Selecting a topic, purpose and central idea Class Activity – Brainstorming

 When a speaker is enthusiastic about his or her ideas, how do listeners usually react?

 List the six criteria discussed in this chapter for writing a specific purpose statement.

 What is the difference between the specific purpose and the central idea?

    Select a topic that… Fits requirements of assignment Showcases your experiences and knowledge Interests you You can make interesting and valuable to your audience

 Establish a general purpose to help bring your topic under control.

◦ To inform ◦ To persuade ◦ To entertain

 ◦ ◦ ◦ What exactly to you want to accomplish in your speech?

Topic: Foodborne illnesses General Purpose: To inform Specific Purpose: To tell my listeners how to protect themselves from foodborne illnesses

 ◦ ◦ What exactly to you want your audience to remember from your speech?

Topic: Foodborne illnesses General Purpose: To inform ◦ Specific Purpose: To tell my listeners how to protect themselves from foodborne illnesses ◦ Central Idea: Monitoring food temperatures is a great way to avoid foodborne illnesses

Let’s use football as an example: Football Explain divisions / conferences - Explain job of coaching - Explain history - Explain artificial vs. natural turf

  Brainstorm for possible main points Narrow to 3 – 5 possible main points

 Narrow down the following broad subjects to specific, manageable topics: ◦ Outdoor recreation ◦ Musical groups ◦ ◦ Illegal drugs Saving money