Speeches

Speeches are nearly always written to persuade people to do something or think about something in a different way. However, since your goal is to make people think differently, you need to ensure that you do not offend your audience! You do not need to cover both sides of the argument; a speech is purely trying to strengthen your side of the argument. If you do cover the other side of the argument, ensure you add a counter-argument to weaken the opposition's argument!

Speeches often deal with serious issues, but still retain a more informal but professional tone. This is to try and build a relationship with your audience, who is likely to be a large group of people. Try to use personal pronouns such as "you", "us", and "we".

Because speeches are typically spoken out loud rather than read, things like sub-headings aren’t needed. However, like with all GCSE writing, paragraphs are needed to separate ideas.

A possible template:

Introduction: In this paragraph, address your audience (i.e. say hello to them) and let them know what subject you will be speaking to them about today. You may even want to list the areas for discussion that you are going to discuss, briefly, to let your audience know what to expect.

Content: In these 3-4 paragraphs, you need to cover all your main arguments. Remember, your job, in a speech, is to be convincing and persuasive. So make sure each argument you have is in its own separate paragraph and is fully explained. Make sure to use some persuasive devices like rhetorical questions and emotive language!

Conclusion: In this final paragraph, you should summarise your main points, briefly, thank your audience for their time, and then finally say farewell.

Example questions (have a go)

1. Write a speech for university students to discuss the dangers of ‘drink driving’.

2. Write a speech for members of your local area to persuade them to join a neighbourhood watch group to prevent crime.

3. Write a speech to be given at a local retirement home to convince them of the benefits of technology.

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