Public Speaking Exam 1 - Ch. 7 notes

step 1: select a topic

• find one you are interested in

• one that stirs audience curiosity

• pick a topic that is current and relevant

• avoid overused topics

• make sure it is creative and yields new insights or a fresh POV

• ensure the topic is manageable in a given time constraint

step 2: identify general purpose

to inform: increase audiences awareness and understanding

to persuade: to effect some degree of change

to mark a special occasion: celebration, funeral, toast, etc.

step 3: Narrow the topic

• consider time constraints, audience, and occasion

• consider what audience already knows or wants to learn

• consider what is most relevant and novel

• work to broaden knowledge of audience

“Goldilocks Zone”

make sure that topic is not too broad or too narrow

step 4: specific purpose

a statement of precisely what you want the audience to gain from the speech (the outcome of the speech)

“to inform me audience about ……”

step 5: write thesis statement

the central idea of speech and the 2-5 main points (evidence and reasons)

1 complete sentence

main points and supporting material