CLE Evaluation Method
Commend · Learn · Encourage
What is the CLE Method?
The CLE evaluation framework is a structured approach to giving balanced speech feedback in Toastmasters. It ensures every evaluation contains three essential elements:
Highlight what the speaker did well. Be specific and genuine. This builds confidence and reinforces positive behaviors.
Offer one or two specific areas for improvement. Be constructive, not critical. Focus on actionable suggestions.
End on a motivating note. Reinforce the speaker's potential and express confidence in their continued growth.
Build Your Evaluation
What did the speaker do well? Be specific and authentic.
What one or two things could the speaker improve? Keep it constructive and actionable.
End with motivation and confidence in the speaker's journey.
Tips for CLE Evaluations
Be specific, not vague. Instead of “great speech,” say “your use of the rule of three in your conclusion made it highly memorable.”
Balance your sections. Aim for roughly equal depth in each area — a very long commend and one-word encourage feels unbalanced.
Use “I” statements. “I noticed” and “I felt” make feedback personal rather than judgmental.
Address the speech objectives. Always reference the manual project or speech goals when applicable.
Limit the “Learn” section. One or two actionable suggestions is far more effective than a long list of improvements.