Informative Speech
Assignment
Purpose: The purpose of this speech
is to share ideas and information with the audience by describing and
explaining a topic of interest to you that is both controversial and in the
public forum. Through this speech, you will have the opportunity to “teach” us
something. Your speech should inform the
audience on subject that has some significance to them (a public issue, not
personal) and be at a depth that we will find truly informative. It is your responsibility to provide a
balanced account of multiple perspectives on the issue.
Description: This speech should be 5-7 minutes
in length. This is your formal, graded speech and two copies of a
comprehensive preparation outline, featuring 3-5 main points, are
required. These are due before you are scheduled to speak (January 20),
but I encourage you to email me a draft early enough for my feedback. In
addition, a visual aid and at least three supporting sources
(listed in a “References” section and cited in APA style only) are required
for this speech. Sources should be cited
within the speech as supporting material for any claims that are made or data
that are cited. No more than one
internet source may be used.
You
are required to view and comment on your performance in a self-critique. More
information about this process and assignment will be
presented in class.
Evaluation: This speech is worth 150
points of your final grade. The preparation outline and note cards are
important elements included in this grade (50 points). Please remember that we
practice extemporaneous speaking, not manuscript presentation. Your speech will
be graded on content, organization and delivery style. Some questions to ask yourself are:
Remember,
the goal of this speech is not to persuade on an issue of controversy; rather
it is to educate your audience on a subject of some substance. Be creative and choose a topic that really
interests you and that you think your audience would benefit to learn more
about. If you have questions or concerns at any point along the way, please
come to my office hours or e-mail me koleson@bcc.ctc.edu.