PESA Impromptus

What is an impromptu speech and why are they important in PESA?

— A short version of a prepared (assuming that your prepared speech is constructed correctly!) It should have the same fundamental characteristics and structure as a well-organised and envisaged prepared speech.

— Responding to a stimulus – this can include a more personal response

— Weighted equally by PESA judges (50/50) impromptu and prepared - often a differentiator for the winners of the competitions

What makes a good impromptu speech?

— Contrast - a chance to differentiate yourself as a speaker and break free from your prepared speech

— Relevance/Context – something that is digestible and interesting in a short form

— Stance/Purpose – a clear message from the speech, rather than the speaker

How should impromptus be structured?

— The three-act structure – setup, confrontation, resolution (often with a dramatic question)

— Have a clear goal in mind with regards to purpose

— Try to pick one idea (rather than cram) with at least 2 examples (they should be able to be linked or compared in some way)

How should you prepare for impromptus?

— As a student, read and listen, a lot! Papers, articles, conversations, radio, even forums, TikTok’s and Reddit threads!

— As a teacher helping a student, make sure you employ different approaches

— Don’t create a ‘template’ – they aren’t as transferrable to stimulus as might you think

What are some examples of topics and content?

— Idioms, proverbs, metaphors and catch phrases

— Often sourced from news headlines. Here are three from the SMH: “Fearing the worst”, “A pack of lies”, “Under pressure”.

What are some of the golden rules of impromptus?

— Think past the literal if you want to differentiate yourself

— Think small and KISS (Keep it Simple, Stupid) – one thing that the US navy got right!

— Be interested in the world around you – you don’t have to pretend to be an expert in an impromptu speech, just to show a genuine interest