SPEECH AND THEATRE ARTS The advantage of using a manuscript is that the speaker has access to every word

advantage of using a manuscript is that the speaker has access to every word they’ve prepared
in advance. There is no guesswork or memorization needed. This method comforts some speakers’
The Pronunciation Poem nerves as they don’t have to worry about that moment where they might freeze and forget what
they’ve planned to say. They also are able to make exact quotes from their source material. When the
Here is some pronunciation. Say the a in gas quite short
exact wording of an idea is crucial, speakers often read from a manuscript, for instance in
Ration never rhymes with nation, Bought remember rhymes with thwart,
communicating public statements from a company.
Say prefer, but preferable, Drought must always rhyme with bout,
Comfortable and vegetable, In daughter leave the “gh” out. However, the disadvantage with a manuscript is that the speakers have MANY words in front of them
B must not be heard in doubt, on the page. This prohibits one of the most important aspects of delivery, eye contact. When many
Debt and dumb both leave it out. Wear a boot upon your foot. words are on the page, the speakers will find themselves looking down at those words more
In the words psychology, Root can never rhyme with soot. frequently because they will need the help. If they do look up at the audience, they often cannot find
Psychic and psychiatry, In muscle, sc is s, their place when the eye returns to the page. Also, when nerves come into play, speakers with
You must never sound the p. In muscular, it’s sk, yes! manuscripts often default to reading from the page and forget that they are not making eye contact
Psychiatrist you call the man Choir must always rhyme with wire, or engaging their audience. Therefore, manuscript is a very difficult delivery method and not ideal.
Who cures the complex, if he can. That again will rhyme with liar. Above all, the speakers should remember to rehearse with the script so that they practice looking up
In architect, chi is k. Then remember it’s address often.
In arch it is the other way. With an accent like possess.
G in sign must silent be, 2. Memorized
Please remember to say iron In signature, pronounce the g.
A memorized speech is also fully prepared in advance and one in which the speaker does not use any
So that it’ll rhyme with lion.
notes. In the case of an occasion speech like a quick toast, a brief dedication, or a short eulogy, word-
Advertisers advertise, Please remember, say towards
Advertisements will put you wise. Just as if it rhymed with boards. forword memorization might make sense. Usually, though, it doesn’t involve committing each and
Time when work is done is leisure, Weight’s like wait, but not like height. every word to memory. Memorizing a speech isn’t like memorizing a poem where you need to
Fill it up with useful pleasure. Which should always rhyme with might. remember every word exactly as written. Don’t memorize a manuscript! Work with your outline
Accidental, accident, Sew is just the same as so, instead. Practice with the outline until you can recall the content and order of your main points
Sound the g in ignorant. Tie a ribbon in a bow. without effort. Then it’s just a matter of practicing until you’re able to elaborate on your key points in
Relative, but relation, When you meet the queen you bow, a natural and seamless manner. Ideally, a memorized speech will sound like an off-the-cuff statement
Then say creature, but creation. Which again must rhyme with how. by someone who is a really eloquent speaker and an exceptionally organized thinker!
In perfect English make a start. The advantage of a memorized speech is that the speaker can fully face their audience and make lots
Learn this little rhyme by heart. of eye contact. The problem with a memorized speech is that speakers may get nervous and forget
the parts they’ve memorized. Without any notes to lean on, the speaker may hesitate and leave lots
of dead air in the room while trying to recall what was planned. Sometimes, the speaker can’t
Creative Speech Productions remember or find his or herplace in the speech and are forced to go get the notes or go back to the
PowerPoint in some capacity to try to trigger his or her memory. This can be an embarrassing and
Methods of Speech Delivery: uncomfortable moment for the speaker and the audience, and is a moment which could be easily
There are four basic methods of speech delivery: manuscript, memorized, impromptu, and avoided by using a different speaking method.
extemporaneous. We’ll look at each method and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each.
3. Impromptu
1. Manuscript An impromptu speech is one for which there is little to no preparation. There is often not a warning
A manuscript speech is when the speaker writes down every word they will speak during the speech. even that the person may be asked to speak. For example, your speech teacher may ask you to
When they deliver the speech, they have each word planned and in front of them on the page, much deliver a speech on your worst pet peeve. You may or may not be given a few minutes to organize
like a newscaster who reads from a teleprompter. your thoughts. What should you do? DO NOT PANIC. Even under pressure, you can create a basic
speech that follows the formula of an introduction, body, and conclusion. If you have a few minutes,
jot down some notes that fit into each part of the speech. (In fact, the phrase “speaking off the cuff,” in your speech outline, your extemporaneous notecards are not seen by anyone but you. Therefore,
which means speaking without preparation, probably refers to the idea that one would jot a few you can also write yourself notes to speak up, slow down, emphasize a point, go to the next slide, etc.
notes on one’s shirt cuff before speaking impromptu.) An introduction should include an attention The disadvantage to extemporaneous is the speakers may forget what else was planned to say or find
getter, introduction of the topic, speaker credibility, and forecasting of main points. The body should a card to be out of order. This problem can be avoided through rehearsal and double-checking the
have two or three main points. The conclusion should have a summary, call to action, and final note order before speaking. Many speakers consider the extemporaneous method to be the ideal
thought. If you can organize your thoughts into those three parts, you will sound like a polished speaking method because it allows them to be prepared, keeps the audience engaged, and makes the
speaker. Even if you only hit two of them, it will still help you to think about the speech in those parts. speakers more natural in their delivery. In your public speaking class, most of your speeches will
For example, if a speech is being given on a pet peeve of chewed gum being left under desks in probably be delivered extemporaneously.
classrooms, it might be organized like this.
