Despite our name, we are not restricted to scientists. Our club is open to anyone with an interest in learning to speak with ease.
Meetings
UT Sciences Toastmasters meetings last for an hour each week and are structured similarly to Toastmasters meetings all over the world. We follow some aspects of Parliamentary Procedure to help us stay on track while engaging in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.The Toastmaster of the Evening presides and, after opening the meeting, introduces the volunteers performing a number of supporting roles. The Grammarian announces and defines a Word of the Day, and notes any grammar or usage errors made by the day’s speakers. The Time Keeper signals to speakers whether they are within the target length for their speeches. The Ah-Counter notes the use of crutch words or nonsense words.
One or two Prepared Speakers then make speeches of 5-7 minutes each. This is the core part of every Toastmasters meeting, and allows members to develop their speech delivery skills on a regular basis.
Next the Table Topicsmaster asks a series of questions and invites members to speak unrehearsed for two minutes each. The Table Topics are a great opportunity to practice thinking on your feet, and in our club almost everyone gets a chance to speak.
The Evaluation section of the meeting can be the most valuable part of the Toastmasters experience. Speech Evaluators provide the Prepared Speakers with feedback on the effectiveness of their speeches. The supporting roles give brief feedback to everyone who spoke at the meeting. Finally the General Evaluator reports on the meeting as a whole, and whether any improvements need to be made.
The Toastmaster of the Evening then closes the meeting for the day.
