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  How to Do a Self-Critique of a Speech

Listen carefully to the speech.
Did it make sense? Did you move clearly from one subject to another, or were your transitions too abrupt? Did you fulfill the purpose of your speech? In other words, did your speech do what you wanted it to do?

Consider your audience.
Keep in mind that this speech is intended to inform and entertain a very particular audience. When you critique yourself, you are evaluating how effective you are in reaching your audience. Did you put things in terms your audience could understand and relate to? What was the audience's response? Did their response seem to match your perception of how the speech went?

How did you sound?
Assess the overall vocal quality and tone of your voice. Did you speak too slowly or too quickly? Too softly or too loudly? Were you too monotone or insincerely expressive? Also, how did you sound in terms of your attitude? Were you negative or upbeat? Did you sound like someone whom you would want to get to know better?

How did you look?
Did you use your hands too much? Not enough? Did you move around too much? Not enough? Were you making any nervous movements (twirling your hair, wringing your hands, shifting from one foot to the other)? Did you look around at your audience and make eye contact with as many people as possible? Did you look nervous? What was your posture like? Did you smile?

Come to a conclusion.
Overall, how was it? Did you deliver a successful speech? Did you learn anything? Did your audience?

 

HRIM 390W