chapter 14 Speaking to Inform

Informative Speech Designed to convey knowledge, understanding

Criteria for Effective Informative speeches The information should be communicated accurately The information should be communicated clearly The information should be made meaningful and interesting to the audience

Informative Speeches Objects Processes Events Concepts

Speeches About Objects Describe something that is visible, tangible, or stable in form Need to be sharply focused Can use a variety of organizational patterns

Speech About Objects The base of the St. Louis Arch houses a visitor’s center. The middle of the St. Louis Arch contains a high-speech tram. The top of the St. Louis Arch has an observation deck 630 feet above the ground.

Speech About Process Usually describes how something is done or convey how something works Require careful organization Require some type of visual aid

Speech About Process Many magic tricks rely on mechanical devices that may require little skill by the magician. Other magic tricks depend on the magician’s skill in fooling people by sleight-of-hand manipulation.

Speech About Event Can deal with any happening or occurrence Historical Or everyday event

Speech About Event The parades at Mardi Gras are lavish events that take place over several weeks. The costumes include disguises, medallions, and the Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold. The food features Cajun and Creole dishes common to southern Louisiana.

Speech About Concept Usually convey information about beliefs, theories, principles, and other abstract subjects Usually arranged in topical order Usually more complex than other types of speeches

Speech About Concept The first major principle of nonviolent resistance is that social change must be achieved by moral means. The second major principle of nonviolent resistance is that one should not inflict violence on one’s enemies. The third major principle of nonviolent resistance is that suffering can be a powerful social force.

Informative Speech Guidelines Don’t overestimate what audience knows Relate subject directly to audience

Informative Speech Guidelines Don’t be too technical Avoid abstractions Personalize ideas