SELF-EVALUATION CHECKLIST

Self evaluation [tick the most appropriate one]

Voice Volume

Do not speak too softly or too loudly. Vary your voice volume to emphasize your meaning. Project your voice so that it fills the speech venue. Use the muscles of your diaphragm to support you breathing and projection.

• Varied, clearly audible and appropriate

• Satisfactory

• Too loud or too soft - not varied

Speaking Rate

Most speakers tend to speak too quickly because they are nervous. Make a conscious effort to slow down. Do not be afraid to pause. A pause can give your audience the time to "take in" the information that they are hearing for the first time.

• Well paced

• Satisfactory

• Too fast or too slow

Vocal Pitch

A consistently high-pitched voice detracts from your message. Make a determined effort to lower your voice if you have a high-pitched voice. Similarly, a low-pitched drone can also be monotonous. Vary your voice pitch and try to keep your voice at a level that is pleasing to most human ears.

• Varied, well modulated

• Acceptable

• Too high-pitched or too low and monotonous

Voice Tone

Adopt a natural, friendly tone. Don't adopt a very artificial, academic or lecturing tone. Converse with your audience - rather than speaking at them.

• Natural and pleasant with varied emotive effect

• Reasonable

• Artificial - not varied

Vocal Vitality

Try to develop a voice that has a rich timbre that is expressive and uses emotion effectively to enhance your message.

• Powerful and dynamic

• Reasonably expressive

• Monotonous and flat

Articulation

Speak distinctly and clearly. You must never mumble. Practice so that you can eliminate "um, ah, like, er" from your speaking skill. You may think that they win you time - in actual fact - you appear hesitant and anxious.

• Clear and distinct

• Reasonably clear

• Mumbling and inarticulate