Here are some key definitions taught in this public speaking course:
Upstage
The area of the stage farthest from the audience. Also refers to stealing focus or attention from the intended main performer.
Venue
The location where a meeting or event takes place. See also Site.
View-graph
An alternate term for an overhead transparency.
Wings
The extreme sides of the stage, typically hidden from the audience by curtains or walls.
Wireless Microphone
A microphone that transmits sound signals without a physical cable. See also Cordless Microphone.
Whisper
An attention-gaining technique in which the presenter lowers their voice significantly, sometimes addressing a single audience member.
Workshop
An educational session ranging from one hour to several days, usually including hands-on practice of specific skills.
ZZZs
A humorous reference to the sound of dozing during a speech—something every engaging speaker aims to prevent.
Strategic Silence in Public Speaking
Silence in public speaking is often misunderstood. Many speakers treat it as a problem, a sign of nervousness, or proof that they forgot what to say. In reality, silence can be one of the strongest tools in a speaker’s delivery. When used with purpose, it gives words more weight and helps the audience follow the […]
Speaking with Authority: Tone, Pace, and Projection
Speaking with authority does not mean speaking loudly, harshly, or aggressively. It does not require dominating the room or using complicated language. Real vocal authority comes from calm confidence, clear structure, controlled delivery, and respect for the audience. A strong speaker sounds prepared, composed, and easy to follow. Tone, pace, and projection are three of […]
Logical Fallacies in Rhetoric: Definitions and Examples
Rhetoric is the art of using language to persuade, explain, and influence. It appears in speeches, essays, debates, advertising, social media, classroom discussion, and everyday conversation. Strong rhetoric can help people understand an issue clearly. Weak rhetoric can make a poor argument sound convincing. Logical fallacies are errors in reasoning that weaken an argument. They […]