Reference no: EM131844469

The outline is one of the most central elements necessary for a good oral presentation. Outlines should include several major elements:

• The thesis statement (main idea) of your speech
• The main points you will use to support your thesis statement
• The way you will organize your ideas throughout the speech
• The transitions you will use to move from one idea to another throughout the presentation
• Any references that will be used in the presentation (keep in mind that the "bag" speech is a personal speech, therefore, references are usually not required in this speech choice)

Topic:

Before you begin planning your speech, you should select a general topic. According to your text, there are three main categories for informative speaking: speech of description, speech of definition and speech of demonstration. Please select a topic in one of these three categories.

1. Speech of description: explains an object, person, event or process.
2. Speech of definition: defines a system or theory, or describes the similarities and/or differences among terms or systems.
3. Speech of demonstration: shows the audience how to do something or how something operates.

Things to consider when selecting a topic:

1. Select a topic that interests you. You are encouraged to choose something related to your degree program.
2. Select a topic that would interest your audience.
3. Select a topic that you know something about. (Do not select a topic you lack information on and attempt to research it just for this speech). You should have a general understanding of the topic and conduct research for further understanding and specifics.
4. Select a topic you can cover in 4-7 minutes. For example, you would not be able to explain how to knit or repair an engine in 4-7 minutes. You may be able to discuss one specific aspect of these topics, such as how to cast on stitches or measure a spark plug gap, but you would not be able to explain either of these activities as a whole.