1 - The Icebreaker

Purpose: To introduce yourself to your fellow club members and share information about yourself of interest.
Timing: 4-6 minutes
What is this talk about?
The general subject of this talk is YOU! Share personal experiences of significance to you.
What do I talk about?
Select three or four interesting aspects about yourself which will provide an insight and understanding of you as an individual. You might include your birthplace, education or family, previous occupations, ambitions, hobbies, sports, or travel experiences.
How do I structure my talk?
Once you have decided what you will talk about, try to create an interesting opening that captures everyone's attention. Then work out how to finish your speech with a suitable conclusion. Finally fill in the body of the speech with the three or four points you want to make, expanding on them by using examples, stories, or anecdotes.
Should I use any notes?
Yes, you can use notes if you think you will need them. But remember, you are speaking about yourself, not reading your life history. You could write your main points on small card to refer to when you need to.
How much practice should I do?
You need to do as much practice as you think is needed so that you are familiar enough with your talk that it sounds spontaneous and natural. Rather than thinking of it as "making a speech", think of it as a talk before a group of friends, sharing information of interest.
Will I be marked on my speech?
No, you will not be marked or graded. Everyone will offer you feedback on how you did, and complete a personal written evaluation in your manual for you to take away and keep. You can use the evaluation sheet as a guide to things you did well, and things you could improve on or change for next time.
Should my talk have a title?
Yes, try to think of an interesting title for your talk that conveys a hint of what you are going to talk about and sets the scene for your talk. Before you speak, you will be introduced by name, using the title you have given.
Evaluation: Your evaluator will be looking for your strong points, whether they got to know you as a person, were you adequately prepared, did you speak clearly, did your speech have a definite opening, body and conclusion, and will offer specific suggestions to help you improve for next time.

More Information at:
http://www.toastmasters.org/pdfs/IceBreaker.pdf