GUIDELINES FOR PAUSE FILLER REPORTER

The purpose of the Ah Counter or Pause Filler Counter is to note words and
sounds used as a “crutch” or “pause filler” by anyone who speaks at the meeting.
Words may be inappropriate interjections and not as a necessary part of sentence
structure, such as “well, so, you know, okay.” Sounds may be “ah, um, er.”

As Pause Filler Counter, you may wish to arrive at least 10-15 minutes before 7
p.m. Obtain a blank copy of the Pause Filler log from the Sergeant At Arms. Have
a feel and understand the log and what you are going to “fine” speakers on.
Listen and record every pause filler. This is an important role to feedback to
speakers on their journey to speak better. Listen to the speech carefully, as a
word eg so ,may be an inappropriate interjection in one sentence, but a correct
usage in another.

The Language Evaluator will introduce the Word of the Day and speakers are
encouraged to use the word in their speeches. For every use of the Word of the
Day, a credit point will be given and this will be used to offset fines for pause
fillers used by the speakers.

As a listener, you shall start watching out for use of Pause Fillers and Word of the
Day immediately… starting with SAA, guests who are introducing themselves,
TME, President, TT Master, TT speakers, Project Speakers, Evaluators, Language
Evaluators, and Timer. You do not have to listen for pause fillers for the speakers
after you, eg, the GE.

When called on by the Toastmaster of the Evening to give your report, stand by
your chair and say,

“Toastmaster of the Evening, Mdm President, Fellow Toastmasters.

I’m Brian Lee, the Counter for Pause Fillers for this meeting. I have
listened to all your speeches and here is my report for those words and
sounds which you should avoid using when making a speech.

For each pause filler, we’ll fine you 10 cents; for use of the Word of the
Day, you’ll have a 10 cents credit. Guests are exempted from the fine,
but the report will include them as well. The SAA will go around to those
named by me and feed the PIGGY.

Now I shall get on with the report…” T

Please remember to use your voice clearly, loudly and confidently. This is a good
opportunity to practise your voice and speaking to the public.
October 2005