Transcript Selecting a topic and purpose
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