COM 1010
Goldstein
Final Assignment: Speech Analysis
Your task is to write a 3-4 page essay (double spaced) in which you analyze a speech
video from the Ted Talks website (http://www.ted.com/talks) according to the diverse
elements of speech communication that we have discussed in class this semester.
A thorough paper will address the following:
Introduction and Conclusion
 Does the presenter complete the elements of an effective introduction (gain
attention, establish credibility, relate topic to audience, preview main points) as
discussed in class? How? Is it done effectively?
 Does the presenter complete the elements of an effective conclusion (signal the
conclusion, review main points, end with a powerful closing line)? How?
Body, Content and Structure
 Content: is the speech primarily informative or persuasive?
 How can you describe the organizing logic of the speech? How effective is it?
 Structure: how does the speaker transition from idea to idea?
 What is the main message or argument of the presentation?
 What kinds of evidence does the speaker use (i.e. facts, statistics, testimony,
examples, narratives, etc.), and how does this use of evidence impact the overall
effect of the presentation?
 If informative, what informative strategies do you see the speaker using? If
persuasive, what persuasive strategies do you see the speaker using (pathos, logos,
ethos? Others)?
Language, Style and Audience
 How does the speaker relate to the audience?
 How can you describe the speaker’s language use? Does the speaker use
language in any particular or strategic ways to style the speech or create a certain
impression? A certain kind of elevated or simple vocabulary? Figurative
language? Rhythmic language? Word play?
Delivery
 Describe the speaker’s physical and vocal delivery, using the vocabulary we’ve
discussed in class (i.e. pitch, volume, vocal variety, fluidity, pauses, expressive
voice, eye contact, posture, gesture, etc.).
 How does the speaker’s delivery style contribute to the overall effect of the
presentation?
Your Response
What do you think is most interesting/persuasive/effective about this Ted Talk?
Grading Rubric
A
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B
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C
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D
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Essay considers all elements thoroughly, demonstrating
superior understanding of how they play out in speech
communication.
Essay provides frequent specific examples to convey points
about the presentation being analyzed.
Essay is clearly structured with an intro, conclusion, and
organized body paragraphs.
Essay considers most elements, demonstrating general
understanding of how they play out in speech
communication.
Essay provides occasional examples to support points.
Essay is mostly clearly structured.
Essay considers some elements, demonstrating partial
understanding of how they play out in speech
communication.
Essay provides few examples to support points.
Essay is unclearly structured.
Essay considers few elements, demonstrating confused or
cursory understanding.
Essay provides no examples.
Essay is unstructured.