IMPRESS Model for Effective Extempore Speaking

Speaking extempore on an unknown topic requires quick thinking, creativity, and a strong command of language. Below, I present a model, named the IMPRESS Model, which provides a step-by-step process for speaking extempore effectively:

1. I - Identify the Theme:

As soon as you receive the topic, take a moment to identify the main theme or themes. For example, if the topic is "Artificial Intelligence and Future Society," the key themes would be artificial intelligence and its potential impacts on society.

2. M - Mind Map Ideas:

Quickly brainstorm ideas, points of view, arguments, or examples related to the themes. Don't worry about the order now; just get your thoughts flowing. For the example topic above, you might think of points like job automation, advancements in healthcare, ethical considerations, etc.

3. P - Prioritize and Structure:

From your mind map, prioritize the most relevant and powerful ideas. Then, structure them into a basic speech framework:

Introduction: A compelling statement or question related to the topic.
Body: Two or three main points, each developed with examples or arguments.
Conclusion: A summary of your points and a strong closing statement.

4. R - Rehearse Mentally:

Take a moment to mentally rehearse your speech, ensuring the points flow logically from one to another and your arguments make sense.

5. E - Engage with Confidence:

Speak with confidence, maintaining eye contact with the audience. Use appropriate body language and vary your tone and pace to keep your audience engaged.

6. S - Shift According to Feedback:

Be attentive to the audience's reactions. If they seem confused or disengaged, you should clarify a point or add more energy to your delivery.

7. S - Summarize and Sign-off:

End your speech with a brief summary of your main points and a compelling sign-off. This leaves the audience with a clear understanding of your perspective and a memorable impression.

Let's look at a quick example. Suppose the unknown topic is "The Impact of Space Travel on Humanity".

• Identify the Theme: Space travel and its impacts on humanity.
• Mind Map Ideas: Exploration and discovery, technological advancements, the potential for colonization, philosophical implications, etc.
• Prioritize and Structure:
• Introduction: "Space, the final frontier. What does it truly mean for us as a species?"
• Body: Discuss the points on exploration and discovery, technological advancements, and the philosophical implications.
• Conclusion: "In venturing beyond our world, we might discover more about ourselves."
• Rehearse Mentally: Go over your speech in your mind.
• Engage with Confidence: Deliver your speech confidently.
• Shift According to Feedback: Pay attention to your audience.
• Summarize and Sign-off: Summarize your points and end with a memorable line, like, "As we ascend into the stars, we carry the hopes and dreams of all humanity with us."

Remember, practice is crucial. The more you practice this IMPRESS model, the better you'll become at delivering effective extempore speeches, even on unknown topics.

Here are two more examples using the IMPRESS model.

Example 1: Suppose the unknown topic is "Effects of Social Media on Society."

1. Identify the Theme: Social media and its effects on society.

2. Mind Map Ideas: Enhanced connectivity, the spread of information, impact on mental health, cyberbullying, echo chambers and fake news.

3. Prioritize and Structure:

 

Introduction: "Social media, a tool of connection or a platform for division?"

Body: Discuss the points on enhanced connectivity, impact on mental health, and the issue of fake news.

Conclusion: "While it brings us together, social media also poses challenges we must confront."

4. Rehearse Mentally: Go over your speech in your mind.

5. Engage with Confidence: Deliver your speech confidently.

6. Shift According to Feedback: Pay attention to your audience.

7. Summarize and Sign-off: Summarize your points and end with a memorable line, like "As we navigate the digital age, let's use social media wisely, for unity, not division."

Example 2: Suppose the unknown topic is "Climate Change: A Global Emergency."

1. Identify the Theme: Climate change and its status as a global emergency.

2. Mind Map Ideas: Rising temperatures, melting polar ice caps, extreme weather events, impact on biodiversity, human contributions, and the necessity for immediate action.

3. Prioritize and Structure:

Introduction: "Climate change is not a distant threat, but a current crisis."

Body: Discuss the points on rising temperatures, the impact on biodiversity, and the necessity for immediate action.

Conclusion: "We have one Earth, and its future is in our hands."

4. Rehearse Mentally: Go over your speech in your mind.

5. Engage with Confidence: Deliver your speech confidently.

6. Shift According to Feedback: Pay attention to your audience.

7. Summarize and Sign-off: Summarize your points and end with a compelling statement, like "Let's rise to the occasion and act now to safeguard our planet."

These examples should provide a straightforward application of the IMPRESS model. Remember, the flexible model can be adapted according to your needs and style.