Speech Analysis Paper
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HUC-106 Public Speaking
Speech Analysis Paper
Objectives:
1. To evaluate an out-of-class public speaker
2. To reinforce formal outline procedures and public speech techniques
3. To transfer knowledge of public speaking writing to essay writing using: (1) thesis and
conclusion supported by evidence; (2) the appropriate genre for the intended audience;
and (3) clear and logical organization; and (4) rules and mechanics of effective writing
Assignment: You are to listen to a speech outside of the classroom. The speech will allow you
to make connections across academic disciplines outside of Communication Studies.
Requirements: The paper should be no less than two (2) and no more than three (3) pages in
length (Note: One page ~ 22 lines). Paper should be typed in Times New Roman 12-point font
with 1-inch margins, and double spacing. Paper should follow conventions of academic writing.
Paper Structure: Your paper should address most of the following questions. Do not answer
the questions by number; write the paper as an essay. The following are suggested topics to in-
clude in each section:
I. Introduction (1 paragraph):
A. State the name of the speaker.
B. State the date and location of the speech. Include any context su
ounding the
speech that may inform the purpose and content. (Example: Ferguson, MO shoot-
ing, etc. )
C. Present the speaker’s credentials.
D. Explain how this speech connects to your own personal or academic learning ex-
perience (e.g., is it relevant to any of your other coursework here at LaGuardia?).
E. State your thesis which should offer an evaluation of the content and quality of
the speech.
II. Content (several paragraphs): For each of the following, first refer specifically to tech-
niques taught or examples shown in class or read in the textbook, and then explain if and
how they are employed (or not employed) by the speaker.
A. How did the speaker gain the attention of the audience in the introduction?
B. Did the speaker establish credibility? How?
C. Did the speaker state a specific purpose? How?
D. What was the thesis statement? Was it clear?
E. Did the speaker include a preview of the main points? If so, what main points did
the speaker list?
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F. What types of supporting materials (examples, statistics, metaphors, analogies,
na
ative, definition, comparison, contrast, testimony, vivid images) did the
speaker use?
G. Did the speaker provide clear oral citations?
H. List some transitions the speaker used.
I. Discuss the effectiveness of the conclusion.
J. Discuss the speaker’s use of language. Was it clear, concise, creative, grammati-
cally co
ect, and vivid? Did the speaker utilize poetic techniques such as allitera-
tion, repetition, parallelism, figures of speech, metaphors, or similes?
III. Delivery (about one paragraph): For each of the following, first refer specifically to
techniques taught or examples shown in class or read in the textbook, and then explain if
and how they are employed (or not employed) by the speaker.
A. Vocal Elements
B. Physical Elements
IV. Response (about one paragraph):
A. Include several elements of the speech that you would like to incorporate (or to
avoid) in your next speech to improve your public speaking abilities.
B. Explain what you learned from the content of the speech and its relevance to you.
C. Discuss any other reactions you had to the speech.
V. Conclusion (one paragraph) :
A. Write a statement or two that sums up your analysis and evaluation of the event.
B. When applicable, discuss the audience’s reaction to the speech.