How to Give a Powerful Speech

Delivering a powerful speech requires quality material and a commanding presence.

The good speeches are remembered long after the speech has been delivered. You may remember the speech your coach gave before a game years ago, or the one you heard when you were graduating. Powerful speeches, such as Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" or President Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, are quoted not because of the person who said it but because the meaning still holds true.

Things You'll Need

• Pen
• Paper
• Computer
• Time
• Ideas for motivation

Instructions

1. Write and rewrite the material to be sure you have used the perfect words to convey a powerful message. Use everyday words, not hard-to-pronounce words. Avoid industry-specific words whenever possible; if you must use them, keep them to a minimum. Remember to use colorful, descriptive words that evoke emotion.

2. Open your speech with some shocking statistics. Get the audience's attention, and get them thinking about the impact of your topic. Avoid using too many figures, however, so you don't lose people's interest.

3. Use humor wisely and when appropriate. Humor can lessen tension, especially your own, if used correctly during a speech.

4. Make sure your speech hits home. If you are talking about a national or worldwide subject, add in some information relevant to your specific audience. The average listener pays more attention when the subject matter affects or interests him.

5. Practice your speech in front of a mirror. Say it aloud to help you memorize the information and become comfortable with your own voice. Make sure the words and sentences sound right, and remember to change your pitch and tone to make the message's main points stand out.

6. Slow your speech down a little bit, and don't rush through the words. Make sure to enunciate, raising your voice louder than your usual conversational tone.

Tips & Warnings

• thank the ones that invited you

• Thank the audience

• Speak slowly. Enunciate your words

• Speak a little louder than conversation voice.

• NEVER chew gum while giving a speech (or candy)

• Practice, Practice, Practice your speech

• Keep eye contact

• Watch your distracting motions

• Use humor carefully

• Never use profanity of any type

• Use everyday English.

• Do not use hard to pronounce words

References

• Scholastic: Speechwriting - Tips From the Pros