Public Speaking

Summary (^161)
• Don’t laugh, even if the speakers laugh nervously at their language skills.
• Use patience and perspective taking by putting yourself in the speaker’s shoes and
imagining what it would be like to give a speech in a foreign language to native
speakers of that language.
Remember that the major goal of any speech is communication of ideas, not per-
fection of language skills. Also, remember that nonfluency is linked to inexperience in
English, not to a lack of intelligence or education.^42

Summary

Language is a tool that humans use to communicate with one another and build

complex societies. We create words to name our cultural memories, meaning that we

label those things we notice and need to know in order to survive. Passing on these

labels perpetuates our cultural ideas in new generations. Languages are dynamic, and

words are added, borrowed, and discontinued in response to social changes.

Words denote or stand for objects, actions, and ideas; jargon, a technical vocabulary

common to members of an occupation, can confuse outsiders who don’t know its

meaning. More importantly, words have connotative meanings that consist of the

feelings and associations that they imply. Epithets generally carry negative connotations,

whereas euphemisms put negative things more positively.

Oral style contrasts with written language in several ways. It is dynamic, interactive,

and engaging because speakers can use nonverbal cues to add emphasis. This style is

less formal and more personalized than written language. It uses simpler, more concrete

words, shorter sentences—even fragments. Repetition is a hallmark of oral style.

Your speaking effectiveness depends on how well you can put your ideas into words.

Thus, there are several guidelines for using language effectively. Be concise, choose

familiar words, be concrete, build in repetition, use vivid language, and select a form

that’s appropriate to you, the topic, the audience, and the context.

In recent years, people have become concerned about the power of words—

especially those used in discriminatory ways—and have worked to create inclusive

language that affirms individuals and groups and presents them in a positive light.

Finally, you may someday be in a public speaking situation where you either speak

in a second language, requiring the use of an interpreter, or, more likely, where you

listen to a speaker who is not a native speaker of English. In these situations, it is most

important to communicate ideas rather than expect linguistic precision. When you listen

to a speaker from another linguistic background, take the responsibility of listening with

an open mind in a supportive manner.

Study and Review

Public Speaking: Concepts and Skills for a Diverse Society offers a broad range of

resources that will help you better understand the material in this chapter, complete

assignments, and succeed on tests. Your MindTap resources feature the following:

•   Speech videos with viewing questions, speech outlines, and transcripts

•   Activities to help you check your understanding and to apply what you’ve learned to

your own life

•   Stop and Check and Critical Thinking exercises

•   Outline Builder

•   Web Links related to chapter content

•   Study and review tools such as self-quizzes and an interactive glossary

perspective taking trying

to imagine something from

another person’s point of

view

Reflect on what you’ve

learned.

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