Description
Informative speeches
Specific Requirements
You will prepare a speech that is 3-5 minutes long on an informative topic.
Your purpose will be to inform your audience about an issue/concept/innovation of
social significance. The format will follow organizational strategies appropriate for
informative speaking (topical/chronological/spatial – review Chapter 7 on Organization).
Examples of organizational strategies include:
Example 1: Most useful for speeches about objects/innovations:
I. Introduction
II. Explain what it is
III. Explain how it works/applications
IV. Share implications
V. Conclusion
Example 2: Most useful for speeches about a particular issue of significance:
I. Introduction
II. Provide historical context/background
III. Discuss current issues/people involved in the issue
IV. Share implications
V. Conclusion
The tricky part about a speech that is informative is the tendency to be too persuasive.
Information is powerful and it may persuade your audience on its face, but your objective
is not to persuade but inform/enlighten your audience.