1.
Public speaking skills will prevent you from entering the public conversation about social concerns.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Public speaking skills will not prevent you from entering the public conversation about social concerns. In fact, having strong public speaking skills can actually enhance your ability to effectively communicate your ideas and engage in discussions about important social issues. Being able to articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently in front of an audience can help you contribute to the conversation and make a meaningful impact on social concerns.
2.
The circumstance that calls for public response is known as the rhetorical situation.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because the rhetorical situation refers to the specific context or set of circumstances that calls for a public response. It includes factors such as the audience, purpose, and medium of communication, which all play a role in shaping the message and its effectiveness. Understanding the rhetorical situation is crucial for effective communication and persuasion.
3.
Effective speaking and effective writing both require a sense of who the audience is.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Both effective speaking and effective writing require a sense of who the audience is because understanding the audience helps in tailoring the message to their needs, interests, and level of understanding. By knowing the audience, speakers and writers can choose appropriate language, tone, and examples to effectively communicate their ideas and engage the audience. Without considering the audience, the message may not resonate with them, leading to miscommunication or disinterest. Therefore, having an awareness of the audience is crucial for both effective speaking and effective writing.
4.
The first step in the speechmaking process is
Correct Answer
B. Selecting a topic
Explanation
The first step in the speechmaking process is selecting a topic. This is because before conducting research or stating the purpose, one must have a clear idea of what they want to talk about. Selecting a topic allows the speaker to focus their research and develop main points that are relevant to the chosen subject. Without a topic, the speech would lack direction and coherence. Therefore, selecting a topic is the logical first step in the speechmaking process.
5.
A speech should be practiced at least how many times?
Correct Answer
A. Five
Explanation
Practicing a speech at least five times ensures that the speaker is well-prepared and confident. Repetition helps to refine the delivery, improve timing, and enhance the overall flow of the speech. By practicing multiple times, the speaker becomes familiar with the content and can effectively engage the audience. Additionally, practicing allows for identifying and addressing any areas that may need improvement, such as pronunciation, gestures, or tone of voice. Therefore, practicing a speech at least five times is essential for a successful and impactful presentation.
6.
What kind of outline is usually brief and contains key words or phrases?
Correct Answer
B. Speaking
Explanation
A speaking outline is usually brief and contains key words or phrases. This type of outline is designed to assist a speaker during a presentation or speech, providing them with the main points and key ideas they need to cover. Unlike a formal outline, a speaking outline does not include complete sentences or detailed information. Instead, it serves as a guide to help the speaker stay organized and focused while delivering their message.
7.
An effective speech should be organized around _________ main points.
Correct Answer
B. Two or three
Explanation
An effective speech should be organized around two or three main points because this allows the speaker to focus on a manageable number of key ideas. Having too few main points may result in a speech that lacks substance and depth, while having too many main points can overwhelm the audience and make it difficult for them to follow the speaker's message. By organizing a speech around two or three main points, the speaker can provide sufficient supporting evidence and examples for each point, ensuring clarity and coherence in their presentation.
8.
Preparation and practice can help you deliver an effective speech, but cannot help you alleviate public speaking anxiety.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
This statement suggests that preparation and practice alone cannot help alleviate public speaking anxiety. While preparation and practice can certainly improve the delivery of a speech, they may not necessarily address the underlying anxiety that a person may experience when speaking in public. Additional techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, and exposure therapy may be necessary to help alleviate public speaking anxiety. Therefore, the statement is false.
9.
It is recommended that speakers stand perfectly still behind a podium and do not walk around.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because it is not recommended for speakers to stand perfectly still behind a podium and not walk around. In fact, it is often encouraged for speakers to move around the stage or use gestures to engage the audience and make their presentation more dynamic. Standing still behind a podium can make the presentation feel static and less engaging for the audience.
10.
People with _______ are naturally anxious much of the time, whereas people with ________ will experience nervousness usually only in novel situation.
