Sophomore Honors English
Speech: Family Heritage
Our identity – who we are, who others think we are, and who we are becoming – is determined by
many things, among which is our family heritage. Although this heritage affects each of us in different
ways and to different degrees, it is nonetheless something we can never wholly escape.
The purpose of this speech is for you to become aware of your own family story and how it relates
to your life. You will need to talk to your parents and maybe your grandparents, aunts, and uncles, to
gather this information. You may even find pictures in old albums, or have access to letters or other
artifacts which can be used in your speech.
Introduction:
 Write an introduction which includes an attention-getter and a preview (thesis) statement.
Body:
 Choose three of the options below or create your own points to generate the body of your speech.
Conclusion:
 Conclude your speech by discussing how your family history might impact your life in the future.
Remember: coming back to your attention getter is always a good idea!
Topics to Consider:
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My ancestors had certain motives for coming to the United States…
My family name has importance…
Looking at my ancestors from a geographic perspective shows interesting facts…
Although my original ethnic heritage has become “Americanized,” my family maintains old
traditions…
Religion has played a major role in my family’s background…
I discovered that my ancestors were active in (political, social, or cultural) activities (i.e. political
parties, civil rights, music, etc)
I come from a long line of (list occupation)…
My family name was passed down or altered…
As a member of an ethnic/racial group, my ancestors moved throughout the country…
I have a famous American in my family…
There are some “black sheep” in my family…
My ancestors’ educational backgrounds influenced my family heritage…
Delivery Requirements:
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Length 3-4 minutes
You will use an outline, but do not rely too heavily on it; remember, your goal is to speak
extemporaneously.
Keep in mind the public speaking and non-verbal information we will discuss in class. Eye
contact, vocal delivery, and strong poise all help to create an effective speech.
These speeches will begin next Monday, (9/21).
It will be worth 40 points and will be a summative grade.
Name____________________________________ Per. _______
Day___________ No.______
FAMILY HERITAGE SPEECH
CONTENT
INTRODUCTION
Attention Getter & Clear Thesis
BODY
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Insightful and honest consideration of family heritage
Three clear points and support for those points are offered
CONCLUSION
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Closes with strength by summarizing, looking ahead, and coming back to attention getter
DELIVERY
Voice
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Credibility/Poise
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Eye Contact
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volume, rate, diction/clarity
don’t read your speech to us and share the love!
TIME
(3-4 min.)__________ (-1/10 sec. + or -)
TOTAL
/40