one thing – do think about it – he carries  hope  in his peace efforts. And I predict: one day he will really deserves the Prize for real peace accomplishments!

SOURCES Aljazeera News Europe, Norwegian Nobel Committee Report, and All Laureates List.

Is There One Single Best Outline?

No. The best outline doesn’t exist. The pattern above is just a method to organize extemporaneous topics quick and efficient.

Open Or Closed Questions?

Mostly there are two types of questions, open and closed for extemporaneous speech topics.Determine what type you are answering.

Closed Questions – You can only state a clear Yes or No in your introduction. In the points of the body part you offer the arguments. Example: Is Disclosure A Bad Movie? Yes, you can also choose for humorous.

Open Questions – State how or what will, should or can be done in your introduction. Then guide the audience to the answer in logical steps. Those steps are the major points in your extemp. E.g. What Can We Do Against Corrupt Politicians?

Tip # 1  Set up your extemp to start with a good summation that grabs the attention, then state the theme in one sentence.

Tip # 2  Develop between three and five main points and make sure each one is a single, clear, self contained idea.

Tip # 3  Make sure that each one is related to your main thesis statement and that it reminds the audience what your key note point is.

Tip # 4  Make sure every point leads smoothly and sensibly into the next one – no non sequiturs here. No ‘bridges’ that do not make sense.

Tip # 5  All your sub points must contain new information or details not stated in the main points. Their job is to describe, explain, or otherwise support your main points. For the conclusion, don’t just summarize. But also analyse and provide a judgement on each conclusion.

Tip # 6  Come back to the introduction and reinforce your thesis statement, connect the interests and needs of the audience to the theme, then go back over the major points of your speech, finishing up neatly.

Tip # 7  Stick to using simple words, and don’t try to impress with complex topics for an extemporaneous. There is a bigger chance that you will end up stumbling over them or that your speech will fall flat.

Tip # 8  It’s all about producing topics for an extemporaneous that get strictly to the point. If you’re feeling nervous, put your hands in your pockets or on front of the table in front of you, and don’t be afraid to let people know.

Tip # 9  Keep comments about your nervousness short and to the point. They will probably get a chuckle, they will understand, and you’ll feel a little better.

Tip # 10  Do not go on and on, though, or stop dead. Go right to what you need to say. Conclude, restate, smile and just stick to that!

This is about time management, practicing and repeating, and the delivery:

Time Management –

The right time management is crucial. Put a watch in front of you. If you have 30 minutes to prepare, then divide that time in parts. Below are three examples of time management. Find out which one is the best for you. If you are allowed to use note cards, then the memorize part can be shorter in time, of course.

More about practicing

Visualize the flow of your extemporaneous speech topics in your mind. Something like this: first I want to state this, and then I prove it by that. And so on. Learn the sequence by heart. If there’s a possibility to practice in front of a friend or classmate, then do it!

And listen to their comment. Elaborate on it. Another idea is to tape yourself on audio or video. Listen and look if you are making logical steps, transitions and pauses.

Another possibility is to practice out loud in front of a mirror.

Do not be boring with monotonous and facts and a phlegmatic attitude, add some funny extemporaneous speech topics in your presentation. Talk easy, and in a normal tempo – do not talk to fast. Do not speak like a talking puppet in a suit. Move a little bit, use the proper gestures (guide them

trough your material with hand signals and passionate facial expresions) to emphasize your main points and the direction of logical reasoning.

Composing Handy Tubs

Many competitors spend hours a week to prepare files with noteworthy articles about every possible subject for extemporaneous speech topics. They can use these so-called Extemp Tubs in tournaments. But how does a speaker fill these files with the best?

1. Analyze and study current events in magazines and newspapers. Sort out the headlines, the pros and cons, reasons, statistics and sources.

2. Research on the Internet. Pay special attention to quotes and reports of scientific researchers. Don’t forget to find humorous quotes, to break the ice.

3. Watch interesting television documentaries and note the facts and the conclusions that could be extracted.

4. Ask experienced competitors how they prepare for public speaking. Look how they practice and perform on stage, and learn their educational discourse tricks.

5. Organize and update your files in a way you can find your written notes quick and easy. For instance, organize your plastic tub like a cherry tree – pick four or five general extemporaneous speech topics in hanging folders.

And place within those general tabulations lots of sub-sequences categorized from A to Z.

6. Also use a reference book, a dictionary, a small encyclopedia, et cetera to refill fresh and creative ideas.

By now, you have learned how to prepare and outline your communication subjects – I wish you all succes you need and keep improving your communication skills. Bookmark and share this tutorial and come back whenever you like 🙂

1 Minute Speech Topics : 8 Samples

Self Introduction Speech [Topics + Outline Sample]

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Extemporaneous Speech – Sample & Writing Guide

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Extemporaneous Speech

You have been pushed to participate in the competition for extemporaneous speech, and now you are worried you would not be able to hold your ground for the span of 2-3 minutes.

