UIL STUDENT ACTIVITIES CONFERENCE

EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEAKING

Tim Cook

Extemp Topic Analysis, www.extemptopicanalysis.com

1.  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 ? 

 2.  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.

3.  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. 

4.  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.  

5.  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.

6.  How do I prepare?

                Preparation for extemp requires studying current events, filing information in extemp tubs, and practicing speeches.  By and large, the more a student prepares the more successful they will be in the event.  

                I always told my students the key to being a successful speaker was to discover how to PP.  No, not that "pee pee", but PREPARE and PRACTICE.  The secret to success in extemporaneous speaking is adequate preparation and practice.  An athlete would never consider competing without practice and neither should a persuasive or informative speaker.

                Extempers must read, read and read. You will want to read a variety of sources ("The Big Three," Economist, Washington Post, New York Times, Foreign Affairs, Financial Times, Christian Science Monitor, etc.).  Reading will improve your analysis and allow you to prepare in less time.  Without an adequate knowledge base, you are setting yourself up for failure.

                Watch a daily news broadcast, the best is 'NewsHour with Jim Lehrer' (PBS).  On Sunday there are several news talk shows that are helpful: ‘Fox News Sunday’ (FOX), ‘Meet the Press’ (NBC), ‘This Week’ (ABC), ‘Face the Nation’ (CBS), ‘Late Edition’ (CNN), ‘To the Contrary’ (PBS), and ‘ Washington Week’ (PBS)  

                Conduct extemp labs, mini-lessons on a topic.  Invite a guest to present a lecture (maybe a history teacher, economist, professor, etc.), this person should provide depth to the knowledge you already have on the topic.  Prior to the lab, somebody can prepare a suggested reading list.  After the speaker is done, write a few questions on the topic and then analyze them collectively.

                It is important to watch your peers.  Using peer evaluation, you can create a style of your own (use what you liked in their speech and correct mistakes you thought they made in your presentations).  I can't emphasize the importance of watching other extempers, you can read all you want, but you will learn so much more by watching actual speeches.  When you watch a speech flow the speech, take notes, so after the speech you can evaluate the content more effectively.  There are numerous tapes of final rounds, state and national, that can be purchased. 

                I would highly recommend you video tape yourself and then evaluate the presentation.  Take your time when evaluating the tape, look for awkward movements, vocal pauses, and distracting mannerism.  It is also very effective to practice in front of a mirror for the same reasons.

                Finally, go to as many tournaments as possible.  This is the real learning environment for an extemper.  At the tournament, watch as many speakers as you can.  Watch other contestants in your rounds and if you don't make it to the elim rounds then you should definitely watch those rounds.

7.  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-range analysis of current events. 

                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.

8.  What should my files look like?  

                Your files should be organized so they are easy for you to find information quickly.  Purchase large plastic tubs designed to hold hanging folders.  Divide hanging folders with manila folders.  For example, economy could be subdivided into general, unemployment, stocks, deficits, interest rates and other related topics.  The more you divide the more efficient your files will be. 

                Purge your files frequently.  Having outdated and useless material only slows you down during your preparation time. 

                It is also popular to file magazines like the Economist and World Press Review in large binders.  Place the magazines in clear cover sheets with the index showing.

                Do not file material highlighted in different colors, outlines or prewritten speeches.  Some tournaments will check your files for these materials.

                Finally, have an index.  Update your index frequently so you know what files need to be updated or created.

9.  What should I do in the extemp speech?

                Simple, the speech must answer the question.   If you do nothing else, have a clearly articulated reply to the question.  Many speakers will have a beautifully delivered 6 ½ minute speech, but never answer the question.  These are the students you see in the cafeteria during finals.

10.  What is the extemp speech format?

                All speeches must have an introduction, body and conclusion.  In competitive extemp, a rather rigorous standard has developed.  Divergence from this expectation will usually cause the judge to rank you lower in the round.  Mastering the format is your first step in the extemp process. 

                The main points in your speech should be phrased as argumentative statement. 

                To finish, create balance in your speech by devoting an equal amount of time on each point. 

11.  Can I use any organizational pattern?

                Yes, but unified analysis is the preferred method.  As a general rule, all the information presented in the speech should answer the question.  If it doesn't, omit it from the speech.  Countless speeches will have points that develop the past, the cause and the effect when the question only ask for the solution to the problem.  

                Unified analysis avoids this error and for this reason has been called the "one best organizational pattern."  Using this organizational pattern, the body of the speech serves as a justification for the answer; the organizational pattern unifies all the analysis.                  

12.  What is Unified Analysis?

Definition:  Body of the speech serves as a justification for the answer, the organizational pattern unifies all the analysis.  Typically, requires organizing the speech with two main points and two sub points for each main point.

Types of Questions:

Closed Questions:  ask for a yes or no answer

Example: Is Social Security doomed?    Yes

I.                    Public desire for alternatives will causes changes

II.                  Funding base no longer exists

Example: Is North Korea a threat?  Yes

I.                    Political leadership is fanatical

II.                  Possession of nuclear weapons a danger

Open Questions:  ask for sequential steps in proposing the answer

Example: Who will win the 2004 Presidential Election?  George Bush

I.                    The economy will not hurt Bush

II.                  National security is Bush’s issue

Example: How can the federal government best protect the public from terrorism?   Provide state and local government with funds and increase intelligence

I.                    State and local government are on the front line

II.                  Intelligence key to prevention

13.  What should I do in the introduction?

                In my opinion, the introduction is the most important part of the speech.  You must “grab” or “hook” the audience.  It also gives you the opportunity to make yourself stick out.  The more common techniques include jokes, rhetorical questions, anecdotes, fables, startling statistics, quotes, political cartoons and even movie plots.  I personally prefer jokes or great thinkers like Shakespeare or Aristotle.  Your intro should establish a theme and be about a minute long.  

