The Outline Is An Important Part Of Speech Development

The Outline Is An Important Part Of Speech Development You Will Be Re

The outline is an important part of speech development. You will be required to submit an outline with your speech (informative and persuasive) as part of the speech grade. The final outline contains ALL information you include in the speech. From an extemporaneous standpoint, you are not reading from the outline, but through practice and preparation, the content will be very similar to what you actually say in the speech.

This week you will be writing a "preparation outline." This outline includes a visual framework and required information IN COMPLETE SENTENCES.

I encourage you to write as much as possible so I may review it and provide you with feedback. One area that I do not expect you to have fully developed is the sub-points. This is where the support material of your speech is located. Below you will see a place for sub-points with the word "optional" next to it. This means that you do not have to include sub-points.

All other information is required. Using the following visual framework, provide information related to the required element of the speech. Do not delete any of the template that is in bold below. Doing so will result in lost points.

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  • I. Introduction
    • A. Gaining attention - please specifically describe the attention gaining device you plan to use in the speech. If it's a quote or speech or question, tell me what it is.
    • B. Specific Purpose Statement - Be sure to word it correctly, per your textbook.
    • C. Credibility - explain how you will establish your credibility
    • D. Preview Statement - you will need to provide the one-sentence preview statement. You can also include information you plan to use to establish your central theme.
    • Transition - if you are not combining the transition and internal preview, provide the transition here.
  • II. Body
    • A. Internal Preview - provide the internal preview statement that defines this main point.
    • 1. sub-point (optional)
    • Transition - if you are not combining the transition and internal preview, provide the transition here.
    • B. Internal Preview - provide the internal preview statement that defines this main point.
    • 1. sub-point (optional)
    • Transition - if you are not combining the transition and internal preview, provide the transition here.
    • C. Internal Preview - provide the internal preview statement that defines this main point.
    • 1. sub-point (optional)
  • III. Conclusion
    • A. Signal the end - transition to the conclusion of the speech. Use appropriate sign-posts.
    • B. Internal summary
    • C. Closing Remarks

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Copy and paste the outline above into a Microsoft Word Document. (2 references from textbook)

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The development of a comprehensive and structured outline is a fundamental step in preparing and delivering effective speeches. An outline serves as a blueprint guiding speakers to organize their ideas logically and systematically, ensuring clarity and coherence in communication. This structured approach is especially crucial in preparing for both informative and persuasive speeches, where clarity and impact are paramount. The outline must include all necessary elements, such as an attention getter, specific purpose statement, credibility establishing methods, and a clear preview statement. Additionally, it provides a framework for organizing the main points and supporting details in the body of the speech.

Importance of a Speech Outline

The speech outline acts as an essential roadmap for speakers, enabling them to stay focused and structured during their presentation. According to McGregor and Voght (2017), effective speech organization enhances the speaker’s confidence and improves audience comprehension. A well-crafted outline minimizes filler and ensures that key points are addressed systematically. Furthermore, by including complete sentences and detailed supporting information, speakers can fluidly transition between points, maintaining audience engagement. The outline also facilitates practice, allowing the speaker to familiarize themselves with the content, leading to more natural delivery.

Components of a Preparation Outline

The preparation outline generally follows a specific visual framework, including components such as the introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction should start with an engaging attention device, such as a quote, question, or compelling statement, followed by a clearly articulated specific purpose statement. Establishing credibility involves sharing relevant background or experiences that lend authority to the speaker's message. The preview statement briefly outlines the main points to be covered, providing a roadmap for the audience.

In the body of the speech, internal preview statements are used to introduce each main point, supported by sub-points if necessary. Transitions serve to connect the points smoothly and maintain the flow. The conclusion signals the end of the speech with sign-posting phrases, summarizes key points, and leaves the audience with final remarks that reinforce the central message.

Practical Application and Benefits

Writing a detailed preparation outline benefits both novice and experienced speakers by emphasizing organization and clarity. According to Beebe and Beebe (2018), training in outline development improves overall communication skills and prepares speakers for extemporaneous delivery. The detailed nature of the outline—particularly the requirement for complete sentences—ensures that speakers articulate their thoughts coherently and confidently. The process also highlights any gaps or ambiguities in the argument or narrative, providing opportunities for revision before the final delivery.

Conclusion

In summary, a comprehensive speech outline is an indispensable tool for effective speaking. It provides a clear structure, supports logical flow, and enhances speaker confidence. By adhering to the outlined framework and including all necessary elements, speakers can craft presentations that are well-organized, engaging, and impactful. Proper preparation through detailed outlining empowers speakers to convey their messages more effectively, ultimately leading to better audience understanding and retention.

References

  • McGregor, M., & Voght, T. (2017). The Art of Public Speaking (13th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
  • Beebe, S. A., & Beebe, S. J. (2018). Public Speaking: An Audience-Centered Approach (10th ed.). Pearson.
  • Lucas, S. E. (2015). The Art of Public Speaking (11th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
  • Gamble, T. K., & Gamble, M. W. (2017). Communication for Business and the Professions (4th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
  • Hughey, M. W., & Hughes, K. (2016). Public Speaking: Strategies for Success. Cengage Learning.
  • Aristotle. (350 BC). Rhetoric. Translated by W. Rhys Roberts.
  • Severin, W. J., & Schrader, J. C. (2017). The Dynamics of Human Communication (13th ed.). Cengage Learning.
  • O’Hair, D., Stewart, R., & Rubenstein, H. (2018). A Speaker’s Guidebook: Text and Reference (7th ed.). Bedford/St. Martin’s.
  • Knapp, M. L., & Daly, J. A. (2011). Small Group Communication: Theory and Practice. Pearson.
  • Shannon, C. E., & Weaver, W. (1949). The Mathematical Theory of Communication. University of Illinois Press.

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