How to Write a Commencement Speech

Discuss past triumphs and preparation for the future in your commencement speech.

Commencement speeches are oratory addresses designed to celebrate the momentous occasion of graduating and inspire the graduates to continue to strive for greatness. Such a speech usually makes up a key part of a commencement or graduation ceremony. Because of the broad range of acceptable topics and overall importance of the speech itself, composing an address of this type can be challenging. To simplify the process, follow a strategic, step-by-step approach to writing your speech.

Instructions

1. Select a general theme. Give your speech focus by selecting a general topic. You do not have to stick exclusively to your topic, but by deciding upon a general purpose before you start writing you are less likely to meander off on a tangent. Themes like success, perseverance and commitment make appropriate choices.

2. Compose an attention-getting introduction. Catch your listeners right from the beginning with a clever one-liner, a surprising fact or a clever turn of phrase. This will make your audience more eager to listen to what you have to say and less desirous for the speech portion of the proceedings to reach a conclusion.

3. Reflect upon times past. Graduation is, in and of itself, a time for reflection. Carry this theme through in your speech by reflecting upon your previous education experiences. If possible, select a reflection that illustrates your overall theme, creating continuity and consistency in your address.

4. Add a funny anecdote. Near the middle, when the audience's attention would likely begin to wane, pull them back into your speech with a clever or amusing anecdote. By getting your audience to laugh or, at least chuckle, you will increase the likelihood that they stick with you for the duration of the speech.

5. Look forward to the future. Graduating seniors are often full of anticipation. Reflect this excitement over what is to come by speaking about the possibilities that the future holds and the opportunities that the graduates will have in coming years.

6. Add an inspirational closure. Leave your listeners with something to talk about by placing an inspirational close at the end of the speech. Impress upon graduates and other guests the importance of the groups' choices and their abilities to craft whatever future they see fit.

References

• Humanity.org: Commencement Speeches
• Speech Topics Help: Commencement Speech Topics Template