Speeches

Refer to your blue English book for more details of the standard. These speech topics are based on the task “Formal Speech: The Art of Persuasion”: Therefore you should take a ‘side’ and AGREE or DISAGREE with __one__ of the topics below and base your speech on that side of the argument. The topics are based on issues/themes present in the texts we’ve studied, but I encourage you to discuss matter beyond the text as well. I would recommend structuring your speech like an essay with at least 3 distinct and clear sections, each focusing on a different aspect of the issue. Focus on the source text in one section, and discuss wider societal issues in the rest of your speech… try to make your speech interesting, entertaining, and relevant to our lives today here in New Zealand. You may use real-life/personal examples as well as textual examples if you see fit.
 * 12 ENGLISH – Ms. Munro**
 * 2.7 SPEECH TOPICS – 3 CREDITS – INTERNAL**
 * //You will prepare and deliver a formal speech of at least four minutes to your class and teacher. In your speech, you will attempt to persuade your audience that your point of view is a valid one.//**
 * If anyone has trouble with any of the topics or has an idea for a different topic, please email me.


 * THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME**
 * 1) **Coping with life is challenging for everyone; not only for those diagnosed with mental illness or disability.**


 * 1) **Communicating our experiences and emotions to others is a crucial human need.**


 * 1) **Mark Haddon succeeds in his plea for understanding those with mental disabilities.**


 * DONNIE DARKO**
 * 1) **Fear and love are the deepest and most influential human emotions.**


 * 1) **You don’t need extraordinary talents to be become a hero.**


 * 1) **Fate controls the path of our lives; our own choices make no difference.**

When you've decided your topic, email me with your choice & which 'side' of the topic you are taking.

The speech has to be at least 4 minutes as per the standard. I encourage you all to attempt the standard, as it's 3 credits for English. If you have any problem with speeches, or if the topics don't suit you, please email me ASAP.


 * To pass it must be at least 4 minutes.
 * You must ENGAGE with the audience - that means making eye contact and talking TO your peers, making them feel connected and involved with what you're saying - reading it off the cue cards won't suffice. Doesn't have to be 100% memorized but you CAN'T just read it off your cards.
 * Use oral presentation techniques - Vary your voice to emphasize key points; alter your volume, speak loudly and clearly. Use pauses, stress key points, jokes/humour, etc for effect. It doesn't have to be a serious speech - if you can pull off the funny, do it!!
 * If you need cue cards, that's fine but they must be small cards, DON'T show up with a piece of refill.


 * You must also email me a list of bullet points/key points which make up your speech plan. These notes can be used for your peers for revision.
 * Please email me these notes as soon as possible.