developing the body

Developing the Body of a Speech

Main Introduction

Focus on three main points for developing the body of the speech. 75% of the total speech time should be allocated for the body. For a 3-4 minute speech, aim for approximately 3 minutes in the body portion.

Time Management

Break down the body into manageable parts to ensure the audience can easily follow the speech:

• 30 seconds for the introduction.

• 1 minute for each main point, with a total of 3 points.This method ensures a balanced approach and prevents overwhelming content creation while giving the audience time to absorb information.

Ensuring Balance

Aim for similar amounts of time for each main point to maintain clarity and interest:

• Avoid focusing disproportionately on one point, which could lead to disengagement (for example, spending 2.5 minutes on point 2 while only giving 15 seconds to point 3 can confuse the audience and downplay the relevance of other points).

Structuring Your Main Points

Shark Analogy

Think of your main points as the big ideas (sharks in the ocean) that guide your speech; they should be substantial and clearly defined.

Thesis Reminder

Constantly refer back to your thesis and preview of main points throughout your speech to keep the audience grounded in the topic.

Example of Main Points

1. Main Point #1: My Son

   • Subpoint A: Opportunities of being a mother (e.g., activities shared, emotional growth).

   • Subpoint B: Challenges of being a young single mother (e.g., financial struggles, social stigma).

2. Main Point #2: My Education

   • Subpoint A: Opportunities in education (e.g., experiences from community college to PhD, mentorship received).

   • Subpoint B: Challenges faced during educational journey (e.g., balancing work and study, overcoming self-doubt).

3. Main Point #3: My Travels

   • Subpoint A: Opportunities (e.g., learning about diverse cultures, enjoying international cuisine, expanding perspectives).

   • Subpoint B: Challenges (e.g., adapting to different environments, dealing with language barriers, logistical difficulties).

Organizing the Points

The strategic ordering of the main points is crucial; the most significant moments should be placed first for maximum impact:

• Begin with My Son (most significant), followed by Education, and then conclude with Travels.

Transition Statements

Importance of Transitions

Transitions are key for moving smoothly between main points and subpoints, ensuring a coherent and engaging narrative.

Restate and Forecast Strategy

Clearly remind the audience of the previous point and introduce the next one, reinforcing the flow of the speech.

Example Transition Statements

• After discussing my son, transition: "Now that you’ve learned about my experience with my son, I will discuss education."

• Following the education discussion: "Now that you’ve learned how education shaped me, let’s explore how my travels impacted my life."

Subpoints and Sub-sub Points Structure

Use letters for subpoints (A, B) and Arabic numbering for sub-sub points (1, 2, 3) to maintain clarity. For introductory speeches (3-4 minutes), it's ample to limit yourself to three main points and a few subpoints; longer speeches can accommodate additional points.

Writing the Outline

Start with a working outline, a broad sketch of ideas for the speech, before transitioning to a formal outline that encapsulates full sentences and structured paragraphs. Reference samples available on the course platform (D2L) and in textbooks for guidance.

Conclusion

Seek clarity in speech development through structured outlines, time management, and effective transitions, as they will enhance the overall impact and comprehensibility of your speech.