Demonstration Speech
3-5 Minutes
Demonstration speech topics and methods to develop more than 50 public speaking speech topics step by step. Follow the steps, the
tips and answer the questions. The goals of your demonstration speech could be: to demonstrate a process and give the audience
information while using visual aids. Or to show how to do something, how something is done, how to make something, or how
something works. I change the subjects from time to time. So, use my speech topics blog.
Start your speech writing process with selecting some demonstration topics. Choose for something you know about, then it will be
easier to demonstrate. If you can't come up with good public speaking topics for a demonstrational presentation speech, then use the
subjects listed below for inspiration. Ask yourself: Which of your choices have enough potential to offer your audience valuable
information? Therefore analyze your audience. Especially for demonstration speech topics:
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Who are they - demographics?
What are their interests?
What do they like?
What are their needs?
50+ Topics and Ideas
Use this list of demonstrative speech topics to develop your own topics for a demonstrative speech. It can be anything you like, as
long as you are able to present the steps of the demonstration or process speech topics. Start with one of these example phrases for
setting up demonstrative ideas first:
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How To Make ...
How To Fix ...
How To Use ...
How To Do ...
How ... Works
How ... Is Done, Produced or Made
And try it with other verbs. Like the demonstration speech topics below. Just vary and tweak.
How:
to cook a pie - or whatever you like to cook :-)
to tie a tie
to be a vegetarian
to fix a flat tire
to create a Halloween mask
to clean your car
to play piano
to change a bank cheque
to dress like a princess
to play a computer game
to make a cocktail
to taste wine
to organize a surprise party
to print a digital photo
to eat oysters
to register for voting
to make Irish Coffee
to read music notes
to learn playing guitar
to use your breath when you sing
to make beer
to bottle your own wine
to become a princess
to make your garden full of flowers year around
to build a good web site :-)
to clean your swimming pool
to clean your golf clubs
to make a fast summer salad
to make a new candle of old ones
to make your own wedding dress
to organize your wedding
to make a water-colour
to build a shed
to find demonstration speech topics
to prevent injury
to develop the best serve in a tennis game
to knot a carpet
to stop thinking
to speak italian
to become a good actress
to become a famous filmstar
to write a filmscript
to write a business-like letter
to make honey
to blow a glass
to train your brains
to dry your hair
to greet japanese people
to use the cruise control
to make a genealogical tree
to start a bed & breakfast
to become a policeman
to climb a building
to make a dancing show
to make ice
to become the president
to be in the chair in a meeting
to make a sweet dessert
to snow board
to board in sand
to wrinkle a skirt
to calculate your golf handicap
to make a golf swing - or demonstration speech topics related to yóur favorite sports
And so on ...
Another way of inventing demonstration speech topics is by associating. Look at the general categories and themes below.
Food and Drink, Household, Sports, Recreation, Health & Beauty, Home Improvement, Decoration, Cars, Government Science,
Nature, College Games, Culture, Tires and SuspensionTrademarks, Travel Packing, Acne, Building Treehouses, Vaccines, Vacuum
Cleaners, Valentine’s Day Dating, Vanishing Tricks, Ventilation Systems, Video Game Consoles, Making Home Videos, Volleyball
Techniques, Warm Ups and Stretching Training Methods, Water Polo Rules, Wind Turbines, Tasting Wine Vintages, Woodworking,
How to Write a Testimonial About Yourself, Sales Elevator Pitches, Yoga Programs ... Et cetera.
Can you come up with any good how to, technical or demonstrative speech ideas?
Your Purpose
Determine the specific purpose of your speech topics. State it in one simple sentence. For example: I want to demonstrate how to ___ .
Your Central Idea
Determine the central idea of your demonstration speech text. In other words: a clear demonstration speech topic statement. Describe
what your demo presentation is about and why you want to share it.
Example: It is important to preserve family recipes and this project is the best way in which to do that.
How to Introduce Your Demonstration Speech Topics
Once you have decided on a demonstration speech topic, write an attractive, effective and interactive attention getting introduction.
Think about these sample introductions:
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Tell them what you are going to teach them.
Tell them why you choose to demonstrate this topic.
Then tell them why your listeners should know how to do it.
Tell them that they are going to do it themselves in a couple of minutes and that the only thing your audience have to do is
follow your instructions.
Your Demonstrative Speech Topics Outline
You've picked out a good demonstration speech topic? Present and demonstrate it to your listeners step by step. So, outline the steps
of your topic. Show the activities or moves you have to make in a logical chronological order. Describe the details. Be clear. Don't
think the audience will understand your demonstration speech topics immediately. Conclude each step. Do the demonstration process
topic checks on the main points before you jump to the next step of this demonstrational speech topics tutorial.
Example: How To Subscribe For A Internet Newsletter
Step 1: Fill in the blanks - name, email, etc.
Step 2: Submit your request.
Step 3: Check your mailbox if you have received a confirmation email.
Just show them how to do it, step by step.
