Page 228 - (DK) Help Your Kids with Language Arts

226 C OMMUNICA TION SKILLS

Writing a speech SEE ALSO

34–35 Pronouns
A SPEECH IS A TALK ON A SUBJECT GIVEN TO AN AUDIENCE.   182–183 Picking the right words
188–189 Paragraphing
People make speeches for many different reasons, but they are   202–203 Writing to influence
222–223 The spoken word
often for work or social occasions. The techniques used for writing
Presentation skills 228–229 
a speech are similar to those used in written work, but a speech
must be effective when read aloud.

• Informal speeches can include
Talking point some slang, but it’s best to use
Every speech needs to have a clear and passionate message Standard English so that the
for its audience. For example, a politician makes speeches to audience will understand what
persuade people to vote for him or her, or to support his or her is being said.
policies. Activists speak to raise awareness about an issue,
such as animal rights.
GLO S S A RY
Alliteration The repetition of certain
Ideas for my speech: letters or sounds for effect.
Pronoun A word that takes the place
Save the Brussels sprout! of a noun, such as I, me, or she.
Rhetorical question A question that
When I met my favorite sports hero. does not require an answer but is used
for effect.
Mullet hairstyles are a fashion disaster. Slogan A short but memorable
statement that sums up a message.
Why I should be the next James Bond.
Standard English The form of English
Cell phones should not be banned in school. that uses formal vocabulary
and grammar.

Structure
Like any piece of writing, a speech needs Brussels sprouts are So, next time you
to have a focused structure, with a clear incredibly good for you. eat dinner, give the
beginning, middle, and end.
There is more vitamin C in little green things
a sprout than an orange. a chance.
I have a shocking secret.
I like Brussels sprouts!

△ Beginning △ Middle △ End
The opening lines should capture The middle part of the speech should The last section needs to sum up the
the audience’s attention, with a joke, a deliver the main points, one by one. Each message of the speech and ideally end
surprising statistic, or an inspirational quote. point should be backed up with evidence. with something memorable.