Well, this has happened to one and all!

But now it is time to flush out your worries for we have a detailed guide to help you learn how to write and deliver any extemporaneous speech presentation.

So, let us get down to the basics.

What Is An Extempore Speech?

An impromptu speech or extemp questions speech is delivered without prior planning. Sometimes, only a few minutes, i.e. two or three minutes, are allotted to prepare for a topic. Extempore is used to understand various points, so a candidate must face many challenges.

Extemporaneous speeches are frequently delivered as impromptu speeches with little advance planning on the presenter’s part.

Since the speaker doesn’t have time to plan or prepare, the extemporaneous speech writer is unique. The person is immediately given a subject, and they speak about it in accordance with the ideas that occur to them naturally.

This is another factor that adds to the speech’s difficulty.

It aims to educate and persuade the audience, and speeches like this are frequently included in public speaking contests and events.

As an extemporaneous speaker, you’ll need to quickly arrange your speaking topics and present them concisely and professionally.

Examples of Extemporaneous Speeches to Help You Stand Out

Crafting an impressive extemporaneous speech demands a unique skill set – the ability to think on your feet, articulate thoughts clearly, and engage your audience effectively. Read through the extemporaneous speech samples to master the art of structuring your thoughts effectively, maintain confidence under pressure, and achieve eloquence and proficiency in impromptu speaking.

Check This Extemporaneous Speech Example

View Sample

Why Are Extemporaneous Speeches Important?

Imagine a situation where highly qualified candidates for positions in business show up for their interview but fall short of impressing the board of directors due to a lack of confidence and poor speech patterns. It can be unprofessional to be unable to organize your thoughts constructively. That’s how extempore speeches train you and help you in situations like these. The more you deliver extempore speeches, the more you get to improve your communication abilities and self-expression skills.

What Are The Elements Of An Extemporaneous Speech?

The following are some important components of an extemporaneous speech:

Discussion Of A Pressing Issue

Make sure you choose a significant and valuable topic when preparing for the  Informative Speech Topics . The objective is to leave the audience with something to think about after you finish speaking. Understanding how the topic will affect you and your audience should be your priority.

Making your audience believe what you say is crucial when giving a speech. Your audience is smarter than you might think. When you are sincere or lying, they will be able to tell immediately. So, be sincere in all of your communication.

A Natural And Distinctive Style

Speaking spontaneously means that you are not attempting to mimic anyone else’s style. Think about it and work on refining your individual presentation and debate style.

What Are The Challenges Of An Extemporaneous Speech?

Thinking instantly.

As the candidate has to speak within a restricted time, they must immediately gather their speech ideas. This is where you will be tested since coming up with points to talk about in that little time can be challenging.

Analyzing The Topic

Always evaluate what the extemporaneous delivery topic attempts to explain. If you do not understand the situation, avoid making the closest assumption.

Identifying The Problem

If any issues need to be addressed after analyzing the subject, note them in detail. Always double-check and identify the primary matter to be discussed. Stick to the main point, as there is a chance a candidate will stray.

Generating Ideas

The greatest difficulty lies in generating easy topics to debate. Come up with the topic’s most frank suggestions. This can occasionally be accomplished by reading and keeping up with various global issues.

Arranging The Points Logically

Speaking logically within a specific time frame is crucial, but how the points are prioritized and organized is also crucial. This is a particularly difficult part because there is a chance that one will become disoriented while speaking.

Connecting With The Audience

It’s crucial to connect with the listeners and maintain their attention, no matter how excellent the content is. If you don’t do this, you have no control over the extempore. It isn’t easy to connect due to the short time frame, but this depends entirely on the content’s interest.

Communicating Clearly

These are the most crucial and fundamental components of an extempore. Stay on top of your vocabulary and speak clearly. Maintaining a high energy level will help you make your content engaging and grab the audience’s attention.

Making An Impactful Presentation

In addition to the points mentioned above, one should be confident, keep a good posture, and be composed. This will significantly enhance the entire impromptu presentation.

The Steps To Build A Proper Timeline

Before delivering your extempore speech, you will get 30 minutes to prepare yourself. To make sure that you cover all of your ideas during the extempore speech, you must make an instant timeline.

As soon as you get the topic, you must divide your 30 minutes into three parts:

First 10 minutes:  First of all, you need to evaluate the type of audience for whom you will speak. Then according to age group or job, you must decide what to present in front of them according to the provided topic.

Next 10 minutes:  Then you need to do a quick research about the topic and not down some important points that pique the audience’s interest.

Final 10 minutes:  The last 10 minutes are the most crucial and challenging part, as, during this time, you need to revise the points you have noted. In addition, you must also practice and prepare for what you are going to say in your speech.

