Discussion Question 3

What I am going to take away form this class is probably going to be the skills I have learned in preparing a proper speech. In the years that I worked for Wells Fargo I had spoken in front of an audience many, many times. However, in those speaking events I had notes on what I was going to say, but did not realize there are so many ways I could have made each one of those speaking events more impactful for the audience. Just in an introduction there are so many crucial steps a speaker must follow to insure he is successful. For example, using an attention getter is crucial. This step is what is going to capture the attention of the audience. Without capturing the audience’s attention, the speaker might as well be speaking to a wall.  Next, establishing credibility, this step lets the audience know that you are an authority on the topic. Which again is crucial in capturing your audience’s attention.

Discussion Question 2

My favorite speech would probably have to be our last one, the persuasive speech. I picked a topic that I really cared about and had some knowledge on. I think that allowed me to believe in what I was trying to persuade my audience to do.  Therefore, enhancing my effectiveness.  Furthermore, I really hope that my speech might actually have persuaded at least some of the audience members to become more involved with in our political system and vote.  Considering my grade, I think the time and effort I put into the speech paid off. Furthermore, some of the feedback I received from the audience would lead me to believe that my speech might have actually had an impact on some of my classmates.  Also, I think the content of my speech is something that most people can understand and relate too.  Therefore, making it a bit easier for me to connect with the audience and keep them engaged though out.

Discussion Question 1

The concepts I found to be most helpful in preparing for my speeches were use of facts and statistics, and creating a captivating introduction. After listening to the numerous speeches presented by my classmates, I realized if they did not grab my attention at the beginning I rarely was engaged in their speech. The main thing that I made sure I did well was an appealing attention getter. I found that capturing my audience’s attention at the beginning of the speech made keeping them engaged much easier. In my opinion, a speech, which provides information that enables an audience to make a logical connection to the presenter, is the defining factor for a successful speech. The use of facts and statistics is what creates this experience. I think there can be numerous times or areas one can present a fact or statistic and have it be impactful. I believe in an informative or persuasive speech beginning with a fact or statistic can establish creditability, engage audience, and create an attentive audience.  

Discussion Question 3

Understanding argument: Using Evidence Effectively. The evidence one presents in a speech is the foundation for justifying the claims that have been made. The introduction of evidence is essential for the audience to understand and begin to accept the presenter’s assertions. In presentation of evidence the speaker relies on the four varieties appeals: Logos: Appeals to Logic, Ethos: Appeals to Speaker Credibility, Pathos: Appeals to Emotion, and Mythos: Appeals to Cultural Beliefs.  The appeal to logic is often a very effective structure for presenting evidence. “Logical appeals rely on appearing reasonable and rational to influence an audience” (Coopman 307). This form of evidence is often easily verifiable, therefore, very receptive by the audience. Commonly this type of appeal is in the form of current statistical data, facts, definitions, or expert opinions. One thing to consider when presenting this type of evidence it is important NOT to present a “Long lists of facts and statistics that can overwhelm your listeners and cause them to lose interest”(Coopman 308).

Discussion Question 2

I can recall a recent conversation I had with a friend discussing the needs (addition of players) of a particular football club. The 2012 NFL draft just commenced on Thursday evening. This is the time where NFL teams select college athletes who they think will help their organization be successful in the coming football season. The discussion with my friend quickly turned into one person trying to persuade the other to see things from their viewpoint. Both him and I, being football savvy, bombarded one another with statistics of the prior year in relation to the positions we felt were crucial for the team to address. Now that I am familiar with the steps in developing an argument, I can relate the things I said into those steps. For example, I stated the Carolina Panthers needed major support within their offensive line. (Claim) Next, I explain how Carolina, in the 2011 season, was ranked 24^th in rush yards allowed. (Evidence). Finally, I inferred that with added support on the offensive line, Carolina would be able to stop a rushing attack. Therefore, increasing the strength of the team. (Reasoning)

Discussion question 1

The first interactive video discusses the importance of making a good argument in a persuasive speech. It reviews and highlights some of the elements of an argument. Argument formation consist of four basic elements: Thesis, claim, evidence and reasoning. Your thesis is a single sentence that captures the focus of discussion and clearly demonstrates the intention of the speech. You will support your thesis by the follow three steps, claim, evidence and reasoning. The claim is simply your position on the subject and what you want you audience to accept. Next, you provide evidence and reasoning to support your claims. The evidence one can use can be examples, statistics, quotation, analogies etc. Finally, reasoning is the step one would use to link the claim to the evidence. Different methods of reasoning can be employed to obtain a different effect. For example one can use deductive reasoning.  These are simple yet effective step I will take in constructing my arguments.

