Any Old Bag Will Do—Introduction Bag Speech
Honors English 10
Topics: Introduce yourself to the class revealing a significant object/symbol (no photos or
electronic devices) from your past, present, and future (three objects—one from each time).
Explain the significance of each object with anecdotes, examples, reasons, etc. In addition,
bring the objects in a bag that also reflects something unique about you. For example, bring
them in a sport bag, name brand bag, decorated bag, or gift bag. Include the significance of
the bag in your speech in the introduction.
Time: 2-4 minutes. You are allowed a grace period of 15 seconds at either end.
Process for Preparing the Speech:
1. Brainstorm (on paper) objects/symbols to represent yourself. Write notes by each
object about possible ideas to discuss.
2. Choose the three most interesting and unique objects/symbols. Be sure that you
have one to represent each: your past, present, and future.
3. Determine the order for presentation of these objects. The order should be
chronological from either past to future or future to past.
4. Write an outline. Focus only on your main ideas.
5. Find a quotation to incorporate into the speech.
a. It should be some pithy saying which makes a statement about human
existence that is meaningful to you.
b. You will need to include the author of the quotation and why you chose it.
c. Incorporate the quotation into your introduction or conclusion.
6. Write an introduction, which will first gain the reader’s/listeners’ attention about
the topic (you) and identify the purpose of the speech: your thesis.
7. Write a conclusion. The last few sentences should offer a memorable sense of
summary and closure about you
8. Review and proofread.
9. Practice delivering your speech multiple times, planning for transitions and unity of
ideas.
Guidelines:
Because this topic is so familiar to you, you may not use notes, but you my have the
quotation on a notecard.
Use innovative and appropriate items that will give the audience insight into your
interests, hobbies, jobs, goals, and/or family.
Due Dates:
Brainstorming and outline drafts are due Friday, September 9.
Final, typed copy outline due on your assigned speech day.
During the month of September and the first weeks of October, three introduction bag
speeches will be given a day. Students will sign up on a calendar in advance. The first
day of introduction bag speeches is Tuesday, September 13.
Be CREATIVE! This should be a fun way to start your speaking experiences.