Correct Answer
A. High trait anxiety; low trait anxiety
Explanation
People with high trait anxiety are naturally anxious much of the time, meaning they experience anxiety on a regular basis. On the other hand, people with low trait anxiety will only experience nervousness in novel or unfamiliar situations. This means that their anxiety is not a constant state, but rather triggered by specific circumstances. Therefore, the answer is high trait anxiety; low trait anxiety.
11.
Overgeneralizations are supported conclusions.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Overgeneralizations are not supported conclusions. Overgeneralizations occur when a conclusion is made based on limited evidence or a small sample size, without considering all possible variables or exceptions. These conclusions are often not accurate or reliable as they do not account for the full range of possibilities or variations within a given topic or situation. Therefore, overgeneralizations cannot be considered as supported conclusions.
12.
Facial expressions do not provide the reliable cues to help people listen better
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Facial expressions actually do provide reliable cues to help people listen better. Nonverbal cues, including facial expressions, play a significant role in communication and can convey emotions, intentions, and attitudes. Facial expressions such as eye contact, smiling, frowning, or raising eyebrows can give important contextual information and help individuals understand the speaker's message more accurately. Therefore, the statement that facial expressions do not provide reliable cues to help people listen better is false.
13.
Active listeners listen for the speaker's main idea and watch for his or her nonverbal cues.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Active listening involves not only hearing the speaker's words but also paying attention to their nonverbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. By doing so, active listeners can better understand the speaker's main idea and emotions, leading to more effective communication. Therefore, the statement that active listeners listen for the speaker's main idea and watch for their nonverbal cues is true.
14.
Slander, or speech that is potentially harmful to an individual's reputation at work or in the community, is illegal.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Slander refers to false spoken statements that can harm someone's reputation. In many jurisdictions, including the United States, slander is considered a form of defamation and is therefore illegal. Defamation laws are in place to protect individuals from false statements that can damage their reputation, whether it is in the workplace or within the community. Therefore, the statement that slander is illegal is true.
15.
Paraphrasing alters the form but not the substance of another person's ideas
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Paraphrasing involves rephrasing someone else's ideas in your own words while maintaining the original meaning. It focuses on changing the structure and wording of the original text, but not the underlying concepts or information. Therefore, the statement "Paraphrasing alters the form but not the substance of another person's ideas" is true.
16.
The basic rule for avoiding plagiarism as a public speaker is as follows:
Correct Answer
C. Any sources that require credit in written form should be acknowledged in oral form.
Explanation
The correct answer is "Any sources that require credit in written form should be acknowledged in oral form." This means that as a public speaker, you should acknowledge any sources that require written credit by mentioning them orally during your speech. This includes sources for direct quotations, paraphrases of outside information, and even sources for common knowledge. By acknowledging these sources in oral form, you are giving proper credit to the original authors and avoiding plagiarism.
17.
Most people retain what percentage of what they hear immediately after listening?
Correct Answer
C. 50%
Explanation
Immediately after listening, most people retain about 50% of what they hear. This means that they are able to recall and remember half of the information that was presented to them. This retention rate can vary depending on factors such as the individual's attention, interest, and focus during the listening process. It is important to note that this percentage may decrease over time if the information is not reinforced or reviewed.
18.
If the speaker's verbal and nonverbal messages do not correspond, which cues are usually the most honest?
Correct Answer
B. Nonverbal
Explanation
When the speaker's verbal and nonverbal messages do not correspond, the cues that are usually the most honest are nonverbal cues. Nonverbal cues include body language, facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice. These cues are often subconscious and can reveal the speaker's true feelings or intentions, even if their verbal message contradicts them. Therefore, when there is a mismatch between verbal and nonverbal cues, it is generally more reliable to trust the nonverbal cues as they are often a more genuine reflection of the speaker's true thoughts and emotions.
19.
Which of the following is a Greek word meaning "character"?
Correct Answer
A. Ethos
Explanation
Ethos is the correct answer because it is a Greek word that means "character". In Greek, ethos refers to the moral and ethical values and beliefs that shape a person's character and behavior. It is often used in rhetoric to appeal to the audience's sense of credibility and trustworthiness.
