Speech Structure
What are the three main parts of a speech?
Introduction, body, conclusion
What does "articulation" mean in public speaking?
Pronouncing words clearly and correctly
What is one way to grab your audience’s attention in the introduction?
Using a quote, question, anecdote, statistic, or (when appropriate) humor
Name one type of visual aid used in public speaking.
Slides, props, charts, graphs, paper handouts, etc.
What are the three types of rhetorical appeals identified by Aristotle?
Ethos, pathos, logos
What is the purpose of a thesis statement?
To summarize the main point or argument of the speech
How can tone affect the delivery of a speech?
Tone conveys emotion and attitude, influencing how the message is received
What is a rhetorical question?
A question asked for effect, not expecting an answer
What is one rule for designing effective slides?
Use minimal text, large fonts, high-contrast colors, etc.
Give an example of a pathos-based strategy in a persuasive speech.
Telling a heartfelt story, using vivid imagery, or describing a personal experience
What is a transition in public speaking?
Words or phrases that connect one idea to the next
Name one way to practice controlling nervousness when speaking.
Deep breathing, pauses, visualization, practice, etc.
What is the term for adjusting your delivery based on audience reactions?
Dynamic delivery or adaptability
What is the main purpose of visual aids?
To support and clarify the speaker’s points
When writing a speech, what is the name of the organizational pattern that involves identifying a problem, explaining a solution, and showing how it works?
Problem-solution pattern
Define the term “chronological organization” for a speech.
Arranging main points in the order they occur in time
Why is eye contact important in public speaking?
Builds trust and keeps the audience engaged
Name two ways to maintain audience attention throughout a speech.
Varying tone, using stories or examples, adding visuals, etc.
What should you do if a piece of technology fails during your presentation?
Stay calm, have a backup plan, or adapt without it
Why is it important to address counterarguments in a persuasive speech?
To build credibility and show understanding of the opposing side
Name two strategies for writing a strong conclusion
What is the term for unnecessary sounds like "um," "uh," or "like" during a speech, and how can they be minimized?
Filler words; they can be minimized by pausing intentionally and practicing the speech ahead of time.
What is the significance of pathos, logos, and ethos to connect a speaker with their audience?
Pathos appeals to the audience's emotions. Logos uses evidence to support a claim. Ethos establishes credibility.
What is a common mistake speakers make when using visual aids, and how can it be avoided?
One of many answers: Overloading slides with text; it can be avoided by keeping slides simple, using bullet points, and focusing on key ideas.
What is the purpose of a call to action in a persuasive speech?
To motivate the audience to take specific action