Toastmasters weekly meeting

A Toastmasters meeting is a structured gathering designed to help members improve their public speaking, communication, and leadership skills. Since you’re the president of the USYD Toastmasters club, you probably already know the general format, but here’s a breakdown for reference:

1. Meeting Structure

A typical Toastmasters meeting lasts around 1–2 hours and follows a structured agenda, including the following sections:

1.1 Opening

• The Sergeant-at-Arms (or another officer) opens the meeting, welcomes guests, and introduces the President.

• The President gives a brief welcome speech, sets the tone, and hands over to the Toastmaster of the Day.

1.2 Prepared Speeches

• Members deliver prepared speeches based on the Toastmasters Pathways learning program.

• Speeches typically last 5–7 minutes (or longer for advanced projects).

• Each speaker is introduced by the Toastmaster.

1.3 Table Topics (Impromptu Speaking)

• The Table Topics Master leads this session, asking members and guests to respond to unexpected questions in 1–2 minutes.

• The goal is to improve thinking on the spot and speaking without preparation.

1.4 Evaluations (Feedback Session)

• Each prepared speech is evaluated by an assigned speech evaluator, who provides constructive feedback.

• The Grammarian and Ah-Counter report on language use and filler words.

• The Timer gives a report on whether speakers met their time limits.

1.5 General Evaluation

• The General Evaluator reviews the overall meeting, including how well roles were performed and areas for improvement.

1.6 Closing

• The President or Toastmaster gives closing remarks, thanks participants, and announces upcoming meetings or events.

• Awards may be given for Best Speaker, Best Table Topics, and Best Evaluator.