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Frederick E. Berry Library and Learning Commons

SPC 101A: Oral Communication

Persuasive Speech

For your persuasive speech you'll need to use evidence (sources) and good reasons to convince others to agree with your point of view on a particular subject. Specifically you'll need to:

  • Take a position on a specific topic. Choose a meaningful, appropriate topic. 

    • What interests, activities, and aspects of your life define you outside of school

    • What problems - physical, emotional, economic, etc - are currently affecting you or those close to you

    • What do you think are the biggest problems facing our country, or planet, today

  • Present an argument of one viewpoint or perspective.

  • Convince others to believe that viewpoint and share your opinion on the topic.

Narrowing Your Topic Example

Now it's your turn!

Internet

Think about how might I use the keywords/concepts to construct a search?  What type of resources do I need and how many?
  • Identify keywords and concepts.  Think of similar terms.
  • Describe your research topic in a sentence or phrase
  • Start with the basics.  Google it and CRAAP it out!     
Currency
Relevancy
Accuracy
Authority
Purpose
  • When was the information published or last updated?
  • Have more recent articles been published on your topic?
  • Does your topic change rapidly (Popular culture, technology)?
  • Does the source add something new to your knowledge of the topic?
  • Is the information too technical or simplified for you to use? 
  • Does the information meet the requirements of the assignment?
  • Are there statements you know to be false? 
  • Is it free from errors - spelling, punctuation, or grammar?
  • Are there links to other reliable sources?
  • What are the Author's credentials?
  • Is the author affiliated with an educational institution or prominent organization?
  • Is the relationship between the author and the institution clear?
  • Can you find information about the author from the source?
  • Is there an obvious bias or prejudice?  
  • Are alternate points of view presented? 
  • Is the author's purpose to sell, persuade, entertain or sell?

Issues and News