An Introduction to Extemporaneous Speaking

An Introduction to Extemporaneous Speaking

OBJECTIVES:

Describe extemporaneous speech.
Discuss the purpose of extemp.
Evaluate the benefits of extemp.
List the types of extemp.
Identify the rules of extemp.
Explain how to build an extemp file.
Discuss effective extemp preparation strategies and techniques.
Identify key features of a useful extemp file.
Create an extemp file.
Classify the parts of a speech.
Identify the most important requirement in an extemp speech.
Recognize the extemp speech format.
List five organizational patterns
Analyze unified analysis.
Discuss guidelines for source citations in a speech.
Identify the different types of topics.
Explain how to properly prepare during the 30 minute prep period.
Describe an effective introduction.
List ways to practice an extemp speech.
Define speech vocabulary.

What is extemp?

Extemp is short for extemporaneous speaking. This activity asks the speaker to persuade or inform an audience “on short notice.” Participants choose from 3-5 topics, usually out of an envelope, and have 30 minutes to prepare a speech. Topics are in the form of questions about current events. For example, Should Social Security be replaced with private pension plans in the United States?

Why do extemp?

Extemp develops public speaking skills, raise knowledge of current events, improves analytical skills, enhances writing skills, and increases organizational skills. Attentiveness to political, economic and social issues produces a more informed citizen.

What types of extemp speeches are there?

The type of speech depends on the tournament. Some tournaments use a domestic/foreign format and others use a persuasive/informative format. Check the tournament entry to see which format will be used.

What are the rules to extemp?

Before the competition, clarify the rules for that tournament because rules vary from organization to organization. Most organizations have rules that forbid contestants from using prepared notes, hand written or typed material, consulting with a peer after you have drawn a topic, helping colleagues find information in the extemp files, using an electronic retrieval devices (computers) and using visual aids. Find specific rules for organizations by clicking on the link. NFL TFA UIL

How long are extemp speeches?

The maximum time is 7 minutes. There is no minimum, but you should speak at least 5 minutes if you want to advance. Some organizations or tournaments have a “grace” period of 15 seconds to 30 seconds. Check the rules to know the time parameters for the tournament you are attending. To novice speakers the time may seem intimidating, but with experience you will find the 7 minutes to be too limiting.

As a final point, locate the timekeeper and find out how time signals will be given (up, down, 30 seconds left). Confusion over time signals has caused many speakers trouble and grief.

Do they have to be memorized?

No, but most successful extempers do not use notes. You are allowed to use one 3/5 index card. Some common limits on cards are no more than 50 words, write on one side and may be used in prelims, but not finals.

Students should try speaking without cards. At first it may seem difficult, but after three or four times it will become easier. You may find it helpful to memorize in this order: main points, sub points, and then sources.

Who is in the room?

At most tournaments, only the judge will be in the room, if you can find a judge. Some tournaments may have timekeepers. As far as competitors, they are encouraged to observe rounds and should be permitted to watch and learn. Generally, the larger the tournament the more spectators you will find, especially in the final rounds.

How do I prepare?

Preparation for extemp requires studying current events, filing information in extemp tubs, and practicing speeches. Extempers should spend at least 4 to 5 hours a week preparing for competitions. By and large, the more a student prepares the more successful they will be in the event.

For more information see Preparation for Contest Extemp.

What are extemp files?

Extemp files are large tubs used to organize the many articles you have researched. Buy tubs that are designed to hold “hanging” folders. Remember, files must be portable. You have to take them to tournaments or they are useless. Divide your files into foreign and domestic. You may even want a tub for supplies and reference materials (almanacs, quote books, dictionaries). Eventually, you will need a dolly or freshman to carry your tubs.

The internet is a wonderful tool to find articles and information. ETA has listed numerous links to get you started. But, you may also want to subscribe to several publications so you get a wide-ranging analysis of current events. You don’t want to miss an issue because eventually you will draw that topic.

Start with the “the Big Three” (Newsweek, Time and U.S. News & World Report). These are easy to obtain, usually you can get somebody to donate these to your squad. However, research shows that students who quote more obscure sources tend to do better in competition.

Some excellent newspapers to use are The New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times and USA Today. You may need to read and file some regional newspapers (Boston Globe, Dallas Morning News, etc.) for specific topics.

Extempers tend to use some periodicals more than others. The Economist has been called “The God of Extemp Sources.” For foreign topics, many extempers use World Press Review and Foreign Affairs. Last but not least, the Christian Science Monitor is a preferred source for many speakers.

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