Delivery Of Your Demonstration Speech Topics
First and for all: think about the rules and time limit of the public speaking assignment. And apply these eight public speaking speech
tips for delivering your demonstration speech topics:
1. Visual aids, like objects, actual items, models or drawings can help you.
2. Include personal stories and examples to illustrate your topics for a demonstrative speech.
3. Provide each audience member materials and ingredients to practice with.
4. Insure everyone is participating.
5. Look around you and see if your audience is following you.
6. Ask yourself if someone in the audience has to assist with your demonstration.
7. Close your speech with a memorable summary or with a clear call to action.
8. Ask if there are any questions about your demonstrative speech topic ideas.
Now you've developed a blueprint for good demonstration speech topics.
1st 10 Demonstration Speech Topics
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how to make candles
how to arrange flowers
how to deal with identity theft (give handouts on all the steps necessary to minimize the damage done.)
how to clean synthetic and natural fabrics
how to create a webpage
how to apply makeup
how to give yourself a manicure/pedicure
how to make lemonade
how to make a holiday centerpiece
assemble a care package for a student
2nd 10 Demonstration Speech Topics
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build a go-cart
create an animated gif
clean a computer
how to meditate
how to hypnotize someone
yoga poses
self defense techniques
safe stretching techniques to relieve stress
perform cpr
teach the american sign language alphabet
3rd 10 Demonstration Speech Topics
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splint a leg/arm/finger/ankle
build a sand castle
decorate a picture frame
face paint
line dance/ballroom dance/the chicken dance/polka
how to use a yo-yo
scrapbooking
carve soap
make jewelry (earrings, necklaces, bracelets)
make glass beads
4th 10 Demonstration Speech Topics
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make tile mosaics
tie knots
make a kite
make an easter bonnet
build a snow shelter/teepee
how to color easter eggs
create a dried flower bouquet/silk flower bouquet
make bath salts
make candy
make a bird house
5th 10 Demonstration Speech Topics
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make a lamp
make a dreamcatcher
make a pinata
make a potato clock
make a remote control caddy
make a sundial
make a wind chime
carve a pumpkin
antique your furniture/ceramics
make a scented pillow
6th 10 Demonstration Speech Topics
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how to read body language
make a dreamcatcher
make a pinata
make a potato clock
make a remote control caddy
make a sundial
make a wind chime
carve a pumpkin
antique your furniture/ceramics
make a scented pillow
7th 10 Demonstration Speech Topics
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make a trap for bees/wasps
make a tabletop fountain
build a doghouse
make dog treats
how to juggle
perform magic/card tricks
filet a fish
how to tie a tie
how to submit your resume to an online job site
make icecream
Demonstration Speech Topics
How to:
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teach a child to ride a bike
teach a child to read the time
read to a child
read music
set a dinner table
fold table napkins
prepare a baby's bottle
wash a dog
play an instrument
write a thank-you letter
sharpen a knife
prepare chicken safely
make your own relish, jam, pastry...
read braille
use sign language
talk to a deaf person
how to design & make a greeting card
knit
crochet
embroider
quilt
felt
alter your own clothes...take up a hem etc.
iron a shirt properly
make a perfect posy of flowers
read the language of flowers
oil a bike chain
change a tyre
mend a puncture
learn to skate board
learn to surf
do basic first aid
survive in the bush, desert, mountains...
prepare a survival kit
buy online safely
take a good photograph
care for a pet
bake bread, bagels...
lift without damaging your back
choose colors that suit you
choose clothes that suit you
graft a plant
grow from seed
prepare and plant a tub with flower or vegetable seedlings
bonsai
recognise poisonous plants or insects
More Demonstration Speech Topics
How to:
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read the clouds
read the stars
read the tides
read body language
understand cultural difference in body language
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catch a fish
prepare and set a net
smoke a fish
play chess
do a cross-word
apply make-up correctly
select the right make-up for you
travel safely in a foreign country
burglar proof your home
save money
recycle
break old habits
learn to draw, sketch
learn to paint in water colors
make papier mache
work puppets
decoupage
use stencils
And here's my Last Collection of Demonstration Speech Topics
How to:
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make a perfect cup of coffee, tea...
grow your own herbs
make your own cosmetics, creams etc
sew your own clothes
design your own clothes
fix a blocked sink
fix a leaking faucet
replace a cracked tile
polish wooden furniture correctly
make natural dyes
spin or weave
play with a small child
create a seasonal centre piece for the table
make a Christmas wreath
paint eggs
make chocolate
press flowers
whistle
train a puppy
make a bird feeder
plait or braid hair
do a cheap style make-over
shop at thrift stores
restore a piece of furniture
scrapbook
fly a kite
knot a tie
make your own jewelery from antique buttons
use chop sticks
prepare green tea and serve it correctly
wax a surfboard
take a pulse
defend yourself (basic self defence)
interpret a modern painting
read a palm
plan a party
prune a rose
Demonstration Speech
3-5 Minutes
Name: _______________________________________________________
Topic: _______________________________________________________
Introduction
Did the speaker:
Greet the audience?
State the reason for selecting the topic?
Explain exactly what was to be demonstrated?
Body
Did the speaker:
Present the talk in a logical sequence?
Define any technical terms used?
Maintain eye contact with the audience?
Display objects one at a time?
