Speech purpose

Definition

The speech purpose refers to the specific goal or intention behind delivering a speech, guiding how the content is structured and what message is intended to be conveyed. It shapes the speaker's choices regarding the message, tone, and supporting materials, ultimately influencing audience engagement and understanding.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The main types of speech purposes include to inform, to persuade, and to entertain, each requiring different approaches in delivery and content.
2. Understanding the speech purpose helps speakers tailor their messages effectively for different audiences and contexts.
3. A clear speech purpose enhances organization and coherence, making it easier for the audience to follow and grasp key points.
4. Using appropriate supporting materials related to the speech purpose can strengthen arguments and help connect with the audience emotionally or intellectually.
5. Identifying the speech purpose early on can lead to more focused preparation and improved delivery, resulting in a more impactful presentation.

Review Questions

• How does knowing the speech purpose influence a speaker's choice of supporting materials?
  • Knowing the speech purpose allows a speaker to choose supporting materials that align with their goals. For example, if the purpose is to inform, the speaker might select factual data and statistics that clarify the topic. In contrast, if the goal is to persuade, emotional appeals and anecdotes might be used to engage the audience. This alignment ensures that all elements of the speech work together cohesively to achieve the desired impact.
• Discuss how different types of speeches serve distinct purposes and how this affects their structure and delivery.
  • Different types of speeches, such as informative, persuasive, and entertaining speeches, serve distinct purposes that greatly affect their structure and delivery. An informative speech focuses on providing clear facts and explanations, often following a straightforward structure. In contrast, a persuasive speech seeks to sway opinions or motivate action, requiring more emotional appeal and strategic argumentation. Entertaining speeches are designed to engage and amuse the audience, often incorporating humor or storytelling techniques. Each type demands specific language choices, tone adjustments, and types of supporting materials to effectively convey its intended purpose.
• Evaluate how clearly defined speech purposes can enhance audience engagement during a presentation.
  • Clearly defined speech purposes enhance audience engagement by providing direction and focus for both the speaker and listeners. When a speaker articulates their purpose at the outset, it helps audiences understand what they can expect from the presentation. This clarity fosters active listening as the audience becomes aware of how they should interpret information presented. Additionally, when speakers align their content with their stated purpose—using appropriate examples, evidence, and emotional appeals—they create a connection that resonates with audiences, making them more likely to respond positively to the message being delivered.

Related terms

informative speech: A type of speech aimed at educating the audience about a specific topic or idea.

persuasive speech:

A speech designed to convince the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action.

specific purpose statement: A concise declaration of the speech's intent, detailing what the speaker hopes to achieve with their presentation.