Unit 5: Communication for Various Purposes

Topic 3: Talking That Fits the Occasion

Learning Objectives:
At the end of the lesson, you are expected to:

1. explain the advantages and disadvantages of an impromptu speech;

2. identify appropriate methods in organizing an impromptu speech
3. perform functional speeches effectively, and
4. organize and deliver an effective impromptu speech.

Presentation of the Content

The test of an excellent public speaker is to challenge himself or herself to have an on-the-spot or
impromptu speech. To deliver such speech, a speaker needs to have great organizational skills,
wit, and composure. Speaking in front of people is a fearsome task, more so if you have very
little time to prepare. We are sometimes asked to “say a few words” in an event that usually
rattles us especially when we are not used to it.

Impromptu Speech
The feature that distinguishes impromptu from other types of speech is time. Impromptu speech
involves unrehearsed speaking with very short time for preparation. In fact, many of the speeches
you give are impromptu. You can be asked to speak to introduce, to thank, to inspire, to
welcome, to entertain, and to congratulate. No matter what the purpose is, all entails little time to
prepare. The challenge is how you can deliver such speech effectively.

Methods or Patterns of Organizing an Impromptu Speech:

1. PREP method
Point: State your position on the topic.
Reason: State your reason for taking the position.
Example: Provide an example that helps explain your reason.
Restatement of Point: Summarize and Restate your position.
P The point I wish to make is that Impromptu Speaking is an essential skill to
have.
R Being able to speak effectively with little preparation is very empowering
E I can remember my sister being called to speak in front of her colleagues. At first
she struggled; but because she knows some techniques in delivering an impromptu
speech, the struggles were turned into opportunities – opportunities to showcase her
speaking skills and wit. Now, she is more confident, more vibrant, more alive, more
willing to take risks not only in speaking but also in whatever she does.
P When a person becomes more comfortable in speaking even with less
preparation, he or she becomes empowered and stronger.

2. Point-Support-Conclusion (PSC) Method

Point: Provide your point of view, key idea, or objective.
 Support: Provide stories or examples that help prove your point.
Conclusion: End by restating your point of view or key idea and by making your call to
action.

Point: Today, I want to talk about the importance of practicing gratitude in our daily
lives.

Support: Gratitude is a powerful tool that can transform our mindset and improve our
overall well-being. For instance, studies have shown that expressing
gratitude can increase happiness and reduce stress. Personally, I've
experienced the positive effects of gratitude in my own life. When I
started a gratitude journal and made it a habit to write down three things I
was grateful for each day, I noticed a significant shift in my outlook. I
became more appreciative of the small things, and my overall happiness
and contentment increased.

Conclusion: In conclusion, I urge each and every one of you to incorporate gratitude into
your lives. Take a moment each day to reflect on the things you're grateful
for, whether it's a loving family, good health, or even just the beauty of
nature around us. By cultivating gratitude, we can improve our well-being
and spread positivity to those around us. So, let's make a conscious effort
to embrace gratitude and make it a part of our daily routine.

Thank you.

3. Past-Present-Future (PPF) Method

Point: State your Key Point
Past: Discuss what happened in the past.
Future: Tell your audience about what will or could happen in the future.
Point: Summarize by restating your key point.

Point: Climate change is a pressing global issue.

Past: In the past, we have witnessed a steady increase in greenhouse gas emissions and
the depletion of natural resources, leading to rising temperatures and extreme weather events.
Scientists have warned about the consequences of climate change, such as sea-level rise, species
extinction, and disrupted ecosystems.

Future: Looking ahead, it is crucial that we take immediate action to mitigate climate
change. We must transition to renewable energy sources, implement sustainable practices, and
adopt eco-friendly technologies. By doing so, we can reduce our carbon footprint and preserve
the planet for future generations.

Point: Therefore, it is imperative for individuals, governments, and businesses to work

together in combating climate change and creating a sustainable future for all.

Delivering Functional Speeches

No matter what the situation is, we need to consider these points:
1. Functional speeches must be brief.
2. Functional speeches concern emotions.
3. Functional speeches, especially the language used, must be appropriate to the situation.
You do not want a highly entertaining speech during a funeral.
Introducing a Speaker
Generally, introducing speakers should not be longer than two minutes. Do not be a catalyst to
the boredom of the audience by enumerating the full biography of the speaker. Use the following
sequence when introducing a speaker:
1. What is the topic?
2. Why is it important to the audience?
3. Why is the speaker qualified to talk about the topic?
4. Who is the speaker?
Example:
1. The topic at hand is "The Power of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership."
2. Emotional intelligence is crucial in today's professional world. It allows
individuals to understand and manage their emotions effectively, fostering
better relationships, teamwork, and overall success. This topic is particularly
significant to all of us here as it directly impacts our personal and
professional lives.
3. We are fortunate to have a highly qualified speaker who will shed light on
this subject. Our speaker is Dr. Maya Johnson, an accomplished
psychologist specializing in emotional intelligence and leadership
development. With years of research and practical experience, Dr. Johnson
has helped countless individuals and organizations harness the power of
emotional intelligence to achieve their goals.
2. Dr. Johnson holds a Ph.D. in Psychology and has authored numerous
articles and books on the subject. She has also conducted workshops and
seminars worldwide, empowering leaders to unlock their full potential
through emotional intelligence. Her expertise and passion for this topic
make her the perfect choice to enlighten us today.
3. Please join me in giving a warm welcome to Dr. Maya Johnson as she
shares her insights on "The Power of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership."