Have the objects placed so that everyone in the class could see them?
Use too many audiovisual aids, causing confusion?
Have the audiovisual equipment present and ready for use?
Know how to operate the audiovisual equipment?
Have enough handouts for everyone in the class?
Use the handouts effectively?
Prepare visuals (posters, charts, etc.) large and clear enough to be seen and understood by the
entire class?
Use the aids in any way that was distracting to the presentation?
Conclusion
Did the speaker:
Accomplish the purpose of the talk?
Clearly answer the questions from the audience during the talk or after it?
Show strong knowledge of the subject?
Offer an interesting, entertaining, or learning experience? (Were you glad you attended class today?)
Overall Performance: Excellent_____ Good_____ Fair_____ Poor_____
Additional Comments:
Sales Speech
5-8 Minutes
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III.
IV.
V.
VI.
Greetings
a. Hello
Introduce Self
a. Company
b. Position
c. Years
d. Company Age
i. Size
ii. Reliable?
e. Does the company guarantee products?
f. Test products?
State what you are selling
a. Purpose of product (What is it for?)
Explain Product
a. Demonstrate how it operates
b. Advantages and benefits to owning
c. Special features
d. New improvements
e. Dependability
f. Beauty
g. Ease of handling
h. How it will benefit audience
Compare to similar products (In your favor)
How audience can buy (Purchasing Information)
a. $
b. Sold How? (3’s or case or 12 etc)
c. Reduced now?
d. Guarantee?
e. Credit cards, payment plan, money orders, checks, delivery
f. Take orders now or sell later?
Sales Speech
5-8 Minutes
Name: _______________________________________________________
Topic: _______________________________________________________
Circle the points that indicate your evaluation of this entry, with 10 being the best.
Thesis
Does the person explain EXACTLY what they are selling?
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Introduction
Does the salesperson introduce themselves? Explain their position? Company?
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Organization
Is there a clear and suitable structure? Are there clear transitions between main points?
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Supporting Materials
Demonstration of product? Explanation of advantages and disadvantages? Special Features? New
improvements? Dependability? Beauty? Ease of handling? How it will benefit audience? Compare Similar
Products?
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Conclusion
How they can buy? How much? How Sold? Reduced Now? Guarantee? How Pay (credit card, cash, money
order, purchase order etc.)? Delivery? Take Orders or Sell Later?
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Style and Language
Is there clarity? Directness? Simplicity? Articulation? Is the pause used effectively? Punctuation?
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Gestures and Platform Movement
Are there gestures; are they appropriate? If there is platform movement, does it distract from the message of the
speech?
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Eye Contact
Eye contact?
Delivery
Is it direct? Extemporaneous? Conversational? Volume and use of the pause? Are note cards handled well? Is
the delivery technique effective? Are emotions utilized well? Does the speaker project his/her voice? Is the
delivery method persuasive? Is the time too short or too long?
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Total points: ______________________
Time: (3-5 Minutes) ______________________
Informative Speech
5-8 Minutes
1. The primary purpose of this speech is to inform the audience. Any other purpose, such as to entertain,
impress, or to convince, shall be secondary.
2. The student is encouraged to use visual media.
3. Keep your topic specific and focused. Do not try to cover too many major points in this short time
frame.
4. Some documentation is required (but is less formal than in a persuasive speech).
5. If at all possible, tie in your own life experiences to your topic.
6. Pay particular attention to the informative public speaking criteria (see attached evaluation blank).
7. Use note cards.
Structuring an Informative Speech
Typically, informative speeches have three parts:
1. Introduction
2. Body
3. Conclusion
Introduction
The introduction sets the tone of the entire speech. The introduction should be brief and to-the-point as it
accomplishes these several important tasks. Typically, there are six main components of an effective
introduction:
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Attention Getters
Thesis Statement
Audience Adaptation
Credibility Statement
Preview
Transition to the Body
As in any social situation, your audience makes strong assumptions about you during the first eight or ten
seconds of your speech. For this reason, you need to start solidly and launch the topic clearly. Focus your efforts
on completing these tasks and moving on to the real information (the body) of the speech. Typically, there are
six main components of an effective introduction. These tasks do not have to be handled in this order, but this
layout often yields the best results.
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Attention Getters
The attention-getter is designed to intrigue the audience members and to motivate them to listen attentively for
the next several minutes. There are infinite possibilities for attention-getting devices. Some of the more
common devices include using a story, a rhetorical question, or a quotation. While any of these devices can be
effective, it is important for you to spend time strategizing, creating, and practicing the attention-getter.
Most importantly, an attention-getter should create curiosity in the minds of your listeners and convince them
that the speech will be interesting and useful. The wording of your attention-getter should be refined and
practiced. Be sure to consider the mood/tone of your speech; determine the appropriateness of humor, emotion,
aggressiveness, etc. Not only should the words get the audiences attention, but your delivery should be smooth
and confident to let the audience know that you are a skilled speaker who is prepared for this speech.
* A Story
* Rhetorical Question
* Quotation
* Unusual Statement
* Humor
* Shocking Statistic
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Thesis Statement --- The thesis statement is crucial for clearly communicating your topic and purpose to the audience.
