speech

General Speech Guidelines

• Everybody has the same duty regarding speech deadlines.

• Speeches are a crucial part of communication development in this course.

Basics of Speech Preparation

• The importance of presentation skills cannot be overstated; it's not just about what you say but also how you say it.

• Eye contact and emotional expression are essential for engaging the audience.

• Students are expected to practice oral presentations instead of reading directly from notes.

Observational Exercise

• An excerpt from a speech will be shared for analysis; focus on the following aspects:

  • Slides Behind the Speaker:

  • The use of bullet points.

  • Presence of pictures or visuals.

  • Speaker not reading directly from slides.

  • Minimal word count on slides for clarity.

Five by Five Rule for Slides

• Five by Five Rule: Each slide should follow these guidelines:

  • Header: Major topic included.

  • No more than five bullet points per slide.

  • No more than five words per bullet point; aim for simplicity and clarity.

• The total word count might be kept lower than 25 words.

• The need for concise slides arises to prevent the audience from reading rather than listening.

Use of Visuals in Slides

• Graphics should have purpose, not just aesthetic value:

  • Can include data (e.g., graphs or charts).

  • Infographics may be appropriate if they substantiate the content.

  • Pictures can clarify complex ideas or illustrate examples effectively.

• A personal anecdote may not apply to all topics, but the use of relevant graphics is encouraged.

• Avoid excessive transitions and ensure consistency in:

  • Color Scheme: Maintain a uniform theme across slides.

  • Font: Use the same font style and size throughout.

• Example of workplace rules: inconsistency in presentations can be distracting, thus companies often have a style guide.

Speech Length and Timing

• Speech must last between five to eight minutes;

  • Less than five minutes or exceeding eight minutes will incur penalties.

  • Practice and time the speech to ensure compliance with these limits.

• The outline is the only permissible aid during the presentation.

• Oral communication should capture main points without being a verbatim reading of the essay.

Structuring the Outline

• The outline details all necessary elements for the speech, which includes:

  • Introduction to the topic:

  • Identify yourself and greet your audience.

  • Use an attention-getting strategy (e.g. hook).

  • Explain the topic's significance and introduce key points.

  • Research Process Overview:

  • Describe how you chose your topic and any major research questions.

  • Share your thesis, and note any changes throughout the semester.

  • Presentation of Claims:

  • Highlight core claims without overwhelming detail.

  • Cite sources orally during the speech (e.g., "According to the Centers for Disease Control…").

  • Counterarguments and Rebuttals:

  • Outline main counterclaims and justify your responses.

  • Interesting Discoveries:

  • Share memorable insights or surprising information learned during research.

  • Conclusion:

  • Craft a concise conclusion reiterating the thesis and key points.

  • Use a closing signal, e.g., "In conclusion…" to indicate the wrap-up and invite questions if desired.

Practical Recommendations for Delivery

• Dress appropriately, aiming for decent appearance without needing to be overly formal.

• Speak clearly, ensuring that volume is sufficient for the entire audience to hear.

• Attendance policies noted: No require attendance on days of speech delivery, but presence is encouraged for peer support.

Technology and Submission Guidelines

• Ensure ease of sharing slides (Google Slides or PowerPoint) by setting permissions correctly:

  • Google Slides: Set to allow anyone with the link to view.

  • PowerPoint: Check settings to enable viewing for the instructor.

• Be aware of submission deadlines: everything is due regardless of presentation day.

Additional Resources

• Various materials are available for reference in the course content under Unit Four, including:

  • Organizing the speech,

  • Structuring transitions,

  • Citing sources,

  • Conclusion strategies,

  • Presentation skills,

  • Visual aids guidelines.

Final Notes

• Engage actively in the preparation process, utilize class time efficiently, and seek clarification when needed.

• Emphasize that the goal is to practice professional communication, as the speech marks an important step in personal development and academic progress.