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/
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