presentation

In this speech, you will be informing the audience with new information, new insights, or new ways of thinking about a topic.  You might introduce listeners to new ideas, events, people, places and processes (O’Hair, 2004). 

 

The goal of informative speaking is to increase the audience’s understanding or awareness by imparting knowledge.  Your speech might be an in-depth analysis of a specific topic, a simple description of a topic, or an overview of a topic.

 

All informative speeches have an identifiable introduction, body and conclusion. You will include at least three cited references during the speech.  You also need to incorporate one effective visual aid.

 

Introduction:  The introduction should compel the audience to listen (with an attention-getter), reveal the topic and thesis statement (goal of your speech) and provide a preview of the main points.

 

Body:  Most informative speeches should contain no more than three main points, organized in a way that helps the audience make sense of the message.  Once the main points and organizational pattern are set, identify what evidence supports which main point and place these subpoints in the correct location. For this short speech, two main points may be sufficient.

 

Conclusion:  All informative conclusions should include a brief summary of the main points.  No new information should be given to the audience in the conclusion.  An effective conclusion summarizes topic and leaves the audience thinking about the speaker’s message.

 

Outlining the Informative Speech:  A detailed outline is mandatory and should follow the instructions and example provided (see Course Compass). The outline you turn in must be in full-sentence format (write out what you will say in the speech) and typed, including citations and an alphabetized APA formatted bibliography.  Your speaking outline (note cards) can be in phrase or key word format and include three citations.