Persuasive Speech Prompts: conveying one Idea

When you begin to write a persuasive speech there are several key elements that you need to keep in mind in order to turn in and give the best speech possible. Many students overlook simple little aspects of their speech and it can really hurt them in the long run. Focus on your main idea, be concise, keep your audience in mind, and use good examples.

Main Idea

When you give a speech you generally have one main idea that you are trying to communicate to the audience. You want to make sure you focus of this and avoid wandering off on rabbit trails during your speech. The audience will get more out of your speech if they do not have to waste time and energy trying o keep up with all of your point and ideas. So stay focused and honed in on your central theme.

Be Concise

Often times there is a page length or a time limit set on your speech. This is done for several reasons. One is that your instructor likely does not want to sit through a dozen speeches that end up being 10 or more minutes long each. Also, keeping eh speech concise helps teach you how to choose your words carefully and communicate efficiently. It also shows that you are thinking of your audience and not forcing them to sit through a 10 minute talk when you could communicate your points effectively in 5-7 minutes.

Remember the Audience

Your speech needs to be tailored in order to address the wants, needs, and desires of your audience. Different people need different things and expect different things from speeches that they listen to. If you know who your audience is going to be then make sure your content and points are appropriate. The last thing you want to do is offend your audience by something you say.

Good Examples

The examples you use will often make or break your speech. Good examples keep your audience engaged, listening, involved, and paying attention. Without these good examples you will end up sounding boring, monotonous, and even insulting at times. Every time you make a point you need to follow it up with an example so the audience can better understand the concepts or ideas that you are trying to communicate to them.

With these points in mind you are well on your way to delivering that persuasive speech that will knock their socks off!