SPEECH: Current Events / Public Speaking

I.Introduction

A. Grabber

B. Thesis

C. Significance Statement

D. Preview

 

II. Body

A. First Area of Analysis

a. Source of evidence, date

b. Source of evidence, date
 

B. Second Area of Analysis

a. Source of evidence, date

b. Source of evidence, date

C. Third Area of Analysis

a. Source of evidence, date

b. Source of evidence, date

III. Conclusion

A. Restated Preview

B. Reinforced Thesis

C. Whammo Statement/Question

*Transition Statements: sentences which begin a new area of analysis and connect to the previous area of analysis (“Now that we have examined X, let’s take a look at Y”)

It is also possible that speakers may have more or fewer than three areas of analysis, but must have at least two.

INTRODUCTION

Grabber: An anecdote, statistic, or hypothetical scenario used to catch the audience’s attention and help them relate to the topic being presented.  It should be related to the speech topic, and engaging. This is a great opportunity to use some unexpected and exciting delivery style.

Thesis:  This statement should answer the question: “what is this speech about?”  It should state the topic to be discussed clearly.  For example: Televised advertisements impact young people.

Preview:  The preview tells the audience how the topic to be discussed will be treated.  Clearly state how the subject will be analyzed, and in what order.  For instance: “I will discuss the impact of television advertisements on youth (thesis) by examining which advertisements effect youth, why advertisements target young audiences, and how to maintain a safe and entertaining television experience for young people.” (preview)

BODY

Analysis: These are the full explanations of the points made in the preview.  They should the clear expression of the ideas of the speech supported by research.

Transition Statements:  These sentences work to bridge one area of analysis to the next by connecting the idea presented in the first body paragraph to the second, then the second to the third, etc.  For example: “Now that we’ve discussed the history of advertisement, let us examine how it is used to target young audiences.”

CONCLUSION

Reinstated Preview:  A simple review of the sub-topics should be presented in each area of analysis. This works to remind the audience of what they have learned, and to connect all the ideas before concluding.

Reinforced Thesis: After reminding the audience of the sub-topics presented throughout the body of the speech, this statement reminds the audience of the importance and the validity of the thesis stated at the start of the speech.

Whammo:  This is a fun opportunity to conclude the speech with a bang!  This can be presented in the form of an anecdote, analogy or statistic which connects to the grabber; or as a new question, statistic, or anecdote which sheds new light on the speech’s topic and inspires the audience to ponder the topic even further.