Informative Speaking

Introduction & OverviewInformative vs. Persuasive SpeechesTypes of informative speakingTechniques of informative speakingOrganization and Structure

Informative vs. Persuasive SpeechesInformative speeches are non-controversialInformative speaker does not intend to change audience attitudes

Types of Informative SpeakingBy contentBy purposeObjectsProceduresPeopleEventsIdeas

Informative Speeches by ContentYour speech can inform based on:ObjectsProcessesEventsConceptsIntangible ideas, beliefs, theories or principles

Informative Speeches by PurposeYour speech can inform based on:DescriptionsExplanations Instructions

Informative speech about objectsSimple, straightforward speechExample: cello, digital cameras, stamp collectionTime limit determines the amount of detail one can share

Informative speech about ProceduresDescribes how something works or a process that produces a particular outcomeExample: how to surf, refinish furnitureT. E. A. C. H.

Informative speech about peopleBiographical No need to tell everything about a person; Relate information to a specific purpose

More Informative Speech TopicsPresentations about EventsPresentations about IdeasExample: time management, evolution, freedom of speech

Techniques of Informative SpeakingInformative Purpose StatementPrecedes a thesis statementIn one sentence asks:What is your speech going to do?What will the audience walk away with?

Techniques of Informative Speaking, cont.Create information hungerGive the audience a reason to listen to and learn from your speech

Techniques of Informative Speaking, cont.Make it easy to listenWatch for information overloadChoose 3 to 5 main ideasUse information and examples that connect to the audienceUse simple information and build up to complex ideas

Techniques of Informative Speaking, cont.Emphasize important pointsRepetitionRewording of important pointsSignpostsWords or phrases that emphasize the importance of what you are about to say

Techniques of Informative Speaking, cont.Make the message clearBe aware of what you intend to communicateWould this message sound clear to you if you heard if for the first time?

Techniques of Informative Speaking, cont.Make the presentation interestingRelate to your listeners interestsCreate interesting presentation aidsUse humorUse humor to make a pointMake yourself the butt of the jokeUse humorous quotations

Organization & Structure Introduction (tell what youre going to say)Establish audience interest and attentionPreview thesis/purpose statementPreview main points

Organization & Structure The Body (say it)Limit division of main points to 3 to 5 subpointsUse good transitionsOrder points in a way that is easy to understand and remember

Organization & Structure The conclusion (tell what youve said)Review main pointsRemind audience why the subject is important to themProvide the audience with a memory aid

Organization & StructureGenerate audience involvementDefinition: level of commitment and attention that listeners devote to a speechTips:Personalize your speechUse audience participationUse volunteersHave a question and answer period