COM 100:
Fundamentals of Speech Communication
Prof. Leonard Assante
SPEECH ASSIGNMENT #1: THE
INFORMATIVE SPEECH
Assignment: Prepare and present a 4-6 minute Informative Speech
Grade: Worth 150 total possible points (15% of total grade)
Due: Speech week #1 (exact day depends on your speech group)
Output: Topic, purpose statement, thesis statement, draft outline, final outline, notes
Summary: You will prepare and present an informative speech to the class, following the procedures outlined in the textbook.
An “informative speech” is one which seeks to provide the audience with information about a topic the speaker understands is relevant/useful/important to the audience. Such a speech does NOT seek to alter the audience’s attitudes or behaviors in any way. Rather such a speech teaches the audience about something, how to do something, or what something is or does.
List of tasks and due dates:
MONDAY: Topic/purpose due: You will have a one sentence purpose statement for review by the instructor at the start of class. For example: “After my speech, the audience will know the steps in baking chocolate chip cookies.” Or “The purpose of my speech is to inform the audience about the different types of financial aid available to college students.”
INSERT DATE HERE: Draft Outline due: You will have a rough draft of the major sections of your outline due for an exercise in class. The draft should contain your main points, supporting information, some ideas for an introduction and conclusion, and an idea about transitions. It need not be typed, include a cover page, bibliography or complete introduction/conclusion.
INSERT DATE HERE: Speech/Outline Due: At some point during this week, you will present your speech to the class. The final outline is due at the start of the class. Your speaking notes must be prepared, and you must dress appropriately for the occasion. All materials and presentations must follow the guidelines provided in other handouts, in class or in the text. You will be graded 33% on your outline (50 points), 33% on your content/organization (50 points) and 33% on your delivery/presentation (50 points).
Other resources:
http://www2.volstate.edu/humanities/com100/com100.html
(Assante’s)