Discussion #2 - 11/2

Response to Speech Buddy Interactive Videos

10.1
Audience-centered language is important because it allows the audience to understand and retain the information that you are presenting in your speech. Inclusive language is a well-known part of that as you don't want certain members of the audience feel left out by only speaking to a specific group of people present. Giving visual examples, using humor, and sparking the audience's imagination are also ways that you can capture the audience's attention and make your speech concepts more vivid to them. I often use hypothetical situations or anecdotes that will give audience members a more personal and clear understanding of my speech topics. I might use hypothetical situations for my persuasive speech so that people can literally get into my shoes and see my point of view.

10.2
The kind of language that should be used during your speech should be concise. This fundamental. Because most public-speaking situations are time-bound, it is important to be able to say what you want to say in the most efficient way. I like using sentences that re succinct and pithy. Offensive language, and too much repetition of certain filler-type words can be distracting and can undermine your speech altogether.

12.1
Vocal delivery is the mechanics of actually making your speech. Volume, pitch, rate, variety, articulation and pronunciation are the main aspects that make up vocal delivery. It's obvious that voice projection and pitch are key helping your audience actually hear your words before they start processing them. Articulation and pronunciation are also important. If the audience didn't understand how you pronounced certain words or if you mumbled a lot, they probably won't be able to understand many sentences and concepts in your speech. Rate (or speed) is important in creating a flow to your speech that the audience can follow. At times, to make a point or create suspense the rate of your speech can be varied by adding pauses. However, too many pauses can also be distracting. I often pause for less than a second between my main points, to give closure to one point before I move to the next.

12.2
Physical delivery has to do with eye contact, facial expressions, gestures, movement, and appearance. These are the major visuals that the audience will be watching throughout your speech. You should make eye contact to draw in your audience and give them importance as listeners. Facial expressions and gestures should be matched with the concepts you are making in the speech, without distracting from it. Appearance and attire can depend on the kind of speech you are making and where you will be making it. I would dress up for an informative speech about The Indian tribes of colonial America, but I wouldn't dress up for a persuasive speech on abortion.

12.3
Practicing your speech is really important. This doesn't mean just sitting and memorizing the speech outline you have created. It is important to know your outline, however, you should be familiar enough with all the concepts so that you can create bulleted note cards that you will use for the speech itself. Practice standing up in front of a mirror 0r in front of family and friends allows you to get comfortable with the delivery of the speech. Also it can help you get some feedback from either what you see in the mirror (such as not making enough eye contact) or what your pseudo audience tells you (such as speaking too fast). I practice numerous times alone, as well as in front of my husband to prepare myself for public-speaking situations.