A successful Extemp speech follows a clear, predictable structure that helps both you and your judge follow your argument. While you can experiment with variations later, master this classic format firstāit works.
Your introduction sets the tone for the entire speech. It should grab attention, establish credibility, and clearly answer the question.
Start with something compelling that hooks your audience. Effective AGDs include:
Example AGD (Quote): "In 2023, President Biden declared that 'artificial intelligence is the most consequential technology of our time.' Yet as AI systems grow more powerful, Congress has failed to pass comprehensive regulation."
Smoothly transition from your AGD to your specific question. Explain why the question matters in the broader context.
Example Link: "This regulatory vacuum raises an urgent question about the future of American tech policy..."
State your thesis clearly and directly. Don't make judges guess your answer.
Example Answer: "Today I'll argue that Congress will likely pass AI regulation by 2026, driven by three key factors."
Tell the audience your three main points. Use parallel structure for polish.
Example Preview: "First, bipartisan consensus on AI risks. Second, pressure from the tech industry itself. And third, international competition forcing action."
Each of your three points should be a complete mini-argument that supports your answer.
Topic Sentence: "My first point is that bipartisan consensus on AI risks makes regulation politically feasible."
Explanation: "Unlike most tech policy issues, Democrats and Republicans agree that unchecked AI development poses serious risks. This rare agreement creates a legislative opening."
Evidence: "According to Politico from November 2nd, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Republican Senator Mike Rounds have co-sponsored the SAFE Innovation Framework. The Washington Post reports on October 15th that this framework has attracted support from both progressive and conservative senators. Furthermore, The Hill notes on November 10th that AI regulation polls above 70% approval among voters of both partiesāmaking it one of the few issues with genuine bipartisan public support."
Impact: "This consensus eliminates the partisan gridlock that kills most legislation, making AI regulation more likely than other tech policy proposals."
How you cite sources matters as much as which sources you use.
A complete oral citation includes:
Strong Citation: "The New York Times reported on November 18th that AI companies have invested over $12 billion in safety research this year alone."
Weak Citation: "A recent article said AI companies are investing in safety." (No source, no date, vague)
Aim for 6-8 sources total across your speech:
Your conclusion should be brief but memorable. Avoid introducing new informationāinstead, synthesize what you've said.
Example Conclusion: "So will Congress pass AI regulation by 2026? Based on bipartisan consensus, industry pressure, and international competition, the answer is yes. As Senator Schumer stated, 'The question isn't whether we'll regulate AI, but whether we'll do it before it's too late.' Congress is finally ready to answer that challenge."
Question: "Will remote work remain prevalent in American workplaces?"
Your Task:
Goal: Get comfortable with the structure before worrying about perfection.
You now understand the fundamental structure of an Extemp speech. In future lessons, you'll learn how to develop sophisticated analysis, master delivery techniques, and handle complex questions. But strong structure is the foundationāpractice this format until it becomes second nature.
Write and deliver practice speeches regularly. The more speeches you give, the more natural the structure will feel.