Oral Presentations: Planning your response
Once you have chosen your topic, brainstorm a few ideas/arguments. To sustain a strong
response, you really need three good reasons to support your point of view that can be
developed into detailed arguments. If you cannot think of three supporting reasons then you
should perhaps do another topic.
How to structure your speech
Introduction
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Start with a hook. This might include a question, a statement, or an anecdote.
Acknowledge your audience; make sure that your greeting and language matches
your audience.
Make sure you give some background information about your topic.
State your contention (point of view).
Briefly but clearly state the 3 arguments that support your contention.
Paragraph 1
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State Argument 1 in a clear sentence (topic sentence).
Explain your argument.
Support your argument with some evidence/examples.
Use some persuasive language techniques to engage your audience.
Include a link back to the contention (your point of view).
Paragraph 2
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State Argument 2 in a clear sentence (topic sentence).
Explain your argument.
Support your argument with some evidence/examples.
Use some persuasive language techniques to engage your audience.
Include a link back to the contention (your point of view)
Paragraph 3
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State Argument 3 in a clear sentence (topic sentence).
Explain your argument.
Support your argument with some evidence/examples.
Use some persuasive language techniques to engage your audience.
Include a link back to the contention (your point of view)
Conclusion
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This is your chance to sign off with your audience- make sure they are well aware of
your point of view.
Restate your 3 supporting arguments.
Make sure your conclusion is clear and strong; don’t add any new information.
End with a ‘take home message’. What is it you want audience to remember?
End your speech with a closing statement that allows your audience to ask questions
(if you think it is necessary).
Thank your audience.
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General Tips
Before your speech research and prepare everything carefully and completely; give
yourself plenty of time for practice.
Rehearse as much as possible. Remember proper planning prevents poor
performance.
Just before you present, remind yourself that you are prepared and that you have
something interesting to share with the audience.
Actively address (talk) to your audience.
Be confident and let your body language show it.
Speak clearly and distinctly. Don’t mumble or rush.
Make sure that you use arguments that match your contention; don’t change your
position halfway through.
Don’t ramble on. Be clear and confident with your arguments.
Remember the point of your speech is to persuade the audience that your opinion is
right.
Make sure if you haven’t memorised your speech that you read from cue cards only.
Remember the PowerPoint, or alternative media source is to complement your
speech and not detract from your speech. Up to 10 words only on each slide and a
maximum of 10 slides.