Start reporting before you arrive, and remember that the speech itself may not be the story. You are a reporter, not a transcriptionist, so be on alert for good quotes and what you will put in your lead. See also Sample Speech Story with Comments.

• Research the topic and speaker. Get background info on the speaker and topic. See if you can either get a copy of the speech ahead of time or interview the speaker in advance to get a feel for what the speech will cover. Of course, you may learn of the speech so close to deadline that this may not be possible.

• Arrive early and find a good seat. Try not to arrive late and miss part of speech. You may not be allowed in after starts. Sit where you can hear well.

• Bring the right materials. Notebook, pen, recorder, perhaps a camera. Take notes as if the recorder doesn’t exist. Use the recording later to check exact quotes.

• Estimate crowd size. Or ask organizers for a head count. If their number seems way off, you may want to mention that.

• Don’t summarize the speech. Most speeches are boring and really only deliver one message. So focus on the most important points and quotable material. That’s what the reader wants; if the reader wanted to hear the whole speech, she would have attended.

• Listen for the takeaway moment. Many speeches have a pivotal moment that defines them. Maybe speaker says something controversial or suggests an unusual plan of action.That may be your lead.

• Stay after. Ask audience members for their reactions. Try to grab the speaker and ask follow-up questions or clarify points. Don’t be timid in asking tough questions.

• Balance your story. People often make speeches in areas or places they are comfortable with, where they know they will be surrounded by their supporters. So the audience’s reaction may be very partisan. Talk to other people affected by the speech, who may not be in attendance. If the college president mentions at a faculty meeting that the district is cutting staff positions, that will affect students, who likely won’t be in attendance. Get reaction from students.

• Writing the story. Remember that what’s newsworthy may not be what the speaker thinks should be reported or the focus of your story. The news may be how the crowd reacted to what was said, or what wasn't said. The news may come after the speech, when the speaker is answering questions.

• Take good notes so you can use direct quotes in your story. Make sure all names and titles are correct. Write the story as soon as possible so you can get the information down more accurately.

Speech/lecture story structure

Sweep/big picture

Before you start writing, think about the bigger picture – how does this event fit in with other events or themes at De Anza or in the world?

Suggested structure

• 1. The lead: The most newsworthy, interesting or important point the speaker made. If the speaker is not well-known, such as a famous athlete or a celebrity, it’s probably best to use a delayed identification lead.

  2. Second paragraph: A powerful quote from speech to reinforce the lead.

  3. Third paragraph: Where, when, why the speech was given.

  4. The rest of the story: Combine quotes, descriptions, background information and audience reactions.