Public speaking
Speak in public with authority: structure for memory, vocal variety, pausing, stories, audience connection and managing nerves.
In this lesson you will
- Structure a speech so the audience remembers it
- Use voice, pace and pause deliberately
- Connect with audiences and manage nerves
Learn
Memorable structure: one core message; three supporting points; a story or example for each; open and close with the same image or phrase (a ‘bookend’).
Voice: vary pace (slow for key ideas), volume and pitch; pause before and after important points — silence signals confidence. Stress key words.
Connection: eye contact with sections of the room; inclusive we; audience questions (Raise your hand if…); references to the setting or shared experiences.
Nerves: prepare the first 30 seconds word-for-word; breathe slowly before starting; reframe adrenaline as energy; focus on the message and the audience, not yourself.
Examples
- Bookend: Open — “My grandmother never learned to read.” Close — “My grandmother never learned to read. Her great-grandchildren will never have to wonder whether they can.”
- “Raise your hand if you’ve ever missed a train because of one minute.”
- Pause before: “…and the result? [pause] Nothing changed.”
Vocabulary
bookend
repeating an opening image at the end
pace
speed of speaking
pitch
how high or low the voice is
adrenaline
a hormone released under stress
inclusive
including everyone
Practice
A “bookend” means…
Speaking
Deliver a three-minute speech on something you believe in, with one core message, three points with stories, deliberate pauses and a bookend opening/closing. Record and review it.
Writing
Write the full script (350–400 words) of your speech, marking pauses (/) and stressed words (CAPITALS).
Lesson quiz
“Pitch” refers to…
Review
Key points
- One message, three points, stories.
- Bookends.
- Vary pace, volume, pitch; pause.
- Connect; manage nerves.
What you learned
- ✓ I speak in public with authority.
- ✓ I use my voice deliberately.
- ✓ I manage nerves.