B. The second objective of a speech introduction is to reveal the topic of the speech.

C. The third objectives of a speech introduction is to establish the credibility and good will of the speaker.

D. The fourth objective of a speech introduction is to preview the body of the speech.

For the Toastmasters Clubs in Singapore, the Grammarian, is commonly known as the “Language Evaluator”. He takes note of the grammar and tenses used in the language, highlights the various language structures. He also reports on the positive words and helpful phrases spoken as well as suggests ways to improve language usage for the meeting.

In addition, in Singapore Toastmasters Club meetings, the “Ah-Counter” is the one who takes note of the pause fillers, such as ‘ah’, ‘um’, ‘you know’, ‘ok’ and others. He counts them, adds them up and gives a report of the “guilty” ones. Some local Toastmasters Clubs even institute a “little monetary penalty” to those who had too many pause fillers during the meeting.

Thank you very much for your thoughts and blog sharing. Keep up the great work and always Excel Beyond Excellence!

Warmest wishes,
Wekie
wekie.com

The idea of a Grammarian is a good one since one of the best ways to improve upon presentations is to shed verbal filler. I refer to words and sounds such as uh, um, so, like, you know, basically, etc. These sorts of fillers make the presenter seem less articulate and less sure of themselves and their message.

Here are some techniques that you can use to shed the use of verbal filler.
1. Record yourself practicing a presentation, watch it, and count your verbal fillers. It’s painful but can fuel your determination to shed the fillers.
2. Enlist the help of those around you – your partner / spouse, friends, co-workers, family, etc. Empower them to repeat your fillers whenever they hear you using it. That can also be painful and embarrassing – even more fuel for your determination.
3. Listen for your use of verbal filler at ALL times – presenting, in conversation, on the phone, with friends, etc.
4. Don’t beat yourself up about it. Just make a mental note and remind yourself that you want to change your speech pattern.
5. Use pause instead. Focus on the behavior you want. Grow comfortable with silence. Learn to enjoy it.
6. Be willing to pause even in the middle of sentences as you struggle to think of the word that you want.
7. It’s said that you can change any behavior if you focus on it for 21 days. Put “I will use pause not filler” on your to-do list for 21 consecutive days.
8. Don’t give up! As American writer and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson observed, “Once you make a decision, the universe conspires to make it happen.”

Thanks again

Yes, Grammarian is one of those roles it’s easy to take for granted. In fact, many of the Maidenhead Speakers Club members don’t make too many ums and ahs. I think you’re right: it’s important to look for these crutch words too.

M.