TABLE TOPIC MASTER
The Toastmasters program has a tradition — every member speaks at a meeting. The table topics session is that portion of the meeting which insures this tradition. The purpose of this period is to have members “think on their feet” and speak for a minute or so. The topic master prepares and issues the topics; originality is desirable as much as possible. Each speaker may be given an individual subject or multiple speakers can discuss one topic. It is up to the table topic master to decide which (if both) formats to use for the each meeting.
Prior to the meeting:
Ø Prepare at least 3 topics, enough to allow each member a chance to speak.
Ø Talk with the Toastmaster: if only one speaker is signed up, table topics may be extended.
Ø Do not repeat the previous week’s table topic ideas or items.
Ø Find out who the prepared speakers, evaluators, general evaluator, and Toastmaster are so you can call on the other members first.
Ø When choosing your specific questions: select ones that will inspire the speakers to give their opinions, etc.
Ø Don’t make the questions too long or complicated. Phrase them in such a way that the speaker clearly will know what you want them to talk about.
Ø Get people to learn to “think and speak on their feet”.
During the meeting:
Ø Introduce your self and explain your role as the table topic master.
Ø Encourage speakers to use the “Word of the Day/Week”.
Ø Make sure everyone understands the time restrictions and where the Timer sits.
Ø State the question briefly — then call on a respondent. This serves two purposes; 1st it holds everyone’s attention and 2’” it adds to the value of the impromptu element by giving everyone an opportunity to improve his or her “better listening and thinking” skills.
Ø Call on speakers at random. Avoid going around the room in the order that people are sitting.
Ø Try to allow for at least 15 —20 minutes of time available after table topics for the remaining functionary reports.
Revised Draft Catmasters #8436
16 April 05