Informative Speech Assignment

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Informative Speech Assignment

Dr. Barnett                                                                                                                      Comm101

 

Points:             Total: 145 points

Informative Speech: 70 points

Full Sentence Outline: 75 points

Assignment Details

Purpose: The purpose of this speech is to share ideas and information with the audience by describing and explaining a topic of interest to you. Through this speech, you will have the opportunity to “teach” us something.  Your speech should inform the audience on subject that has some significance to them (a public issue, not personal) and be at a depth that we will find truly informative.

Please remember that we practice extemporaneous speaking, not manuscript presentation. Your speech will be graded on content, organization and delivery style.

Speeches will be held: Monday October 31st – Friday November 4th

Outlines due:  Friday October 28th before class

Acceptable types of speeches include:

Events:

  • Describes or explains significant, interesting, or unusual occurrences

Places and people:

  • Describes significant, interesting, or unusual places or people

Objects:

  • An object is anything tangible that can be perceived by the senses
  • Speeches describe the characteristics or uses for the object to understand why it is important or valued

Concepts:

  • Speeches about ideas, theories, principles, worldviews or beliefs

Topics must be approved by Wednesday, October 26th (for MWF classes)

Speech Requirements:

  • Topics must be approved
  • Lengths: 5-6 minutes
  • Sources: 5 sources
  • Visual Aids are required
  • No more than 3 notecards

Introduction must include:

  • Attention-getter
  • Clear statement of thesis
  • Credibility
  • Preview of main points

Body

  • Main points articulated in complete sentences
  • Each main point has at least two sub-points
  • Each main point is supported with evidence
  • Clear organization
  • Visual Aid enhances understanding

Conclusion

  • Signal
  • Review main points
  • Restate thesis
  • Have a clincher

Delivery

  • Engaging presentation
  • Have vocal variety
  • Use effective gestures
  • Maintain eye contact
  • Use powerful language (i.e. avoid ums, you knows, etc.)

Some questions to ask yourself are:

  • Does my choice of topic demonstrate awareness and understanding of my audience through audience analysis?
  • Does my introduction capture the attention of my audience and provide a clear statement of my thesis and preview my main points?
  • Is my speech well organized and easy to follow with smooth transitions?
  • Do I support my thesis with adequate supporting evidence?
  • Does my topic fit the public sphere?
  • Do I give equal time and weight to each side of the issue? Do I remain unbiased?
  • Do I have a visual aid that enhances the presentation of material in my speech?
  • Do I contribute to my ethos by presenting the information in a well-articulated manner with a strong delivery style?
  • Do I restate my thesis and clearly signal my conclusion?
  • Do I remember that my key purpose is to inform, not to persuade?
  • Have I developed my “key-word” presentation outline?

Remember, the goal of this speech is not to persuade on an issue of controversy; rather it is to educate your audience on a subject of some substance.  Be creative and choose a topic that really interests you and that you think your audience would benefit to learn more about.