An Example Of Extemporaneous Speech

An extemporaneous speech is different from a manuscript speech in terms of delivery. In an extemporaneous speech, a person speaks in a conversational manner to the audience, but in manuscript speech, the speaker recites word to word written in the manuscript.

Here are extemporaneous and manuscript speech examples to help you differentiate between the both:

EXTEMPORE SPEECH EXAMPLE

writing an extemporaneous speech

MANUSCRIPT EXAMPLE

writing an extemporaneous speech

Extempore Speech Topics: How To Choose With 100 Prompts

Choosing speech and debate topics in schools and colleges can be difficult for students. You need the best topics for speeches for effective extemporaneous speaking. So, how do you make a good choice?

  • Choose a relevant and trending topic to deliver your speech in an extemporaneous   style.
  • The topic can cover everything from general subject matter to current affairs.
  • Make sure you have a basic understanding of the topic to perform better.

On that note, here is a list of approximately 100 topics for public speaking.

INFORMATIVE SPEECHES TOPICS

  • The reality of microplastics and potential substitutes
  • The communication styles of men and women differ
  • The contribution education makes to a nation’s economy
  • Artificial intelligence ethical issues
  • Ingenious methods to halt climate change
  • The reality of American foster care
  • How can the top 5 killers in America be avoided?
  • How can college students who invest regularly become millionaires by the age of 50?
  • The history of America as seen by a minority
  • If everybody produced their own food, what would happen to the economy?
  • Genetic modification: Science and Morality
  • The ocean’s most dangerous creatures
  • How do elephants use plants for self-care?
  • The scientific basis for the world’s fastest animals
  • Can emotional support animals be used in the treatment of depression?
  • How can travelers discover the local culture?
  • How have female executives changed corporate leadership?
  • The influence of social media culture on self-esteem
  • Podcasting’s emergence and its influence on contemporary culture
  • How do immigrants uphold their native cultures in their new countries?
  • How did colonization affect Native Americans’ way of life?

  DOMESTIC EXTEMP QUESTIONS

  • Have gas prices increased as a result of the Biden administration’s energy policies?
  • Will Pete Buttigieg become a more influential figure in Democratic circles than Vice President Kamal Harris as a result of the recently passed infrastructure bill?
  • Were prosecutors in the Rittenhouse case ineffective?
  • Has corporate merger and acquisition exacerbated America’s inflation problems?
  • Should the TSA be eliminated in the US?
  • What actions can the United States take to support African democracies?
  • Would President Biden’s social infrastructure bill’s passage improve or hurt Democratic prospects in the 2022 midterm elections?
  • Should the Federal Reserve participate in the fight against climate change, if at all?
  • Would the United States’ diplomatic boycott of the 2022 Winter Olympics be meaningless?
  • Will American transportation be dominated by electric vehicles?
  • Will the omicron variant lead to an increase in COVID lockdowns in the United States?
  • How can the Biden administration persuade Joe Manchin and Krysten Sinema to support the Build Back Better Act?
  • What explains the decline in American college enrolment?
  • Are equity policies harmful or beneficial to the groups they are meant to assist?
  • Is there still a place for the United States in Afghanistan?
  • Has the Biden administration helped organized labor enough?
  • Will long-term gasoline price reductions result from releasing oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve?
  • What can cities in California do to stop “smash-and-grab” thefts?
  • How far should the US defend the territorial integrity of Ukraine?
  • Is Vice President Kamala Harris’ dismal polling performance attributable to President Biden?
  • Do current disciplinary policies make American schools less secure?
  • Will the omicron variant doom democratic efforts to retain control of Congress in 2022?
  • What should the Biden administration do if the Supreme Court reverses Roe v. Wade?

SOCIAL ACTIVISM SPEECH TOPICS

  • An open immigration policy will wreck the economy.
  • The decline of manners is reflected in action movies.
  • There has been an increase in social activism.
  • Discrimination against African Americans and Hispanic Americans still exists.
  • Corporate corruption is the main factor contributing to weak economies across the world.
  • Never take your right to privacy for granted.
  • Guns don’t kill people. People commit murder
  • The purpose of beauty pageants is unclear
  • The number of spoiled children has increased due to media violence.
  • The world’s largest population has lost its sense of cultural identity.
  • Stopping the maiming and mistreating of schoolgirls is necessary.
  • China’s one-child policy is acceptable
  • The right tipping behavior and procedures in contemporary society
  • Without technology, what would life be like?
  • The right to vote in national elections ought to be extended to immigrants.
  • Bullying has been linked to an increase in suicide cases.
  • How can we shield LGBT children from harm?
  • Taking care of and empowering women is a positive way to improve lives.
  • For the working class city living is simpler and more affordable.
  • The main reason why marriages end is because of media bias.
  • The main factor causing high levels of corruption in governments is media bias.
  • Families with only one parent need more than just financial support.