Be sure to make the statement clear, concise, and easy to remember. Deliver it to the audience and use verbal and nonverbal
illustrations to make it stand out.
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Audience Adaptation
In your introduction, you need to adapt your speech to your audience. To keep audience members interested, tell
them why your topic is important to them. To accomplish this task, you need to undertake audience analysis
prior to creating the speech. Figure out who your audience members are, what things are important to them,
what their biases may be, and what types of subjects/issues appeal to them. In the context of this class, some of
your audience analysis is provided for you--most of your listeners are college students, so it is likely that they
place some value on education, most of them are probably not bathing in money, and they live in Colorado.
Consider these traits when you determine how to adapt to your audience.
As you research and write your speech, take note of references to issues that should be important to your
audience. Include statements about aspects of your speech that you think will be of special interest to the
audience in the introduction. By accomplishing this task, you give your listeners specific things with which they
can identify. Audience adaptation will be included throughout the speech, but an effective introduction requires
meaningful adaptation of the topic to the audience.
You need to find ways to get the members of your audience involved early in the speech. The following are
some possible options to connect your speech to your audience:
* Reference to the Occasion
* Reference to the Previous Speaker
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Credibility Statement
The credibility statement establishes your qualifications as a speaker. You should come up with reasons why
you are someone to listen to on this topic. Why do you have special knowledge or understanding of this topic?
What can the audience learn from you that they couldn't learn from someone else? Credibility statements can
refer to your extensive research on a topic, your life-long interest in an issue, your personal experience with a
thing, or your desire to better the lives of your listeners by sifting through the topic and providing the crucial
information.
Remember that Aristotle said that credibility, or ethos, consists of good sense, goodwill, and good moral
character. Create the feeling that you possess these qualities by creatively stating that you are well-educated
about the topic (good sense), that you want to help each member of the audience (goodwill), and that you are a
decent person who can be trusted (good moral character). Once you establish your credibility, the audience is
more likely to listen to you as something of an expert and to consider what you say to be the truth. It is often
effective to include further references to your credibility throughout the speech by subtly referring to the traits
mentioned above.
* Competence
* Good Will
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Preview the Main Points
The preview informs the audience about the speech's main points. You should preview every main body point
and identify each as a separate piece of the body. The purpose of this preview is to let the audience members
prepare themselves for the flow of the speech; therefore, you should word the preview clearly and concisely.
Attempt to use parallel structure for each part of the preview and avoid delving into the main point; simply tell
the audience what the main point will be about in general.
Use the preview to briefly establish your structure and then move on. Let the audience get a taste of how you
will divide the topic and fulfill the thesis and then move on. This important tool will reinforce the information in
the minds of your listeners. Here are two examples of a preview:
* Topical
* Chronological
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Transition to the Body
After you accomplish the first five components of the introduction, you should make a clean transition to the body of the speech. Use
this transition to signal a change and prepare the audience to begin processing specific topical information. You should round out the
introduction, reinforce the excitement and interest that you created in the audience during the introduction, and slide into the first main
body point.
Body
Strategic organization helps increase the clarity and effectiveness of your speech. The body contains the bulk of
information in your speech and needs to be clearly organized. Without clear organization, the audience will
probably forget your information, main points, perhaps even your thesis. Some simple strategies will help you
create a clear, memorable speech. Below are the four key issues used in organizing a speech.
* Main Ideas
* Organizational Patterns
* Connective Devices
* References to Outside Research
Conclusion
Take a deep breath! If you made it to the conclusion, you are on the brink of finishing. Below are the tasks you
should complete in your conclusion:
* Re-assert/Reinforce the Thesis
* Review the Main Points
* Close Effectively
1st 10 Good Informative Speech Topics
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hybrid: cars, vegetables, animals
the reality show phenomenon
the origin of alphabets
the history of tobacco use
human cadavers - history of, uses of
DNA evidence
women in the military
botox (now being found to be useful in pain control)
herbs as medicine
the history of greyhound dogs
2nd 10 Good Informative Speech Topics
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history of comic books (general or choose a specific one, ie. Superman, X-Men, etc)
first woman astronaut
history of transplants
medicinal marijuana
Dolly the sheep (very first clone of a mammal)
alternative fuels
nanotechnology
history of smoking in movies
genetically modified crops
history of Barbie
3rd 10 Good Informative Speech Topics
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the day the music died
history of makeup
increase in childhood obesity
liposuction
tsunamis
lasik surgery
parental child abduction
internet crimes
rem sleep (dreaming)
chemical warfare
4th 10 Good Informative Speech Topics
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how 3D glasses work
how autofocus cameras work
federal witness security program
amber alert
Nostradamus
composting
radon
low carb diets
caffeine (or any favorite drink and what it does to your body)
PMS
5th 10 Good Informative Speech Topics
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how the cold war ended
helicopters in combat
animal communication
how evidence is handled at a crime scene
how the ramanov family influenced Russian society
illiteracy
stress and its effects
civil disobedience
how metal detectors work
how traditional marriages have changed since the 60's
6th 10 Good Informative Speech Topics
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how a hurricane/tornado/earthquake develops
helicopters in combat
marriage rituals around the world
history of crop circles
how humor heals
how to grow organic potted plants
how to sow seeds indoors
how to furnish an apartment inexpensively
how avoid losing money on investments
how to get started investing in the stock market
Here is a useful list of Informative Speech Topics which you might need while preparing the presentation
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History Of Barbie
Alternative Fuels
Internet Crimes
Chemical Warfare
History Of Comic Books
The Reality Show Phenomenon
Parental Child Abduction
The Day The Music Died
Herbs As Medicine
The History Of Tobacco Use
Liposuction
Dna Evidence
Nanotechnology
Lasik Surgery
History Of Transplants
First Woman Astronaut
The History Of Greyhound Dogs
History Of Makeup
The Origin Of Alphabets
Tsunamis
Human Cadavers - History Of, Uses Of (Great Informative Book On This Subject - Stiff)
Dolly The Sheep (Very First Clone Of A Mammal)
Increase In Childhood Obesity
Botox (Now Being Found To Be Useful In Pain Control)
Women In The Military
Childhood Obesity
Genetically Modified Crops
Rem Sleep (Dreaming)
History Of Smoking In Movies
Medicinal Marijuana
Use your imagination to create more speech topics
Informative Speech
5-8 Minutes
Name: _______________________________________________________
College: ______________________________________________________
Topic: _______________________________________________________
Circle the points that indicate your evaluation of this entry, with 10 being the best.
