English 9
Name __________________________________
Speech Analysis Instructions
For this speech unit we will be revisiting the essential elements of argument writing and applying them to
famous speeches. Each student will select a famous speech from the approved list. Students will then read and
analyze the speech based on Aristotle’s Rhetorical Triangle and basic speech theory. Students will present their
analysis in small, informal groups.
For this assignment you will complete the following in order:
1. Analyze Lou Gehrig’s “The Luckiest Man on the Face of the Earth” for homework.
2. Select a famous speech to analyze. Your choices are a compilation of several collections of famous
speeches (see list). Please note that some famous but “overdone” speeches were deliberately not
included on the list.
3. You must read and listen to your speech online – print it if you wish. You must also do some
background research on the speaker and historical time period of the speech in order to answer some of
the required questions. ANY website used MUST BE included in your works consulted page.
4. Analyze your chosen speech as an argument examining the speaker’s effectiveness. Consider the
context in which it was delivered and the audience to whom it was delivered. You will be graded on:
a. Identification and discussion of the elements of SOAPSTone
b. Identification of the speaker’s claim
c. Identification and discussion of rhetorical appeals (ethos, pathos, logos)
d. Works Consulted page
5. Prepare an informal presentation to present in a small group. Your presentation will effectively
communicate your analysis of the speech and the rhetorical strategies used by the speaker.
The analysis of Lou Gehrig’s speech is due on _______________.
The analysis and presentation of your speech is due on _______________.
Websites and Links:
American Rhetoric – This website contains audio of the Top 100 speeches of all time.
Guardian Unlimited – This website contains audio of the famous speeches of the 20th century, as well as
information about the speeches and background information on the writers.
The History Place – This website contains audio and print of the “Great Speeches Collection.”
PHS Library MLA Resources