How to Write a Process Speech

"How a robot works" can be the topic of a process speech.

Frequently called a demonstration speech, a process speech will take one of two forms. One form involves the speaker showing how to make or do something. In this case, the audience will know how to perform the process themselves at the conclusion of the speech, as in a speech demonstrating how to write a college essay. The other kind of process speech consists of showing how something works, such as explaining how a robot operates. As a result of the presentation, the audience understands how the robot works, but does not necessarily know how to use it.

Things You'll Need

• Objects for the demonstration
• Overhead display or slides, if appropriate
• Pictures
• Finished product
• Hand-outs

Instructions

Preparing the Process Speech

1. 

   "Baking a cake" is a good topic for a demonstration speech.

   Select a topic. Brainstorm by listing random items that you like or know about, or about which you can easily find information. Learn whether there is enough material available to fill the allotted time. Consider the audience by analyzing their probable demographic and give thought to whether they might be interested your chosen topic. In this, the first type of process speech, you will show how to make or do something. On the other hand, if the audience consists of a group of graduate college students studying meteorology, consider a topic such as how weather patterns change. This, the second type of process speech, involves the audience learning how something works without applying it. Regardless of which type of process speech you give, narrow your topic to one choice based on the audience's interests and backgrounds.

2. 

   "How to fish" is appropriate for a demonstration speech.

   Write down your specific purpose. Think of a way to get your audience interested in the topic. Consider personal anecdotes you may be able to offer. In thinking about possibilities for an introduction, remember you may use a startling statement, statistic, or rhetorical question to draw the audience's attention.

3. Develop the body of the speech by writing down the steps you intend to cover. Put these in chronological order. Select the main points. Copy the information on index cards. Take these cards to the speech presentation to give you hints in case you forget something. Collect illustrations, draw charts or use slides or an overhead demonstration if possible. Put together items for display. Tell your audience what materials are needed and where they can purchase those materials. Suggest that your audience take notes. Hand out a sheet summarizing the steps you are using to assist in note-taking.

4. Be careful that you do not have any periods of dead silence. Speak throughout the presentation even as you are showing something. Try to pick objects that are large enough to be seen throughout the room. If you are making a pizza, for example, mix the ingredients in front of the audience until the final step. Bring a ready-made pizza so they can see for themselves what the completed item will look like.

5. Conclude by reviewing what you have covered. End with a statement that will motivate the audience to go out and try whatever it is that was demonstrated. Encourage the audience to try the process taught in the presentation.

References

• "The Art of Public Speaking";Stephen E. Lucas:2009
• Write-out-loud:Demonstration Speech Topics
• Presentation Skills Tips:How to Write a Demonstration Speech

Resources

• California State University:Demonstration Speech Ideas