CREATIVE SPEECHES
• Introduction: Speaker chews gum loudly and then puts it under a desk (attention getter,
demonstration). Speaker introduces themselves and the topic and why they’re qualified to speak on 1. Declamation
it (topic introduction and credibility). “I’m Katie Smith and I’ve been a student at this school for three Declamation is an artistic method of public speaking that expresses the full sense of the text being
years and witnessed this gum problem the entire time.” conveyed through articulation, emphasis, and gesture. This type of dramatic oration can be used to
• Body: Speaker states three main points of why we shouldn’t leave gum on desks: it’s rude, it makes persuade, inform, or entertain an audience. It was originally used in ancient Rome to teach rhetoric.
custodians have to work harder, it affects the next student who gets nastiness on their seat (forecast
of order). Speaker then discusses those three points Declamation, derived from the Latin word “declamatio” (infinitive: dēclāmāre), is a form of public
• Conclusion: Speaker summarizes those three points (summary, part 1 of conclusion), calls on the speaking that emphasizes the delivery and dramatic presentation of a recitation or speech. It is an
audience to pledge to never do this again (call to action), and gives a quote from Michael Jordan ancient rhetorical practice that has evolved over the centuries.
about respecting property (final thought). This centuries-old practice involves the recitation of a speech, typically chosen from famous literary
While an impromptu speech can be challenging, the advantage is that it can also be thrilling as the or historical works, to captivate and engage an audience. Whether it’s the fiery delivery of a harangue
speaker thinks off the cuff and says what they’re most passionate about in the moment. A speaker or the eloquent recital of a profound monologue, declamation showcases the speaker’s ability to
should not be afraid to use notes during an impromptu speech if they were given any time to convey emotions, persuade, and inspire. One can find a plethora of synonyms for declamation, such
organize their thoughts. The disadvantage is that there is no time for preparation, so finding research as oratory, elocution, or public speaking. It is a craft that demands not only a strong command of
to support claims such as quotes or facts cannot be included. The lack of preparation makes some language but also the art of storytelling and the ability to connect with listeners. Word choice plays a
speakers more nervous and they may struggle to engage the audience due to their nerves. crucial role in conveying the intended message effectively, where resources like the thesaurus and
word lists become invaluable companions for a declaimer, providing an array of vocabulary options to
4. Extemporaneous enrich their delivery.
The last method of delivery we’ll look at is extemporaneous. When speaking extemporaneously,
speakers prepare some notes in advance that help trigger their memory of what they planned to say. What Is the difference between Speech and Declamation?
These notes are often placed on notecards. A 4”x6” notecard or 5”x7” size card works well. This size While speech and declamation involve the act of addressing an audience, distinct differences exist
of notecards can be purchased at any office supply store. Speakers should determine what needs to between the two. A speech primarily focuses on conveying information, sharing ideas, or expressing
go on each card by reading through their speech notes and giving themselves phrases to say out loud. opinions in a coherent and persuasive manner.
These notes are not full sentences, but help the speakers, who turn them into a full sentence when It aims to educate, entertain, or inspire the listeners. On the other hand, declamation places greater
spoken aloud. Note that if a quote is being used, listing that quote verbatim is fine. emphasis on the dramatic delivery of the spoken words.
The advantage of extemporaneous speaking is that the speakers are able to speak in a more It involves using gestures, eye contact, facial expressions, and vocal variations to convey emotions
conversational tone by letting the cards guide them, but not dictate every word they say. This method and engage the audience on a more visceral level.
allows for the speakers to make more eye contact with the audience. The shorter note forms also 2. Storytelling
prevent speakers from getting lost in their words. Numbering these cards also helps if one gets out of Storytelling is the interactive art of using words and actions to reveal the elements and images of a
order. Also, these notes are not ones the teacher sees or collects. While you may be required to turn story while encouraging the listener’s imagination.
Storytelling is interactive.
Storytelling involves a two-way interaction between a storyteller and one or more listeners. The imperceptibly into other arts, the essence of storytelling remains recognizable as the intersection of
responses of the listeners influence the telling of the story. In fact, storytelling emerges from the the five components included in the above definition.
interaction and cooperative, coordinated efforts of teller and audience.
Storytelling does not create an imaginary barrier between the speaker and the listeners. This is part The 5 Different Types of Speech Styles
of what distinguishes storytelling from the forms of theatre that use an imaginary “fourth wall.”