                Now for "canned" introductions.  I once had a student that used the same quote in almost every speech he gave and he was very successful with the intro.  But he didn't use the same introduction every time.  He would fine-tune the quote to apply to the question at hand. However keep in mind that many judges will penalize you if you decide to use this strategy.  I would suggest an arsenal of quotes or jokes to use as introductions which allows you to more precisely apply the technique to the question. 

14.  Why are there so many source citations?

                Sources increase a speaker's credibility.  Many people are from the school of thought "the more sources the better the speech." I disagree.  A good speaker will emphasize quality over quantity.  I literally have seen speakers dump so many sources that it left very little time for analysis.  One source for each sub point should be sufficient.  Make sure you give the date and have a variety of sources.  I would also like to see more information about the source, what makes it a credible citation (authors credentials, based on a valid study).  Why should I accept a NY Times story, especially with their track record recently?

15.  What should I know about the topics?

                There are two types of questions, open and closed. Closed questions ask for a yes or no answer .  For example, Is North Korea a threat?  And closed questions ask for sequential steps to reach the answer.  For example, How should the United States respond to a nuclear North Korea ?

                 Next determine if the topic is informative or persuasive. The words what and who should let you know the topic is informative. Should and why will let you know the topic is persuasive.

                Look for other key words. How and what ask for precise reasons.  When calls for a date.  Why demands a discussion of the cause.   And will and can require ayes or no answer.

                While you are drawing consider: do I know anything about the topic, do I have files on the topic, have I spoke on this topic, and did I attend an extemp lab on this topic.

                  Finally, you should never change the topic.  If for some reason the topic is faulty (the event already occurred or there are errors in the topic), you should avoid these topics.  Last but not least, take the slip with you to your speaking room, the judge should ask for it.

16.  What is the extemp prep room?

                This is where you will write and practice your speech before the round. Normally the library is used because it has tables and plenty of space.  Find this room when you first get to the meet to stake out your territory.  By the time the contest begins it will be packed with files and if you wait until the last minute to take your files you could wind up writing your speech on the floor.  There should be monitors to assist you and ensure the rules are followed.  You should expect strange behavior.  Speakers will walk around quietly talking to themselves or they may have a seven minute conversation with the wall.  This is all normal in the extemp prep room.

17.  What should I do during the 30 minutes?

                Obviously your goal is to write and practice the speech.  Find the prep room before the scheduled draw.   Use the time intelligently, make sure you have a plan and have a timer to monitor yourself.  It is important to establish a routine so you become comfortable with the process.   Some coaches advocate the 10-10-10 division of labor (10 minutes to research/write, 10 minutes to memorize and 10 minutes to practice/review).  I always made myself practice when I had 15 minutes left, this is when I memorized (I guess it is a 15-15 division of labor).  Whatever method you use doesn't really matter, but you need to test it and practice it at invitational meets to ensure it works for you.

18.  How should the extemp speech be delivered?

                This is a difficult question and requires a detailed answer.  But the short version, it should be professional and polished.  Your delivery should be "lively," not boring.  I like to have some humor in the speech, but don't turn it into an after-dinner speech.  Vocally you should be fluent, have variety and watch your speed.  Extempers tend to speak to fast.  Gestures should have meaning, not a nervous release.  Then there is the "extemp dance."  Most extemp speakers will take a few steps after the introduction, between each point and before concluding.  This visually shows the audience your transitions.  I don't mind this format, even encourage it at times, but I don't like it to look forced.

Dress

First appearances make the difference. Dressing down shows a lack of appreciation for the event.  You should look professional and knowledgeable. Boys should wear suit and tie. Girls either a nice suit or skirt and blouse.  Girls you should dress conservatively - you are trying to impress a judge, not find a date.

Gestures

Gestures should have meaning.  They should not be a nervous release.  Do not over-gesture.  Gestures should be above the waist.  Natural gestures are more effective than "staged" gestures.  When not gesturing, let your arms rest at your side. 

Vocal Style

Watch your speed.  The most common error I witness with delivery is speaking to fast.  Utilize voice inflections, pauses, and clear pronunciation. Voice inflections will signal to the audience the significance and importance of your message.  Pauses add climax to your speech and force you to slow down.  Mispronouncing words affects your credibility.  Eliminate "vocalized pauses" (ahm, ah, ok, and, etc.).

Walking

Do not walk too much!  I have judged contestants that continuously walk during the speech, the so called "ping pong" effect.  Do not turn your back to the audience or turn completely sidewise to the audience.  Movement must have meaning and add something to the speech.  Most successful contestants take steps between main points.  This is commonly called the "extemp dance."

                                                                                        Introduction

                                                                                                                Step/First let me

                                                             Step/Second

                                                                                     Step/In conclusion

You can take additional steps to highlight arguments or points within the speech.