Criteria for Self-Introductory Speeches

Length of Speeches: This speech should be from three to four minutes. Points (10%) will be deducted for
speeches under 3 minutes and over 4 minutes. It is always in your best interest to practice, practice,
practice! Besides, how else will you know the length of your speech?

Content of Speech: Your speech topic should share something about yourself and your interests. It does
not need to be a life story, but the audience should learn something about your character, background,
influence or interests. You should speak about subject areas that you are comfortable with sharing with
others. In other words, avoid painful self-disclosure. If you feel you need to share a sensitive issue, make
sure you are able to stay composed and calm. This assignment is designed to help you overcome your
apprehensions toward speaking in public, not compound them.

Structure of Speech:
Introduction: Each speech will be expected to include an introduction that includes 1) an attention
grabber; 2) introduces your topic with a thesis (tell us what the your purpose of speaking to us is); and 3)
previews the body of your speech with a summary statement (tell us what you plan on talking about).
Body: The body of your speech should include 2-3 clear and distinct main points. Each point should
have been previewed in your introduction and needs to be fully supported with examples, testimonies or
explanations. For example, a student may speak about his/her hometown, family, education and career
goals. Other ideas include (and are not limited to), speaking about hobbies, favorite things to do,
accomplishments, etc. Points should be connected with smooth transitions.
Conclusion: The conclusion of your speech should reinforce the topic. You should restate/summarize the
purpose and remind the audience of the main ideas you spoke on. The end of a speech is as important as
the beginning. The conclusion should not be abrupt, but should be definite. DO NOT end your speech
with “OK, I’m done” or “That’s the end of my speech”.

Delivery of Speech: A speech should be delivered with confidence and poise. Signs of that confidence
are strong eye contact, clearly articulated words, and lack of distracting mannerisms (i.e., saying “uh”,
tapping or leaning on the podium). You are to use note cards as a reference; not a transcript (written out
word for word) or else you will suffer! The 8 x 8 rule applies (64 words per note card) along with a limit
on the number of note cards which will be noted before the speeches commence. This assignment limits
your number to a grand total of three note cards. The note cards are to be turned in to the instructor
following your speech for evaluation.

Outline: To show that you have prepared in advance for this speech, a typed key-word outline will be
required. Points will be deducted if you fail to turn this in. You may not use it as a reference during your
speech, rather, you are required to take the essential information and use note cards which is the standard
in this class. The outline will be turned in prior to your speech and also evaluated as part of the
assignment.

If you have any questions concerning this speech, please feel free to contact me before the assigned day.
Above all, RELAX, do your best, and remember, no one expects the State of the Union Address, this is
your first effort! Mastering Public Speaking requires an extraordinary amount of practice. Nobody is
born a great speaker, they develop over time with perseverance and practice, so don’t procrastinate! If you
prepare an organized speech, you should do fine.