1. Fluency:
* Speaking smoothly and naturally: This means avoiding hesitations, fillers ("um," "like"), and long pauses.
* Maintaining a good pace: Neither too fast nor too slow, but a comfortable speed for both the speaker and the listener.
* Rhythm and intonation: Using natural rises and falls in your voice to emphasize points and convey emotion.
2. Coherence:
* Logical organization: Structuring your speech in a way that is easy to follow. This might involve using transitions (e.g., "first," "next," "finally") and signposting key points.
* Clear connections: Making sure your ideas flow smoothly and relate to each other, avoiding random jumps in thought.
* Cohesive devices: Using words and phrases to link sentences and paragraphs (e.g., "therefore," "however," "in addition").
3. Comprehensibility:
* Clear articulation: Speaking distinctly and accurately, so that your words can be understood.
* Appropriate volume: Speaking loud enough to be heard but not too loud to be overwhelming.
* Appropriate pronunciation: Using the correct sounds and stress patterns for the language you are speaking.
4. Appropriateness:
* Register: Adjusting your language style to suit the situation. This might mean using formal language in a professional setting or informal language with friends.
* Content: Choosing topics that are relevant and appropriate to the audience and situation.
* Nonverbal communication: Using body language (e.g., eye contact, posture, gestures) that is consistent with your message.
5. Interactional skills:
* Turn-taking: Knowing when to speak and when to listen, and giving others the opportunity to respond.
* Responding appropriately: Listening actively and providing relevant and engaging responses.
* Asking questions: Seeking clarification, demonstrating interest, and eliciting further information.
6. Strategic competence:
* Adapting to the audience: Tailoring your message to the interests, background, and knowledge of your listeners.
* Achieving your purpose: Knowing what you want to accomplish with your speech and using the appropriate language and strategies to reach your goal.
* Monitoring and adjusting: Paying attention to how your audience is reacting and making adjustments to your speech as needed.
Developing these macro skills is essential for successful communication. They allow you to speak effectively, convey your ideas clearly, and engage your audience in a meaningful way.