Speech Writing

Similar to essay writing

• introduction, thesis statement, developed body paragraphs, specific evidence to support your points, transitions, conclusion.

Different from essay writing

• Should be even more clearly organized than an essay
• No more than three main points
• More Repetition (Not only . . . , Not only . . . , Not only . . .)
• More Repetition
• Should state best points more than once, but with different words
• Intro should tell them what you will say (but not “I’m going to speak about . . .”)
• Body paragraphs tell them in more detail
• Conclusion repeats your main ideas
• Introduction should have a thesis statement, but first should have a hook (a catchy opening)
• 15% facts
• 85% opinion, explanation, transitions, thesis, etc.
• humor is good
• can be less formal, but don’t use slang unless for a specific reason
• citations: According to a recent article in the New York Times, . . . Or Senator John McCain argues . . . .

Introduction

• Catchy opening: statistic, quotation (from history, literature, politician, etc.), anecdote, metaphor

etc. that is thought provoking;

• Thesis, basic outline for speech

Conclusion

Should be short, reiterate main points, end with Thank You so the audience knows you’re finished

Persuasive Speech

• Convince the audience that you’re right
• Argue your opinion
• Use persuasive words and style
• Argue your thesis at the end of each section
• In order to be respectful and not offensive, avoid generalizations, focus on facts and rational argument