Ex. No.
10 Exercise on Practicing Art of Public Speaking
Public speaking (also called oratory or oration) is the process or act of performing a
speech to a live audience. It is the process of speaking to a group of people in a structured,
deliberate manner to inform, influence or entertain the listener. Public speaking is commonly
understood as formal, face-to-face speaking of a single person to a group of listeners.
Public speaking is a vital skill that enhances your ability to communicate effectively
in front of an audience. Practicing through targeted exercises can boost your confidence,
improve your delivery, and help you convey your message clearly.
Purpose of Speech:
The purpose of speaking is to make the listener understand, gain knowledge, get
persuaded, to inform or change the attitude and finally getting action.
Elements of Speech:
1. Audience
Homogenous or Heterogeneous in socio-economic, psychological and
personal characters.
2. Content or Message
Should be simple, acceptable and understandable.
3. Expression
Includes mannerism, body language etc.
A good speaker can influence people. Confidence and courage are necessary for
making a good speech. However the better preparation would help to develop the confidence.
Parts of Speech
The speech has three parts viz., introduction, body and conclusion.
a. Introduction – Telling what you are going to tell
The introduction should be direct and quick.
Arouse curiosity by giving some factual statements.
Begin with an illustration.
Shocking facts have great power to make the audience attentive.
Never begin with an apology.
b. Body – Telling what you have promised to tell
Body is the main speech.
In the main speech as per planning talk over the identified points.
At the end of the meeting these points should be remembered by the audience.
Eradicate all ill-feelings.
Don't challenge.
Give local and suitable examples.
Support the points with adequate evidences.
Use simple and local language.
Be time conscious.
Acknowledge the organizers and audience.
If possible, use appropriate visual aids. Visual aids help the audience to remember
longer.
Quote relevant proverbs and quotable quotes.
Restate your ideas indifferent words.
Wherever possible repeat the points.
Try to avoid contradictory ideas.
Ideas should be presented with enthusiasm and conviction.
Quote authority to support your statements or points.
c. Conclusion – Telling what you have told
In any speech the introduction and conclusion are very important.
The last part of the talk is conclusion.
Closing is very important because the final words are remembered longer.
The closing should be smooth.
It should be done by summarizing the main points, with an appeal for action.
If possible close with humour and also with some practical questions based on the
nature of the subject.
Tips for Mastering the Art of Public Speaking
1. Know your audience
2. Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse
3. Practice with distractions
4. Find a style that works for you
5. Know the environment
6. Test all equipment
7. Practice in front of a mirror
8. Take every opportunity to speak
9. Practice body language and movement
10. Slow down
11. Make eye contact
12. Know your material
13. Take long pauses
14. Practice tone and projection
15. Use humor and emotion
16. Mentally prepare
17. Exercise before you go on
18. Project confidence
19. Don't go over the allotted time
20. Finally ask for feedback
Benefits of public speaking
Brings individual qualities to the forefront
Develops a capacity for human relations
Ensures greater convictions
Helps for better participation in organization
Creates self confidence
Makes the mind methodical
Ensures clarity of thought
Helps to acquire qualities like enthusiasm and courage
Writing and speaking are the two eyes of extension workers