Self-evaluation 2

            The purpose of my speech was to inform the audience of the events that lead and contributed to the late 2000’s financial crisis. Overall, I believe I did well in achieving my purpose. The feedback I received from my classmates led me to believe they found my speech informative and constructive. Considering the amount of time I spent on practicing the speech, I felt very confident during my presentation.  The fact that I have had years of experience on the subject gave me some added confidence. If I had the opportunity to redo my speech I would probably spend a few moments and made sure the spelling on my powerpoint slides were correct. This was the only feedback I received that was negative. I think the content I provided within my speech was well researched and effectively presented. I spent a great deal of time in gathering the data I presented. I believe my hard work paid-off considering my grade on the speech and the feedback I received from my peers. Some students’ comments stated how thorough they thought my research was, and how the graphs and charts I included complemented my speech very well. Therefore, I plan on spending just as much time necessary on my next speech to produce the same quality of data.

             I believe the delivery of my speech went very well. I managed to stay within my time frame and effectively used an extemporaneous speaking style. I believe all the time I spent practicing my speech is what allowed me to successfully use an extemporaneous speaking style.  In comparison to my Demo speech this speech was more successful. Specifically, my Demo speech I lost points for unnecessary movement and leaning on the furniture.  I did not make those mistakes during this presentation. Furthermore, in my Demo speech I did not effectively site enough references during my presentation. I did not make that mistake on the Info. Speech. Although considering the content of this speech it was much easier to have numerous references, I still made sure I had ample resources for info, and also made sure to cite each one during my presentation.  Audience engagement is an important part of any speech. It is what drawls your audience in and creates an appealing environment. With something as simple as eye contact this environment can be created. I believe I did well in ensuring I was constant with my eye contact with the entire class. I made sure to rotate from left to right slowly to ensure I engaged the entire audience. On a scale of 1-10, I would give myself a 10 for eye contact.  As I mentioned above, I made sure to include numerous reference in this speech. I had a total of five citations during my speech. In conclusion, I deem this speech to be a greater success compared to my prior speech. I felt more comfortable in presenting. Furthermore, the grade I received, a 95 percent, also indicated that this speech was more successful.  

Discussion Question 3

3)    Prior the book had mention how important it is to understand the audiences and alter the speech to fit appropriately. This chapter focuses specifically on persuading different types of audiences. The Negative Audience, or sometimes called the hostile audience, is expected that these types of audiences are informed about the presenter’s subject matter and hold an unfavorable opinion on it. A negative audience can sometimes be intimidating. However, in many situations, simply exposing them to a few facts about the subject can begin to persuade and reduce the hostile environment. Here are a few steps a speaker can take to increase their chance of presenting a successful speech. First, establish your credibility with the audience. In any speech, this is absolutely crucial. This allows for the audience to become relaxed and more receptive to the speakers idea. Second, take a common-ground approach to the topic. Meaning identify some commonalities with the audience. Next, help your audience visualize your topic in a positive way. Next, prepare for negative reactions. Finally, keep your persuasive objectives within reason.

Discussion Question 2

2)    In today’s environment persuasion exists in every facet of our lives. With the introduction of smart phones, wifi, and other technological advancements people are more connected in ways that have never existed before. This, in turn, is an extraordinary advantage for those who intend to persuade. Just as people are more connected to different avenues of the world, advertisers and companies are that much more connected to the individuals. Thus, allowing them to stream their methods of persuasion, like advertising, directly to our years and eyes. In advertising, persuasion goes beyond the obvious. Meaning, when you see a commercial of a young, skinny, full breasted female eating a Calr’s Jr burger, you are not expected to turn into a robot and go to your nearest Carl’s Jr and buy a burger. Think for a moment about the female in the advertisement. There is an obvious appeal to men. But if you take it a step further, that female is painting a picture of what females today are supposed to look like. Therefore, contributing to the stigma of women and there appearance. Furthermore, encouraging males in our society to pursue those characteristics or persuade their significant other to alter themselves in efforts to meet those characteristics.

