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ImpromptuImpromptu is a public speaking event where students have seven total minutes (2 minutes to prep, 5 minutes to speak) to select a topic, brainstorm their ideas, outline the speech, and finally, deliver the speech. The speech is given without notes and uses an introduction, body, and conclusion. The speech can be based upon prompts that range from nursery rhymes, current events, celebrities, organizations, and more.
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Official Rules |
Students should be knowledgeable about current events. This is true for two reasons in Impromptu speaking. First, prompts are often based upon current events or people and organizations found often in the news. Second, knowledge of current events can assist the student in generating ideas for the speech. Having a solid understanding of what is occurring domestically and abroad would be important. Students should stay up-to-date by watching news or reading sources like The New York Times, The Economist, World Affairs, BBC, and more.
Students can also do research to broaden their understanding of unfamiliar subjects. Given the broad scope of potential Impromptu prompts, it is beneficial to learn about things you are unaware of or uncomfortable with. Ask friends or family to list a bunch of topics they know about that you may not. For example, if a student is not aware of alternative energies, they could research examples. Students could find information on historical events, scientific discoveries, policy options the government is considering, trends in social issues, pop/cultural references, and more. Although sources are not formally cited in Impromptu, students should speak about a range of topics with comfort and credibility. |
Outline |
'Introduction
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