Special Occasion Speeches
A Guideline to Understanding
Speech #6
When Might You Give a Speech?
 Raise your hand if you can think of a time
when you heard a speech outside of school.
 When might you be asked to give a speech
in your life?
 How can you be prepared for these
occasions?
How are these speeches different?
 There are three purposes to public
speaking: entertain, inform and/or persuade.
 Given Often
 Response to a Situation
 Epideictic: speeches of praise or blame
Types of Special Occasion
Speeches
Courtesy Speeches:
Acceptance Speech
Presentation Speech
Speech of Introduction
Tribute Speech
Ceremonial Speeches:
Graduation Address
Eulogy
Toasts
Speech #6 Requirements
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Written and rehearsed on your own time.
Time: 2 minutes minimum
Podium
Gesture
Choose from the following: Eulogy, Toast,
Acceptance, Presentation
 Recognize someone famous/known
 Costume is encouraged (extra credit)
Steps to creating your speech
1. Decide which type of speech is most
appealing to you and the audience.
2. Write an outline; include essential speech
elements: Intro/Transitions/Conclusion
3. Write notecards with blocking/gesture.
4. Add humor if appropriate.
5. Rehearse, Rehearse, Rehearse.
The Eulogy
 Given in response to a person’s death.
 Tone is solemn, serious and respectful.
 Includes:
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Reference to those in attendance and feelings
Statement of grief
Extension of sympathy
Chronological retelling of life of deceased
Summary of deceased’s virtues
Statement of how deceased will live on
Specific references to the deceased, not general
statements.
“L’Chiam!” A Toast to Life
 Define your purpose/occasion.
 Include specific references to events
concerning what you are toasting.
 Guests have paused to hear inspiring
words, not cliches!
A Speech of Presentation
 Speaker is presenting an award to
someone.
 Explain why the recipient qualifies for the
award.
 Explain the meaning of the award.
 State reasons why you are glad to present
the award.
Oh, Thank you!
(The Acceptance Speech)
 Expresses gratitude and dignifies the
occasion by recognizing the significance of
the award.
 Thank those who helped you receive the
award.
 Sincerely appreciative tone.
 Show modesty/humility (living up to
expectations of the award) avoid falseness
 Express how the award is important to you.
Before you leave…
 Choose the type of speech you will be
presenting.
 Pick up some notecards
 Watch some example speeches on
YouTube