20.
Construction noise, automobile traffic, slamming doors and poor ventilation are examples of
Correct Answer
A. External listening distractions
Explanation
External listening distractions refer to the environmental factors that can interfere with our ability to listen effectively. Construction noise, automobile traffic, slamming doors, and poor ventilation are all examples of external distractions that can make it difficult to concentrate and focus on what is being said. These distractions can disrupt the communication process and make it challenging to understand and retain information.
21.
Demographics are the psychological characteristics of a given population.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Demographics refer to the statistical data of a population, such as age, gender, income, education level, etc. They are not psychological characteristics but rather objective information about a group of people. Therefore, the statement that demographics are the psychological characteristics of a given population is false.
22.
Speech topics should be relevant to the age interests of an audience
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because when selecting speech topics, it is important to consider the age interests of the audience. This ensures that the audience will be engaged and interested in the speech. For example, if the audience consists of young children, it would be more appropriate to choose topics that are relevant to their age group such as superheroes or animals. On the other hand, if the audience is older adults, topics related to finance or health may be more suitable. By selecting age-appropriate topics, the speaker can effectively connect with the audience and deliver a speech that resonates with their interests.
23.
Speakers should assume their audiences share similar political affiliations.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement suggests that speakers should assume their audiences share similar political affiliations. However, this is not necessarily true. Speakers should not assume that their audiences have the same political affiliations, as it is important to respect diverse perspectives and engage in open and inclusive dialogue. Assuming similar political affiliations can lead to biases and exclusion of differing opinions, which hinders the democratic process and limits the exchange of ideas.
24.
Abandoning your convictions in order to appeal to the audience is known as being audience centered.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Abandoning your convictions in order to appeal to the audience is not known as being audience centered. Being audience centered means understanding and considering the needs, preferences, and perspectives of the audience while still staying true to your own beliefs and values. It involves adapting your message or approach to effectively connect with the audience, but not compromising your core principles. Therefore, the statement is false.
25.
The larger the audience, the more likely you are to interact with them.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement suggests that the larger the audience, the more likely you are to interact with them. However, this is not necessarily true. Interacting with a larger audience can be more challenging and may limit individual interactions. In contrast, a smaller audience allows for more personal and meaningful interactions. Therefore, the statement is false.
26.
People rarely respond to persuasion directed at their core values, so steer clear of topics that are
Correct Answer
A. Highly charged
Explanation
When persuasion is directed towards people's core values, they tend to have strong emotional attachments and beliefs, making it difficult to change their opinions. These core values are often related to sensitive or controversial topics, which are referred to as "highly charged." Therefore, it is advisable to avoid discussing such subjects when trying to persuade someone, as it is unlikely to be effective.
27.
When narrowing a topic, the speaker should consider the
Correct Answer
D. All of the options are correct
Explanation
When narrowing a topic, it is important for the speaker to consider various factors. Time constraints play a crucial role in determining the depth and breadth of the topic that can be covered within the given timeframe. Audience expectations should also be taken into account to ensure that the topic chosen is relevant and interesting to the listeners. Additionally, the nature of the occasion, such as whether it is a formal or informal setting, can influence the choice of topic. Considering all of these options is important for the speaker to effectively narrow down their topic and deliver a successful presentation.
28.
Brainstorming is not an effective way to select a speech topic.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Brainstorming is an effective way to select a speech topic. During brainstorming, individuals generate a wide range of ideas and possibilities, allowing for exploration and creativity. This process helps to identify interesting and relevant topics that can be further developed and researched for a speech. Therefore, the statement that brainstorming is not an effective way to select a speech topic is false.
29.
The specific speech purpose is the same thing as the thesis statement.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The specific speech purpose and the thesis statement are not the same thing. While the thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or argument of a speech, the specific speech purpose goes beyond that. It includes the goal or objective of the speech, what the speaker wants to achieve or communicate to the audience. The thesis statement is just one component of the overall speech purpose.
30.
