Chapter 9
Beginning and Ending the Speech
The Introduction
Get attention and interest
Reveal the topic
Establish credibility and goodwill
Preview the body of the speech
Methods of Gaining Attention
Relate your topic to the audience
State the importance of your topic
Startle the audience
Arouse the curiosity of the audience
Question the audience
Begin with a quotation
Tell a story
Credibility
The audience’s perception of whether a speaker is qualified to speak on a given topic.
Goodwill
The audience’s perception of whether the speaker has the best interests of the audience in mind.
Rhetorical Question
A question that the audience answers mentally rather than out loud.
Preview Statement
A statement in the introduction of a speech that identifies the main points to be discussed in the body of the speech.
Tips for Preparing the Introduction
Be concise: Usually no more than 10-20 percent of the total speech
Look for possible introductory materials as you do your research
Be creative in devising your introduction
Tips for Preparing the Introduction
Finalize the exact wording of your introduction after you have finished preparing the body of the speech
Work out the content and delivery of your introduction in detail
The Conclusion
Signal the end of the speech
Reinforce the central idea
Crescendo Ending
A conclusion in which the speech builds to a zenith of power and intensity.
Dissolve Ending
A conclusion that generates emotional appeal by fading step by step to a dramatic final statement.
Methods of Reinforcing the Central Idea
Summarize your speech
End with a quotation
Make a dramatic statement
Tips for Preparing the Conclusion
Look for possible concluding materials as you do your research
Conclude with a BANG, not a whimper
Be brief: Usually no more than 5-10 percent of the total speech
Work out the content and delivery of your conclusion in detail