Chapter 10: Intros, Transitions, Conclusions

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts of speech introductions, transitions, and conclusions from Chapter 10 of Public Speaking Handbook, 6th Edition.

Attention Getter

An introductory element designed to gain the audience's favorable attention and motivate them to listen to the speech.

Central Idea

The core thesis statement or subject of a speech, introduced during the speech introduction.

Speaker Credibility

An introductory objective established by demonstrating that the speaker is well-prepared, confident, or has relevant personal experience.

Initial Preview Statement

A signpost located near the end of the speech introduction that outlines the main ideas to be discussed.

Illustrations or Anecdotes

An attention-getter method using stories, recognized as the most inherently interesting way to start a speech.

Startling Facts or Statistics

An attention-getter device that uses surprising quantitative data or information to motivate the audience to listen further.

References to Historical Events

An attention-getter technique that connects an anniversary or historical event to the speech topic.

References to Recent Events

An attention-getting method that references occurrences within the past year to establish immediate relevance.

Transitions

Verbally stated phrases or sentences designed to bridge the gap between a current point and the next point in a speech.

Speech Conclusion Functions

The two primary goals of a speech ending: summarizing the speech (reemphasizing the central idea and main points) and providing closure.

Closure

The psychological sense of completion achieved at the end of a speech through verbal or nonverbal signals.

Verbal Cues for Closure

Transitional phrases such as "finally" or "for my last point" that signal to the audience that the speech is ending.

Nonverbal Cues for Closure

Delivery changes—such as pausing between body and conclusion, slowing speaking rate, stepping out from behind the podium, or shifting vocalics—to signal the end of a speech.

References to the Introduction

A conclusion technique where the speaker finishes a story, answers a question, or revisits the attention getter used at the start of the speech.

Inspirational Appeals or Challenges

A concluding strategy designed to rouse the audience to an emotional pitch or prompt them to action.