Role Script Templates

Serving in the Ah-Counter role provides an excellent opportunity to practice listening skills.

The purpose of the Ah-Counter is to note unnecessary words and sounds used by members who speak during the meeting.

Words or phrases that may be used inappropriately or unnecessarily include and, well, but, so, and you know.

Sounds may include ah, um, and er.

Prior to the Meeting

Prepare a brief explanation of the duties of the Ah-Counter for the benefit of guests.

Upon Arrival at the Meeting

Be prepared to take notes as people speak during the meeting. You may need to use the Ah-Counter’s log provided by your club. Collect it from the Sergeant at Arms.

Download Ah-Counter’s Log here.

During the Meeting

When introduced, explain the role of the Ah-Counter.
Throughout the meeting, listen to speakers and note unnecessary words, sounds, and pauses. Tally the sounds or words each person uses throughout the meeting.
When called on by the General Evaluator during the evaluation section, you may stand near your chair and give your report.
The responsibilities of the Ah-Counter conclude with the meeting.

Script

“Greetings Mr./Madam Toastmaster, fellow Toastmasters, and guests.
The purpose of the Ah-Counter is to note words and sounds that are used as a “crutch” or “pause filler” by anyone who speaks.
During the meeting, I will listen for overused words, including and, well, but, so, and you know. I will also listen for filler sounds, including ah, um, and er. I will also note when a speaker repeats a word or phrase, such as “I, I” or “This means, this means.”
At the end of the meeting, I will report the number of times that each speaker used these expressions.
Thank you, Mr./Madam Toastmaster.”

Ah-Counter

Checklist and Script Template for Ah-Counter

Further information on the Toastmaster role:

https://www.toastmasters.org/membership/club-meeting-roles/ah-counter

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