The thesis statement should be stated in a way that will motivate the audience of to listen.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The thesis statement should be stated in a way that will motivate the audience to listen because a compelling and engaging thesis statement captures the attention of the audience and sparks their curiosity. By presenting a thesis statement that is interesting and relevant to the audience's interests or concerns, the speaker can create a strong initial impression and increase the likelihood of the audience staying engaged throughout the presentation.
31.
The introduction of a speech tells the listeners where the speaker is taking them.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The introduction of a speech is the opening part where the speaker sets the tone, grabs the audience's attention, and provides a roadmap for the rest of the speech. It is designed to give the listeners an idea of what to expect and where the speaker is leading them. Therefore, the statement that the introduction of a speech tells the listeners where the speaker is taking them is true.
32.
Effective transitions move the listeners from
Correct Answer
D. All of the options are correct.
Explanation
The correct answer is that all of the options are correct. Effective transitions in a speech or presentation can serve to move the listeners from one main point to the next, from main points to supporting points, or from one supporting point to another supporting point. Transitions help to create a smooth flow and logical progression of ideas, ensuring that the audience can follow and understand the speaker's message.
33.
A speech consisting of a story or a series of short stories should use the circular pattern of arrangement.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
A speech consisting of a story or a series of short stories does not necessarily have to use the circular pattern of arrangement. While the circular pattern is a common way to structure a speech, it is not the only option. Other patterns, such as chronological or problem-solution, can also be used effectively in organizing a speech with stories. Therefore, the statement is false.
34.
Key-word outlines permit the greatest degree of eye contact.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Key-word outlines allow the speaker to maintain eye contact with the audience because they only contain key points or phrases. This means that the speaker does not need to constantly refer to their notes, allowing them to engage more directly with the audience. As a result, key-word outlines enable the greatest degree of eye contact compared to other types of outlines that may contain more detailed information.
35.
The final step in creating a working outline is to
Correct Answer
C. Prepare a list of sources
Explanation
In the final step of creating a working outline, the speaker needs to prepare a list of sources. This is important because it helps to provide credibility and support for the speech. By listing the sources, the speaker can ensure that they have gathered enough evidence and information to back up their points and arguments. Additionally, having a list of sources allows the speaker to properly cite and reference the information during the speech, further enhancing its credibility.
36.
The first step in organizing and outlining a speech is to create the main points.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The first step in organizing and outlining a speech is to create the main points. This is because the main points serve as the backbone of the speech and help to structure the content in a logical and coherent manner. By creating the main points, the speaker can identify the key ideas or arguments they want to convey and ensure that the speech flows smoothly from one point to another. Without the main points, the speech may lack structure and clarity, making it difficult for the audience to follow and understand the message being delivered.
37.
The problem-solution pattern may not have more than two points.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because the problem-solution pattern can have more than two points. This pattern typically involves identifying a problem or issue and then proposing one or more solutions to address it. These solutions can be presented as a list or as separate paragraphs, depending on the complexity of the problem and the number of potential solutions. Therefore, the problem-solution pattern is not limited to only two points.
38.
In a topical pattern, points can be arranged in any order without negatively affecting one another.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In a topical pattern, points can be arranged in any order without negatively affecting one another. This means that the order in which the points are presented does not impact their individual significance or the overall coherence of the topic. This allows for flexibility in organizing information and presenting it in a way that best suits the writer's or speaker's purpose.
39.
The body of a speech consists of
Correct Answer
B. Main points, supporting points, and transitions
Explanation
The body of a speech consists of main points, supporting points, and transitions. This is because the body is where the speaker presents the main ideas or arguments of the speech, which are the main points. These main points are then supported by additional information or evidence, which are the supporting points. Transitions are also included in the body to help the speech flow smoothly and to connect the different main and supporting points together. Therefore, all of the options are correct.
40.
A main point should not introduce more than one idea
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because a main point in any piece of writing or presentation should focus on a single idea or topic. Introducing multiple ideas in a main point can confuse the audience and dilute the impact of the message. By keeping a main point focused and concise, the writer or speaker can effectively communicate their intended message and ensure clarity for the audience.
