Extemporaneous Presentation

Chris Harwood National University of Singapore August 2011

What is an extemporaneous delivery?

• Extemporaneous speaking is similar to prepared speaking, except for preparation time.

• Speeches or presentations are delivered with little or no time given to prepare written information.

Do not memorize your speech:

• Speeches from memory tend to sound unnatural, "canned," or staged. The speaker loses spontaneity and the ability to adapt to audience needs. Also, what do you do if you forget information or lose your place?

Do not read your speech:

• Reading makes it impossible to interact with your audience…

They won't listen if you read to them!

Do not "wing" it!

• Even the best speakers need to prepare their comments in advance.

• Too much impromptu speaking can become unfocused and disorganized.

• You will likely stray from the topic and omit important information.

Use notes or an outline:

• Provide yourself with enough information to keep the speech on track,

but not too much so you are tied to your notes.

• Do not write notes in complete sentences - you will end up reading them. Use only key words and phrases.

• Less is better! Don't let the notes dictate the pace of the speech, let your pace dictate the use of the notes.

• Write your notes extra neatly or type them out. Never let your notes be a source of confusion or a distraction.

Remember:

• The first time you give an extemporaneous speech will be the most difficult.

This is because you will not have much time to prepare or practice.

• The most important thing to remember is stress the main idea (s) and deliver the speech or presentation with confidence.

Practice as much as possible!

• An extemporaneous delivery only works when the speaker is prepared.

• The challenge is not to deliver the speech exactly as you had planned.

• Rather, it is to present your ideas and information in a natural and conversational manner.

• Be flexible, be interactive, be prepared.

How your Extemporaneous presentation will be assessed

More information on Extemporaneous presentation here and here

Chris Harwood National University of Singapore August 2011

Adapted from Allen Sumutka at http://www.rider.edu/~sumutka/assistance/presentation.htm