Outlines help in several ways:

1. They help organize your thoughts so your speech is easy to follow.
2. They keep you on track so you don't research beyond the scope of your speech.
3. They give you a clear idea of how much time it will take to present.
4. They provide notes for you to use when you deliver the speech.

Step One: Choose a topic.

You will attempt to inform your audience by providing novel information on a topic that is relevant to your audience. Choosing a good topic for this speech is key.

Step Two: D o y our research.

You will need at least two sources and should provide a list of references at the end of the outline.

Step Three: Organize your ideas.

Follow the speech examples provided.

Be sure to clearly state your thesis and preview your main points in the Introduction, provide section transitions throughout the speech, and cite sources as you present new ideas. Remember to conclude your speech with a re-statement of your thesis.

Step Four: Tailor your speech.

Using your initial outline, begin writing a detailed outline of your speech (e.g. full outline). When you have a complete version of your speech, begin practicing to see if it fits within the window of time given. You only have 7-9 minutes to deliver this speech, so use this practice as a chance to edit yourself. If your speech runs far less than 7 minutes, you need to add more material. If the speech runs way over 9 minutes, you need to cut some material.

As you practice, you can creat e a speaking outline by shortening statements to phrases or key words. You can also include cues to prompt you throughout the delivery. The speaking outline is a tool to guide you while speaking.

SAMPLE INFORMATIVE SPEECH OUTLINE

SAMPLE INFORMATIVE OUTLINE All main points should be in full sentence form. All transitions should be completely written out in full sentence form. All cites should be written out completely, boldfaced, and clearly demarcated with quotation marks and a parenthetical reference; paraphrases also require a parenthetical reference. SPEECH TITLE: Chopsticks - History, Use, and Etiquette SPECIFIC PURPOSE: My purpose is to inform my audience about chopsticks and the correct way to handle them. THESIS STATEMENT/CENTRAL IDEA: While most of you may be unfamiliar with the Japanese language, visiting Japan does not have to be a culturally awkward experience if you are familiar with one important tradition - the use of chopsticks. INTRODUCTION: 1. (Attention getter) Minasan, Ohaiyogozaimasu! Genki desuka? Watashi wa hashi ga daisuki desuyo! 2. (Clearly reveal topic/thesis) While most of you may be unfamiliar with the Japanese language, visiting Japan, or just eating Japanese food, does not have to be a culturally awkward experience if you are familiar with one important tradition - the use of chopsticks. 3. (Reason to listen) It serves us all well to expand our horizons, and to learn about other cultures, and knowing about and learning to use chopsticks properly is one simple way we can all do that. 4. (Establishes credibility) My family moved to Japan when I was seven, and using chopsticks very quickly became a standard activity in everyday living. 5. (Previews main points) Today I'd like to share with you the history behind chopsticks, how to use chopsticks, and Japanese etiquette when eating with chopsticks. (Transition) To begin with, I would like to give you a brief history of chopsticks.