Discussion Question 1

1) In a persuasive speech the most difficult thing to accomplish is to motivate your audience in a manner in which the speakers desires. Monroe's Motivated Sequence is an organizational pattern in which the speaker takes the audience through a five-step process in order to motivate and empower them responds. The five steps are as followed: Attention, Need, Satisfaction, Visualization, and Action. The motivated sequence can be very effective due to the fact that it allows the speaker to take an audience-centered approach. Thus, engaging the audience, which makes the audience feel as if they are being referred to specifically. The problem/solution pattern infers that a problem exists and certain things need to be done to correct it. In my opinion, using the pattern bares the risk of losing engagement form audience members from the beginning. Simply this can occur when an audience member does not agree that a problem exists. Thus causing disengagement. For the final speech I would prefer to use the motivational pattern.

Discussion Question 3

3- Effective use of language in public speaking is a way for the speaker to invite the audience into an experience.  The power of words and the feelings they can invoke on an audience is amazing. That is, when the words chosen are the correct ones. The book defines language as the system of words people use when communicating with others. Language basics: Language is arbitrary, language is ambiguous, language is abstract, and language is active.  All these classifications of language are to be understood and applied differently with in a presentation. For example, language is arbitrary. Studies have identified there are over 6800 spoken languages in the world. This vast verity of languages suggests that words and what they represent to a group are different. Therefore, in relation to a presentation, prior to presenting a speaker should have an understanding for his or her audience to ensure the proper use of language.

Discussion Question 2

1-    “How do you respond to their comments in light of what your textbook says?” For me, this question can be answered from two different viewpoints, and each would have a different response. If I’m only to answer the question in reference to the book, than the language one chooses to use is extremely important. This is due to the context and environment in which we are speaking. We are in a communication class. We are to present speeches to our audience in effort to entertain, inform, demonstrate etc. all with the goal of earning a high grade for our presentation. In this setting, clearly the language you use has a direct impact on your audience.  Since our presentations are audience centered, the logical thing to do, in effort to obtain an A, you should use audience-centered language. Now, in everyday language, my opinion is different. I still believe language on chooses to use has in impact on people but to the extent argued in the discussion is a bit excessive. “"boy" is frequently used in the north-east England to refer to adult males, as is "lad"...as in "boys (or lads) night out "the boys" to refer to a group of adult males (as "the girls" is used to refer to a group of adult women).” I believe this comment makes a great point, which coincided with my opinion.

Discussion Question 1

 The first video discusses the use of language to engage your audience, referred to as, audience centered language. By using pronouns like: we, us, you and I are effective ways to engage the audience, in turn, this makes the audience feel as if they are being referred to specifically. Thus, enhancing the effectiveness of the speech from both the speaker and audience’s perspectives.  Using inclusive language is also another form of langue a speaker should use to ensure he or she is not singly any persons or group out. Non-inclusive language can be more than just not audience centered. It can sometimes be cause members of the audience to feel offended, which created disengagement. Inclusive language makes the audience feel like they are part of the group. It also shows that the speaker understands what we all, as humans, have in common. Thus, creating a more attentive and responsive audience. Which in turn created a positive experience for the speaker and the audience.

Discussion Question 3

In the first speech buddy video Erin introduces sample digital slides and highlights design successes and failures. She begins by presenting the basic visual guidelines: Simple, Key ideas, show what you cant say, use close ups, Limit number of images, variety and coherence, and large lettering.  Erin states, “ When using digital slides or any digital media, your main goal is to show your audience what you cant say.” Next, she discusses the verity of tools available within software like, PowerPoint and Keynote, which a presenter can use. However, she dose caution to not over do with digital effect that might take away from the content being displayed.  It can be easy to overwhelm an audience with digital slide. For example, if the speaker includes too much information or present everything in his or her speech digitally, can cause confusion or disengagement from the speaker. These are some common pitfalls speakers fall victim to.

