London Cardinals Toastmasters

Feature

Speeches 1-5

Once the objectives of the the ten speeches have been successfully accomplished, you will become a Competent Communicator (CC) – the first achievement award in the Toastmasters programme.

It takes a minimum of one year for a Toastmaster to achieve their CTM award, though most take eighteen months or more.

1. The Icebreaker (timed at 4-6 minutes)

• To discover speaking skills you already have and skills that need some attention
• To begin speaking before an audience

2. Organize your speech (timed at 5-7 minutes)

• To select an appropriate outline which allows listeners to easily follow and understand your speech
• Make your message clear, with supporting material directly contributing to that message
• Use appropriate transitions when moving from one idea to another
• Create a strong opening and conclusion

3. Get to the point (timed at 5-7minutes)

• Select a speech topic and determine its general and specific purposes
• Organise the speech in a manner that best achieves those purposes
• Project sincerity and conviction and control any nervousness you may feel
• Strive not to use notes

4. How to say it (timed at 5-7 minutes)

• Select the right words and sentence structure to communicate your ideas clearly, accurately and vividly
• Eliminate jargon and unnecessary words and use correct grammar
• Use rhetorical devices to enhance and emphasise ideas

5. Your body speaks (timed at 5-7 minutes)

• Use stance, movement, gestures, facial expressions and eye contact to express your message and achieve your speech’s purpose
• Make your body language smooth and natural