Study Notes on Introductions, Conclusions, and Transitions
8: Introductions and Conclusions and Transitions
Kris Barton & Barbara G. Tucker, Florida State University & University of Georgia
8.1: General Guidelines for Introductions and Conclusions
Importance: Introductions and conclusions provide a clear framework for the speech, helping to establish its beginning and end. They prepare the audience for the content of the speech and help them mentally prepare for its conclusion.
Functionality:
Preview/Review: Introductions provide a preview of the speech, while conclusions summarize its content to reinforce understanding and retention.
Planned redundancy is a strategy aiding in retention, emphasizing main ideas to ensure audience comprehension.
Length Guidelines:
General tax: Each section (introduction and conclusion) should comprise about 10% of the total speech length. It may go up to 15% if justified.
Example Calculation:
For a 5-7 minute speech (average 6 minutes or 360 seconds), the introduction/conclusion should last about 36-54 seconds.
Common Errors to Avoid in Introductions:
Rambling and not getting to the point.
Unclear specific purpose statement, especially as first words.
Techniques that damage credibility (e.g., defining common words).
Starting to talk before reaching the lectern.
Reading from notes; important to establish eye contact.
Speaking too fast; clarity and emphasis are crucial.
Common Errors to Avoid in Conclusions:
Multiple signals indicating the end of the speech.
Rambling without clear closure; if signaling end, then end.
Inadequate closure through body language or facial expressions suggesting dissatisfaction.
8.2: Structuring the Introduction
The introductory phase is crucial for setting the tone and addressing audience engagement levels.
Five Basic Elements of a Good Introduction:
Element 1: Get the Audience’s Attention
Start with an attention getter—an engaging statement or question. Example: Avoid starting with generic statements (e.g., "I'm going to talk to you about soccer"). Instead, make it engaging and relevant.
Attention-Getting Strategies:
Anecdotes and Narratives: Brief, engaging stories related to the topic.
Startling Statistics or Facts: Surprising information relevant to the topic (e.g., beginning a speech on oil conservation with the facts about fuel capacity of aircraft).
Rhetorical Questions: Provoking thought without expecting an answer.
Immediate Subject Reference: A direct mention of the speech's subject.
References to Audience or Self-Interest: Connecting the topic personally to those in attendance.
Quotations: Utilizing impactful words from others to introduce the topic.
Current Events/Historical References: Tying recent events to the subject matter to establish relevance.
Humor: Use cautiously; relevant and non-offensive humor can engage the audience effectively.
Element 2: Establish Credibility
State why you are credible on the topic through personal experience or research. Example: "Having played baseball for over ten years…" or researched several books on the topic.
Element 3: Establish Rapport
Create a connection with the audience to engage them emotionally or intellectually. Example: Frame similar experiences or interests to draw them in.
Element 4: Preview Your Topic/Purpose/Central Idea
Clearly state what the speech will cover; avoid vague or overly complicated explanations. Example: "Today, I will talk about Abraham Lincoln's life, his presidency, and his assassination."
Element 5: Preview Your Main Points
Summarize and enumerate main discussion points clearly for easy follow-through during the speech.
8.3: Examples of Introductions
Example 1 (Informative Speech on Allergies):
Attention getter: Personal anecdote about a severe allergy.
Credibility: Mention extensive research done on allergies.
Rapport: Connect to common experiences with allergies in the audience.
Topic/Purpose: Clarify goals of the speech.
Main Points: Identify the three most common allergies and treatments.
Example 2 (Persuasive Speech on Term Life Insurance):
Attention getter: Emotional scenario regarding loss and financial implications.
Credibility: Rely on personal research and experience with life insurance.
Rapport: Address the importance of planning for financial security.
Topic/Purpose: Highlight the need for understanding life insurance.
Main Points: Define term life insurance and its benefits.
8.4: Structuring the Conclusion
A strong conclusion comprises three key elements:
Element 1: Signal the End
Prepare the audience for closure; phrases like "In conclusion" or "To summarize" effectively signal the end.
Element 2: Restate Main Points
Provide a summary of main points without adding new material. Utilize repetition for clarity and audience retention.
Element 3: Clincher
The final, impactful statement to leave a lasting impression. Strategies for clincher include:
Conclude with a Challenge: Encourage audience engagement in a specific activity.
Conclude with a Quotation: End with a thought-provoking quotation related to the topic.
Visions of the Future: Create imagery of an improved future based on acceptance of your ideas.
Inspirational Appeals: End on an emotionally resonant note.
Rhetorical Question: Leave the audience pondering a crucial idea.
Refer Back to Introduction: Craft a sense of closure by revisiting themes or anecdotes.
Personal Story/Anecdote: Create resonance by concluding with a personal touch.
Reference to Audience or Self-Interest: Spell out clear benefits to the audience regarding the topic.
8.5: Examples of Conclusions
Example 1 (Informative Speech on Anxiety):
Concludes by summarizing the complexity of anxiety and assuring the audience they can overcome it, followed by a relevant quote.
Example 2 (Persuasive Speech on Adopting a Rescue Animal):
Emphasizes benefits of adopting a rescue animal, referencing local shelters and appeal for action, ending with a motivational quote about the value of making a difference.
Final Note:
Consider timing and effectiveness when practicing introductions and conclusions for speeches; practice is crucial for successful delivery during actual presentations.