Discussion Question 2

2). The most recent public speaking even I attended was the Get Motivated seminar two years ago. This event consisted of a verity of famous and semi famous individuals that have had great success in their area of specialty. One that resided with me was a Financial Advisor (cant remember his name) that developed some software to help people invest with knowledge and confidence. In his presentation he presented a collection of PowerPoint slides emphasizing his points.  I felt his use of the media was very effective. His points correlated with the images he was presenting. Being a visual learner myself, I believe anytime you add the proper use of a visual aid it will enhance the presentation, as it did for the Financial Advisor. The only suggestion I would have made to the presenter would have been to simplify the media. Meaning, I found myself reading and studying the graphs and lost site of the speaker. Beside that, his use of the media was well developed and presented.

Discussion Question 1

1). In the age of digital media, high speed processing and a multitude of audio, video and photo editing software a speaker’s ethical responsibility is constantly tested. In my opinion, the decision for a speaker to alter a source is the result of lack of effort. Furthermore, I believe such act of dishonesty in a presentation will prove to be counterproductive when it comes to presenting the final product. As a speaker you can never be sure what your audience is savvy too. For example, you may be presenting altered facts about the crime rates in a particular city and be presenting it to the wife of a police detective that is well informed on the subject. This incidence will cause disengagement from the audience and he or she will be questioned on any other facts presented in the future.  A speaker’s ethical responsibility reach and affect not only the speaker but also his or her audience, "ethical communication enhances human worth and dignity by fostering truthfulness, fairness, responsibility, personal integrity, and respect for self and other" (Coopman 40). I think this statement sets some clear guidance for a speaker to follow.

Discussion Question 3

3). Pick one concept from the reading this week and discuss it in detail.

Developing your introduction: The introduction is the speakers attempt to gain the audiences attention, explain what he/she wants to accomplish, and establish himself or herself as an expert on the topic.  The first impression audience members establish can change the whole dynamic of a presentation.  “ You never get a second chance to make a first impression” (Coopman 173).  The influence of first impressions on later perceptions is known as the primary effect. This is due to the fact that audiences tend to recall what a speaker says at the beginning of his/her speech. Without capturing the attention of the audience within the first few sentences can make it exceptionally difficult in keeping the audience engaged. Therefore, it is essential that the first element of an introduction is the attention getter. When formulating the attention getter, consider the purpose of your speech. Any attention getter should “make clear right away that your topic merits your listeners’ time and energy” (173). 

Discussion Question 2

2). What components, according to your book, go into an introduction and conclusion?  How are you going to use these ideas in your Informative Speech?  Please give specific examples!  Write out part of your intro and conclusion in your

blog post. 

The three components that go into an introduction include, getting the audience’s attention, establish the purpose and thesis, preview main points. Having a strong introduction is crucial in presenting a great speech. It is during the first few seconds where the audience’s attention can either be heightened or weakened.  The components that go into a conclusion are, review main points, reinforcement of purpose, providing closure. This is the speaker’s final opportunity to reinforce his/her main points and hope to have solidified a connection with his/her audience.

Introduction: The 2008 financial crisis is affecting millions of Americans and is one of the hottest topics in the Presidential campaigns. Realty Trac recently reported, in California 1 in every 256 homes are being foreclosed on. In the last few years we have seen several major financial institutions be absorbed by other financial institutions, (the purchase of Meryl Lynch by Bank of America) and receive government bailouts, or outright crash. Today, I will be covering the 2008 Financial crisis focusing on three specific areas: First, what were some factors that forced

Americans down this spiral. Next, how did it get so bad? Finally, what can we do as consumers to protect ourselves from falling victim to this again?

(Have not developed a conclusion yet)

Discussion Question 1

1) Speech Buddy:  Review the following Interactive Videos"  9.1, 9.2, 13.1A, 13.1B, and "Use It" 13.1 on the Interactive Video website.  Respond to the ideas in the videos. What did you learn that could be helpful for your next speech?

