Persuasive Presentation

Length: 5 to 7 minutes

Point Value: 200

My Presentation Date:______________

ASSIGNMENT OVERVIEW

On this round, you will be asked to deliver a presentation on a question of fact, value or policy. It is important that you use the correct organizational pattern for your speech type. Check the class readings so that you can ensure that you use the appropriate one. The focus of this presentation is on making and evaluating arguments. Specifically, you'll be expected to use examples, statistics, and expert testimony for supporting material, as well as weave these elements together in a way that provides complete and logical documentation and reasoning for the key ideas in your speech. You will need to demonstrate effective reasoning skills by using good solid arguments that are free from fallacies. You will also need to demonstrate proficiency at designing and utilizing a visual aid.

Speech topic is always crucial in a persuasive presentation. You have a very short time frame to persuade your audience. Think about persuasion as a process; you simply cannot persuade the class to change their attitudes on controversial topics. It is simply not possible given the situational constraints of this assignment. Therefore, your goals for this presentation should be modest. You should seek to persuade your audience on local issues rather than global issues. Garnering support for the policies regarding printing in computer labs on campus is well suited for this assignment, while a speech about abortion, gun control, or gay marriage would not. Your topic must be approved by your instructor before you begin work on your presentation. Failure to receive prior approval may result in unnecessary work on your part.

SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS

· Time Limit: 5-7 minutes. If your speech does not meet the time criteria, you will be penalized ten points.

· Base the speech on at least four sources of published research or material. This material must be current. All of these sources must be cited correctly within your presentation. Web sites do not count as published material. Check with your instructor for allowable web material. All sources included on bibliography must be turned in to your instructor the day of your presentation. Failure to do so results in loss of ten points.

· Present well-reasoned and well-documented evidence for the major arguments.

· Avoid bias in presenting arguments.

· Develop a thesis that meets the criteria discussed in class and in the textbook (full sentence, one distinct idea etc…).

· Develop two or three main points. Main points should meet class criteria (balance, mutually exclusive, etc.) and fit one of the organizational patterns discussed in class.

· Appropriate development of an introduction and conclusion.

· Demonstrate skillful use of transitions.

· Effective use of a visual aid. Ask the following questions: is it necessary and does it enhance audience understanding? Is it professional and free from errors?

· Refined delivery: Your speaking style should be extemporaneous. This means that you are not to read your speech, or to memorize your speech, but are to talk to the audience and adapt to the audience as you speak. Work for both effective physical and vocal delivery.

· A typed sentence outline of the speech along with a bibliography of your sources. These must be submitted through your WebCT account to your instructor. Due date: . Your outline must be approved by your instructor before you can deliver your presentation. If you fail to have your outline approved by your instructor before your assigned speaking day you will lose your opportunity to speak and will receive a ZERO on this assignment.

· You must also meet any additional requirements outlined by your instructor.

AREAS FOR EVALUATION:

Your speech should meet the requirements of a properly presented persuasive speech.

A. Preparation of the sentence outline and bibliography.

B. Analysis of the topic and audience.

C. Organization of speech.

D. Research

E. Use of evidence and appeals

F. Refined Delivery

Use the attached presentation checklist to make sure you have completed all of the requirements for this assignment