1. Introductions & Conclusions

2. Objectives of the Introduction
Gain attention and interest of the audience
Reveal the topic of the speech
Establish credibility and good will of the speaker
Preview the body of the speech

3. Methods to Gain Attention
Relate the topic to the audience
State the importance of the topic
Startle the audience (make it relevant)
Arouse the curiosity of the audience
Question the audience
Use a quotation
Tell a story
Refer to the occasion, use visual aids, humor, or relate to the previous speaker

4. Tips on Introductions Make it brief
Look for potential material as you research
Be creative
Work out the introduction in detail so it can be delivered most effectively

5. Conclusions Functions: signal the end of the speech
reinforce the audience’s understanding of, or commitment to, the central idea

6. Methods to Conclude Use a brief verbal cue (e.g.,‘in conclusion’)
Use the voice through either a ‘crescendo’ or ‘dissolve’ ending
Summarize the main points of the speech
Conclude with a quotation
End with a dramatic statement
Refer back to the introduction

7. Tips on Concluding
Look for potential material as you research your topic
End with a ‘bang’ instead of a ‘whimper’
Don’t be long-winded in the conclusion