The first speech video covers the importance of having a strong introduction. It states having a good introduction goes a long way with your audience. It highlights three key areas an introduction must include: Get the audience’s attention, establish the purpose and thesis, preview main points. Prior to watching this video I was will aware of these key areas and feel like I did well in touching on each in my demonstration speech.  The second video discusses ending a speech effectively and leaving your audience with a positive impression. The video identifies 3 basic parts that must be included into a conclusion: Review main points, reinforcement of purpose, providing closure. The conclusion of the speech is the speaker’s final attempt to reinforce his or her main points. Again, prior to watching this video I was familiar with these three basic parts. Furthermore, I feel like I did well in including them in my conclusion of my demo speech. In review of Evan’s informative speech on techo, I feel he did well. Specifically, he had a well-developed introduction, hitting on the three key areas and great use of transition statements to guide the audience along.  

Self-Evaluation

The purpose of my speech was to demonstrate the proper the mechanics of throwing a football. I feel overall I did an exceptional job achieving my purpose. I felt that during the demonstration portion of my speech, I gave clear and specific directions on how to execute the proper mechanics of throwing a ball. Also, I made sure to go through the steps and speak slowly while performing the action, thus allowing everyone to see and understand thoroughly. In regards to my confidence and comfort, I was little nervous at the beginning. However, that dissipated rather quickly once I started speaking about the play-by-play of my home-coming game. Also, I managed to stay confident throughout the whole speech. I felt that I was well prepared and had practiced multiple times, which contributed to my confidence. Even with all the time I spent preparing and practicing, there are a few things I would do differently next time. First, I would have liked to include more supporting information to have solidified my inferences. Next, I can’t believe I made such a silly mistake of leaning on the white board during the conclusion of my speech. Rookie mistake! Posture and good framework are crucial in keeping the audiences attention on the content and not the speaker’s movements. Although I felt my content was strong, it could have been more impactful with added use of facts and statistics. Going forward, my goals in enhancing my speechs are: Including more supporting facts and statistics, DON’T ever lean on the furniture. Although I do not have the opportunity to view myself performing my speech, I know if I did, I would notice the nerves at the beginning, and my posture at the end. As I mentioned before, I’m sure these two factors were distracting for the audience. Therefore, taking their attention away from my words and focusing it on my demeanor.

            In my experiences in presenting in the work environment, I quickly gleaned the importance of eye contact with the audience. I noticed that if I focused my attention on a certain area of the audience, I lost the attention of the others.  With timely oscillation of the head while making eye contact creates a cohesive environment between the speaker and audience members. Knowing this, I felt like I did a great job with eye contact (giving myself a 10) and creating that cohesive environment.             

           After reviewing my notes, I mentioned my sources 3 times. Which is less than I wanted to. Overall, I agree with the grade I received, a 92%. I felt the areas I missed, number of citations/content development and posture, definitely brought my grade down to a low A. Specifically, in the area of citations/content development I plan on making a clear improvement on my next speech. I feel the oversight in this area had the greatest negative impact on my grade. My posture throughout most of the presentation was proper, with the exception of my conclusion, which is when the leaning on the white board took place. In the future I plan not to make these mistakes.

Discussion Question 3

3). Pick one concept from the reading this week and discuss it in detail.

3- Speakers commonly use Testimonies to support points. Using this technique will only be impactful if the audience believes in the source’s credibility.  There are multiple types of testimonies a speaker can present: expert, celebrity, lay.  Expert testimony will only be effective if the group or individual’s qualifications relate to the topic of speech.  For example, Shen Tong uses a testimony from civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. to support his viewpoint on meeting oppression with nonviolence.  In contrast, celebrity testimony is not found credible based on knowledge of topic however; it becomes compelling based on the person’s fame or state power. For example, actors who play a particular role in a film portraying a character with a disability will be able to attract an audience not because of there knowledge, but fame. Finally, lay testimony is common among journalists when reporting on human-interest stories. This is due to the fact that lay testimonials are not considered experts, but individuals who have had experience on the topic.  

