4. When giving a speech, what verbal aspects of delivery must you pay attention to?

Lucas (2007) categorizes the types of informative speeches into 4 main types: (i) Objects, (ii) Processes, (iii) Events, and (iv) Concepts and mainly focuses on the organization of these types of speeches. For objects, we might approach it spatially, chronologically or topically – but regardless we should keep the main points sparse – as most audience don’t remember too many details, to keep wording similar – which I think is for ease of listening and comprehension. Lastly, he mentions that we should be balance the amount of time for each point (p. 300-302) – though I think if we were to show a liking for 1 main point we could spend a little bit more time on it. Process and event speeches are usually chronological, though if the sequences are too exhaustive we might consider the topical approach. Concept speeches are usually topical. He (2007) also mentions that not all speeches fit into one category and there are bound to be overlaps. Hence, we should exercise caution and discretion when choosing our organizational methods. Assumptions about audience’s knowledge should also be questioned – we should not overestimate their knowledge and/or be too technical, but to be clear and relatable.

Chen (2003) quoted McLuhan’s famous saying “The medium is the message” (p, 116), implying that the voice (medium) conveys much more information than the content of what is being said. It shapes and mirrors a person’s character. I concur, even in drama performances – a voice can aid in characterization or BE the character. He, however, has quite the standard for a “pleasantness” of a voice, stating that it cannot be “raspy, guttural, shrill, nasal, or breathy” (p.121) - I disagree because pleasantness can only be determined by the receptive party. While he might propose some kind of subjective universalism in saying that – I still think that pleasantness is largely subjective.

Chen also mentions that pauses are important – and they should replace fillers wherever necessary. This is a major problem that I have – having too many fillers in my sentences when I get anxious or don’t know my lines. It almost acts as a buffer for my emotions. He mentions that pauses should delineate different ideas, and should be done with intention/will, as they can buy time to breathe, organize thoughts and provide opportunities for changes in speech (such as pace, pitch etc) for different intended effects (2003, pp 126-127).

Chen has also provided a great breakdown of the characteristics of a good speaking voice (pp 120-121), which I will provide some of my views/interpretation.

Animation: I agree, especially if it is storytelling – but it need not always be animated (e.g. eulogy)

Articulation: I like the clarification between pronunciation and enunciation – It does not mean the same thing

Audibility: Yes, a large booming voice in an intimate setting is not wise.

Clarity: I thought this was the same as audibility and articulation. Maybe combined.

Diction: I think, also a combination of various characteristics like articulation.

Fluency: I agree. But fluency, (in my circumstances) may sometimes be seen as blabbering. I tend to compensate for my lack of content with reformulated sentences and repetition of points.

Pitch, Inflection, Intonation and Tone: Might be affected by mother tongue or home-language, especially in non-native EL speakers. Pronunciation might be impeccable but intonation and tone might be the problem.

Pleasantness: (As discussed above)

Rate: Speaking under a time limit can affect one’s rate, but one should properly pace their speech.

Stress: Not just word stress, sentence stress plays a big part in meaning making as well – brought about by Pitch, Inflection, Intonation and Loudness mainly.

On accents:

Turk (1985) talks about the using of accent as “dressing up the voice” (p.142). Style-shifts are common under different circumstances and contexts. I myself adopt a more RP/British accent when I do formal presentations or reading because I feel as if it is more appropriate and gives more credibility – perhaps it has some overt prestige. It might sound pretentious to some, but I think if it feels natural to me – and does not hinder my ability to speak, then why not?

References:

Chen, Ernest. (2003). Earnestly Speaking: How to Achieve Success in Public Speaking

Lucas, S. E. (2007). The Art of Public Speaking (9^th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill, pp. 300–31

Turk, Christopher. (1985). Effective Speaking: Communicating in Speech. London: Spon Press