16Special Occasion & Group Speaking

Speeches of Special Occasions

Speeches of introduction Acceptance speeches After-dinner speeches Tributes and eulogies Speeches of nomination Public testimony Roasts and toasts Mediated speaking

Speeches of Introduction

A short speech that introduces someone to an audience• Prepare the audience• Be accurate and up to date• Connect with the audience

Acceptance Speeches

Speech given by an individual who is being recognized, honored, or given an award• Be thankful and humble• Be succinct• Contextualize the award

After-Dinner Speeches

Usually serve as a featured part of an organized event• Be entertaining and lighthearted• Focus on a theme• Avoid presentation media

Tributes and Eulogies

Tributes – gives credit, respect, admiration, gratitude, or inspiration to someone

Eulogies – speech of tribute presented as a retrospective about an individual who has died• Emphasize emotion appropriately• Provide inspiration

Speeches of Nomination

Speech that demonstrates why a particular individual would be successful at something if given the chance

Public Testimony

Factual information and opinions about policy issues presented to government bodies or public institutions • Narrow your comments down to the basics• Contribute something original and useful to

the discussion• Organize your thoughts into key words and

phrases you want your audience to remember

Roasts and Toasts

Roast – humorous and good-natured ridicule directed toward the guest of honor at an event

Toast – brief remarks celebrating the accomplishments of a guest of honor at an event

Mediated Speaking

Learn as much as possible about the structure and format of the event

Dress appropriately Write a brief presentation outline Limit your physical movement Be assertive, confident, and to the point Speak clearly, with good volume Avoid jargon and acronyms Focus on the audience, no the camera

Presenting in Small Groups

Oral report Panel discussion Round table discussion Symposium Forum Videoconferencing Preparation and practice

Evaluating Small Group Presentations

Preparation as a group Coordinated presentations Effective listening Clear references to the group Goal achievement

Relevant Websites

Special Occasion Speeches: How To Tips in Preparing Group Presentations