Gustavus Adolphus College

 

Impromptu Speaking

An impromptu speech is serious in nature, with topic selections varied by round and by section. Topics will be of a proverb nature. Speakers will have a total of 7 minutes within which to prepare and deliver the speech. Timing commences with the acceptance of the topic sheet. Limited notes are permitted. Each speaker in a given section will choose to speak from one of the same two topics offered.

An impromptu speech is intended to demonstrate the student's ability to provide a well-reasoned analysis of a designated question using a limited amount of preparation time. Each speech should be unique and spontaneously created by the speaker. All portions of the quotation should be dealt with, using definition and explication when necessary, in providing a comprehensive discussion of the topic. The content should reflect the entire sense of the quotation, not merely individual words in the topic. The speaker may take a stand, advance an argument, and/or discuss the context and meaning of the quotation, and/or provide a practical application of applications of the quotation. Credit should be given to speakers who creatively address the less obvious implications of the quotation and provide the listeners with new information. Credit should also be given to speakers who go beyond merely personal examples, the reliance on which may be avoided through the citation and analysis of examples drawn from current events of areas of knowledge such as history, philosophy, literature or the arts.

All principles of effective presentation should be demonstrated. The structure should include a readily identifiable introduction, body, and conclusion. A memorable introduction should be followed by an exact statement of the quotation and its author; a careful analysis of the quotation should lead to an organizational preview. Credit should be given to imaginative and effective organizational structure. Clear transitions should be made between main points so that the organizational structure is cumulatively reviewed and previewed. An adequate summary should be provided, followed by a memorable conclusion. Effective language should be utilized. In addition, the nonverbal components should be effectively demonstrated, such as direct and communicative eye contact and good posture and poise. Gestures should be motivated, comfortable, and enhance, not distract from the presentation. The speech should be free of breaks in fluency and credit should be given for speaking without notes. Poor enunciation or incorrect grammar should be penalized. In short, the speaker should make effective use of sound public speaking conventions.

Judges should be prepared to time speakers and to explain to each speaker how timing will be conducted. Preparation time elapsed is usually announced verbally by the judge at 1 minute or 30 second intervals. Time elapsed after the speech has begun is usually indicated by hand signals. The use of preparation time as well as the distribution of time overall are crucial elements in impromptu speaking. Credit should be given to speakers who use a minimum amount of preparation time and who appropriately distribute time in developing the major points of the speech. A maximum utilization of time should be rewarded; however, the total time used in preparation and speaking should not exceed 7 minutes. Speeches that do not use enough time and those that are in excess of 7 minutes should be penalized according to the severity of the violation.

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Impromptu speaking is an excellent means of developing real-world public speaking and analytical skills. The impromptu speaker has just a few moments to prepare and organize a speech. Although impromptu speaking skills are beneficial in almost any environment, they are particularly useful for students interested in careers in the law, academia or politics. Good impromptu speakers are able to capitalize on opportunities that demand quick wit, eloquence and poise.