The Jersey Devil
Informative Speech Outline (SAMPLE)
I. Introduction
A. Topic: The Jersey Devil
B. Hook: Do any of you know what a cryptid is? How about the Jersey Devil?
C. Thesis Statement: Today you will learn about the Jersey Devil. You will learn
about its origin, appearance, and reported sightings.
II. Body
A. Subtopic One: Origin
1. The Jersey Devil is a creature with wings and two feet, said to be located
in New Jersey
2. Many people believe in it, others do not
3. It is said that a woman named Mother Leeds gave birth to it as her 13th
child
4. Because it was child 13, it became a monster instead of a human (unlucky
number)
5. A myth explains that Mother Leeds cursed the devil while giving birth
6. First appeared in the 1700s
B. Subtopic Two: Appearance
1. It’s a monster
2. Described as a biped (an animal that walks on two legs)
3. Has hooves with a horse’s head
4. Is very large
5. Has leathery wings, claws, a tail, and horns
6. Sometimes they have fangs
7. Usually, they are about 3-7 feet tall
8. Large wingspans
9. Their tails very in size, shape, and length
C. Subtopic Three: Reported Sightings
1. It all began around 1735
2. In 1740, the Jersey Devil was caught and exercised by a priest
3. in 1840, the Jersey Devil rampaged all over New Jersey, Delaware, and
New York
4. Weird tracks have been found, especially between 1841-1874
5. People see the weird tracks and hear unearthly screams
6. In 1909, over 50 sightings were reported in New Jersey
7. In 1918, a strange dead body believed to be the Jersey Devil was found
III. Conclusion
A. Summary of Key Points/Subtopics
1. In conclusion, you have just learned about one of the most famous
cryptids.
2. You learned about its origin, appearance, and reported sightings.
3. It is a mythical creature that many people believe in because so many
sightings have been reported.
4. I hope you enjoyed learning about a creature you may have never heard
about.
5. I hope you never have the sad fortune of being carried away by the
Jersey Devil!
6. Are you a believer?? Thank you for listening!