Printable Speech Notes

Speech Thought Starters Pick one main idea. If you have too many points, your main one will get lost. Who are you writing your speech for? How much time do you have for your speech? Are there any sub points you’d like to make? What do you want people to take away from your speech? Do you want to make this speech more engaging or informative? What examples (stories, highlights) will you share? Who do you want to mention? Are there any dates you want to include?

Fundamentals and Structure The Opening Introduce yourself and tell people why you’re there. This is your chance to pique their interest. A quick joke doesn’t hurt to set the mood, either. The Body Here is where the bulk of your information will go. Your stories, your examples, your compliments and, depending on what type of speech, your gratitude. For smooth transitions from one story to the next, use language like, “Another interesting example…” to keep people engaged and expecting more. Take the time to truly reflect on what matters. The Ending Make it as memorable as possible by either tugging at heart strings or expressing sincere emotions. Take this time to thank people and summarize your points again quickly. End on an optimistic note, such as, “We can’t wait to see where you go next,” or, “and I know next year will be even more successful.” Additional Notes Try to write like you talk. Get your facts straight. Keep it short. Remember your audience. Use a friendly tone.

Option 1: Fill out digitally and flip top row before printing Using the following page, you can type your speech notes into a foldable pocket booklet to bring with you to your speech. Once you’ve typed your answers, rotate the top row as shown below so that the booklet will print correctly. To rotate top row for printing: Select the top row (it’s already grouped). Grab the rotator tool at the top of the box. Spin it around so the entire text box is upside-down. ROTATE 180º

Speech thought starters Topic 3 4 5 6 Text Speech thought starters Topic Title Main Idea How long Text Note Date This belongs to _______________ BACK FRONT 1 2

Option 2: Print and fill out by hand Using the following page, you can print a blank speech booklet and fill it out by hand. The booklet pages are laid out in a specific order so the booklet reads well once folded.

Speech thought starters 3 4 5 6 Speech thought starters Main Idea How long Note Date This belongs to _______________ BACK FRONT 1 2

Folding directions 1. Fold 8.5x11 paper in half lengthwise (so printed sides are on the outsides). 2. Fold in half lengthwise. 3. Fold in half lengthwise again. 4. Open paper up. 5. Fold entire paper in half widthwise and cut on the solid line. 6. Open paper up. 7. Fold lengthwise. 8. Push sides together to create an open diamond in the center. 9. Push through the diamond so all four sides meet. 10. Collapse all pages so the Front and Back pages are in the correct spots.

Final folded product If you follow the directions correctly, your final folded product should look like the image below.