Chapter 6 Review

September 26, 2008

brainstorm This is noncritical free association to

generate as many ideas as possible in a short time.

self-generated topics These are speech subjects based on the

speaker’s interests, experiences, and knowledge.

audience-generated topics These are speech subjects geared to the

interests and needs of a speaker’s listeners.

occasion-generated topics These are speech subjects derived from the

particular circumstances, seasons, holidays, or life events.

research-generated topics These are speech subjects discovered by

investigating a variety of sources.

visual brainstorming

This is an informal written outline achieved by free associating around a key word or idea.

speech to inform

This is a speech designed to convey new and/or useful information in a balanced, objective way.

speech to persuade

This is a speech designed to influence listeners’ beliefs and/or actions.

speech to convince

This is a persuasive speech designed to influence audience beliefs and attitudes rather than behaviors.

speech to actuate

This is a persuasive speech designed to influence audience behaviors.

speech to entertain

This is a speech designed to make a point through the creative, organized use of humorous supporting materials.

general purpose This is the broad goal of a speech (such as to

persuade, to inform, to entertain, etc.)

specific purpose

This is a statement of the general purpose of a speech, the speaker’s intended audience, and the limited goal or outcome.

thesis statement

This is a one sentence synopsis of the speaker’s message.

Why is it important to focus your topic? Explain using examples of a

focused topic and an unfocused topic.

It is important to focus your topic in order to guide your research.

It also allows you to address more substance in your speech.

Additionally, limiting your topic gives you time to support the ideas you present in your speech.

Unfocused topic: football Focused topic: the Super Bowl

What four questions can you ask yourself to guide your

topic selection? Explain why each one is important. Does this topic interest me?

Don’t pick one that doesn’t, please! Is this topic interesting or important to my

listeners? Remember your audience

Am I likely to find sufficient supporting materials on this topic?

Very obscure topics may be difficult to present Do I know enough about this topic to start

researching it and interpret what I discover? What prior knowledge do you have?