There are different ways to categorize a speech. For instance you can classify a speech based on its purpose – persuasive, informational, motivational or entertaining speech. Some speeches may have more than one purpose and so this classification is not very effective. One of the best ways to categorize a speech is through the type of delivery – impromptu, extemporaneous, manuscript and memorized delivery. In this article, you will learn about each of these four types of speech delivery and
Impromptu Speech
Impromptu speaking is a speech that a person delivers without predetermination or preparation. The speaker is most commonly provided with their topic in the form of a quotation, but the topic may also be presented as an object, proverb, one-word abstract, or one of the many alternative possibilities.
The speech could be as professional as a project update or as casual as a toast at a wedding. Either way, you are expected to say something smart, witty and charming. While it might feel like torture even to the most experienced speaker, giving an impromptu speech is the mark of an excellent communicator and leader.
Extemporaneous Speech
An extemporaneous speech that is a planned and prepared but not written out entirely. Unlike memorized or manuscript speeches which are delivered word-for-word, an extemporaneous speech is delivered with the help of short notes and a clear outline. Most professional and experienced public speakers prefer the extemporaneous method of delivery to achieve a more natural tone, flow and style relevant to the audience. Although it might look more challenging than the manuscript or memorized speeches, it is more spontaneous and personal.
Speakers drew random topics 30-minutes prior to their speech and crafted a 7-minute talk
Manuscript Speech
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. This form of speaking is used when the exact words matter and when much time and energy is expended on getting everything just right. For e.g. The State of the Union Address by the President.
There are times when people who are not leaders of countries deliver manuscript speeches as well. They are used when people testify before Congress, when people read important statements in a public setting, or when people deliver reports at professional meetings. All call for exact words in the correct order.
Memorized Speech
Memorized, like it sounds, involves committing your entire speech to memory. Once again, this sounds great. But, practically speaking, who has time to memorize even a short speech? And like a manuscript speech, you can’t adapt to feedback from the audience. Concentration is on the words, not the ideas. Sometimes the speech sounds too formal, like a written essay. There is minimal feedback or other contact with the audience. And what happens if your mind goes completely blank or if an audience member interrupts? The entire presentation will likely fall apart. Memorizing a speech puts entirely too much pressure on the speaker.
Speeches can be categorized into four broad areas depending on the amount of preparation that is undertaken and depending upon the nature of the occasion. The four types of speeches are manuscript, memorized, extemporaneous, and impromptu. Our aim is to acquaint you with these four different modes of delivery, to provide suggestions for when you are asked to make impromptu remarks, and then to focus most your time on the preparation, practice, and presentation of extemporaneous speeches.
Your conclusion: The summary and call to action are the final words that your audience will hear. As with the introduction, if you practice this repeatedly you will develop the best way to say what you want and you will probably have perfected this portion of the speech.
Simply stated, an extemporaneous speech is one where you will have time for preparation and practice but will not be expected to read from a manuscript or to have the speech memorized. The question most students ask is, "How much time should be spent in preparation and practice? " Perhaps Mark Twain said it best. When speaking about preparing for an impromptu speech, he noted, "It usually takes more than three weeks to prepare a good impromptu speech " (King). While celebrated as a humorist, there is much truth in his words. To appear to be speaking off the cuff, and to do it well, you must prepare thoroughly and practice to perfection. When you speak extemporaneously, it means you've had ample time to prepare and research and that you have rehearsed your speech (many times) using an outline or notes to remind you of the progression of ideas you wish to present. You will follow all the normal steps outlined in the earlier chapters. Choose a topic, narrow appropriately, analyze your audience, choose your supports, and create an outline. You will know your speech so well and will amaze your audience!Your introduction: It sets the stage for the entire speech. The words should be well chosen and rehearsed. You may find that as you repeat this portion of the speech during your rehearsals you do come to memorize it word for word. If so, this is fine. After all, once you have determined the best way of saying something, why not use it? Just make sure the presentation does not sound memorized.