41.
An anecdote is a brief story of interesting, humorous, or real-life incidents.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The given statement is true. An anecdote is indeed a brief story that recounts interesting, humorous, or real-life incidents. It is a way of sharing personal experiences or events in a concise and engaging manner. Anecdotes are often used to entertain, illustrate a point, or provide examples in various forms of communication such as speeches, essays, or conversations.
42.
The speech introduction should capture the audience's attention, but it does not need to mention the topic and purpose of the speech.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that the speech introduction should not only capture the audience's attention but also provide a clear indication of the topic and purpose of the speech. By mentioning the topic and purpose, the audience can have a better understanding of what to expect from the speech and be more engaged. A clear introduction helps to set the context and creates a foundation for the rest of the speech. Therefore, it is important for the speech introduction to mention the topic and purpose.
43.
As a general rule, the conclusion should comprise about one-third of the entire speech.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The given statement suggests that the conclusion should be about one-third of the entire speech. However, this is not accurate. In reality, the conclusion should be concise and should only summarize the main points discussed in the speech. It should not be lengthy or take up a significant portion of the speech. Therefore, the correct answer is false.
44.
The conclusion of the speech should be prepared before the speech body.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The conclusion of a speech should not be prepared before the speech body. It is important to first develop the main points and arguments in the body of the speech, and then craft a conclusion that effectively summarizes and reinforces those points. This allows for a more coherent and logical flow of ideas in the speech, as the conclusion should be a reflection of the content presented in the body. Therefore, the statement is false.
45.
Effective speakers often repeat words or phrases.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Effective speakers often repeat words or phrases to emphasize key points, create emphasis and impact, reinforce important ideas, and help the audience remember and understand the message better. Repetition can also help maintain the audience's attention and engagement. By repeating certain words or phrases, speakers can make their message more memorable and persuasive, leaving a lasting impact on the audience. Therefore, it can be concluded that the statement "Effective speakers often repeat words or phrases" is true.
46.
Alliteration is the arrangement of words, phrases, or sentences in a similar form.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Alliteration is not the arrangement of words, phrases, or sentences in a similar form. It is actually the repetition of initial consonant sounds in a series of words. Therefore, the correct answer is false.
47.
The words, old, thing, big, and bad are all examples of abstract language.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The given statement is true because the words "old," "thing," "big," and "bad" are all examples of abstract language. Abstract language refers to words or phrases that represent concepts, ideas, or qualities that cannot be perceived through the senses. In this case, the words mentioned do not refer to specific tangible objects but rather describe qualities or characteristics that are not easily measurable or observable. Therefore, they fall under the category of abstract language.
48.
A speaker who uses vivid imagery
Correct Answer
C. Encourages listeners involvement
Explanation
A speaker who uses vivid imagery encourages listeners' involvement because it helps to create a visual and sensory experience for the audience. By using descriptive language and vivid metaphors, the speaker can engage the listeners' imagination and make the content more relatable and memorable. This involvement can lead to a deeper understanding and connection with the main point of the speech, as the audience is actively engaged and paying attention to the speaker's words.
49.
The summary portion of the speech should not
Correct Answer
C. Be a rote recounting.
Explanation
The summary portion of the speech should not be a rote recounting because it would simply repeat what has already been said, providing no new information or insights to the audience. Instead, the summary should focus on highlighting the main points of the speech in a concise and engaging manner, allowing the audience to grasp the key takeaways and leaving them with a sense of completion.
50.
Speech humor should always match
Correct Answer
D. All of the options are correct
Explanation
In speech humor, it is important for the humor to match the audience, topic, and occasion. This means that the humor should be tailored to the specific audience, taking into consideration their interests, backgrounds, and sensitivities. The humor should also align with the topic of the speech, making it relevant and engaging for the listeners. Additionally, the humor should be appropriate for the occasion, whether it is a formal event or a casual gathering. Therefore, all of the options are correct as they highlight the importance of aligning speech humor with the audience, topic, and occasion.