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47 - COMM 111: Speech #3 Guidelines

Persuasive Fact of Value

Length: 5–7 Minutes

Goal

To develop a persuasive speech topic that addresses a claim of fact or value and provides your audience with evidence to support your claim a problem exists or something needs to be recognized or addressed. The speech needs to be well organized and provide substantial arguments, evidence, logic, and reasoning (ethos, pathos, logos) for your claim. It also needs to be audience focused, and create an opportunity to begin the persuasive process with your listeners.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Demonstrate you know the difference between the types of persuasive speaking by addressing either a claim of fact or value.

  2. Select a topic that is appropriate for a persuasive speech.A persuasive topic has two sides to the issue—you can argue either side with support and evidence.

  3. Research the topic—you’ll need to cite aloud at least three (3) outside references. (Remember: You are not considered a reference.) Also remember, in persuasion, “outside” evidence is vital to the success of your arguments.Note: Check with your professor on his/her Web page policy. Your professor may want to approve the Web site. Most professors will only allow you to use one qualified/valid Web site, if any.

  4. Develop a specific/rhetorical purpose statement and central idea for a persuasive speech.

  5. Select an appropriate organizational pattern for a speech based upon claims of fact or value and divide the speech into introduction, body, and conclusion.

  6. Create a full complete-sentence preparation outline in proper outlining form.

  7. Create a set of brief key word speaking notes with any speaking directions to help you achieve greatness.

  8. Select and develop an audio/visual aid that supports, extends, and enhances your message. But remember: You are the focus of the speech.

  9. Develop a reference/bibliography page.

  10. Progress as an extemporaneous speaker.

  11. Be an active and ethical listener.

  12. Create a compelling attention-getter and ending statement.

Guidelines

Your speech should meet the following minimum criteria:

Structure

  • An introduction with:An attention-getter
    A credibility statement (ethos)
    A relevancy statement
    A thesis/central idea—what do you want the audience to think or feel after hearing your speech? Be specific.
    A preview statement
    A transition to the body
    An approximate time frame of 10%–15% of the total speech time
    Address the WIIFM of your audience

  • The body of the speech should contain the following:An appropriate organizational pattern for a speech on a question of fact or value
    Emotional appeals, which can appear in all parts of your presentation (pathos)
    Distinct main points (no more than 3–5)
    Well-supported main points incorporating a variety of support materials: solid ethical arguments, reasoning, evidence (logos), stories, and examples
    Transitions between main points—try using internal summaries or internal previews
    Three (3) source citations, which means citing your references out loud in the body of your speech (or in the introduction/conclusion if you use any there)

  • A conclusion withA summary of the main points of the speech
    A restatement of thesis/central idea
    An ending with a “clincher” or memorable statement
    An approximate time frame of 5%–10% of the total speech time

Delivery

  • Make eye contact. Look at everyone in the room, not just the instructor. It is very important to talk with your entire audience as you attempt to change their beliefs.

  • Be enthusiastic and expressive. You’re talking about a topic that interests you, that you believe in, and are passionate about.

  • Be extemporaneous. Refer to your notes, but don’t read the speech to us. Be conversational! Be yourself!

  • Gesture. Don’t just be a talking head. Plan your movements and practice them to be comfortable with them.

  • Avoid the “ums,” “ers,” “uhs.”

  • Use vocal variety in your rate and your volume. Pause. Be dramatic. Have energy!

Note the time limit. Practice your speech to be within the time frame. There will be a 10% penalty deducted from your speech for not meeting the two-minute window on the time limit. One of the best ways to meet the time limit is to practice your speech.

Grading Point Structure

Your speech will be graded based on the following point structure:

Total Speech Points - 150 Points

Time - 5 to 7 minutes

# of sources required (minimum #) - 3 (cited out loud)

Visual aids as per instructor (minimum) - 1

Outlines as required (graded separately) - Preparation (15) and Speaking Notes (10), 25 points total

47 - COMM 111: Speech #3 Guidelines
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