49 - COMM 111: Speech #4 Guidelines
Persuasive Policy
Length: 6–8 Minutes
Assignment Introduction
In this, the last speech of the semester, you will persuade us to take a position on a topic and provide a mental or physical call to action/solution by presenting a persuasive speech based on a claim of policy. Goal
Develop a policy speech on a two-sided topic, with the goal of changing the attitudes, values, and actions of your audience in a well-organized, audience-oriented presentation.
You may have already introduced and/or given us background information on your topic as a question of fact or value in Speech #3.
During this final speech, remind us briefly of the relevant aspects of your topic as they pertain to us, providing a brief summary or recap of the issue/problem for your audience.In other words, the material from your Speech #3 addressing a topic from a question of fact or value should constitute only a very small portion of your evidence, arguments, and points.
Remember, this is a new speech with a different goal/outcome. You must devote the bulk of the time to persuading us of the validity of your position, calling us to action, and showing us that your solution is viable and will work to lessen the problem you address.Do not say “In my last speech.”
You are to use one of the persuasive organizational patterns discussed in class, the course reference tool, and your text for Speech #4.
Your instructor may allow you to create an entirely new persuasive topic dealing with a presentation based on a question of policy. Ask your instructor.Please note: Your individual instructor may have other guidelines or topic focus for this assignment that may be discussed in your particular class. Please check with him/her on his/ her approach to this assignment before you begin.
Learning Outcomes
Demonstrate you know the difference between a persuasive speech based on claims of fact or value (Speech #3) and a policy speech (Speech #4).
Select and develop a two-sided persuasive topic.
Learn to use one of the persuasive patterns of organization for a policy speech.
Research the topic—you’ll need to cite aloud at least three (3) outside sources in your speech. (Remember: You are not considered a reference.) Also remember, in persuasion, “outside” evidence is vital to the success of your arguments.Please check with your instructor if one of these references may be from your Fact or Value Speech #3
Note: Check with your professor on his/her Web page use policy. Your professor may want to approve the Web site. Most professors will only allow you to use one Web site. Some may not allow any Web pages as support. Please check with them.
Develop a specific/rhetorical purpose statement and central idea (you’re really good at this by now) focusing on your persuasive intent for the audience.
Be audience-centered in all your choices.
Come up with a compelling attention-getter and ending statement.
Utilize Aristotle’s three proofs: ethos, pathos, logos.
Decide on the reasoning methods you will use in developing your arguments.
Provide a call to action—mental or physical.
Create a PowerPoint presentation for your speech that enhances, supports, and extends your message.
Create a full complete-sentence preparation outline in proper outlining form.
Develop a bibliography/reference page.
Develop a set of brief key word speaking notes.
Deliver the speech extemporaneously!
Be an active and ethical listener.
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, feel, or do after hearing your speech? Be specific.
In a persuasive speech dealing with a claim of policy, the central idea statement should tell us the position you are taking on this topic. Example: Today I want you to know that landfills carry the threat of toxins and should not be built in residential areas.
A previewA 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 have:References cited aloud in the body of your speech (and/or the introduction/conclusion if you use any there)
An appropriate organizational pattern for a policy speech
Emotional appeals (pathos), which can appear in all parts of your presentation
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 (possibly internal summaries or internal previews if needed)
A conclusion with:A summary of the main points of the speech
A restatement of thesis/central idea
A call to action
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 whole audience as you attempt to change their beliefs and ultimately their actions.
Be enthusiastic and expressive! You’re talking about a topic that interests you and you believe in and are passionate about.
Be extemporaneous! Refer to your notes, but don’t read them.Be conversational
Be yourself
Gesture. Don’t be just a talking head.
Avoid vocal fillers. Try to limit the “ums,” “ers,” “uhs.”
Use vocal variety. Change up your rate and volume; use pauses; be expressive; be energetic.
Try to move out from behind the podium.Move from one side of the room to another when making a new point
Plan your movements
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.
Grading Point Structure
Your speech will be graded based on the following point structure:
Total Speech Points - 175 Points
Time - 6 to 8 minutes
# of sources required (minimum #) - 3 (cite out loud)
Visual aids as per instructor - 1 (PowerPoint Required)
Outlines as required (graded separately) - Preparation (15) and Speaking Notes (10), 25 points total