Thesis
Is there a clear thesis? Is it informative? Does the speech develop the informative point of view?
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Introduction
Is there an appropriate introduction? Is there an effective attention getter in the introduction?
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Organization
Is there a clear and suitable structure? Are there clear transitions between main points?
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Supporting Materials
Is there sufficient supporting material? Is the support recent, relevant, reliable, and well documented? Is there
critical thought? If there are visuals, are they effective?
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Conclusion
Is there a restatement of the thesis and main points in the conclusion?
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Style and Language
Is there clarity? Directness? Simplicity? Articulation? Is the pause used effectively? Punctuation?
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Gestures Platform Movement
Are there gestures; are they appropriate? If there is platform movement, does it distract from the message of the
speech?
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Eye Contact
Eye contact?
Delivery
Is it direct? Extemporaneous? Conversational? Volume and use of the pause? Are the notecards handled
appropriately? Is the delivery technique effective? Does the speaker appear knowledgeable about his/her topic?
Is the time too short or too long?
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Total points: ______________________
Time: (5-8 Minutes) ______________________
Oral Interpretation
Serious, Humorous, or Duo
5-8 Minutes
1. Oral Interpretation may consist of the following:
a. Poetry and prose readings
b. Famous speeches
c. Drama cuttings (plays)
d. Legends, stories
e. Cuttings from novels and short stories
f. The Bible
g. Magazine articles
h. Essays
i. Newspaper articles
2. Interpretation is the art of re-creation. You re-create the selection in its total effect.
3. As the interpreter, you try to re-create the intellectual and emotional meaning that the writer was trying
to convey.
4. Interpretation differs from impersonation and acting in 4 ways:
a. The interpreter reads the material as himself/herself.
b. The interpreter shares the material with the audience.
c. The interpreter establishes the fact that he/she is the intermediary between the writer and the
audience.
d. The interpreter sets the scene in the minds of the audience and on the platform; he/she stays
within a very small area (except for the dramatic duo).
5. Steps to follow in preparing your presentation:
a. Cut selection to the appropriate time allotted. Make sure the intellectual and emotional content
remain intact.
b. Rewrite the selection double-spaced so that it is both easy to read and to follow.
i. Mount the pages on 8 1/2 X 11 cardboard or construction paper and number each page.
c. Mark the pauses and the words and phrases for emphasis.
d. Prepare an appropriate and audience-catching introduction. The introduction sets the scene and
establishes the mood for the interpreter and the audience.
e. Practice, Practice, Practice
6. The introduction can include the following:
a. The setting
b. The time
c. Biographical information
d. Cultural background
e. Psychological aspects of the character/writer
f. Any other pertinent information or explanations
7. THE INTRODUCTION MUST BE MEMORIZED - The introduction is counted in the total time of
your presentation. The body of the speech may also be memorized if so desired. Use of a manuscript is
optional.
8. If a drama cutting is selected:
a. Placement of the characters can be accomplished by turning slightly to the left or right
b. Distinguish between each character by voice and body inflection
c. Suggest each character through vocal elements, posture, and muscle tone.
d. Face straight ahead during the introduction and when explaining scene changes.
9. A Speakers Stand and a microphone will not be used. It will be up to the speaker to project his/her voice
so everyone in the audience can hear and understand the interpretation Also, facial and body gestures
play a very important part in the interpretation of your selection
10. Remember:
a. The pause is a very effective tool for building suspense and climax and for reinforcing emotional
content,
b. Watch your posture - don't sway back and forth.
c. Don't play with your manuscript. (The speaker's stand will not be there to hide behind.)
d. Say "Thank-you" at the end of your presentation.
Duo Interpretation
Official description:
 A cutting from a play, humorous or serious, involving the portrayal of two or more characters presented
by two individuals.
