Chapter Twenty-Seven

Special Occasion Speeches

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Table of ContentsFunctions of Special Occasion

SpeechesTypes of Special Occasion

Speeches

Functions of Special Occasion Speeches

Special occasion speech: a speech prepared for a specific occasion and for a purpose dictated by that event

Functions of Special Occasion Speeches

EntertainmentCelebrationCommemorationInspirationSocial Agenda Setting

Functions of Special Occasion Speeches:

Entertainment

The main purpose is to entertain.

Listeners expect a lighthearted speech that amuses them.

Functions of Special Occasion Speeches:

Celebration

Recognize the person(s) or event being celebrated.

Praise the subject of celebration and cast him or her in a positive light.

Functions of Special Occasion Speeches:

Commemoration

To remember by ceremony a notable person, place, or event

Occur on important anniversaries

Functions of Special Occasion Speeches:

Inspiration

Inspire audiences as well as pay homage to the person or event being commemorated.

Functions of Special Occasion Speeches:

Social Agenda Setting

Establishing or reinforcing the goals and values of the group sponsoring the event

Types of Special Occasion Speeches

Speeches of IntroductionSpeeches of AcceptanceSpeeches of PresentationRoasts and ToastsEulogies and Other TributesAfter-Dinner SpeechesSpeeches of Inspiration

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

Speeches of Introduction

A short story that prepares the audience for the speaker and motivates them to listen.

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

Speeches of Introduction

When Giving an Introduction Speech: Describe the speaker’s background Briefly preview the speaker’s topic Ask the audience to welcome the

speaker Respond to introduction

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

Speeches of Acceptance

A speech in which the recipient expresses gratitude, and acknowledges others who have contributed to his or her success

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

Speeches of Acceptance

When Giving an Acceptance Speech: Prepare React genuinely and with humility Thank those giving the award Thank others who have helped

you

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

Speeches of Presentation

A speech in which the speaker communicates the meaning of the award and explains why the recipient is receiving it.

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

Speeches of Presentation

When Giving a Presentation Speech: Convey the meaning of the award Talk about the recipient of the award Consider the physical presentation

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

Roasts and Toasts

Roast: a humorous tribute to a person, one in which a series of speakers will jokingly poke fun at him or her

Toast: a brief tribute to a person or event being celebrated

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

Roasts and Toasts

When Roasting or Toasting: Prepare Highlight remarkable traits of

the person being honored Be positive Be brief

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

Eulogies and Other Tributes

Eulogy: a tribute praising a deceased person

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

Eulogies and Other Tributes

When Delivering a Eulogy: Balance delivery and emotions Refer to the family of the deceased Commemorate life—not death Be positive but realistic

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

After-Dinner Speeches

A lighthearted and entertaining speech delivered before, during, or after a meal

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

After-Dinner Speeches

When Making an After-Dinner Speech: Recognize the occasion Avoid stand-up comedy The after-dinner speech serves

as a form of social agenda setting

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

Speeches of Inspiration

A speech that seeks to uplift the audience and help them see things in a positive light

Types of Special Occasion Speeches:

Speeches of Inspiration

When Making an Inspirational Speech: Use real-life stories Be dynamic Make your goal clear Use a distinctive organizing device Close with a dramatic ending