Speech Basics

Flashcards covering core principles of speech crafting, argumentation, signposting, delivery, and common speech pitfalls based on the lecture notes.

Thesis

A clear, defensible main claim that takes a specific position and previews your line of reasoning.

Line of reasoning

The logical sequence of claims an author makes, and the connections between them, that moves an argument from evidence to conclusion.

Claim

A debatable assertion (not a fact) that takes a position and can be supported or challenged with evidence.

Opinion (in speech)

A claim without evidence.

Trivia (in speech)

Evidence without a claim.

Argument

The whole package, including the thesis, claims, evidence, and reasoning together.

Summary (in speech)

An argument without claims; described as the fastest way to lose points in this course.

Transitions to avoid

Avoid using "And…But…", endless repetition of the same transition like "my next example is…", and jumping randomly from one example to the next.

Signpost

A verbal or visual marker indicating the direction you are taking your speech/presentation or where you are presently at in order to help your audience move through different concepts, connect the dots, and help them stay engaged.

Helpful Signposting Functions

Guiding your audience through your material (e.g., "here's an example"), encapsulating complicated information (e.g., "Let's be clear"), and showcasing a key idea (e.g., "Here's the important point…").

Unhelpful Signposting Habits

Repetition of crutch phrases, cliché expressions, a condescending or preachy tone, set up you don't need, and invitations to tune out.

Conclusions Guidelines

Avoid abrupt conclusions, signpost the end (avoiding lame phrases like "in conclusion"), repeat the main points simply and definitively, and return to the thesis with a doable statement.

Basic Public Speech Issues

Enunciation + Speed and Volume, Posture, Hands (and what to do with them), Vocal fillers, and Breathing.