Speech (Junior Cert English): Revision Notes

Speech

Speech Structure:

• Title: Clearly indicate the topic.
• Introduction: Engage the audience, introduce the topic, and state the main argument or purpose.
• Body Paragraphs: Develop key points with supporting details, anecdotes, and evidence. Maintain a logical flow.
• Conclusion: Summarise the main points and reinforce the speech's purpose.

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Using TAGS to Plan Your Response:

• Topic: The information or argument that your speech is going to address.
• Audience: Who is the speech for? Is it aimed at younger or older people? Do you want to inform or persuade them?
• Genre: Use structural features such as addressing the audience, a formal tone, a strong conclusion and a call to action.
• Style: Use literary techniques appropriate for a speech, such as rhetorical questions and repetition.

How to Write a Speech

Title:

• Clearly indicate the topic of your speech.

• Example: The Importance of Studying Arts and Humanities Introduction:

• Greet the audience and engage them with a compelling hook.

• Introduce the topic and state your main argument or purpose.

• Example: "Good evening, everyone. Today, I want to talk about the incredible value of studying arts and humanities and how it can shape our perspectives and future careers." Body Paragraphs:

• Develop your key points with supporting details, anecdotes, and evidence. Limit to around 3 key points.

• Maintain a logical flow between paragraphs.

• Example: Discuss the critical thinking skills developed through humanities courses, provide statistics on career success among arts graduates, and include personal stories or expert opinions. Conclusion:

• Summarise the main points of your speech.

• Reinforce the purpose and leave the audience with a strong final thought or call to action.

• Example: "In conclusion, an education in the arts and humanities is not just about learning; it's about growing as individuals and as a society. Let's embrace these disciplines and encourage future students to explore their potential."

Literary Techniques Table:

Literary Technique	Description	Example
Rhetorical Questions	Engage the audience and provoke thought.	"How can we underestimate the value of understanding our history and culture?"
Appeals to Emotion (Pathos)	Elicit feelings of inspiration, curiosity, or passion.	"Imagine the world without art, literature, and the profound understanding of human nature."
Appeals to Logic (Logos)	Use facts, statistics, and logical arguments to persuade.	"Research shows that arts graduates have strong analytical and communication skills that are highly valued in the job market."
Appeals to Credibility (Ethos)	Establish the speaker's authority and trustworthiness.	"As a proud graduate of the humanities, I can personally attest to the doors these studies have opened for me."
Anaphora	The repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses.	"We must appreciate the arts. We must support the humanities. We must invest in our future."
Metaphors and Similes	Create vivid imagery and comparisons to illustrate points.	"Studying the humanities is like looking into a mirror that reflects the diverse and complex nature of our society."
Alliteration	The repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words to create rhythm and emphasis.	"Arts and humanities help us understand and appreciate the world."
Hyperbole	Deliberate exaggeration for emphasis or effect.	"Without the arts, we would lose our humanity."
Direct Address	Speaking directly to the audience to create a sense of involvement.	"You, as future leaders, have the opportunity to broaden your horizons through the humanities."
Call to Action	Encouraging the audience to take specific steps or actions.	"I urge you to explore the arts and humanities and see how they can transform your life."