Discussion Question 2

2). When do you find that giving facts and statistics are most effective in a speech?  When are giving facts and statistics not as effective? 

 In my opinion, a speech which provides information that enables an audience to make a logical connection to the presenter is the defining factor for a successful speech. The use of facts and statistics is what creates this experience. I think there can me numerous times or areas one can present a fact or statistic and have it be impactful. I believe in an informative or persuasive speech beginning with a fact or statistic can establish creditability, engage audience, and create an attentive audience. All these outcomes are desirable when presenting. Furthermore, as a speech continues one can use facts or statistics to support their inferences. Just as facts and statistics can be a great tool in a speech, it can easily be the cause of a lost audience. The miss use or overuse of facts and statistics can easily shut down an audiences’ attentiveness. For example, last weeks drinking and driving video. In my opinion, the speaker’s heavy use of statistics caused the audience to lose interest.  

Discussion Question 1

1). In regards to the following Speech Buddy videos, 7.1, 7.2, 8.1 and 8.2:  What did you learn that could be helpful in your speech? 

      

The first video highlights the importance of using a mix of supporting materials, narratives, definitions, testimony and examples. It is important to identify the advantages and disadvantages in each source. Applying this simple strategy in preparation, gives you a broad view and perspective on your topic. In my Demo speech, I have reviewed a verity of texts and I have gathered different supporting materials from each. Currently, I have not come up with a way in which I could include a narrative in this speech. On the other hand, I will be sure to define some terms I might use in my speech, terms that the audience might not be familiar with.

Evaluating media credibility (internet, newspaper, magazines) is important in insuring you are presenting information without bias. For my speech I have used mostly books as my supporting material. Therefore, less evaluation is necessary.

In reviewing the 7patternes of organization, I intend on using a topical pattern in presenting my Demo speech. I believe this pattern will best allow me to break down and present my points. The use of transition is a necessary step in leading the audience to my next point. I have developed a few different transitions statements I intend to include in my speech.  

Discussion Question 3

3). Pick one concept from the reading this week and discuss it in detail.

In contrast to audience demographics, using psychographic information centers on psychological connection with your audience, such as, values, attitudes and beliefs.  First, one must identify the standpoint of the audiences. Which refers to the location or viewpoint one interprets his/her world.  An individual’s standpoint can stem from their culture, family or many other sociological influences. Furthermore, identifying an audiences’ standpoint helps the speaker recognize the audience in a more subjective way.  Audience Values- “a value is an enduring concept of what is good, right, worthy, and important” (Coopman 83). In conjunction with standpoint, values play a large role on how the audience interprets a speech.  The book uses an eye-opening example, comparing the advertising campaign of Apple deployed in the US compared to Great Britain. They concluded, what was view as hip and trendy in the US was perceived as smug and overbearing in Britain.  Ultimately, knowing the values of your target audience will increase the effectiveness of ones speech.

Discussion Question 2

2). Discuss the importance of audience analysis and audience adaptation in the speech development process.  Also discuss how you plan on using audience analysis in your speech. 

Without an audience there will be no speech. So, is it crazy to think your audience is the most important part of ones speech?? I don’t think so. Regardless how fascinating or invigorating ones speech is, without an attentive audience, you have nothing. Furthermore, if the content of your speech is not designed to be appealing to your audience, again, you are left with a terrible experience. Tailoring your speech to fit your audience requires research. First, you must identify the demographic of the audience. In other words, what type of individuals will you be speaking to. Is your audience mostly consisting of middle-aged housewives?  If so, one would be hard-pressed presenting a speech on economic growth by increasing the work force. Once you have identified the audiences’ demographic, it would be wise to include a statement within the introduction that demonstrates sharing a common ground. 

I’m not sure how I plan on analyzing the audience in our class. Unfortunately, I only participated in class one day. From what I remember, this class has quite the spectrum of individuals. Therefore, I intend on making note of the men, women, and ethnicity next class period.

