HOW TO WRITE / PREPARE A SPEECH

What is a speech?

Ø  Speeches are talks delivered in public on formal and informal occasions.

Ø  There are many types of speeches such as 'welcome speech', 'thank you speech' and 'farewell speech'. Besides, there are also speeches on topics of interest and social issues.

Ø  The present tense is usually used when you write out a speech.

The Basic Structure of a Speech

All speeches contain at least three parts:

Ø  An Introduction

Ø  A Body

Ø  A conclusion

In the Introduction,

 1.Greet the audience.
e.g: Good morning / afternoon / evening to:

• boys and girls..
• our principal, teachers and fellow students… (at an official school function)
• Mr Chairman, ladies and gentlemen… (at an official function or society meeting)
• Yang Berhormat, Tan Sri Najib Abdul Rahman, ladies and gentlemen… (if there is a distinguished guest.

 2. Introduce yourself to the audience- (your name, position held, department attached to)
 e.g: I am Jamaly Angelous, Head prefect of Tushikamane Secondary School.

3. Introduce topic
e.g: I am here to present a talk on ‘HIV/AIDS’

In the Body,

Speak or write about each point in detail. There should a paragraph for each point, and you must give the audience some evidence or information that will help explain and support each point.

In the Conclusion,

You should summarise the main points of your speech, and emphasise what you want the audience to remember.

                                                             Example of  speech.

Good morning to our headmaster, teachers and fellow students. Welcome to the new school term. I am Jamaly Angelous, the head prefect of Tushkamane Secondary School. This morning, I would like to refresh your memory about our school regulations.

To create a good impression, always be dressed neatly in your school uniform complete with white shoes and white socks.

Your hair should be short and neatly combed. Boys and Girls should always keep your hair short.. No one is allowed to wear ornaments. If you do, then your ornaments will be confiscated. In addition, you cannot use make-up. Your nails should always be kept short. Remember, no nail polish is allowed.

Regarding your conduct, always be punctual. Respect your teacher and pay attention in class. Remember, no hang around  and playing truant. If you don’t comply with the school rules, you will have to face the music.

Last term, several students were suspended or expelled from school for fighting, smoking and other serious offences. Handphones are banned. If you bring handphones, they will be confiscated.

These regulations are meant to create a positive image and environment for the school. There are, of course, some students who will break the regulations. Do not be influenced by them. Instead, set a good example for others.

Thank you.

By Sir George, Magessa.