Organization of Speeches

Guest Lecture:

Courtney Hughes

MEd, BSc, BEd

Why is it Important?

A Speech is a logical flow of thoughts or ideas that support one main topic

Public Speaking is a powerful skill• Jobs often always require good

communication skills• Even in a technologically sophisticated

world, the basics are still important

Types of Speeches

Entertaining Informative Motivational Educational Promotional

Delivery Formats

Impromptu – responsive Extemporaneous – broad

outline Scripted Memorization

Organizing Speeches: BIG ideas

Know your topic!

Know your audience!

Practice, practice, practice!

Have fun!

Three parts to a speech

Introduction - the “hook.”

Body - the largest section with the majority of information.

Conclusion - bringing it all together and wrapping it up.

Introductions

Can be formal or informal• Icebreakers can reduce tension and anxiety,

putting you and audience at ease• Take a chance since most people will forget about

it soon (if audience is appropriate to take such a chance)

• Example: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SaChQG6rQCc

Introductions

Introduce yourself - just a few words

Introduce your topic and how you connect to it • What’s the point? Why should the audience care?

• BUT get to the point concisely and quickly!

Provide an overview of what you will discuss and why• Stay focused!

Body

Requires consideration and some imagination in organizing• Decide whether you are using a descriptive

or factual approach Concepts or themes can be used to

provide structure and unite thoughts.• Example: Human physical and mental

health and the importance of nutrition on health and what having a gym membership can do for you

Body: Organizers

Organizers make it easier to provide continuity between intro, body and conclusions

Examples relevant to your topic:• Issues• Problems and Solutions• Timelines

Body: Transitions

Pauses and transition phrases• These let your audience know when one point ends and the next

beginsExample: What are ecosystem services?

(provide info)Why are they important?

(provide info)How does ecosystem services relate to environment management?

(provide info)Who is effected by decisions made related to ecosystem services and

environmental management?(provide info)

Body: Content

Repetition can be a powerful tool if used wisely• If possible, wrap your speech around a signature

phrase

• Example: Speech on butchering as a skilled trade “the meat, the method and the meal…”

Rhetoric devices can be memorable Alliteration: fascinating flora Metaphor: colors so bright even the darkest mood was lifted

Conclusion

Restate the purpose and review supporting points

Close with a powerful line that is compelling, if possible

(and remember to enjoy yourself!)

Example of using “three supporting points”

“How Dance Helped Me In the Real Estate Business.”

Opening: 20 lbs and nine years ago, I was a dancer…which leads into stating 3 dance principles that helped me in the real estate business.

Body:

Principle 1: Practice Perfect Performance

Principle 2: Visualize the Result You Desire

Principle 3: Get Out and See the People

Conclusion: restate three principles

Toastmaster Tips…

• Know your material• Know the audience• Know the venue• Practice• Relax• Realize that people want you

to succeed

Thank you!

References.

Toastmasters. 2011. Organizing your speech. Available: http://sixminutes.dlugan.com/toastmasters-speech-2-organize-your-speech/