Discussion Question 1

1). Speech Buddy:  Review Drinking and Light Pollution Videos on the Speech Buddy website in accordance with Chapter 5.  Respond to each video.  What did the speaker to well?  What can you learn from watching these videos?

In the pollution video, Courtney had a well-formulated introduction. She expressed to her audience her purpose and included actions the audience could take to prevent pollution. She spoke clearly and confidently. Inversely, in the drinking video, Matthew’s presentation began a little shaky. He stumbled over some of his words, and referred to his note cards to often.  Further along the presentation, Matthew does a good job at presenting the statistics he had gathered. I can’t confess to its accuracy but nonetheless, it did seem logical and it adds credibility to him as a speaker. However, it is my opinion that speech seemed dry. I could imagine loosing interest in his speech. It appeared to me that there were all too much statistics and not enough content. Finally, I feel like he did well in his closing statements. He paraphrased the purpose of his speech, included a bold statement about drinking and drive, and finished by encouraged the audience to practice safe drinking.

Discussion Question 3

3)   Pick one concept from the reading this week and discuss it in detail.

The book identifies the first step in developing a clear research plan is “determining what you already know about a topic”(Coopman).  It recommends that the first step in the process should consist of making a list , or jotting down some aspects of your topic. Followed by writing out a few phrases about each. For example, if I were to be giving a speech on Mutual Funds, I would site such things like: Long term, investment, retirement, growth funds, small cap, mid cap, etc. Next, I would write out a few sentences about each one of the listed aspects. Next, I would identify how I learned about the topic. These steps should provide a solid foundation for one to begin the research step. As I discussed in my previous post, the research step is just as crucial in the quality of the final speech, as is, the development stage of the speech.

Discussion Question 2

2)   Watch all Speech Buddy videos that are related to Chapter 6.  Respond to the videos.   What did you learn that was helpful? What information from these videos will you use in the preparation process for your speeches in this course?

The video with the women giving a speech on Gastropods was, in my opinion, very well prepared for. The speaker clearly was well versed on the biology and anatomy of the Gastropods. Obviously, she invested a great deal of time preparing for the speech.  Therefore, seeming confident and comfortable with the subject matter.

The Managing the Research Process video highlights some valuable tools and processes one can implement in preparation for a speech. The video states “doing sound research is a crucial step in the speech making process” this step is clearly one the most important, as demonstrated by the Gastropod speech.  Completing sound research will give the speaker the confidence and knowledge to be perceived by the audience as creditable on their topic. Which ultimately could make or break ones speech.

Discussion Question 1

1)   What experience do you have with conducting research interviews?  What went well?  What needed improvement?  Share your advice with your class members.

My experience with conducting research interviews is limited. I last conducted a research interview with my grandfather preparing a report for my nutrition class. My research interview with my grandfather was a question and answer session that discussed nutritional habits of individuals in the foreign country of Spain. My greatest takeaway from my experience was that, as the interviewer, you must stay on track with the questioning. Specifically, when my interviewee responded to a question it was so elaborate that it began to stray away from the subject matter. I quickly realized that if I do not cut him off, he would continue to speak for an hour on my first question.  Now that I am reflecting on my interview, when I began to write my paper, I recall thinking to myself, I wish I had better developed questions. When reviewing my notes, it seemed that most of my questions were close-ended and did not lead the interviewee in the direction that I had hoped. Ultimately, making my paper difficult to write.

Discussion Question 3

3) Pick one concept from the reading this week and discuss it in detail.

The concept of “Determining your general purpose” especially resonated with me. I can recall listening to countless speeches where the speaker seemed unable to clue his audience in on his purpose until midway through his speech. Whether you are giving an informative, persuasive or entertaining speech, identifying a clear purpose from the beginning is essential. The general purpose of a speech answers the question, “what I want my speech to do” (Coopmen 62)? Once you have identified the purpose of your speech, it is important, as you develop your speech, that you keep your general purpose in mind. It is ok to include humor in an informative speech. Similarly, offering explanations in a persuasive speech. However, you do not want to stray to far from your general purpose. For example, if your general purpose is to inform you do not want to include so much humor that your speech will be recalled by the jokes you included and not the purpose to inform.