DeafEd SA

Oral Communication

Prepared speeches, group discussions, interviews

Prepared and Unprepared Speech

In Grade 10, oral assessment includes prepared speeches (researched and practised) and unprepared speeches (given with minimal preparation on a topic provided in class). Both test your ability to communicate ideas clearly and confidently.

Group Discussions and Interviews

Group discussions require you to listen actively, take turns, build on others' points and express your views respectfully. Interviews involve preparing open-ended questions, maintaining eye contact and recording key responses.
Example

Prepared Speech Structure

Topic: 'The impact of load-shedding on South African learners' 1. Greeting and attention-grabbing opening: a question or startling fact 2. Three clear points: disrupts study time, affects online learning, impacts safety 3. Conclusion: call to action — invest in renewable energy solutions 4. Duration: 2–3 minutes
Note

Assessment Criteria

You are assessed on content, delivery (pace, tone, volume, eye contact, posture), language use and audience awareness. Use cue cards — never read directly from a page. Engage your audience with rhetorical questions.

Key Vocabulary

RhetoricThe art of persuasive speaking or writing
AudienceThe people listening to a speech or presentation
Cue cardA small card with key points to guide your speech
Eye contactLooking at your audience while speaking
PaceThe speed at which you speak

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Rhetoric
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