Determine the main goal of your speech. Is it to inform, persuade, entertain, or inspire?
Choosing a Topic
What do you want your speech to be about? Ideally, it should be about something which you feel passionate about.
Researching a Topic
Gather information, statistics, quotes, anecdotes, and stories relevant to your topic. Ensure your information is accurate and from credible sources.
Structuring the Speech
Introduction:
Hook: Start with something that grabs attention. This could be a quote, a question, a story, or a shocking fact. Thesis Statement: Clearly state the main point or purpose of your speech. Preview: Briefly outline the main points you will cover.
Body:
Divide the body into 2-4 main points, each with supporting evidence or examples.
Use transitions between points to maintain flow and coherence.
Conclusion:
Summarise: Recap your main points. Restate Thesis: Reinforce your main message or purpose. Call to Action or Closing Thought: Leave the audience with something memorable or an action they can take.
Revise & Edit
Make sure your speech is clear and concise. Remove any unnecessary information.
Diction: Ensure that what you are saying is clear by using the right pronunciation, tone and enunciation.
Eye Contact: Engage with your audience by making eye contact. While you can read your speech off of paper, it is best to not constantly be staring at your notes.
Voice Modulation: Use changes in tone, pitch, and pace to keep your audience engaged.
Body Language: Use gestures and movements to emphasise points.
Confidence: Believe in your message and show enthusiasm. Project your voice.
At the end of your speech, you will be asked a series of questions relating to the topic of your speech, which you must respond to. You will be assessed on your response.