RANDOM DEBATE TOPIC

  • Math and science education should take precedence over music and the arts.
  • Schools ought to be free of fast food.
  • Girls should be strongly encouraged to pursue careers in STEM.
  • Homeschooling is superior to conventional education.
  • Colleges in the Ivy League are inherently superior to other institutions.
  • Public education is superior to private education.
  • Schools ought to teach religion.
  • Should schools provide free STD testing?
  • Must more pupils enroll in community colleges?
  • Two-year terms should be the maximum for presidents, not four.
  • The wealthy and big businesses should be taxed more.
  • Should unauthorized immigrants be considered criminals?
  • Employers should be required to hire an equal number of men and women.
  • Instead of punishing drug addicts, could you help them?
  • Drug use should be viewed more as a mental health problem than a crime.
  • Taxes should be imposed on businesses based on their carbon emissions and other harmful environmental effects.
  • The use of nuclear energy can offset the excessive use of fossil fuels.
  • Individuals can best fight climate change by lowering their carbon footprints.
  • Has social media helped or hurt people’s ability to interact with others?
  • Will technology save or destroy the world?

  DECEMBER DEBATE TOPIC

  • What comes to mind when the word “December” is mentioned?
  • What are your thoughts on December?
  • What positive events take place in December?
  • What routine December activities do you engage in?
  • How do you feel when you hear the word “December”?
  • What are the characteristics of December babies?
  • What do you think of the weather this December?
  • Where does December rank among “the best months”?
  • Are there any negative aspects of December?
  • What are your plans for December of next year?
  • What kind of holiday celebration would you create if you could?
  • Do you indulge in any delectable dishes in December?
  • How are people supposed to celebrate in December?
  • What well-known holidays fall in December?
  • How will you be feeling in December?
  • What would you include in a video about December?
  • How will you be feeling at the end of December?
  • Which three words, and why, best sum up December?
  • What positive events from December come to mind?
  • Why is there a good symbol for December?

  SPEECH TOPICS FOR STUDENTS

  • How social media affects dating and relationships?
  • The advantages of having an open mind
  • The value of keeping a sense of humor
  • Social media’s effect on the entertainment sector
  • The advantages of forgiving others and letting go of resentments
  • The significance of workplace mental health support
  • How social media affects trends in fashion and beauty?
  • The advantages of having a positive outlook on getting older
  • How social media affects elections and political campaigns?
  • The value of resources for college students’ mental health
  • Rote or hands-on learning—which is superior?
  • Why are boarding schools superior to day schools?
  • Does skipping a year benefit students?
  • Does PowerPoint show waste your time?
  • Is it fair to use the same grading scale for all students?
  • Should all schools be required to have a canteen?
  • How does offline education aid in the social skills development of students?
  • Do boarding schools offer advantages over regular schools?
  • Is it a waste of time to learn how to create a  PowerPoint presentation ?
  • All students should be subject to the same rating system.
  • Do a child’s test scores alone determine their value?
  • Is repetition-based learning or hands-on learning preferable?

Frequently Asked Questions With Answers

What is an extemporaneous speech.

Ans:  An extemporaneous speech includes a delivery of an instant speech, which involves very little preparation. While delivering an extemporaneous, you are unable to deliver a monologue or memorized speech.

What Is The Purpose Of An Extemporaneous Speech?

Ans:  An extemporaneous speech gives freedom to explore different ideas, develop your opinion and share your views with the audience.

How Do You Prepare For An Extemporaneous Speech?

Ans:  You will get a limited time of 30 minutes to prepare before delivering an extemporaneous speech. During this time, first, you must brainstorm about the topic, then research to note down the main points and finally revise the things you will speak about.

What Are Some Tips For Delivering An Effective Extemporaneous Speech?

Ans:  Some tips for delivering an extemporaneous speech are:

  • Speak about some important points.
  • Remain sincere while speaking about the points.
  • Talk in your natural tone.

How Do You Handle Nerves During An Extemporaneous Speech?

Ans:  First, find a silent place, and sit there by closing your eyes. Then you must focus on your breath and relax by releasing the air from your lungs, simultaneously relaxing your muscles. With your relaxed, you can now focus on the topic and deliver your speech fluently.

How Long Should An Extemporaneous Speech Be?

Ans:  Extempore speech is a short speech that is delivered within 3-5 minutes.

What Are Some Common Mistakes To Avoid In An Extemporaneous Speech?

Ans:  The common errors that a speaker commits while delivering an extemporaneous speech is:

  • Lack of gestures
  • Lack of energy
  • Lack of connection with the audience
  • Writing important points on hands
  • Rushing about your lines

How Can You Improve Your Extemporaneous Speaking Skills?

Ans:  One can improve speaking of an extempore speech by doing it again. If you want to speak fluently in your extemporaneous speech, then go on practicing as it will improve your skills.

