This chapter explores the nature of speech anxiety. The authors provide several methods that a speaker can use to reduce his or her speech anxiety. List and explain five of these methods, discussing how each can work to reduce fear

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer: Explanations will vary, but answers should discuss five of the following methods - Steps a speaker can take include know your audience and anticipate their reactions; don't procrastinate; select an appropriate topic, one you are familiar with an interested in; be prepared by researching your topic, developing a coherent outline, and practicing your speech several times; be organized and closely follow the rules of developing a speech; know your introduction and conclusion, including knowing how to end your speech; and make the practice real by standing up, practicing out loud, picturing what you are wearing and what the audience will look like, imagine your speaking situation and/or rehearse in the actual room. Physical exercises a speaker can take include taking a few slow, deep breaths; trying to relax the entire body; taking a slow, relaxing walk before you arrive at your speech location; while seated and waiting to speak, keep both feet on the floor and wiggle your toes; gently (and without calling attention to yourself) grab the edge of your chair and squeeze it; unobtrusively lightly tense and release the muscles in your legs and arms; focus on remaining calm as you wait to be introduced; walk to the front of the room in a calm and collected manner; and take a moment to look for a friendly, supportive face before you begin