Chapter 8 Speech

Planned redundancy

The deliberate repetition of key ideas across the introduction, body, and conclusion to improve audience comprehension and retention.

Recommended length of a speech introduction

10–15% of total speech time (approximately 30–45 seconds in a 5-minute speech).

Recommended length of a speech conclusion

5–10% of total speech time (approximately 30 seconds maximum in a 5-minute speech).

Five core elements of a speech introduction

1. Get audience attention

2. Establish or enhance credibility

3. Establish rapport with the audience

4. Preview the topic, purpose, or thesis

5. Preview main points

Three core elements of a speech conclusion

1. Signal the end of the speech

2. Restate main points (summary)

3. Provide a clincher (memorable closing statement)

Recommended speech composition order

Drafting the introduction after developing a clear understanding of the speech body.

Best concluding technique for persuasion

Sharing an anecdote or personal story.

Major errors to avoid during an introduction

Rambling, talking while approaching the lectern, starting with the Specific Purpose Statement, speaking too fast, reading word-for-word, or sounding overly pedantic.

Major errors to avoid during a conclusion

Signaling the end more than once, introducing new material, rambling, or talking and making faces while exiting the platform.