Speech (Leaving Cert English): Revision Notes

Speech

Key Techniques:

1. Collective Inclusive Pronouns: Use 'we,' 'us,' and 'our' to foster a sense of unity.
2. Rhetorical Questions: Engage the audience by prompting them to think.
3. Facts and Statistics: Use credible data to substantiate your points.
4. Emotive Language: Appeal to the audience's emotions.
5. Rule of Three: Group ideas or statements in threes for impact.
6. Active Imperative Voice: Use strong, commanding language to convey urgency.
7. Exclamation Marks: Use sparingly to emphasise key points.
8. Anecdotes: Share relevant stories to illustrate your points.
9. Repetition: Reinforce important ideas by repeating them.
10. Anaphora: Repetition of the opening words at the beginning of two or more clauses.
11. Direct Address: Speak directly to the audience to create a connection.
12. Antithesis: Presenting contrasting ideas to highlight differences.

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Structure of a Speech:

Introduction:

• Engaging Opening:
  • Start with a powerful quote, a shocking fact, or a compelling story.
  • Example: "Every year, millions of tonnes of plastic end up in our oceans, devastating marine life."
• Address the Audience:
  • Directly address the audience to create a connection.
  • Example: "Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, we stand at a critical juncture in history."
• State the Purpose:
  • Clearly outline the purpose of your speech.
  • Example: "Today, I will discuss the urgent need to combat plastic pollution."

Body:

• Present Arguments:
  • Use a logical structure to present your points, alternating between pros and cons if applicable.
  • Example: "On one hand, plastic is a versatile and inexpensive material. On the other hand, its environmental impact is catastrophic."
• Use Evidence:
  • Back up your arguments with facts, statistics, and expert opinions.
  • Example: "According to recent studies, over 8 million tonnes of plastic waste are dumped into the oceans each year."
• Engage Emotions:
  • Use emotive language and anecdotes to make your points resonate.
  • Example: "Imagine a world where our children can no longer swim in the ocean due to the toxic waste we've allowed to accumulate."
• Employ Rhetorical Devices:
  • Use anaphora (repetition of opening words), direct address, and antithesis (contrasting ideas).
  • Example: "We must act now. We must change our ways. We must save our planet."

Conclusion:

• Summarise Key Points:
  • Recap the main arguments of your speech.
  • Example: "In conclusion, while plastic has its benefits, its environmental costs are far too high."
• Call to Action:
  • Urge the audience to take specific actions.
  • Example: "Let us pledge to reduce our plastic use, recycle diligently, and support policies that protect our oceans."
• Powerful Closing:
  • End with a strong, memorable statement and thank the audience for listening.

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Additional Tips:

• Be Objective and Credible:
  • Use credible sources and avoid bias.
  • Example: "Experts from the World Health Organisation warn that..."
• Keep the Audience Engaged:
  • Refer to the audience frequently and ask rhetorical questions.
  • Example: "Is this the legacy we want to leave for future generations?"
• Varied Sentence Structure:
  • Use a mix of short and long sentences to maintain interest.
• Formal Tone:
  • Maintain a formal tone, but adapt based on the context and audience.
  • Example: "Distinguished guests, we must confront this challenge with resolve."

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