Chapter 11 – Be a Good Speaker
Things to do
1. List and say whether the following statements agree with the passage or not.
(1) You should always speak softly but clearly.
Ans: Yes
(2) In a discussion, you should share your ideas with others.
Ans: Yes
(3) If you don’t understand something, don’t let the others know about it.
Ans: No
(4) You should try to talk most of the time whenever there is a discussion.
Ans: No
(5) You should look at the person you are talking to.
Ans: Yes
(6) When you want to make a speech, there’s no need to think about it in advance.
Ans: No
2. Think about what you do and what you must learn to do, when you speak. Make a list of such ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ for yourself.
Ans:
Do’s for Speaking:
(i) Be Clear
(ii) Be Concise
(iii) Be Relevant
(iv) Be Respectful
(v) Be Informative
(vi) Be Conversational
Don’ts for Speaking:
(i) Don’t Guess
(ii) Don’t Assume
(iii) Don’t Overpromise
(iv) Don’t Be Rude
(v) Don’t Mislead
(vi) Don’t Avoid Questions
3. List the polite expressions we use such as ‘Pardon’.
Ans: Please, Sorry, Thank you, Excuse me, You’re welcome, May I, If you don’t mind, I beg your pardon, With all due respect, I hope I’m not bothering you, I appreciate, Hope you’re well, Kindly, etc.
4. Look at the speaker in each picture. Say whether each one is a good speaker. Give reasons for your answer.
Ans:
Picture 1: Bad speaker
There are too many papers on the table; this can lead to confusion while speaking. She is also reading her speech and not looking at the audience. She has not prepared well in advance.
Picture 2: Bad Speaker
The audience is bored, and one person is actually asleep. No thought is given to the other person’s feelings and interests.
Picture 3: Good speaker
She looks confident and is looking at the audience while speaking. Though her written speech is with her, she is not referring to It. She has prepared well in advance.
Picture 4: Bad Speaker
Too soft; the audience cannot hear him.
Picture 5: Good speaker
She is looking at the listener when she is talking. The expression on both faces is pleasant.