The purpose of the ah counter is to note words and sounds used as a "crutch" or "pause filler" by anyone who speaks during the meeting. Words may be inap-propriate interjections such as "and," "well," "but," "so," "you know." Sounds may be "ah," "um," "er." You should also note when a speaker repeats a word or phrase such as "I, I" or "This means, this means."

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

Make a list of everyone present.

 

During the meeting

1. When introduced prior to Table Topics, explain the role of the ah counter. In some clubs small fines are levied on members who do or do not do certain things. (For example, members are fined who use crutch words, not wearing their Toastmasters pin to the meeting, etc.) If your club levies fines, explain the fine schedule.
2. Throughout the meeting, listen to everyone (except guests) for "crutch" sounds and long pauses used as fillers and not as a necessary part of sentence structure. Write down how many crutch sounds or words each person used during all portions of the meeting.
3. When called on by the general evaluator during the evaluation segment, stand by your chair and give your report.

 

After the meeting

Give the completed ah counter’s record to the Treasurer (for collection of fines, if appropriate)