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We are all called upon to make a speech at some point in life, but most of us don't do a very good job. This
article gives some suggestions on how to give an effective speech.
So, you have to give a speech and you're terrified. You get nervous, you forget what you want to say, you
stumble over words, you talk too long, and you bore your audience. Later you think, "Thank goodness, it's
over. I'm just no good at public speaking. I hope I never have to do that again."
Cheer up! It doesn't have to be that bad. Here are some simple steps to take the pain out of speech making.
Ask yourself the purpose of your speech. What is the occasion? Why are you speaking? Then, gather as many
facts as you can on your subject. Spend plenty of time doing your research. Then spend plenty of time
organizing your material so that your speech is clear and easy to follow. Use as many examples as possible, and
use pictures, charts, and graphs if they will help you make your points more clearly. Never forget your audience.
Don't talk over their heads, and don't talk down to them. Treat your audience with respect. They will appreciate
your thoughtfulness.
Just remember: be prepared. Know your subject, your audience, and the occasion. Be brief. Say what you
have to say and then stop. And be yourself. Let your personality come through so that you make
person-to-person contact with your audience. If you follow these simple steps, you'll see that you don't have to
be afraid of public speaking. In fact, you may find the experience so enjoyable that you volunteer to make more
speeches! You're not convinced yet? Give it a try and see what happens.
1. The main idea of this article is _______. [ ]
A. you can improve your speaking ability
B. a poor speaker can never change
C. always make a short speech
D. it is hard to make a speech
2. Paragraph 2 implies that _______. [ ]
A. many people are afraid of giving a speech
B. many people are happy to give a speech
C. many people do not prepare for a speech
D. many people talk too long
3. The phrase "talk over their heads" means ________. [ ]
A. speak too loudly
B. look at the ceiling
C. look down upon them
D. use words and ideas that are too difficult
4. All of the following statements are true except that _______. [ ]
A. few people know how to make good speeches
B. a lecturer does not need to organize his speech
C. research is important in preparing a speech
D. there are simple steps you can take to improve your speaking ability
5. The title for this passage may be _______. [ ]
A. Do Not Make a Long Speech
B. How to Give a Good Speech
C. How to Prepare for a Speech
D. Try to Enjoy a Speech