Lucy Wilson

Lucy Wilson

Hi, my name is Lucy Wilson. I am 26, a successful digital marketer, lifestyle blogger, and a Literature writing expert based in Melbourne. I have loved social media and writing since my teenage days. I am a certified digital marketer with a Masters degree in Literature. Sounds quite wierd? Well, that’s because I can’t be less or more enthusiastic about either of my passions. Additionally, I work part-time as a writing expert for myassignmenthelp.com. When I am not working, I am probably partying with my friends or listening to my kind of music or simply lazing around.

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Extemporaneous Speech Maker: Quick and Efficient Tool

Need urgent assistance with speech writing? You are welcome to use our free online tool. It was designed to help college students search for inspiration before delivery for successful performance.

This extemporaneous speech maker is relatively simple to use. Just follow these steps:

  • Add the topic of your speech.
  • Indicate your stance.
  • Add details about the audience.
  • Click “Generate” and get the extemporaneous speech.
  • 🤖 Introduction
  • ✨ 5 Advantages of Speech Maker

🗣️ What Is an Extemporaneous Speech?

  • 🤓 How to Make an Effective Speech
  • 📝 Extemporaneous Speech Outline
  • 🔥 7 Speech Delivery Tips

🔗 References

🤖 extemporaneous speech generator: introduction.

Extemporaneous speech is a distinct form of public speaking that requires specific skills from college students. You can advance in this performance by applying creativity, quick thinking, and persuasive speaking skills . Still in doubt about whether you can ace this speech type? Are you a newbie who's just starting? Then practice and a bit of preparation will do you a good favor. To help you out, our team has prepared this extemporaneous speech creator and a small guide on how to make this speech stand out. Check them out!

✨ 5 Advantages of Our Extemporaneous Speech Maker

Using our speech creator is a perfect shortcut to mastering this skill faster. You will surely enjoy the benefits of picking our speech maker as a handy assistant.

An extemporaneous speech is a specific form of speech delivery that presupposes an improvised presentation on the speaker's part with minimal preparation. Many people find this public speaking method challenging; they have no time for preparation and need to sound structured and persuasive without an outline and several rehearsals.

When you want to deliver such a type, speech topics are usually issued right before the performance. That's why such public speaking exercises are typical for competitions.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Extemporaneous Speaking?

Speaking without preparation comes with certain advantages, yet it also has drawbacks you should know.

🤓 How to Make an Effective Extemporaneous Speech

A secret formula to an excellent extemporaneous speech combines preparation and spontaneity. Here, we share some essential steps to help you attain that balance.

  • Choose your topic . It should be simple and manageable yet interesting for your audience.
  • Formulate a thesis statement . Create the main guiding message you will aim to deliver to your listeners. Besides, you can try our thesis statement generator .
  • Compose an outline . Create a structure with an opening statement, arguments, supporting evidence, and a conclusion to guide your speech delivery.
  • Research the topic and compile the evidence . Find some relevant sources and facts that may make your arguments more persuasive and grounded.
  • Explain the points you make . Add the located evidence to your arguments and combine them logically so the audience can capture your reasoning.
  • Give relevant examples . Spice up the narrative with examples. They work much better to illustrate abstract points and convince the listeners.
  • Formulate a coherent conclusion . Sum up all your arguments and revisit the thesis statement to show that you've achieved your speech's rhetorical goal.
  • Deliver the speech . Present your intellectual product to the public.

What Are Some Simple Topics in an Extemporaneous Speech?

Manageable and informative speech topics are a great way to simplify the task of extemporaneous speech preparation and delivery. Here are some interesting topics:

  • The importance of being true to yourself.
  • How do I follow my dream ?
  • Four types of lessons you can learn from college life .
  • What is the role of AI in modern life?

📝 Extemporaneous Speech Outline Example

An outline is a powerful helper in your spontaneous speech preparation. It will structure your presentation and help you stay on topic throughout delivery. Check out an example of a well-structured outline for this speech type.

Prompt : The role of teachers in your life.

  • Introduction: An opening hook is a story about a teacher that changed one famous person's life. Thesis statement about the subject of the speech.
  • Point 1 . People are social creatures and learn everything in their lives from examples (of their parents, peers, and teachers).
  • Point 2 . Teachers are specifically trained people whose mission is to direct their students and inform them about the hidden implications of their thoughts and decisions, etc. Thus, listening to a wise teacher is an opportunity to borrow wisdom from them.
  • Point 3 . Teachers can prevent life-changing mistakes by sharing their experiences. It is every person's choice whether to listen to their advice or make their own decisions and reap the consequences (whether good or bad).
  • Conclusion: The concluding paragraph is about the value of honoring teachers. Also, it should highlight what a transformative experience they can give each student.

What Are the Key Points of Extemporaneous Speech?

