| The functions of a speech introduction
are to grab the attention and interest of the listener, establish rapport between speaker
and listener, orient the listeners to what they are about to hear, and set the tone for
the speech. |
| Introductions can begin with a
relevant quotation, a startling statement of fact or opinion, an illustration that points
to the problem, a story that makes a point, an overview of the main ideas, or even a
simple greeting. Some approaches are more difficult. It is difficult to use humor well,
for instance. Similarly, a rhetorical question is a more difficult opening strategy to use
than some of the others. |
| A conclusion should focus
the thoughts and feelings of the listeners on what they heard in the speech, and it should
always summarize the main ideas of the speech. Beyond that, the conclusion should provide
some final, motivating impetus to the speech--some upbeat ending that lends a sense of
completeness and finality to the speech. A quotation may be a useful strategy toward the
end. A reference to the introduction sometimes works well. Whatever you decide, the key is
to make clear to your listeners the response you want from them. |
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