Speech

Expository Speech Overview

  • Definition of Expository

    • The term "expository" literally means to explore and report.

    • It involves reporting on findings from a subject or topic.

  • Purpose of Expository Speech

    • An expository speech involves selecting a topic of personal interest, writing an essay on it, then developing and delivering a speech based on that essay.

    • The main skill to develop in this assignment is teaching.

Skills in Focus

  • Previous Skill: Memorization

    • Contrast with the current focus on teaching skills.

    • Some students excel at memorization, but current focus will shift to teaching methodologies.

  • Expected Outcome

    • Students will be graded based on the effectiveness of their teaching during the presentation.

Topics for Expository Speech

  • Selection Criteria for Topics

    • Must be suitable for a high school audience; avoid overly simplistic or common knowledge subjects learned in earlier education levels.

    • Cannot be focused on sports or pop culture topics.

Examples of Invalid Topics

  • Historical Events:

    • The Titanic (commonly covered in fourth grade).

  • Pop Culture & Trends:

    • Taylor Swift, Nike sneakers, Jurassic Park, video games.

Acceptable Topic Guidelines

  • Focus on topics within science, history, English, or the Bible.

  • Topics must be more profound than simpler concepts learned in earlier education.

  • Can include advanced math concepts (ninth grade or above).

    • Examples of Good Topics:

  • CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) related to football but centered on the medical science behind it.

  • Scientific discussions about certain animals (e.g., marsupials, unique pests).

Major Topic Categories

Science

  • Topics can involve a broad range of scientific concepts.

    • Avoid common knowledge subjects like the planets (learned in first grade).

    • Acceptable subjects include advanced biology topics or emerging fields like AI or blockchain technology.

History

  • Appropriate historical topics could focus on less commonly taught subjects.

    • Example: World War II is too commonly known; however, the Vietnam War might be a suitable topic.

    • Focus on biographies of lesser-known historical figures (e.g., Franklin D. Roosevelt, Calvin Coolidge).

English

  • Discussing themes from literature or reviewing a book is allowed if the book is suitable for high school learners.

    • Must be pre-approved by the teacher.

Biblical Topics

  • Presenting lessons or discussions based on biblical teachings is acceptable, provided the content is engaging and educational.

Restrictions on Topic Selection

  • Prohibited Topics

    • Avoid controversial subjects such as:

    • Sex, drugs, and political subjects.

    • Avoid sensational topics (e.g., serial killers, major crimes).

    • Topics cannot include COVID-19 or related discussions due to their sensitive nature.

Preparation for the Speech

  • Research Requirements

    • Each presentation requires a research essay of 2-3 pages.

    • Must include at least three sources and five quotes within the essay (not necessarily in the speech).

  • Grading Breakdown

    • Each speech will be graded out of 100 points, divided between the speech and the essay:

    • 50 points for the essay

    • 50 points for the speech

  • Additional Considerations

    • Students must prepare for potential questions following their speeches to clarify or expand upon their topics if applicable.

Final Thoughts

  • Aim for topics that resonate with you personally while remaining educational and suitable for a high school-level audience.

  • Consider the long-term learning implications of your selected topic to maximize educational benefit for both presenter and audience.

  • Avoid humor or sensationalism for controversial topics; maintain a focus on education and factual representation.