Though you have little time for preparation, it’s still vital in the process. Here are some points that will make your speech good:

  • Deliver the speech sincerely.
  • Speak in your traditional tone and individual style .
  • Make sure your words make sense.
  • Speak naturally without sticking to the words in the outline.
  • Avoid using too complex terminology or long sentences.

🔥 7 Extemporaneous Speech Delivery Tips for the Best Performance

The good news is that with a healthy dose of preparation, training, and rehearsal, you can hone your extemporaneous speech delivery skills and get better at this craft.

Use these tips to improve your public speaking excellence.

  • Create index cards . These prompts will give you hints throughout the process of speaking without creating an impression that you're reading from a sheet of paper.
  • Practice active listening . Once you listen to how others speak, you will understand what public speaking resonates with people.
  • Develop your speaking skills . You will fare much better with extemporaneous speaking if you develop an individual style and approach. It will simplify speaking on a variety of topics.
  • Engage body language . Speeches are not only about words; body language and non-verbal cues may also help you deliver your message.
  • Rehearse the speech . Training and preparation will give you confidence and a better grasp of the topic.
  • Use relatable examples from personal experience . These examples resonate with the public much better than examples about people your listeners don't know.
  • Learn by mistakes . Public speaking is a lifelong learning skill you can improve as you train and analyze your past performances. There's always room for improvement.

We wish you a successful performance with your extemporaneous speech! Feel free to share the speech creator with your friends. Also, check out our handy topic generator .

Updated: Jan 26th, 2024

  • Prepared and Extemporaneous Speech Assignments in a Communication-B Course. – Professor Greg Downey, University of Wisconsin
  • Four Methods of Delivery. – University of Minnesota
  • Oral Discourse and Extemporaneous Delivery. – University of Pittsburgh
  • Methods of Speech Delivery. – Rebekah Bennetch; Corey Owen; and Zachary Keesey, University of Saskatchewan
  • 4-H Opportunities in Extemporaneous Speaking. – University of Massachusetts Amherst
  • Extemporaneous Speaking: The Basics. – Dr. Layne Goodman; Amber Green, M.A., Maricopa Community Colleges
  • Tips on Extemporaneous Speech. – Felix Researcher, Medium
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Here you will find an extemporaneous speech generator to help you promptly prepare for an event. Read a good outline example to understand the structure. Also, check out the short guide and beneficial tips that can help you for a better speaking experience.

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Ohio University Speech and Debate Team named National Champion

Speech and Debate

Ohio University’s Speech and Debate Team is preparing for its next national competition after being named National Champion in Individual Events (Speech events) at Pi Kappa Delta Nationals in Phoenix, AZ on March 11. The team also placed 13 th in Debate Sweepstakes and 2 nd Overall in Combined Sweepstakes (Speech and Debate).

“It’s amazing,”  Jennifer Talbert, the John A. Cassese Director of Forensics, said. “It’s been a long time since Ohio University’s Speech and Debate Team was a national champion. This is another sign of resurgence for us.” 

The Speech and Debate team competes each year from September through April, providing the opportunity for students to meet outstanding undergraduates from 300 or more colleges or universities in intellectual competition. Approximately 20 tournaments at other schools and several held on the Athens campus enable students to develop skills in debate, extemporaneous speaking, oratory, rhetorical criticism, and oral interpretation. The group is made up of students from many different majors. About a third of the team members are communication majors.

Emily Osborne

Emily Osborne, a sophomore from Cleveland who is a child and family studies major in the College of Health Sciences and Professions, won First Place National Champion in the Informative Speaking category. Her winning speech was about the negative impact of using diagnostic medical terms incorrectly in casual conversation.

“People misuse many diagnostic terms. Examples include the words ‘gaslighting’ and ‘traumatized’ or ‘traumatic.’ They use them in casual ways that are not ways the word was intended,” said Osborne. “The main takeaway in my speech is that therapy speak blurs a line between empathy and manipulation. In some cases, people manipulate someone by using a big fancy diagnostic word to describe their situation. And because of that, it desensitizes people to the word. So, when people are gaslit or traumatized, they don’t realize it because the word has been used to describe smaller events or emotions.”

Osborne participated with her high school speech and debate team so continuing with speech and debate at Ohio University just made sense to her. She has enjoyed the support and growth she has received through working with Talbert and the different students she has met through the program.

“It’s been awesome. It is so different from anything I’ve ever done. It is so diverse,” said Osborne. “There are so many opportunities. I really just love to try different events and see what I can talk about and share my passions. I love the team. Everyone on it is awesome. We have a lot of fun.”

“I’m incredibly proud of Emily. She’s only a sophomore,” said Talbert. “I think that she really has been able to find her voice, not only through informative speech, but through her other events. It’s always great to see someone who invests and puts in the time and energy to be able to reap those rewards.”

Talbert has been coaching the Ohio University team for the last six years but has been coaching speech and debate for a total of 25 years. There are about 25 students on the team, and they compete against 80 to 100 other students in each event.

