Methods of Delivery
I. Extemporaneous Speech is a speech that is either persuasive or informative in nature,
usually modeled off of a 5 paragraph essay. At top levels, extemporaneous is a smooth,
dynamic performance that incorporates research, background knowledge, and opinion. A
successful extemporaneous speech has an introduction that catches the listener's
attention, introduces the theme of the speech, and answers the question through three,
or sometimes two, areas of analysis, which develop an answer to the question. These areas
of analysis are followed by a conclusion, which summarizes the speech. Extemporaneous
speaking sometimes allows for the use of index cards.
o Examples: Lectures and Hosting
II. Manuscript Speech is when a speaker reads a pre-written speech word by word to an
audience. It is when an already prepared script is read verbatim. The speaker makes the
entire speech by referring to the printed document, or as seen on the teleprompter. It is
basically an easy method of oral communication. Manuscript speaking is generally
employed during official meetings, conferences, and in instances where the subject matter
of the speech needs to be recorded. It is used especially when there is time constraint, and
the content of the talk is of prime importance. Conveying precise and succinct messages
is the inherent purpose of this speech. Public officials speaking at conferences, and their
speech being telecast, is a pertinent example.
o Examples: State Of the Nation Address and Parliamentary Speech
III. Memorized Speech is a speech that is recited from memory rather than read from cue
cards or using the assistance of notes. This method of speech delivery does not come as
highly recommended as others. An advantage of this method of delivery is you can move
around freely while using gestures and making direct eye contact with your audience. A
potential disadvantage is that you may forget your speech.
o Examples: Valedictory Speech and Speech Choir
IV. Impromptu speech is the one that a speaker delivers without any prior preparation on
the topic. Impromptu, itself, means doing something without preparation. The speaker
has to be on his/her toes at all times while responding quickly to a topic. An advantage of
this method is you can easily adapt to your audiences reaction while you are speaking. A
potential disadvantage of this method is likely to be less well organized and effectively
delivered.
o Examples: Debates, When being interviewed and Recitations