 This material may be drawn from stage, screen, or radio.
 This is not an acting event..
 Presentation is from the manuscript and the focus should be off-stage and not to each other.
 Maximum time limit is 8 minutes including introduction.
 The duo interp may be memorized: however, a manuscript for each speaker is the norm.
 Points will be deducted for over-relying on props and platform movement.
Duo interpretation
Name: _______________________________________________________
College: ______________________________________________________
Topic: _______________________________________________________
Circle the points that indicate your evaluation of this entry, with 10 being the best.
Introduction
Is it effective? Does it set the mood? (The introduction must be memorized.)
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Emotional Involvement
Do the speakers interpret emotional content?
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Character
Do the speakers suggest character without undue impersonation? Do the speakers understand the material and
convey the thought and mood to the audience?
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Voice and dictation
Are the volume, pronunciation, articulation, and enunciation appropriate? Is the pause used effectively?
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Bodily Action
Gestures? Poise? Ease? Motion? Are gestures, body language, and movement appropriate to the character(s)
being portrayed?
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Choice of Selection
Quality? Cutting? Arrangement?
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Communication with the Audience
Is the theme conveyed? Is there eye contact with the audience? Do the speakers bring this duo interpretation to
life in your mind? Is there a feeling of completeness at the end?
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Timing
Is there a smooth exchange between speakers?
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Placement
Do the speakers stand apart from one another? Do they avoid eye contact with one another and with members
of the audience?
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Total points: ______________________
Time: (5-8 Minutes) ______________________
Oral interpretation
Name: _______________________________________________________
College: ______________________________________________________
Topic: _______________________________________________________
Circle the points that indicate your evaluation of this entry, with 10 being the best.
Introduction
Is it effective? Does it set the mood? (The introduction must be memorized.)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
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9
10
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Emotional Involvement
Does the speaker interpret emotional content?
1
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Character
Does the speaker suggest character without undue impersonation?
1
2
3
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5
6
Voice and dictation
Are the volume, pronunciation, articulation, and enunciation appropriate? Is the pause used effectively?
1
2
3
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5
6
7
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9
10
Bodily Action
Gestures? Poise? Ease? Motion? Are gestures, body language, and movement appropriate to the character(s)
being portrayed?
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10
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Choice of Selection
Quality? Cutting? Arrangement?
1
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Communication with the Audience
Is the theme conveyed? Is there eye contact with the audience?
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6
Total points: ______________________
Time: (5-8 Minutes) ______________________
Persuasive Speech
5-8 Minutes
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14.
You must have a minimum of three different sources (books, pamphlets, etc.)
Use personal opinions but back up with sources (facts) Know difference between fact and opinion
Use evidence in your speech:
i. EXAMPLE - A typical, specific instance, either actual or hypothetical.
ii. COMPARISON - The statement of similarity and/or difference between specific objects or instances.
iii. STATISTICS - A numerical example or a numerical comparison.
iv. DEFINITION - The classification of an idea and the distinguishing of it from others in the same area.
v. QUOTATION - An exact statement from another person(s).
vi. INTERVIEW - A statement given to you during a conference with another person(s).
Try not to use the same type of evidence throughout your speech.
Use current material whenever possible.
Refer to your references within your speech and state the dates of the articles. (Do not state all of your references at the end
of your speech).
Select topics that show harm or a need for a change. Use Notecards. (No Limit)
Appeal to the emotions of the audience.
Appeal to basic human needs, wants and desires
Before you can convince anybody of anything, your body, voice, facial expressions, and gestures should reflect that YOU are
convinced.
Look at audience --- Are they opposed, neutral, favorable???
Credibility ---sincere and concerned, tactful, reputation, self confidence/poise, experience/knowledge
Have a conclusion that calls for action.
Pay particular attention to the persuasive speaking criteria ( see attached evaluation blank).
HOW CAN I ORGANIZE A
PERSUASIVE SPEECH
Use this five-step sequence of ideas, developed by Alan Monroe, to help motivate your audience to action.
1. Attention. Get the attention of the audience and state your topic.
2. Need. Explain why there is a problem or why something needs to be done.
3. Satisfaction. Provide a solution that will satisfy the need.
4. Visualization. Help the audience see what it would be like if we did what you ask or what it would be like if we did nothing.
5. Action. Explain to the audience what specific actions they can take to solve the need.
Principles of Writing a Great
Persuasive Speech
Beginning and Ending Your Speech --- First impressions are very important, as you know. A poor beginning may so distract or
alienate your audience that you may never recover. Having a good beginning is a confidence booster and will propel you into the rest
of your speech.
In most speeches, just as in any essay, there are three objectives you need to accomplish at the outset:
•Get the attention and interest of your audience.
•Reveal the topic of your speech.
•Establish your credibility and good will.
Getting the Attention and Interest of Your Audience --- Before beginning your speech, wait until you have the attention of your
audience. Look at them and wait until all eyes are on you.