“Speech and debate teaches such a unique skillset. It teaches students how to speak in public, which I think is so vital. I want students to be good civic citizens and be able to speak up for themselves and voice their opinions. But it also teaches research skills, writing, critical thinking, how to get along with other people, how to get along with a group, and how to dress professionally,” Talbert added. “It also teaches them to take criticism. There is an opportunity to flourish and win, but you don’t always win. It teaches how to lose in a safe environment.”

Osborne says she already sees the positive impact of speech and debate in her day-to-day life and how it’s going to help her in her future career. She plans to become a child life specialist. Child life specialists are pediatric health care professionals who work with children and families in hospitals and other settings to help them cope with the challenges of hospitalization, illness, and disability.

“Anything I do with presentations and interviews, I’ve seen a big improvement,” said Osborne. “With Child and Family studies, speech and debate is helping me learn a lot of different perspectives. I hear others speak and make arguments about their passions and I become more well-rounded as a person. It helps me understand more about who I am going to be working with in the field and what they are going through.”

Osborne also appreciates the coaching and support she has received from Talbert. She says Talbert’s guidance and commitment helped her become the national champion.

“Jen has been a huge help,” said Osborne. “She helped me learn to pick topics and stories that are important to me and that I care about. It has been a huge difference. Jen pushed me in the right direction.”

“Emily and I did research together and went through a bunch of edits of her speech,” said Talbert. “My coaching role is the equivalent of private lessons for an instrument. She came in and delivered the speech. I listened and gave her feedback and then she did it again.”

Osborne and her teammates will seek the national champion title again during their next tournament which begins on April 18.

IMAGES

  1. What is Extemporaneous Speech? Extemporaneous Speech Example and

    writing an extemporaneous speech

  2. Extemporaneous Speech

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  3. Ultimate Guide for Preparing Effective Extemporaneous Speech

    writing an extemporaneous speech

  4. Extemporaneous Speech

    writing an extemporaneous speech

  5. Extemporaneous Speech

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  6. Extemporaneous Speech

    writing an extemporaneous speech

VIDEO

  1. EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEECH

  2. COM 111 Extemporaneous Speech

  3. Elijah Extemporaneous Speech @ Ateneo.AVI

  4. Extemporaneous Speech

  5. 2min- Extemporaneous speech

  6. Extemporaneous Speech on Happiness

COMMENTS

  1. Extemporaneous Speech: Writing and Delivery Tips

    Mastering the art of writing an extemporaneous speech is a valuable skill that can benefit you in various personal and professional situations. By following this step-by-step guide, practicing, and learning from your experiences, you can become a confident and effective extemporaneous speaker.

  2. How to Deliver an Extemporaneous Speech: Tips and Tricks

    Here are some brief tips to help you deliver an extemporaneous speech with confidence and impact: Know your Audience: Tailor your speech to the specific audience you are addressing to ensure relevance and engagement. Practice Impromptu Speaking: Regularly engage in impromptu speaking exercises to sharpen your ability to think on your feet and ...

  3. How To Write An Extemporaneous Speech?

    Writing an extemporaneous speech can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can deliver a memorable performance. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started: - Choose your topic and gather information. - Create an outline that includes an introduction, main points, and conclusion. - Practice your speech by using ...

  4. 14.1 Four Methods of Delivery

    Extemporaneous Speaking. Extemporaneous speaking is the presentation of a carefully planned and rehearsed speech, spoken in a conversational manner using brief notes. By using notes rather than a full manuscript, the extemporaneous speaker can establish and maintain eye contact with the audience and assess how well they are understanding the speech as it progresses.

  5. PDF Extemporaneous Speeches: Definition and Delivery

    The problem with writing out your entire speech on index cards is twofold: 1. You'll have to make your writing so small that you likely won't be able to read it. 2. Reading your speech (even from index cards) is manuscript delivery, not extemporaneous delivery. Like all other aspects of speech development, creating effective index cards to ...

  6. PDF EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEAKING

    extemporaneous speaking - the feeling that there is no way you could ever do something like that. At this point it is worth acknowl-edging something that you have probably al-ready realized - extemporaneous speaking is difficult. To excel at it takes significant prac-tice and a deliberate approach to research and speech writing.

  7. Extemporaneous Speech

    Here are the steps involved in preparing for your extemporaneous speech; 1. Consider your Speech's Topic - Before your speech begins, think about your topic carefully. Begin brainstorming as soon as you get the topic and try to come up with 3 to 4 significant ideas to talk about. 2.

  8. How to Write an Extemporaneous Speech

    An extemporaneous speech is one prepared quickly, within a half hour or less. Many schools offer extemporaneous speaking competitions. When practiced, writing extemporaneous speeches can improve public speaking skills as well as promote on-the-fly thinking.

