Expository Speaking
Expository speaking is the delivery of an original, informative 10 minute speech on a single topic. The goal of the speech is not to persuade but to inform and to entertain the audience.
Topics in expository speaking vary from material everyday objects like zippers and bread to abstract topics like envy and flattery. The key to choosing a topic is to pick a subject that interests many people. Generally, a topic that many people can relate to does well. A speech on the topic of piranhas may contain many interesting facts and ideas but may not interest the audience. On the other hand, a speech on memory may do better because people can relate to it more easily. Common topics can include everyday objects like zippers and yawning to phenomenon like the moon and fog.
Visual aids should not be the focus of the speech. The use of visual aids helps make the speech more coherent, entertaining and enjoyable. Visuals are usually the most memorable aspect of an expository speech but they are optional. However, the use of them is highly recommended. Generally, an expository speech contains 8 to 10 visuals. Exposers (the name that students who do Expository Speaking like to call themselves.) generally buy their own stands for their visuals from any office supply store (ask for “tripod easel”). Prices range from $20 to $100 depending on the quality. A good, me stand that (an last four years of competition can be purchased for around $50. A good stand should be durable and easy to use. Some exposers choose to buy a bag to hold their stands in bit many do not. In addition to a stand, exposers usually buy a case to hold and protect their visual aids. Cases range from $10 to $50. Cases made of stiff paper usually cost around $10 to $20. They generally can withstand about a year’s worth of competition but do not protect visuals against water and tend to fall apart. More durable, art portfolios cost around $50 but do a better job of staying together and protecting visuals. As an additional safeguard against water, exposers should cover all their visual aids with garbage bags.
Generally they are made from poster board sized paper. Foam board is not recommended since it is too thick arid limits the number of visuals that can be used. Visual aids often contain pictures, charts and graphs of material linking to the content of the speech. As the exposer speaks, he or she will flip down visuals from the stand in order to display the next one. Most exposers use a table to put their used visuals on top of although some exposers slip old visual aids behind the new ones on the stand. Expos generally set up their stand and visuals as soon as they enter the room. When their name is called, they take their stand and the visuals to the front of the room and begin speaking. Set up time is included in the 10 minute time limit of an expository speech so exposers should remember to include this setup time in their timing.
Expository speeches are also known for their “corniness” and abundance of pans. These puns and jokes are used to entertain the audience with humor.
Nevertheless, the crucial factor in doing well in expos is the delivery. It is important to deliver the speech with good vocal expression, gestures, posture and eye contact in order to do well. The best way to achieve this is through practice :).
You will enjoy competing in expository speaking; the performances are interesting and entertaining.