CHECKLIST for when you are the . . .

 

TABLE TOPICS MASTER

 

SUMMARY OF DUTIES:

The main duty of the Table Topics Master is to ensure that every member speaks at a meeting.

Ø      Choose a theme for the meeting and share with VPE and Toastmaster of the Day

Ø      Prepare topics

Ø      Find out who the prepared speakers, general evaluator, evaluators, and Toastmaster are so you can call on the other members first

Ø      Give guests the opportunity to speak

Ø      Call on speakers last – if at all

 

 

Before the Meeting

1.        Read the "Meeting Roles & Responsibilities"  chapter in the Communication & Leadership Manual

2.      Call the Toastmaster of the Day to find out the Theme of the Meeting. Or check the agenda for the week to find the theme.

3.      Prepare an Introduction for yourself to give to the Toastmaster.

 

 

Upon Arrival at the Meeting

 

·        Begin to choose those whom you want to call on for your Table Topics.

 

            If possible - DO NOT CALL ON THE         General Evaluator

                                                            Toastmaster of the Day

                                                            Speakers

                                                            Evaluators

                                                            Timer

 

Remember: Table Topics gives those NOT on the agenda an opportunity to speak. I’ve included the Timer on this list because the Timer’s duty is to track everyone’s time.

 

 

During the Meeting

 

·        Explain to the guests the purpose and objectives of Table Topics.

 

PURPOSE:  To promote the art of impromptu speaking.  Table Topics gives those members not on the agenda a chance to speak.

 

OBJECTIVE:  To teach us to think quickly and respond intelligently while learning to maintain our poise when we are confronted with the unexpected.

 

·        The subjects may be serious or funny, about sports, art, current events, etc. 

      However …. do not get too detailed and embarrass anyone. 

 

·           Explain that it is "OK" to make up an answer (stretch the truth).

 

·           Explain the time requirements and when the lights will come on. 

 

    Participants must speak from one minute to two and one-half minutes.  

 

 

Ø      State the question or topic before you call the person’s name.  This makes everyone think about what their own answer would be. 

 

When you have completed your Table Topics portion of the meeting, ask the timer for a Timers Report.  Then ask everyone to vote for his or her choice from those who have qualified.   Then say, “Mr. or Madam Toastmaster.”

 

   STAY AT THE LECTERN UNTIL THE TOASTMASTER TAKES CONTROL FROM YOU.