Meeting Roles at Dogwood Toastmasters
Toastmaster
Acts as master of ceremonies and maintains the flow of the meeting; provides a theme for the meeting; contacts in advance the members who are to fulfill roles in the program; introduces each speaker. Introduction should contain the following information: name, which speech project will be given, goals of speech, speech title. Personal information about the speaker may also be included.
One Minute Toastmaster
Speaks for one minute on some aspect of Toastmasters.
Word of the Day
Chooses a word of the day, writes the word and its definition on a poster to be displayed, and gives an example of how the word is used correctly. All speakers should try to use the word.
Jokemaster
Tells a joke meant to appeal to a large audience.
Philosopher
Presents a philosophical idea, often on the theme of the meeting.
Table Topics Master
Gives a brief introduction lasting not more than three minutes. The Topics Master is not giving a speech. Asks questions on a subject based on the meeting's theme and calls on various people to respond to the questions. The goal is to speak with conviction on the spur of the moment. The Topics Master should not call on the Toastmaster, the prepared speakers, or the Table Topics Evaluator, if at all possible.
Table Topics Evaluator
Evaluates all people who respond to the Table Topics Master's questions. This Evaluator discusses how well each person was able to pull together a "mini speech" without preparation and offers suggestions for improvement.
Speaker
Presents a prepared speech based on a Toastmaster project.
General Evaluator
Gives an overall evaluation of the meeting, including the business meeting, general quality of speeches and evaluations, the presiding officer, the Toastmaster, the Table Topics Master, and the general conduct of the meeting. Suggests improvements.
Speech Evaluator
Evaluates his/her assigned speaker on accomplishment of objectives and suggests improvements.
Grammarian
Reports on proper use of English and especially effective uses of language.
Ah Sergeant
Reports on audible pauses (uh, um, er) and helps the Sergeant at Arms with room setup and clean up.
Timer
Times speeches and evaluations. Our club uses the following time limits:
| | Table Topics | Speeches | Evaluations |
| GREEN | 1.0 min | 5.0 min | 2.0 min |
| ORANGE | 1.5 min | 6.0 min | 2.5 min |
| RED | 2.0 min | 7.0 min | 3.0 min |
We allow +/- 15 seconds for Table Topics and evaluations and +/- 30 seconds for speeches to qualify for a vote. (Note: Timing for advanced speeches varies and will be announced.)
Cinematographer
Operates the digital camcorder to record Table Topics, Speeches and Evaluations.
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