Persuasive Speech Project
In this unit, we have been studying how to write arguments and persuasive essays. We have
learned about rhetoric (ethos, pathos, logos). You will now write a persuasive speech of your
own using these tools to make your argument as convincing as possible. The topic of your
speech will be changing a rule, either a rule your parents have for you, a school rule or policy, or
a local or national law you disagree with. You can write your speech about almost anything, but
all topics must be approved by Mrs. Brammer before beginning research. The one topic
that I am deeming off limits for this assignment is marijuana legalization. Frankly, the topic is
played out and all the points for this argument are already on the table. I have not seen a good
essay or speech on this subject by students and therefore, will not allow speeches on this topic.
Presentation day:
On the last day of this unit, we will have a speech presentation day where ALL students will
read their speeches to the class. This is a requirement for this project, but I will bring food for
this day and I hope we can make it a lot of fun.
Requirements:
-
All speeches should be 2 to 3 minutes (so 2 to 3 pages typed or handwritten).
Speeches must have a clear and effective thesis statement.
All body paragraphs should have clear and effective topic sentences.
Speeches must include use of ethos, pathos, AND, logos.
All claims should be supported by evidence. This means research and quotes.
Speeches should follow a logical order with an effective conclusion.
ALL STUDENTS WIL PERFORM THEIR SPEECHES ON PRESENTATION
DAY
Persuasive Speech Outline
Introduction:
-Hook: a statement, statistic, or quotation (1-2 sentences)
-Introduction of topic: Talk about your topic in broad terms, set up the context, and orient
your reader. (3-4 sentences)
-Thesis statement (1 sentence)
Body Paragraph 1-3 (support):
-Topic sentence: This is one of your reasons from your thesis that supports your position.
This should tell the reader what this paragraph will be about. (1 sentence)
-Supporting sentences: Evidence, statistics, personal experiences, and quotations that
support the topic sentence and this specific reason for your thesis. (4-6 sentences)
-Conclusion sentence: Summarize what this paragraph tells the reader and why it
matters.
Body Paragraph 4 (refutation):
-Topic sentence: Explain a reason someone may be opposed to your opinion, but also
state why they are incorrect or their point is invalid. (1 sentence)
-Supporting sentences: Evidence, statistics, personal experiences, and quotations that
support the topic sentence and help to refute this opposition to your position. (4-6 sentences)
-Conclusion sentence: Summarize what this paragraph tells the reader and why it
matters.
Conclusion Paragraph:
-Summary of points: Summarize the ideas and reasoning of your paper (1-2 sentences)
-Call to action: What should people do now that they have heard your speech (2-3
sentences)
-The Coup de Grace: A final quote or statement to drive your point home and conclude
your essay (1 sentence)