Different cultures and situations create different expectations for the exact roles of storyteller and Human beings have different ways of communicating. No two people speak the same (and nor should
listener – who speaks how often and when, for example – and therefore create different forms of they). In fact, if you’ve paid any attention to people’s speeches around you, you might have already
interaction. The interactive nature of storytelling partially accounts for its immediacy and impact. At noticed that they vary from speaker to speaker, according to the context. Those variations aren’t
its best, storytelling can directly and tightly connect the teller and audience. merely coincidental. Martin Joos, a famous German linguist and professor, was the first one to
organize the speeches according to their variations, having come up with five speech styles,
Storytelling uses words. depending on their degree of formality:
Storytelling uses language, whether it be a spoken language or a manual language such as American
Sign Language. The use of language distinguishes storytelling from most forms of dance and mime. Frozen Style (or Fixed speech)
A speech style is characterized by the use of certain grammar and vocabulary particular to a certain
Storytelling uses actions such as vocalization, physical movement and/or gesture. field, one in which the speaker is inserted. The language in this speech style is very formal and static,
These actions are the parts of spoken or manual language other than words. Their use distinguishes making it one of the highest forms of speech styles. It’s usually done in a format where the speaker
storytelling from writing and text-based computer interactions. Not all nonverbal language behaviors talks and the audience listens without actually being given the space to respond.
need to be present in storytelling. Some storytellers use body movement extensively, for example, Application: It’s generally reserved for formal settings such as important ceremonies (for instance, a
whereas others use little or none. ceremony at the royal palace or one in which a country’s president is present), weddings, funerals,
etc.
Storytelling presents a story. Examples: a presidential speech, an anthem, and a school creed.
Storytelling always involves the presentation of a story—a narrative. Many other art forms also
present story, but storytelling presents it with the other four components. Every culture has its own Formal Style
definition of story. What is recognized as a story in one situation may not be accepted as one in This style, just like the previous one, is also characterized by a formal (agreed upon and even
another. Some situations call for spontaneity and playful digression, for example; others call for near- documented) vocabulary and choice of words, yet it’s more universal as it doesn’t necessarily require
exact repetition of a revered text. Art forms such as poetry recitation and stand-up comedy expertise in any field and it’s not as rigid as the frozen style. The language in this speech is respectful
sometimes present stories and sometimes don’t. Since they generally involve the other four and rejects the use of slang, contractions, ellipses and qualifying modal adverbials. Oftentimes the
components, they can be regarded as forms of storytelling whenever they also present stories. speaker must plan the sentences before delivering them.
Application: Although it’s often used in writing, it also applies to speaking, especially to medium to
Storytelling encourages the active imagination of the listeners. large-sized groups. It’s also the type of speech that should be used when communicating with
In storytelling, the listener imagines the story. In most traditional theatre or in a typical dramatic film, strangers and others such as older people, elders, professionals, and figures of authority.
on the other hand, the listener enjoys the illusion that the listener is actually witnessing the character Examples: meetings (corporate or other formal meetings), court, class, interview, speech, or
or events described in the story. presentation.
The storytelling listener’s role is to actively create the vivid, multi-sensory images, actions, characters,
and events—the reality—of the story in his or her mind, based on the performance by the teller and Consultative Style
on the listener’s own past experiences, beliefs, and understandings. The completed story happens in The third level of communication it’s a style characterized by a semi-formal vocabulary, often
the mind of the listener, a unique and personalized individual. The listener becomes, therefore, a co- unplanned and reliant on the listener’s responses and overall participation.
creator of the story as experienced. Application: any type of two-way communication, dialogue, whether between two people or more,
Storytelling can be combined with other art forms. The fruit born by the vital, contemporary where there’s no intimacy or any acquaintanceship.
storytelling movement includes the development of ways to combine storytelling with drama, music, Examples: group discussions, teacher-student communication, expert-apprentice, communication
dance, comedy, puppetry, and numerous other forms of expression. Yet, even as it blends between work colleagues or even between employer-employee, and talking to a stranger.
Casual Style (or Informal Style)
As the name says, this style is characterized by its casualty, with a flexible and informal vocabulary
that may include slang. It’s usually unplanned, pretty relaxed, and reliant on the fluid back and forth
between those involved, without any particular order.
Application: used between people with a sense of familiarity and a relatively close relationship,
whether in a group or in a one-on-one scenario.
Examples: chats with friends and family, casual phone calls, or text messages.

Intimate Style
This is the speech style that’s reserved for people who have a really close connection. It’s casual and
relaxed and goes beyond words, as it incorporates nonverbal communication and even personal
language codes, such as terms of endearment and expressions whose meaning are only understood
by the participants, besides slang.
Application: used between people who share an intimate bond.
Examples: chats between best friends, boyfriend and girlfriend, siblings and other family members,
whether in messages, phone calls, or personally.

SPEECH SOUNDS