Topic Selection: For your topic, you should think of a how-to process. This should be something that is interesting to your audience’s education level but not overly complex. You will work to teach your audience how to complete this task or process. Topics will be approved by me.
Outline: There is an accompanying outline due as a separate assignment. Find the outline assignment to download the provided outline shell and input your own information in proper format for submission.
Resources: You must orally cite 2 resources while speaking. These sources should also be properly formatted on a bibliography page that is to be submitted on the speech day.
Time Limit: 4 minutes minimum – 6 minutes maximum. (To go UNDER or OVER in time reflects a lack of preparation and will deduct points from the grade.)
Visual Aid: A tangible visual aid is required to be integrated into the speech. The aid should perform an integral function within the speech and should be large enough to be seen and/or read/understood by all members of the audience. The visual aid should be handled smoothly- plan in advance how you will use it, fasten it, display it, etc.
Note Card: You may use one 3×5” note card as needed.
Delivery: The delivery must be extemporaneous. You may use a notecard. If you read directly from notes, the speech will be graded starting at 50%.
Video: The video should be recorded in one continuous stream with no editing. You should be easy to see with good lighting and easy to hear without outside noise.
Other: This should be treated as a professional speaking engagement. You should stand (if you are unable please email me prior to the due date) for the presentation with the video capturing you from waist up. You should also dress professionally and deliver in front of a clear background.
New Skills
In preparing for the how-to demonstration speech, you should select a topic that relates to your own interests and the interest level of your audience. For example, showing us how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich is too simple. As college students, we already know how to do this. Research as necessary to ensure you provide your audience with either new information or with a fresh approach to somewhat familiar information. Be sure to verbally CITE YOUR SOURCES – at least two.
While speaking, you should plan to show one tangible visual aid to help exemplify the how-to process. You should come prepared with the items necessary to complete the demonstration.
At this stage, you are still becoming familiar with the speaking process. Do your research, form your presentation and then practice with a timer to ensure your speech fits within the 4-6 minute timeframe and to ensure you are comfortable handling your visual aid. Even at this stage, your speech should be well-organized and should utilize credible, sound research. You should use transitions and deliver the speech extemporaneously (not reading from notes).
