Roles
INVOCATION/PLEDGE/JOKE - This role is usually assigned to a new member. The member offers reverence (not necessarily religious but inspirational), leads the membership in the Pledge of Allegiance, and relates a short joke.
TOASTMASTER - The Toastmaster's primary duty is to act as emcee/host and to conduct the day's program. The Toastmaster prepares the audience, creating an atmosphere of interest and making it easier for the speakers to do their best. He/she introduces each speaker of the day's meeting.
TABLE TOPICS MASTER - The Table Topics Master prepares several questions (usually 4) which are then asked of members who are not scheduled to speak and who do not have assigned roles. The goal is to have the members "think on their feet" and speak between 1 and 2 minutes on the selected topic. It is encouraged that questions should inspire the speakers to expound on the subject or give their opinion. Questions should not be too long or complicated.
MASTER EVALUATOR - The Master Evaluator (or General Evaluator) evaluates anything and everything that takes place throughout the meeting. The Master Evaluator is also responsible for the evaluation team as well as the TAG team (timer and grammarian/ah counter). During the meeting, the Master Evaluator takes notes on everything that happens (or doesn't but should) e.g. Did the meeting start on time? Were guests welcomed? Was everyone prepared?
TIMER - The timer is responsible for keeping track of time for each segment of the meeting i.e. Table Topics, Speakers, Evaluators. The timer is also called upon to explain the timing rules before the "timed" portions of the meeting take place. He/she uses a signal system (lights) to let participants know when they've reached the minimum and maximum amount of time allotted for their speech as well as a warning light 1 minute before the maximum allotted time limit.
GRAMMARIAN/AH COUNTER - Listening skills are crucial for the grammarian. Responsibilities include introducing the "word of the day" and keep track of who uses it during the meeting; to comment on the use of grammar by the speakers and evaluators; keep track of any awkward use or misuse of the language. The "Ah Counter notes hesitations such as "ahs", "mmmms", as well as repetitions of particular words.
EVALUATORS - The objective of the evaluation is to help speakers become more proficient. Evaluators provide a written evaluation of a prepared speech using the guide in the manual and recording their own, personal impressions. The evaluator can prepare by reviewing the project objectives in the manual and gently offering useful advice. SPEAKERS - The main purpose of the meeting is to hear 3 to 4 members present prepared speeches based on assignments in the Competent Communication and Leadership Program or the Advanced Communication program. In addition to their prepared speeches, speakers are to prepare an introduction for the Toastmaster's use.