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What Is an Extemporaneous Speech?

An extemporaneous speech is an impromptu speech given on any topic. Usually there is very little time to prepare for the talk. Extemporaneous speaking is also a competitive activity in which students learn to think on the spot and develop better analytical skills. Overall, extemporaneous speeches can occur at any junction in life, whether at a wedding, or as congratulations, or as a quick talk about current events.

Extemporaneous Speaking Competition
- Competitive extemporaneous speaking has students facing off and thinking on the spot.
  
  In competitive extemporaneous speaking, students speak on topics with little to no preparation. Usually the participants choose from three to five current event topics. They begin speaking after about 30 minutes to prepare. Academic competitions by the University Interscholastic League allow students from various schools to compete against each other. The league recognizes two types of extemporaneous speaking: informative speaking and persuasive speaking. Other competitions might use a domestic/foreign format, with only selective topics are considered.
Informative Speaking
- Informative speaking clues in or informs the audience about a particular topic. Because there is not a lot of prep time in competitive extemporaneous speaking, sometimes prepared articles and clippings about the topics are provided.
  
  These speeches are evaluated on three criteria: analysis and content, organization of the speech, and delivery. Each speaker is given a time limit to address the topic and meet these three criteria. Judges evaluate the speech's delivery style and decide whether the speaker addressed the topic and presented relevant information, and whether the speech included a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
Persuasive Speaking
- Persuasive extemporaneous speaking tries to sway the listener toward the speaker's opinion.
  
  Extemporaneous persuasive speeches try to sway the audience to favor their opinion on a topic. They still have only 30 minutes to prep, which forces participants to think on their feet on how to persuade the judges and audience.
  
  Persuasive speaking is evaluated using the same criteria as informative speaking: analysis and content, organization, and delivery. However, one key criteria that's different is that the judges look for persuasive content: Did the speaker grab the attention of the audience? Was the audience moved to consider the speaker's opinion?
Purpose of Extemporaneous Speaking
- Extemporaneous speaking can happen anywhere -- at school, work or social setting.
  
  Extemporaneous speaking helps participants develop better public-speaking skills as well as analytical skills. It also keeps people informed about current event topics or important issues. Extemporaneous speaking can provide the experience needed to overcome stage fright and produce less anxiety during future speaking engagements or presentations.
  
  Less-organized extemporaneous speaking can take place at funerals, weddings, and other social events. In general, extemporaneous speaking builds a stronger foundation not only in a person's speaking skills, but also in confidence.

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