Informative Speech outlines
You are required to turn in full-sentence outline of your speech in an approved format. As stated in
your syllabus, your outline is worth 3.33% of your grade.
Your formal outline should be in the format of the examples that I have provided to you.
Explanation of Speaking Assignments
Although students are to speak in an extemporaneous mode, a preparation outline must be
turned in with all assignments. In the informative and persuasive speeches, students must support main
ideas with facts and figures, appropriate testimony, examples, and/or narratives that meet the tests of
accuracy, relevance, objectivity, and sufficiency-this material must be verbally cited in the speech.
Generally speaking, a four-minute speech should have four or more sources. A five-minute speech
should have five or more sources, etc. Also, students should include a reference page for the
informative and persuasive speech.
Speaking within the time limits is very important, not only for the efficient running of the
class, but also because speakers in the “real world” are expected to adhere to time limits. Therefore,
your speech grade will be lowered by 1 point every 15 seconds outside of the time limit.
Informative Speech
This 4-6 minute speech should define, describe, demonstrate or explain a term, an idea, a
product, etc. Students may select a current events topic which has occurred since the beginning of the
semester. The goal is to first inform the class about the event, and then present a balanced (i.e.,
unbiased) presentation of both sides of the topic. You should not persuade us in this speech rather
present both sides of the issue. You do not have to present on a current issue. You may pick a unique
topic to inform us on. I suggest you pick something you are interested in and passionate about. If you
like cars, inform us about a particular subject on cars. If you like shopping, inform us on the different
types of retail stores etc. If you need help with your topic, please come to the speech lab.
You will be required to have at least four outside sources for this speech. You will need to
reference all three sources within your outline (using proper parenthetical citation), verbally in your
speech, and in a reference page. You must use credible sources. WIKIPEDIA IS NOT A CREDIBLE
SOURCE. APA Format reference cite: https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/S60/03/
The speech should be delivered extemporaneously. Points will be deducted for reading. Your
speech should be rehearsed thoroughly, so as to present it with strong eye contact and dynamic vocal
variety. Do all you can to make the speech creative and entertaining.
The materials needed for this speech are as follows: (1) three 4×6 note cards, (2) a typed,
printed, full sentence, full content outline, (3) a typed reference page, and (4) appropriate attire.
Informative Speech Instructions – page 1
