Me? Give a Speech? Standard 0501.2.1

Who is the audience? Before writing your speech, think about who will be hearing it. Adults? Other students? Parents and grandparents? Younger children? Speech contest judges?

If the speech is for adults, you can use larger vocabulary and your speech can last longer. If the speech is for children, you may want to use shorter words and lots of actions to keep their attention. If the speech is for a contest, you need to follow the rules of the contest and write for adult judges.

Topic Think about your topic. Is it: an assigned topic from your teacher a topic you choose a topic assigned for a contest

If you choose your own topic, think about your audience If you choose your own topic, think about your audience. Decide if you want the speech to be serious or funny. If it is an assigned topic or contest, read over the rules and be sure you cover all areas that will be graded.

Presentation When making your speech, stand up straight. No slouching or leaning over! Hold your cards at chest level, but don’t cover your face with them. Try to use eye contact several times during the speech. Use different tones of voice to emphasize parts of your speech.