Chapter 15: Speaking to Inform

Guidelines for Informative Speaking

1. Don't overestimate what the audience knows 2. Relate the subject directly to the audience 3. Don't be too technical 4. Avoid abstractions 5. Personalize your ideas 6. Be creative

What are three methods you can use to avoid abstractions in your informative speech?

Descriptions, compare and contrast.

What does it mean to say that informative speakers should personalize their ideas?

Examples of real life stories, human face to the topic.

What two things should you watch out for in making sure your speech is not overly technical?

Not understood concepts and using technical words.

What are the four types of informative speeches discussed in the chapter? Give an example of a good specific purpose statement for each type.

Objects, processes, events, and concepts. Objects- to inform the audience about three major kinds of service dogs. Processes- to inform my audience how flash floods develop. Events- to inform audience about three aspects of the Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans. Concepts- to inform audience of the basic principles of Confucianism.

What should you do as an informative speaker to relate your topic directly to the audience?

Tie it in with their interests and concerns. Using you and your increases audience understanding of the speakers ideas.

Why is it important for informative speakers to be creative in thinking about ways to communicate their ideas?

Use language imaginatively and resourcefully.

Why must informative speakers be careful not to overestimate what the audience knows about the topic? What can you do to make sure your ideas don't pass over the heads of your listeners?

You can't assume they will know what your topic is. Be sure to explain everything thoroughly. Make sure it is clear to someone who is hearing about the topic for the first time.

Types of Informative Speeches: Analysis and Organization

objects, processes, events, concepts