Chapter 16 Notes Special-Occasion Speeches

Adapting your speech What does the word “adapt” mean?

Things you need to adapt to… Attention Span Knowledge, Needs, and Interests Expectations

Attention Span At a special-occasion, is the audience at the occasion just to hear you speak? – How does this come into play with their attention span?

Knowledge, Needs, and Interests Every listener should feel as if you are talking directly to him or her.

Expectations Your audience will have certain expectations that you should aim to meet. An audience would not expect a eulogy primarily made up of jokes.

Tips for delivering your speech… All of the tips from previous speech formats apply to special-occasion speeches as well. – Rehearse by yourself and in front of an audience.

Evaluating a Special-Occasion speech After giving a special-occasion speech at an actual special-occasion, you won’t receive a grade from the audience. However, check p.439 for a checklist to evaluate yourself.

Types of Special-Occasion Speeches Graduation Speech Introductory Speech Presentation Speech Acceptance Speech Commemorative Speech “After-Dinner” Speech

Graduation Speech Formal Audience includes students’ family, friends, and teachers – Although they’re mostly happy, the audience may be restless during your speech because they’re anxious for the diplomas to be handed out Expected: Congratulating graduates, acknowledging teachers, looking back, and looking ahead

Introductory Speech Formal A wide range of audience members and attention spans Expectations: Who is the speaker? What will the speaker talk about? Why should I listen?

Presentation Speech Formal Audience: Most people are friends, family members, or colleagues of the person receiving the gift or award. Expectations: Why is it being given? Who is giving the award? How did the person earn the award?

Acceptance Speech Adopt a warm, personal tone Accept with a sense of pride and honor, not false modesty Audience: friends, family, colleagues of the recipient.