Persuasive Essay / Power Point

Sample Persuasive Speech Outline in Problem-Solution Order

Introduction

I. Open with impact/attention-getting statement.

II. Reveal your topic.

III. Establish credibility—show your audience you are qualified to give this speech; and goodwill—show your audience why they should listen.

IV. Preview statement—clearly preview statement.

Body

I. Statement of first main point. This should be a clear statement that states the problem. Remember that main points are not sources. First you state the point and then you support the point.

A. This is your subpoint. It adds support to your main point. Each main point should be fully developed with at least two subpoints. These can be examples, quotations, statistics, descriptions, etc.

1. This is your supporting point. It gives even more clarity to your main point.

2. Another supporting point here. Use emotional appeal.

3. Perhaps one more supporting point. You might have only two supporting points—depends on your topic and time limits.

B. This is your second subpoint. It continues to backup or strengthen your main point. It might even be a counterargument. A counterargument states a possible objection to your claim and then (with sources and other material) shows why your argument is stronger. Counterargument are very important to use in persuasive speaking because your audience WILL have objections in mind. You as the speaker need to anticipate the strongest objection and show why your point is stronger. Remember that you don’t want your objection to be a main point because that would give it too much importance. You really just want to show your audience that you are aware that there are other sides to the story, but that your claim is the strongest.

1. Supporting point here that backs up your main point and subpoints.

2. Another supporting point here—use emotional appeal. Emotional appeal can be used throughout the speech. This is just an example of where you might put it.

3. Another persuasive point.

Transition. This let’s your audience know that you are done talking about the problem and are moving on to the solution.

II. This is your second main point—it should clearly state the solution you propose.

A. This is a subpoint that backs up your main point.

1. A supporting point goes here. Again, don’t forget emotional appeal.

2. Another supporting point here—perhaps a counterargument.

3. If you like, a third supporting point.

B. Your second subpoint that clearly adds support to your main point.

1. Supporting point here—use emotional appeal.

2. Supporting point here—use emotional appeal.

3. Third supporting point.

Conclusion.

I. Restate main points—problem and solution.

II. Close with impact.