Writing Persuasive Speeches
Other People Are Reading
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Know Your Topic!
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The purpose of writing a persuasive speech is to inform listeners about a subject and to persuade them to understand and possibly agree with your viewpoint on the topic. You or the person for whom you are writing the speech must deliver the subject matter with confidence that your viewpoint is the only one that truly matters. This task proves to be much more challenging if you know very little about your topic.
Ideally, you want to focus your persuasive speech on a subject you have been familiar with and even passionate about for some time. However, this cannot always be the case. If you are not overly knowledgeable about your subject matter, start reading--books, websites, blogs, anything you can. Talk to others who may be experts or at least considerably knowledgeable about the topic. You can never gather enough information when you are trying to convince others to consider your point of view.
Absorb your topic and develop clear opinions on the subject. Make notes regarding your thoughts as you are gathering your information. Are you passionate about the issue at hand? If so, this will make the writing process considerably easier. However, remember that your argument must be supported by facts. The more factual information you can generate in support of your viewpoint, the more it helps to increase your credibility on the subject. Your goal is to have your audience under the impression your viewpoint is the most logical choice, always supported by factual information.
Play Devil's Advocate - Know the Other Side of the Issue Just as Well
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So you have a convincing argument, supported by fact. What about the other side of the issue? Whether you are writing a persuasive speech in support of gay marriage, the death penalty, casino gambling in your state or bringing a Starbucks to your neighborhood, you always need to know and be prepared for the opposing viewpoints. Gather information on the arguments. Why are others opposed to gay marriage, advocate for life in prison, feel that casino gambling is detrimental or vehemently oppose a local Starbucks? Understand, respect and address opposing viewpoints while utilizing strong facts of your own. Never insult or offend those who may disagree with you in your speech, as this will alienate your audience and could even generate sympathy for the opposing side. Anticipate the counter points to the best of your ability and always have a response supporting your view.
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Create an Outline - Then Begin Writing
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When you know your topic and can anticipate and defend against arguments against your subject matter, you're ready to make your outline if you haven't started already. Start with your subject's general facts--the who, what, when and where of your speech. As you write, assume your audience is unfamiliar with your subject and keep your explanation simple and to the point.
Next, outline your most important viewpoints and wherever possible, highlight each view with factual information. Again, assume your audience has never considered your viewpoint and reference your basic arguments.
Third, write down the possible arguments against your views and counter with factual information. Consider as many possible arguments as you can and make an effort to discredit the opposing viewpoints with factual information.
Lastly, summarize your viewpoint with a closing statement. All of the factual information you provided will help you conclude your persuasive speech in favor of the local Starbucks.
When writing and delivering your speech, project unwavering confidence in your views. The passion and commitment you demonstrate to your cause will be evident to everyone in attendance. This is your chance to convince others to join you in your crusade to make your neighborhood, your city and your world a better place.
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