Principles of Speech Writing and Speech Delivery

writing an effective speech follows certain steps or processes. The process of writing is not chronological or linear; rather,
it is recursive. That means you have the opportunity to repeat a writing procedure indefinitely or produce multiple drafts
first before you can settle on the right one.

Principles of Speech Writing

Audience Analysis – entails looking into the profile of your target audience. The profile includes the following information:

Demography (age, range, male-female ratio, educational background and affiliations or degree program taken,
nationality, economic status, academic or corporate designations).

Situations (time, venue, occasion, and size)

Psychology (values, beliefs, attitudes, preferences, cultural and racial ideologies, and needs.

2. Determining the Purpose

The purpose of writing and delivering the speech can be classified into three—to inform, to entertain, or to persuade.

An informative speech provides the audience with a clear understanding of the concept or idea presented by the speaker.

An entertainment speech provides the audience with well-argued ideas that can influence their own beliefs and decisions.

A persuasive speech provides the audience with well-argued ideas that can influence their own beliefs and decisions.

3. Outlining

An outline is a hierarchical list that shows the relationship of your ideas.

A good outline helps you see that all the ideas are in line with your main idea or message.

The elements of an outline include an introduction, body, and conclusion.

Sample Outline

1.0 As of today, there is an alarming increase of wastes in our community.

1.1 According to Solid Waste Management Office, if we do not tale immediate action,

we might face more perils caused by natural calamities

1.2 Now, I am going to talk about how to eliminate wastes and protect the

environment.

2.0 Improper waste disposal causes environmental problems.

2.1 Wastes contaminate the soil.

2.2 Wastes contaminate the water.

2.3 Wastes can cause floods.

3.0 There are ways to eliminate wastes and protect the environment.

3.1 Reducing, reusing, and recycling can help eliminate wastes.

3.2 People should start doing these at home.

3.3 This solution should be supported by the local government.

4.0 We must act now.

4.1 This solution should be supported by the local government.

4.2 Let us learn from the lessons in natural calamities we have experienced.
 4. Editing, Revising, and Rehearsing

Your written speech involves correcting errors in mechanics such as grammar, punctuation, capitalization, unity, coherence,
and others.

Rehearsing allows you to identify what works and what does not work for you and your target audience.

Principles of Speech Delivery

When delivering your speech, remember that your facial expression is vital because it also adds to the message that you
are communicating. Practice delivering your speech in front of a mirror to add the appropriate facial expressions in specific
parts.

2. Posture

Stand straight to demonstrate your self-assurance and confidence. Keep your feet flat on the floor. Do not shift your weight
from foot to foot. Do not cross or uncross your feet. You may sometimes place your weight on your back foot if you want
to achieve a restful and calm vibe.

3. Gestures and Movements

Make sure to use gestures and movements only when appropriate. The following are some guidelines in applying gestures
and movements to your speech.

Avoid overusing the same gesture.

Apply a variety of gestures and movements. If you find one gesture effective, do not overdo it. Making the same gesture
over and over might bore your listeners and destroy the beauty of your speech.

Avoid unnecessary movements.

As much as possible, avoid distracting movements that do not help emphasize your point. An unnecessary movement only
weakens your speech and takes the audience’s attention from your message.

4. Voice

Your voice is the primary tool for catching the interest of your audience, emphasizing your main points, stimulating
reactions, and conveying your message. Articulation and modulation, two elements controlled by your voice, are essential
for effective public speaking.

Articulation refers to the act of producing a speech sound. As a speaker, you are the focus of attention, so it is important
to articulate and pronounce clearly. Proper articulation and pronunciation make your voice audible and your words easy
to understand.

Modulation refers to the manipulation of the rate, pitch, and volume of the voice to denote mood and meaning. Modulate
your voice to match your topic, to evoke emotion in the audience, and to avoid a monotonous recitation. However,
remember that not every point or statement in your speech carries the same weight. Some parts may need more emphasis
while others may serve as supporting details to your main point.

5. Attire

Dressing well demonstrates that you care enough about the audience and your speech by looking your best. What you
wear should enhance your speech and improve your confidence and credibility. A business attire is usually worn during
speeches, but generally, dress one step up from casual wear.

6. Rapport with the Audience

Establish rapport with your audience even if your formal talk has not yet begun. If appropriate, shake hands and greet your
audience as they enter the venue. Start to build rapport during your speech by approaching the stage with a confident
posture and a smile. Establish and maintain eye contact with your audience, including those at the back, throughout your
speech.