Say more by saying less
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In many speaking tests, speakers are penalized for saying non-word sounds, such as "um" or "uh". Eliminating these sounds is also one of the quickest ways to sound more sophisticated in presentations, meetings, and even everyday life.
Introduction
- What impression do these sounds give the listener when you speak?
- When you are the listener, what effect do these sounds have on you?
Warm Up
Answer this tough question, and focus on not saying any non-word sounds. Your instructor will be strict about this.
Language
There are a couple of ways to deal with this issue:
- The first and most obvious strategy is to say nothing. But that doesn't mean allowing long, awkward pauses. We will work on pausing effectively. Discuss this with your instructor.
- If you need a little longer to think, then use fillers, like "Let me see..." or "How can I put it", as well as any other filler phrases that show you are thinking.
Practice
Now let's practice some more questions. Focus on avoiding non-word sounds.