Page 376 - Between One and Many The Art and Science of Public Speaking

Chapter 12 Using Media in Your Speech 343

During the speech:
• Avoid distractions—cover or remove visuals and turn off projectors when not
in use.
• Do not block the audience’s view.
• Allow the audience enough time (at least 10 seconds) to process the informa-
tion, then remove the visual.
• Talk to your audience, not to the visual.

Summary

Properly used, visual aids and other presentational media can make the differ-
ence between a successful speech and a failure. Improperly used, they can un- www.mhhe.com/brydon6
dermine your purpose.
To evaluate your understand-
ing of this chapter, visit our
• Think of presentational media as enhancements of your senses that can am- Online Learning Center Web
site for quizzes and other
plify your message.
chapter study aids.
• Use visual aids for communicating organization, as well as illustrating, sim-
plifying, and complementing the spoken message.

• Match content with the appropriate medium; for example, use visual aids
such as pie charts and bar graphs to show numerical data.
• Consider mastering the use of actual objects and models, if appropriate,
before relying on visual aids you will have to create on your own.
• In creating PowerPoint slides, keep in mind the seven principles of design:
(1) Choose good templates; (2) use high-contrast colors; (3) stick to sans serif
fonts; (4) use text effi ciently; (5) choose images wisely; (6) use appropriate
animation; and (7) strive for visual balance.
• Follow the rules of the road. Keep your visual aids simple, visible, easy to
read, and colorful. Remember: When in doubt . . . leave it out.

• Be aware that presentational media may complement your speech, but they
can never take your place or achieve your purpose and goals.

Check Your Understanding: Exercises and Activities

1. Check on your campus or at local copy shops to fi nd out where you can have
the following made: black-on-clear overhead transparencies, color overhead
transparencies, enlarged photographs.
2. Find out where on campus you can obtain an overhead projector, and fi nd
out who can answer questions about its operation. Learn how to turn it on
and off, how to focus it, and what to do if the bulb burns out.