Assignment task:
How to prepare for the Speech of Introduction
1. Below are the helpful tips, guidelines and submission instructions. Please read everything, as your ability to follow instructions is very important to success in this class.
2. Type and print out your speech word-for-word according to the outline format and upload a copy of the outline to the dropbox in Blackboard.
3. Practice several times by yourself and then in front of others. (It is obvious when you don't practice!)
a. After you have finished your speech, read through it several times. Next, try saying as much of your speech, as you can, without looking at the paper. Only look at the paper when you don't know the next line. YOU DON'T HAVE TO MEMORIZE YOUR SPEECH WORD-FOR-WORD! The idea is to know your speech well enough to hit the main areas of your speech (Attention getter, Purpose, Preview, Main points, Transitions, Summary, and Memorable Statement) even if you don't say exactly what you wrote.
b. Make sure your lines sound natural - how you normally speak (use correct grammar). Natural speech patterns tend to be short, clear, and descriptive.
c. Once you know your speech pretty well, practice giving your entire speech in the mirror. Practice using gestures to emphasize your main points. Look around as if you are speaking to all of your classmates.
Make sure you have a natural rise and fall in your pitch to avoid sounding monotone. Regulate your speaking rate so that you don't speak too fast or slow. Keep track of the time it takes you to give your speech. Remember, this speech should be 1.5 - 2 minutes long. Add to or subtract information from your speech to make sure it fits into the designated time frame. Timing will not be a part of your grade for this speech but it will count on future speeches.
d. Practice in front of a supportive yet honest friend. Ask them to give you constructive feedback based on the Speech of Introduction Grade Sheet.
4. Recheck your speech to make sure it includes all of the elements listed on the Speech of Introduction Grade Sheet. For this speech, I am looking to see that you understand the basic speech format and put effort into trying to present a confident and smooth presentation.
5. TELL YOURSELF YOU CAN DO THIS!!! Practice using the relaxation/confidence building and speech delivery techniques discussed in the textbook. Remember, this speech is only worth 35 points. It is designed to help you learn about and develop your public speaking strengths and weaknesses.
6. Don't forget to show a visual aid with this speech. You can use a photo, an award, anything... the Informative and Persuasive speeches will require a PowerPoint though.
7. Tips for recording your speech: Record your speech using a video camera, cell phone or web camera. Be sure to make sure the background noise is limited and the volume is turned up so we can hear the recording. The camera should show a clear view of you from the waist up. We need to be able to see your face clearly. Always speak to the camera and your audience of at least 4 people. Be sure to show all visual aids in the recording and refer to them in your speech to get credit.
8. Tips for uploading to YouTube: You will upload all speeches to YouTube. You can choose it to be private and only shared by a link. This is the link that you will upload to Blackboard. Once you upload be sure to close it out, open the page again and listen to your speech. You want to make sure it uploaded in its entirety, the picture and sound is clear. You also need to make sure the link opens the speech and you do not have it marked completely private.
Format for the speech:
Time: 1 ½ - 2 minutes
Theme: Students choice
Introduction: Start with an attention getter, then tell the audience what the purpose (theme) and main points (three facts) of your speech are.
Body: Choose 3 of the most interesting facts about yourself related to the theme. These facts will be your three main points. Use transitions to connect your points and help with the flow of your speech.
Fact #1 - Transition - Link what you just told us in fact #1 to what you will tell us in fact #2
Fact #2 - Transition - Link what you just told us in fact #2 to what you will tell us in fact #3
Fact #3 - Transition - Link what you just told us in fact #3 to what you want us to remember overall about your speech
Conclusion: Wrap up, what you want the audience to remember from your speech.
Everyone MUST come up with individual "themes". Start by making a list of your interests, significant experiences, goals, hobbies, etc. Next choose the most interesting theme that will help us get to know you (i.e. sports, pets, dancing, children, politics). You will then come up with three facts/points related to your theme. Don't just give us the facts - tell stories, give examples, and explain what the facts/points reveal about you. Be creative! You need one visual aid to enhance your speech (i.e. pictures, awards, equipment, etc.). Time yourself to make sure put together enough information to give a 1 ½ - 2 minute speech. You will give a full 1 ½ - 2 minute speech (intro, body, and conclusion) on your theme.
Examples:
Theme - Dancing Fanatic
- Go dancing every weekend with friends
- Favorite TV show is "Dancing With The Stars"
- Once tried out for "Star Search" as a child
Theme - Sports, a family tradition
- Great grandfather is a boxing champion - grew up around boxing
- Met spouse at a baseball game - have children in little league
- Journalism major and dream of working for ESPN