Description

Many new participants might incorrectly describe this as the “Ah-ha” Counter. While the results of your report may be a revelation to the participants, your role is to count the number of ahs and other filler and crutch words used by each speaker.

In everyday conversation, we sometimes feel the need to fill dead space with sound. Often when thinking of what to say next, we will utter er or um. These filler words are most common when we are nervous or trying to think of what we want to say next. The Ah Counter also takes note of crutch words that we sometimes say without thinking. Common occurrences are and, so, and well, which can create run-on sentences. One challenge of this role is careful differentiation between appropriate and ineffective use of these words.

The greatest advantage of taking the role of Ah Counter is that of increasing your own awareness of crutch words. The greatest benefit is the honing of your listening skills.

The Ah Counter is given a list of words to listen for, but note that any word can be used as a crutch, depending upon the speaker. One person may have an unusual crutch, such as regularly ending a sentence with too. While uncommon and not listed on the form, this is a crutch word and should be noted. In addition, some crutch words have a proper usage. In the sentence, “I wanted some ice cream, so I went to the store,” the word so is not being used as a crutch. Compare this example with, “So today I will tell you the story of the Three Bears.” No causation is implied and, thus, the use of so is unnecessary.

The challenge for the Ah Counter is to listen closely to all speakers and to provide them with information to help them improve their awareness of crutch words, without being too critical. When reporting, a small number of crutch words may be reported with an actual count. “You had one and and two sos.” However, when a speaker uses many crutch words, you might simply say, “You had a lot of ums and your favorite word is so.” Keep in mind that people who are speaking outside their primary language will have a lot of filler words as they translate.

Note: The Ah Counter and Grammarian Roles are sometimes combined.

Before the Meeting

Print a copy of the Ah Counter form and have it available at the meeting.

During the Meeting

Listen carefully for all filler and crutch words and note them on the Ah Counter form. Be considerate of newer participants when reporting and only give a summary. For more experienced participants with few filler words, you may opt to give a full count.

After the Meeting

No tasks. Some programs may collect the Ah Counter report.

Skills

Listening, grammar, evaluation

Benefits Gained from This Role

In addition to cultivating better listening skills, you will also gain awareness of your own use of crutch and filler words. Learning to differentiate when specific words are crutches or grammatically correct is a benefit that will develop over time. This role also instructs newer members in providing constructive feedback and learning to tailor feedback to the recipient’s level of experience.

Describe Your Role

My role as Ah Counter is to count the crutch and filler words used by each participant in the meeting. These words include fillers, such as ah and um as well as crutch words such as and, so, you know, and others that are inappropriately used.

*Feel free to instead use and describe the specific practices of your club or program.