Question

3 - using your voice: volume and rate
learning objective: explain how volume and rate can impact speech delivery.
feeling nervous can cause you to ______.
a.) vary your speech rate
b.) speak too fast
c.) speak too slowly
d.) increase your volume

Explanation:

Analyze the physiological and behavioral effects of nervousness on speech delivery

Nervousness triggers a fight-or-flight response, which increases heart rate and adrenaline levels. This physiological acceleration typically causes a speaker to rush through their delivery.

Evaluate the given options against the effects of speech anxiety

• Option (a) suggests varying speech rate, which is a controlled delivery technique rather than an involuntary reaction.
• Option (b) states "speak too fast," which directly aligns with the common physiological tendency to rush when anxious.
• Option (c) suggests speaking too slowly, which is less common unless consciously overcompensating.
• Option (d) suggests increasing volume, whereas anxiety often causes shallow breathing, leading to a quieter or softer voice.

Answer:

• a.) vary your speech rate
• b.) speak too fast (Correct answer)
• c.) speak too slowly
• d.) increase your volume