This is merely a model that may assist you in organizing your ideas and research about your topic, using the sample topic of Pro Gun Control. Times given are suggested guidelines, not a mandate.
I. The Introductory Paragraph (45 seconds)
A. Begin with a broad overview of the general topic or situation: increase in violence (in America) and in the number of crimes involving guns. Give statistics/data to support your contention and note that this trend has led to passage of legislation, i.e. the Brady Bill.
B. Narrow down to your position: acknowledge that disagreement exists about the connection between increased violence and the number of guns people have; thus, there is some oppose to legislation limiting or controlling guns. Identify the “some” who oppose your view: the NRA, political conservatives, etc.
C. Place your thesis at end of well developed but not over-developed introductory paragraph…perhaps 4th, 5th, or 6th sentence in the paragraph. Your thesis should present the opposing arguments as well as your position.
II. Body/Evidence Paragraphs (often three-----1 ½ minutes, 1 ½ minutes, 1 ½ minutes)
A. First opposition argument becomes the paragraph topic sentence: "Political conservatives believe gun legislation is ineffective."
B. Explain the opposing view. Make the opposing argument plausible -- avoid using "straw men." Cite your research to demonstrate that you consulted credible sources from the opposing point of view.
C. Transition to your rebuttal: "However…" Offer evidence that disproves the opposing view: quotations from experts, valid study results, statistics, etc.
D. For each of the other two opposing views (most speakers will have three), follow the same format. "Those opposed to legislation also contend…" "the NRA finally insists…" (note the power and importance of your verb choices!)
IV. Your Solution (2 minutes)
A. Basic Assumption-----This is an important part of your speech. You must present a way (often a compromise) to achieve your position, convince your opponents to jump on your bandwagon. What can you do to appease them/overcome their objections?
B. Avoid Oversimplification-----“Solution” does not mean to dismiss the opposing view absolutely. What steps can be taken to make the laws more easily enforced? More effective? How would you word them to avoid stepping on the Constitution?
C. Avoid the passive voice: don't just say "someone should do something about this" -- say who should do what. Be specific and concrete. If your plan involves money, where would it come from? How much would it require? If you want to pass a new law, tell exactly what it would say. If you want to strengthen an existing law, exactly how would you do so?
D. Use research in this section also. You can present someone else’s plan or come up with a plan of your own.
V. The Winding Down/Conclusion (15-30 seconds)
A. Keep it simple. If you have done a good job coming up with a solution, you do not have to repeat your thesis. You can move smoothly from your compromise/solution to the end of your speech.
B. Rhetorical Questions----They have a place in a speech, but not at the end. You want to close in positive affirmation of your position. Don’t let your audience leave with unanswered questions.
C. Avoid beginning or ending any speech or project with someone else’s words. Your powerful words should be the ones echoing in the minds of your audience when your speech is over. To use a powerful quotation near the end of your speech is fine as long as it is selected wisely, but follow it with your own words by the speech’s end.