Welcoming Attendees and Guests

The purpose of a welcoming address is to make the participants feel comfortable. As the person
designated to welcome the quest, you stand as the representative of the organizer. Your
credibility and performance may influence how the guests perceive the whole event. Use the
following tips when welcoming the participants:
1. Limit the speech between three to five minutes.
2. Mention the organizer, the type of participants, and the important locations and
facilities.
3. Start with a high note.
4. Describe some highlights of the event.

Example:

Ladies and gentlemen,

Good afternoon!
 First and foremost, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the Campus Student
Council and their dedicated Advisers for organizing this important event. Their commitment and
efforts have made this seminar possible, and we are truly grateful for their dedication.

I also want to acknowledge the outstanding participants who have joined us here today. A
special welcome to the CSU Solana students, who have shown their commitment to
understanding and raising awareness about the critical issue of drug abuse.

We have gathered in the heart of CSU Solana, specifically in the basement of the CSU
Solana Administration building, to address the crucial matter of drug awareness. This venue
serves as a symbol of our united efforts to combat this pressing issue.

Let us commence this seminar on a high note, recognizing the significance of this
occasion. Each one of us plays a vital role in combating drug abuse, and by coming together
today, we demonstrate our determination to create a safer and healthier environment for
ourselves and future generations.

Throughout this event, we will delve into various aspects of drug awareness, discussing
the challenges, sharing knowledge, and exploring effective solutions. We have an exciting lineup
of speakers, interactive sessions, and thought-provoking discussions planned, ensuring that each
one of you leaves with valuable insights and actionable steps to combat drug abuse.

Together, let us embrace this opportunity to empower ourselves, educate others, and
create a positive impact in our community. I encourage you all to actively participate, ask
questions, and engage in meaningful conversations during the seminar.

Once again, a warm welcome to each and every one of you. Let us make the most of this
incredible platform and work towards a drug-free future.

Thank you.

Accepting and Thanking

Use the following tips when thanking those who recognize us:
1. Keep the speech short, usually not more than two minutes.
2. Do not forge to thank the Award-giving organization
3. Do not forget to thank those who are instrumental to your success.
Example:
Ladies and gentlemen,
First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest gratitude for this incredible honor.
I am truly humbled to stand before you today.
I must begin by extending my heartfelt appreciation to the Award-giving organization.
Your recognition and support mean the world to me. This prestigious award serves as a testament
to the hard work and dedication that I have put into my craft.
Next, I would like to acknowledge and thank those who have played a pivotal role in my
journey. Without their unwavering belief in me, I wouldn't be standing here today. To my
mentors, colleagues, and friends, your guidance and encouragement have been invaluable. Your
faith in my abilities has propelled me to new heights.
 Lastly, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my family and loved ones. Their
unwavering support, love, and sacrifice have been the foundation of my success. Their belief in
me, even during moments of doubt, has given me the strength to persevere.
In conclusion, I am incredibly grateful for this recognition, and I share this honor with
each and every person who has been a part of my journey. Thank you all from the bottom of my
heart.
Thank you.

Wedding Wishes
A wedding is a day of hope, love and celebration. Giving wedding wishes to the couples need
not be fancy; however, you can be creative. Here are some tips on how you can give your warm
wishes to the newlyweds:
1. Be sincere.
2. A love poem or quotation can be a good way to begin the speech.
3. Speak about your personal thoughts and relate to the couples.
4. You may use humor.
Example:
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and of course, the newlyweds,
First and foremost, let me express my sincerest congratulations to the beautiful couple
standing before us today. As I look at you both, it's evident that love has woven its magic,
creating a bond that is both captivating and inspiring.
As I searched for words to capture the essence of this special occasion, I stumbled upon a
quote by Robert Browning: "Grow old along with me, the best is yet to be." These words ring
true today, as we witness the beginning of your journey together, filled with endless possibilities
and adventures yet to unfold.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I find myself thinking of the similarities between
your love story and mine. Love, in all its extraordinary forms, has the power to transform and
uplift us. It is a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is a guiding
light that leads us back to each other's embrace.
Now, let's add a sprinkle of humor to this momentous occasion, shall we? It's said that a
successful marriage is based on the ability to compromise, to give and take. And as I look at the
groom, who is usually a man of few words, and the bride, who exudes charm and grace, I can't
help but chuckle at the perfect balance you have already achieved. May your partnership always
be a harmonious dance, where one's silence complements the other's eloquence.
In conclusion, dear couple, as you embark on this shared voyage of love and
commitment, remember to cherish the moments that make your hearts flutter and your spirits
soar. May your love be a beacon of hope, illuminating the path ahead, and may your journey
together be filled with joy, laughter, and everlasting happiness.
To the newlyweds, may your love story continue to unfold in the most enchanting ways
imaginable. Cheers to a lifetime of love and fulfillment!
Thank you.
 Application

Directions: Organize a functional speech using one effective method and deliver it
extemporaneously in three minutes.

Feedback

Directions: Each will draw one functional speech situation from the fishbowl provided by the
teacher. Randomly, each will be called by the teacher from the shuffled class
cards. When the name of the first student is called, he/she has to pick out one
topic from the bowl. He/she is given three minutes to prepare and organize his/her
thoughts. After three minutes has lapsed, another student will be called up to pick
out one topic from the bowl then as soon as the second student picked up his/her
topic, the first student will start his/her speech, based on what he/she has drawn.
This gives time for the second student to prepare his/her speech. Do this
procedure until all students delivered their functional speech.
Below are the functional speeches to be delivered:
1. Wedding wishes
2. Accepting an award or thanking people for an award
3. Eulogy
4. Introducing a speaker
5. Welcoming attendees or participants
6. Congratulatory address
7. Inspirational address
8. Giving a tribute