If when you did your audience analysis, you determined that this topic will be of interest to them, keeping their attention is the only
worry you have. If you determined that they will have little interest, you must generate some. Here are some methods to help you:
 Relate the Topic to the Audience - Bring the topic home to your listeners. They will be more likely to be interested if the
topic relates to their personal lives.
 State the Importance of Your Topic - Show your audience why your topic is important. Using statistics would be useful in
this area, if you have them
 Startle Your Audience - Sharing a shocking statistic or making a bold statement will grab the attention of your audience as
well as introduce them to your topic.
 Arouse the Curiosity of the Audience - Draw your audience into your speech with several statements that pique their
curiosity.
 Question the Audience - Asking a rhetorical question or a series of questions is another way to get the attention of your
listeners.
 Begin with a Quotation - Beginning with a quote from a famous writer, from the Bible or other book, from a poem or song,
from a television show or movie is another way to arouse the interest of your listeners.
 Tell a Story - We all love stories and they work well in your introduction. Be sure that your story relates to your topic and
you are not just telling it for a laugh.
Reveal the Topic --- In the process of gaining attention, be sure to state clearly the topic of your speech. If you do not, your listeners
will be confused. And once they are confused, your chances of getting them absorbed in the speech are almost nil. This is so basic,
that it seems silly to have to mention it, but many speakers fail to do this .
Establish Good Will and Credibility --- The last objective in the introduction is to establish your credibility, why you're qualified to
speak on this subject. Give your audience some reasons to believe that you know what you are talking about.
Establishing good will is essential if you are speaking to a hostile audience. You must make an effort to ensure that at your audience
will at least consider your point of view.
Ending the Speech --- Ending your speech gracefully is an art. Your final impression will probably linger longer in the minds of your
audience. The conclusion has two functions:
 To let the audience know you are ending the speech.
 To reinforce the audience's understanding of , or commitment to, the central idea.
Signal the End --- It may seem obvious that you should let the audience know that you have come to the end of your speech, but
some speakers end so abruptly that the audience in taken by surprise.
How do you end? One way is by using phrases like, "In conclusion," "In closing,"
"Let me end by saying," "My purpose has been," or words to that effect. You can also let your audience know by the manner of your
delivery, building to a climax.
Reinforce the Central Idea --- Here are several ways to reinforce your central idea:
 Summarize your Speech
 Restate the main points in different words.
 End with a quotation
 Make a dramatic statement
 Refer to the introduction
 Circle back to end where you began
Persuasive Speech Topics
Abortion
Adoption: the right to know
Affirmative Action Laws
Aids choices for Life
Air Bags
Aliens and UFO's: Yes or no
Amnesty: Should prisoners receive this?
Animal Rights
Are there Angels among us?
Assisted Suicide
Bigamy
Birth Control
Books: are they a thing of the past
Breast Feeding in Public
Breast Implants
Beauty is more than skin deep
Brand Names cost more, but is the quality
any better
Budgeting as well as spending
Capital Punishment
Censorship of Internet
Chat Rooms: Are they safe
City Curfews
Cloning
Conservation and Recycling: Is it
Important
Cults Kill
Does Dieting lead to Eating Disorders
Discrimination Laws
Divorce: Does it destroy children
Donor Insemination: Selling Babies
Dr. Kevorkian
Drinking Age
Drunk Driving
Eating Less Meat
Ebonics
Euthanasia
Filtering Internet
Food Additives
Food Stamps
Fur is not a Fashion Statement (using
animal fur for coats)
Should American companies go overseas
for workers?
Gay Marriages
Gene Testing
Genetic Engineering
Ghosts: Are they real
Global Warming: Fact or Fiction
Government Regulation of Utilities
Gun Laws
Hunting Laws
Illiteracy: Is it a problem
Immigrants and Illegal Aliens
Immunity Rights for Political Leaders
Legalizing Marijuana
Legalized Gambling
Mandatory Seatbelt Laws
Medicare
Mothers should stay at home
Nuclear Weapons
Online Gambling
Organ Transplants
Pesticide Use
Prayer in Schools
Priests: Should they be allowed to marry?
Privacy rights for Celebrities
Public Office Terms
Reincarnation
Religions: Should they interfere with
medical care?
Right to own Pitbulls
Smoking in Public Places
Space Program
Speed Limits
Steroids
Is stomach stapling the way to lose
weight?
Tax Laws
Test Tube Babies
Unemployment Compensation
Women in the Military
Wrestling and Football: Should girls be
allowed?
Reincarnation
Bigamy
College requirements
Student finacial aid policies
Black sororities and fraternities
Stepping
Tuition costs
Food additives
Eating less meat
Health care system
Birth control / Safe Sex
The importance of wearing well fitting
shoes
Smoking policies
Legalization of marijuana
Tax laws
Criminal justice
Censorship
Unemployment compensation
Food stamps
Medicare
Government spending
The national debt
Drug laws
Space exploration
Pornography
Legal drinking age
Speed limits
Foreign aid
Nursing home regulation
Public office term limits
Free speech
Why you should vacation at Walt Disney
World
Persuading the audience to visit a local
museum or zoo
Be happy!
Why you should watch...
