We are all called upon to make a speech at some point in life , but most of us don’t do a very good job . This article gives some suggestions on how to give an effective speech .
So , you have to give a speech—and you’re terrified . You get nervous , you forget what you want to say , you stumble over words , you talk too long , and you bore your audience . Later you think , “Thank goodness , it’s over . I’m just no good at public speaking . I hope I never have to do that again .”
Cheer up ! It doesn’t have to be that bad . Here are some simple steps to take the pain out of speech making . Ask yourself the purpose of your speech . What is the occasion ? Why are you speaking ? Then , gather as many facts as you can on your subject . Spend plenty of time doing your research . Then spend plenty of time organizing your material so that your speech is clear and easy to follow . Use as many examples as possible , and use pictures , charts , and graphs if they will help you make your points more clearly . Never forget your audience . Don’t talk over their heads , and don’t talk down to them . Treat your audience with respect . They will appreciate your thoughtfulness .
Just remember : be prepared . Know your subject , your audience , and the occasion . Be brief . Say what you have to say and then stop . And be yourself . Let your personality come through so that you make person-to-person contact with your audience .
If you follow these simple steps , you’ll see that you don’t have to be afraid of public speaking . In fact , you may find the experience so enjoyable that you volunteer to make more speeches! You’re not convinced yet ? Give it a try and see what happens .
1．The main idea of this article is______________ .
A．you can improve your speaking ability B．a poor speaker can never change
C．always make a short speech    D．it is hard to make a speech
2．Paragraph 2 implies that______________ .
A．many people are afraid of giving a speech   
B．many people are happy to give a speech
C．many people do not prepare for a speech
D．many people talk too long
3．The phrase “talk over their heads” means______________.
A．speak too loudly            B．look at the ceiling
C．look down upon them     D．use words and ideas that are too difficult
4．All of the following statements are true except that______________.
A．few people know how to make good speeches
B．a lecturer does not need to organize his speech
C．research is important in preparing a speech
D．there are simple steps you can take to improve your speaking ability
5．The title for this passage may be ______________.
A．Do Not Make a Long Speech        B．How to Give a Good Speech
C．How to Prepare for a Speech D．Try to Enjoy a Speech