Speech 61: Public Speaking

Putting your Speech Together:

Preparing this Speech: Every speech has three parts: the introduction, the body and the
conclusion.

Step 1: Prepare the Body

 Contains three to four sections related to the topic.
 Includes an outline of the major ideas with supporting information to clarify those ideas.
To Prepare:
 First list subtopics
 Write them as you think of them

Remember: Some ideas might be important while some may not be but concentrate on writing the ideas
that you think can relate to the topic and purpose of your speech.

 Narrow your list of subtopics. Review and select the three or four subtopics that will best develop
your speech in the time allowed.

 Order your subtopics logically so that one leads naturally into the next one.

 Develop your subtopics with factual information, logical proof, and even visual aids.

Step 2: Prepare the Conclusion

Includes:
a. A summary of the main topic
b. Final remarks to end the speech gradually.

A Good Summary:
= briefly reviews your purpose
= Repeats or restates the main ideas

Memorable Concluding remarks:

= are delivered after the summary of main points
= leave your audience thinking about what you’ve said.

Step 3: Prepare the Introduction

Your Introduction should have:

 An attention- getting opener or “hook”
 A preview of the body

A Good Introduction:
 Captures the listeners’ attention immediately
 Makes them interested in the rest of the speech
 Alerts them to what they can expect to hear in the presentation
 Helps them to follow the information easily

Powerful Ways to Begin your Speech include:

 Telling a brief story
 Asking a question to arouse curiosity
 Shocking your audience with a startling quote or fact

NOTE: After you have delivered your introduction, tell your listeners the main points of your speech by
briefly previewing its main sections

Example: Applying for a Job

I. What I’m about to tell you could change your life. If you listen carefully to what I have to say,
you’ll be able to land the job of your dreams.
II. I’m going to discuss four important aspects to consider when applying for a job.
A. Find the desired position.
B. Write a successful resume.
C. Schedule Appointments
D. Behave appropriately during the personal interviews.

Source: Speech Communication Made Simple by Paulette Dale, Ph.D. and James C. Wolf, M.A.