"The Simpsons"
WCW Wrestling
"Seinfeld"
Why we should write the Fox network to
bring back Shannon Doherty on "Beverly
Hills 90210"
Why you should read John Grisham,
Stephen King, etc.
TV violence
Seal hunting
Equal rights / Sexism
Nuclear power
Caller ID
Advertising
Gay rights
Abortion Affirmative Action
Animal Rights Campus Issues - Athletics
Campus Issues - Dating Campus Issues Greek Life
Campus Issues - Student Fees Campus
Issues - Student Funding
Campus Issues - Student Govt. Campus
Issues - Student Life
Campus Issues - Technology Capital
Punishment
Civil Liberties Conservatism
Creationism Crime/Punishment
Drug Legalization The Economy
Education The Environment
Euthanasia Feminism
First Amendment Issues Foreign Policy
Fourth Amendment Issues
Gambling/Gaming
Gun Control Health/Care/Fitness
Human Cloning Human Rights
The Internet Lifestyles
Media Ethics Medical Ethics
Multiculturalism Organ Donation
Politics, Race, Relations
Religion and Spirituality
Social/Community Identity
Sports (College, Professional)
Stem Cell Research
Terrorism
Tobacco
Welfare Women's Issues
Title IX should be supported and
extended.
Ticketmaster has a monopoly on getting
tickets.
The U.S. should ratify the Treaty for the
Rights of Women (CEDAW),
sponsored by Amnesty
International.
Campaign finance reform should
become a more salient topic is
discussion in the next
Congressional session.
HMOs and other forms of managed
health care are insufficient for
ensuring that all Americans
receive adequate health care.
RU-486 should not be available to
American women.
RU-486 should be available to American
women.
The United Nations is still a best avenue
to promote world order.
Ephedra should be banned from all
collegiate and professional
athletics.
You're never too busy to get involved in
volunteering.
School vouchers are a poor substitute to
improving public education.
Smoking should be prohibited in all
public buildings.
Forget the fad diets; focus instead upon
FDA recommendations for
particular groups.
Spay and neuter your pets.
adoption laws
advertising in schools
affirmative action
age discrimination
agriculture
AIDS
airbags
airplane safety
alcohol abuse
alternate energy sources
animal testing
boat safety
breast cancer
campaign finance reform
campus safety
censorship
chewing tobacco
child abuse
child labor
child-custody laws
church-state separation
cloning
coastal erosion
college athletics
college tuition
community service
consumer rights
court system
crime prevention
death penalty
decaying bridges'
diplomatic immunity
disability laws
DNA fingerprinting
doctor-assisted suicide
domestic terrorism
drug laws
drunk driving
education reform
electoral college
emergency rooms
endangered species
English-only laws
environmental pollution
flat tax
food safety
foreign aid
funding for the arts
gambling
gay rights
genetic engineering
Gulf War syndrome
gun control
health laboratories
home schooling
homelessness
human rights
hunger
illiteracy
identity theft
immigration laws
international terrorism
Internet security
insanity defense
juvenile murderers
labor laws
logging
magnet schools
mail-order fraud
managed care
mass transportation
medical malpractice
mining
minimum wage
motorcycle helmet laws
music ratings
national defense
national health system
national parks
noise pollution
nuclear testing
nurse shortage
organ donation
personal health
prison system
privacy laws
pesticides
political corruption
poverty
pornography
prayer in schools
prostitution
public transportation
responsible journalism
road rage
school-bus safety
school choice
sex education
sexual harassment
sickle-cell anemia
smokeless tobacco
Social Security
space exploration
speech codes
speed limits
standardized tests
student loans
sweat shops
telephone deregulation
television violence
tenants' rights
truth in adverting
tuberculosis
vandalism
victims' rights
volunteering
voting in elections
water purity
water rights
women in the military
Persuasive Speech
Name: _______________________________________________________
College: ______________________________________________________
Topic: _______________________________________________________
Circle the points that indicate your evaluation of this entry, with 10 being the best.
Thesis
Is there a clear thesis? Is it valid? Is it reasonable? Is it persuasive?
1
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3
4
5
6
7
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10
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9
10
Introduction
Is there an Introduction? Does it have an attention getter?
1
2
3
4
5
6
Organization
Is there a clear and suitable structure? Are there clear transitions between main points?
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Supporting Materials
Is there sufficient supporting material? Is there critical thought? Does the speaker clearly address the
problem? Are there enough sources to support the points covered? Do the sources blend into the body
smoothly? Are the sources recent and relevant?
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Conclusion
Is there a restatement of the thesis and main points in the conclusion? Does the conclusion have a call for
action?
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5
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10
Style and Language
Is there clarity? Directness? Simplicity? Articulation? Is the pause used effectively? Punctuation?
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Gestures and Platform Movement
Are there gestures; are they appropriate? If there is platform movement, does it distract from the message of
the speech?
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Eye Contact
Eye contact?
1
Delivery
Is it direct? Extemporaneous? Conversational? Volume and use of the pause? Are note cards handled well?
Is the delivery technique effective? Are emotions utilized well? Does the speaker project his/her voice? Is
the delivery method persuasive? Is the time too short or too long?
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Total points: ______________________
Time: (5-8 Minutes) ______________________