  9. Ways of Delivering Speeches

    In this chapter, we will explore the three modes of speech delivery: impromptu, manuscript, and extemporaneous. Each offers unique advantages and potential challenges. An effective public speaker needs to be familiar with each style so they can use the most appropriate mode for any speech occasion. In writing, there's only one way of ...

  10. Extempore Speech

    The distinction is in the delivery method: an impromptu speech is composed and delivered on the spot, but an extemporaneous speech is composed and delivered with only a few notes. How do you begin an extempore speech? 1. To begin an extempore speech, begin with a quote or a brief narrative related to the topic; this will give you an excellent ...

  11. How To Write An Extemporaneous Speech: Structure & Samples

    An extemporaneous speech is a type of public speaking in which a speaker speaks on the fly without notes or scripts and presents his or her arguments and ideas with confidence, poise, and enthusiasm. Read more about arguments from our illustrative guide on how to write an argumentative speech. Prior to giving the speech, it is important to ...

  12. Extemporaneous Speaking: The Basics

    It will take approximately four weeks to deliver an extemporaneous speech: Week 1 - Brainstorm your speech topic and conduct an audience analysis. Week 2 - Research, gather support, plan outline, and write a speech. Week 3 - Edit, peer-review, begin practicing your speech. Week 4 - Revise, practice, create note cards, create a visual ...

  13. Ultimate Guide for Preparing Effective Extemporaneous Speech

    A thesis is an essential element of any writing or speech piece. It's a form of instruction that helps speakers better swim in the ocean of thoughts that spring to mind with regard to this or that extemporaneous speech topic. Write down, in two-three short sentences, what your feelings and opinions about the issue are.

  14. PRDV008: Extemporaneous Speeches

    Extemporaneous Speech. Extemporaneous speaking is one of the most natural methods for delivering a prepared speech. You can use an extemporaneous speech to achieve a more natural tone, flow, and style with the audience. First, think about your topics and anticipate the audience's reception to your speech. You can develop speech notes based on ...

  15. 11.2: Methods of Delivery

    The extemporaneous style is the method most often recommended (and often required) in today's public speaking courses, and is generally the best method in other settings as well. While it is not the only method of delivering a speech, it is the most useful for presentations in other courses, in the corporate world and in pursuing future careers.

  16. 10 Extemporaneous Speech Examples

    Photo by Matheus Bertelli. An extemporaneous speech is a type of public speaking that is given with minimal prior preparation. Unlike prepared speeches, which are rehearsed and memorized beforehand, extemporaneous speeches are spontaneous and rely on the speaker's ability to think on their feet.. In an extemporaneous speech, the speaker may have a general outline or set of ideas to follow ...

  17. Oral Discourse and Extemporaneous Delivery

    Extemporaneous Speech - Select to Write & Shipping It Skillfully. Repetition. Repetition is a fundamental part of most good public speeches. An old public speaking adage goes something like: "tell 'em what you're going to tell 'em, tell 'em, the then tell 'em what you told 'em." By the end is a speech, an target should have ...

  18. Extemporaneous Speech

    Write an Extemporaneous Speech on the future of renewable energy. Deliver an Extemporaneous Speech discussing the importance of mental health awareness. Craft an Extemporaneous Speech on the role of technology in modern communication. Formulate an Extemporaneous Speech about the effects of social media on society.

  19. How to Give An Extemporaneous Speech

    How to Give an Extemporaneous Speech Like a Professional. Here's a mini-training that'll help you develop the genuine, conversational public speaking sound p...

  20. How to Deliver an Outstanding Extemporaneous Speech?

    Draft a quick outline for your speech. Introduce the topic. Share an anecdote or statistic that the audience can relate to. Pose a question that will get the audience thinking about your topic. A pdf has been attached here to get a better understanding of its outline. Extemporaneous Speech Outline. 3.

  21. 113 Extemporaneous Speech Topics • My Speech Class

    Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class. ... Extemporaneous speech topics tutorial including preparation in three steps and examples. Prepare good, quick and properly in a minimum of ...

  22. Extemporaneous Speech

    To make sure that you cover all of your ideas during the extempore speech, you must make an instant timeline. As soon as you get the topic, you must divide your 30 minutes into three parts: First 10 minutes: First of all, you need to evaluate the type of audience for whom you will speak.

  23. Extemporaneous Speech Maker: Quick and Efficient Tool

    It was designed to help college students search for inspiration before delivery for successful performance. This extemporaneous speech maker is relatively simple to use. Just follow these steps: Add the topic of your speech. Indicate your stance. Add details about the audience. Click "Generate" and get the extemporaneous speech.

  24. Ohio University Speech and Debate Team named National Champion

    Approximately 20 tournaments at other schools and several held on the Athens campus enable students to develop skills in debate, extemporaneous speaking, oratory, rhetorical criticism, and oral interpretation. The group is made up of students from many different majors. About a third of the team members are communication majors.