Public Speaking

A. The introduction should usually be relatively brief. B. Speakers should keep an eye out for potential introductory material as they research the speech. C. Speakers should be creative when devising their introductions. D. Speakers should not be concerned with the exact wording of the introduction until the body of the speech is finished. E. The introduction should be worked out in detail so it can be delivered effectively.

There are four tips for preparing an effective conclusion A. Speakers should keep an eye out for potential concluding materials as they research the speech. B. Speakers should conclude with a bang instead of a whimper. C. Speakers should not be long-winded in the conclusion. D. Speakers should prepare the content and delivery of their conclusions with special care.

A. The first function is to signal the end of the speech. 1. Abrupt ending leave listeners surprised and unfulfilled. 2. One way to signal the end of a speech is with a brief verbal cur such as “In conclusion” or “One last thought.” 3. Another way to signal the end is by the speaker’s manner of delivery. a. In a crescendo ending, the speech builds in force until it reaches a zenith of power and intensity. b.In a dissolve ending, the final words fade like a spotlight on a concert singer, bringing the speech to an emotional close. B. The second function of a conclusion is to reinforce the audience’s understanding of or Commitment to the central idea of the speech. 1. There are four methods of accomplishing this. a. One method is to summarize the main points of the speech. b. A second method is to conclude with a quotation. c. A third method is to end with a dramatic statement. d. A fourth method is to refer back to the introduction of the speech. 2. Th...