Speech classes offered: "Speech Craft" helps locals gain confidence

Courtesy of Ellen Childress

“Toastmasters is an international organization dedicated to helping people improve their public speaking skills.

Participants learn to how organize their thoughts, speak effectively using variation in voice and body language and learn to think on their feet and speak extemporaneously in short 1 to 3 minute talks.  

Each member is given as set of manuals that provide suggestions and guidelines for talks and allow a member to progress at their own speed and comfort level.

Annual competitions at the area, district and state levels allow members  to asses their skills on broader playing fields and also provide opportunities for travel to national and international events.

Plains is lucky enough to have an established group which boasts talented long term members as well as enthusiastic newcomers.

A hallmark of the Plains meetings is that members are able to hone their skills at public speakering, and they always have fun and enjoy a high level of camaraderie. This group meets on Thursday evenings at 7:00 p.m. at the Home Economics room of the Plains High School. 

It is a small, group that welcomes all guests and visitors who are under no obligation to speak unless they choose to.

This group, the Plainly Speaking Toastmasters, will be facilitating a class called “Speech Craft,” as part of the Plains High School adult education curriculum  this spring session. 

Class members will be coached by the members of the Plainly Speaking Toastmasters group who are familiar with the  butterflies beginning speakers have to deal with. Students will learn techniques to tame those butterflies while gaining confidence in their skills and having fun.

The first class will be held Tuesday, March 1 at 6:30 in the High School.  The  cost will be $15.00 for the session which is scheduled to last 6 weeks.  To register or for more information please call Plains High School at 826-8600.