Example of Informative “Process” Speech Formal Preparation Outline Format
(All Preparation Outlines must be labeled and typed in this format.)
Name: Rita Gonzalez
Title: How to Lay Concrete
Organizational Pattern: Chronological
General Purpose: To inform
Specific Purpose: To inform my audience about the (3) three steps involved in laying concrete
Central Idea: The three steps involved in laying concrete are measuring, placing, and finishing.
Introduction:
I.
Have you ever seen sweaty workers at a construction site laying concrete and wondered
how hard their job really is? Maybe you’ve heard they’re always “on break?”
II.
Today I will show you the challenges of how to lay concrete since this is a product that
we all use and perhaps can even be a job opportunity for you or a friend if you need some
extra cash.
III.
I spent three summers in Alaska as a union concrete layer and passed all the required
exams for state certification. I also supervised two job sites.
IV.
By the end of this speech you will know how to measure the site, place the forms, and
finish the surface of the concrete pour.
Body:
I. First, you must prepare the measurements of the pour site for ordering the concrete delivery.
A. It is important to measure the area carefully with a tape measure or wheel.
1. Be sure to measure all sides for correct length and width to get the area.
2. Then measure the depth of space to get the cubic yard for ordering.
B. Write all measurements and estimates.
1. Carefully figure material measurements.
2. Carefully estimate time of delivery and length of pour time.
C. Call in the order.
1. Verify amounts of material, overage charges, and pour time requirements.
2. Get an emergency or after-hours number at the cement company.
II. The second step in laying concrete is placing forms.
A. To place a form, first chalk in the perimeters of pour area.
1. Spray powdered chalk.
2. Correct chalk spills or mistakes if necessary.
B. Then stake all the plywood strips over the lines.
1. Staking is the strongest method of holding back such a heavy material.
2. Staked plywood is easily reused.
C. Make sure that all seams are flush to prevent spill or rough edges.
1. Spills waste time.
2. Rough edges can be dangerous.
III. Third, when the truck has emptied its load in the forms, you must finish the surface.
A. First, knock down piles of wet pour and shovel in to fill empty spots.
B. Second, roughly level the pour by running a 2X4 across the tops of the forms.
C. Third, smooth the overall surface with a “float” device.
D. Finally, lightly “broom” the surface to provide texture for traction.
Conclusion:
I.
In conclusion,
II.
I have shown you how to perform the three steps in laying concrete, which are preparing the
measurements, placing the forms, and finishing the surface.
III.
Hopefully, knowing these steps will help you appreciate the workers you see laying concrete
or give you an idea for how you can make some extra money next summer.
IV.
When you’re walking by a construction site and you see those hard-working men and women,
don’t just wait for them to whistle at you. Show them you know how hard their job is-whistle at them first! (Whistle)
Reference:
Dwyer, K. (2002). Public Speaking Workbook, Seventh Edition. Boston: McGraw-Hill Primis.
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