IMPROMPTU SPEECHES FOR ENGLISH STUDENTS

At our school, we train our students to prepare for impromptu speech competitions with other schools. Doing impromptu speech exercises is a great way to practice public speaking skills and to learn how to think on your feet. Impromptu speaking also helps students to develop their confidence and their ability to communicate effectively in different situations.

We start with simple exercises in kindergarten and junior primary by doing Show and Tell. They have to stand at the front of the class and say at least five things about something they brought in from home. They then have to answer questions from their friends. For this, they are given a week to prepare. Once the students have gained confidence in doing a show and tell in front of their friends, we move on to the next level when we do Impromptu Show and Tell. For this, students have to pick a random card from a pack which has a picture of an object. They then have 30 seconds to think about it and then they have to do a Show and Tell making up a story about the object.

After that, we move on to having topics for impromptu speeches. In the early days, we give the topics to the students in advance to prepare themselves. They then have to present it to their friends in a speech that must last at least one minute. For later rounds for older students, they won’t get so much notice and they will have to speak up to three minutes.

Here are some good topics for impromptu speeches for young students learning English as a foreign language:

  • My favorite animal
  • My favorite book
  • My favorite food
  • My favorite place to go on vacation
  • My favorite thing to do with my family
  • My favorite thing to do with my friends
  • My favorite school subject
  • My favorite teacher
  • My dream job
  • Why is it important to learn English?
  • What are the benefits of being bilingual?
  • What is your favorite thing about your culture?
  • What is one thing you would like to change about your school?
  • What is one thing you would like to change about your community?
  • What is one thing you would like to change about the world?

Here are some tips for giving an impromptu speech in English as a foreign language:

  • Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes when they are learning a new language. The important thing is to keep talking and to try your best.
  • Speak slowly and clearly. This will help the audience to understand you.
  • Use simple language. Avoid using complex words and phrases that you are not sure how to say.
  • Use gestures and facial expressions to engage the audience.
  • Don’t be afraid to pause. This will give you time to think about what you want to say next.

Most importantly, have fun! Impromptu speeches are a great way to practice your English skills and to learn how to think on your feet.