The Paper Bag Speech
The purpose of this assignment is to prepare and deliver a speech of introduction.
Select three to five objects that represent significant aspects of your self-perception that we have discussed in class. (i.e.
Cultural background, personality, values, beliefs, goals etc.)Each of these objects will be a springboard for you to tell the class
“who you are.”
Questions to help you get started These questions are to guide your writing. Do not feel that you have to include all of them in
your speech. Limiting your topics and discussing each in detail is a better strategy. In fact, you can choose one area and let
each of your objects reflect that trait. (Example thesis: “The objects in my bag reflect my ambitiousness.” The speaker might
bring a sports trophy, an academic award, and a stethoscope to show past and future achievements.
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What personality traits do you posses?
What are your values and beliefs
What skills do you possess?
What are you goals for the future?
What are your passions in life?
What are your accomplishments?
What events have shaped your inner self?
What relationships have been important in shaping who you are?
The Objects
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Place the objects in a paper bag or some other container.
Bring the objects the day of delivery. If the objects are too large, precious, or valuable you may bring a photograph or
a model. You can also bring something representative of the object such as a remote control instead of the television
or a key instead of the car.
Objects must be appropriate for the high school setting!!!!!
Do not just describe the object, but instead show how it relates to your life.
Keep the objects in the bag/container until you get to them in your speech.
Organizational Considerations
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Have a well crafted introduction, body, and conclusion.
Have well crafted thesis statement.
Each main idea must relate to your thesis.
Relate your conclusion back to your introduction.
Use transitions to move from idea to idea.
Speak from notes on note cards. You must use conversational style. Do not simply read the speech.
Speech must be 3 to 5 minutes long.
Practice your five to seven times before you deliver. You must know your own speech.
Presentational Considerations
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Turn in a typed or neatly written outline before you speak.
You must use conversational style. Do not simply read the speech.
Scan the audience before you deliver your first line
Make eye contact at least 50% of the time, and scan the room as you speak.
Have a relaxed yet poised posture
Avoid fidgeting
Sample Outline
The purpose of this speech is____________________________________________________
Thesis statement:_________________________________________________________
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Introduction
A. Hook
B. Relevance and transition to topic
C. Connection to the audience
D. Thesis statement
E. Preview statement
Main Idea I (Complete sentence)
A. Discussion /Explain
B. detail
C. detail
Transition statement (Complete sentence)
III.
Main idea (Complete sentence)
A. Discussion/Explanation
B. Detail
C. Detail (if needed)
Transition statement (Complete sentence)
IV.
Main idea III (Complete sentence)
A. Discussion
B. Detail
C. Detail (if needed)
Transition statement (Complete sentence)
V.
Conclusion
A. Restate thesis
B. Summarize main points
C. Connect back to introduction
D. Memorable final statement