Outlining a Speech

Why do an outline? Outlines shows connection between ideas Outlines help you arrange ideas in a logical pattern Outlines show basic structure of a speech Helps audience follow your ideas Helps you be more relaxed and sure of yourself

Two Types of Outlines Complete-Sentence Outline WHY do this? *** YOU WILL DO THIS FOR EVERY SPEECH! Your main points and subpoints are expressed in complete sentences WHY do this? Writing sentences forces you to clarify and sharpen your thinking. If anyone else tries to help or critique you, they will be able to understand exactly what you are trying to say.

TYPES OF OUTLINES, cont. Speaking outline *** YOU WILL ALSO DO THIS FOR EVERY SPEECH This type of outline uses only key words and phrases This will be used on your NOTE CARDS only REMEMBER: You do NOT memorize your outline as a script. Although you will essentially be writing out every word on your complete-sentence outline, your actual speech will vary.

Use Standard Subdivisions Mark main points with roman numerals I, II, III, IV, V, etc. Indent the next level of supporting materials underneath with capitol letters A, B, C, D, E, etc. Indent the next level of supporting materials with numeric numerals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc. Indent the next level of supporting materials with lower case letters a, b, c, d, e, etc. If you need to go further than this, see me!

Avoid Single Subdivisions!!! For every “A” there should be a “B”, for every “1” there should be a “2”, and so on. YOU MUST HAVE AT LEAST 2 SUBDIVISIONS OR NONE AT ALL!

Parts of the Outline Heading – must be left justified Firstname Lastname Class and Hour Type of Speech Date speech will be given Title - you do not actually say this in your speech

Parts of an outline, cont. General purpose: to demonstrate, to inform, or to persuade Specific purpose: general purpose + topic Ex. “To demonstrate how to make a pizza.” Ex. “To inform the audience about cats.” Ex. “To persuade the audience that Spongebob Squarepants is the best cartoon ever created.”

Parts of an outline, cont. Introduction ( roman numeral I) ALL 5 Parts (A-E) Body (roman numeral II) Each main point should be identified by a capitol letter Each body of a speech will vary depending on support Conclusion (roman numeral III) ALL 3 Parts (A-C)

Parts of an Outline, cont. Transitions: This will be labeled and bolded, but will not be a part of the numbering sequence. These should be placed In between main points In between the last main point and the conclusion (optional) Bibliography (informative and persuasive only) Visual Aids – this will come after the conclusion and will be a list with a brief description, if necessary

Example: Sarah Kaisner Informative Speech Speech 205 May 1, 2016 The Island of Jamaica I. Introduction A. B. C. D. E. History of the Island A. Where it’s located B. How it came to be independent TRANSITION: Now that I’ve explained the history I will discuss several customs on the people. Jamaican customs A. Schooling B. Socializing C. Food TRANSITION: Now that I’ve told you about the customs, I will tell you about vacationing in Jamaica Vacationing A. Where to stay B. What to do C. Cost Conclusion