How to Gather and Use Supporting Material in a Speech

Summary

The video presents a guide on how to effectively prepare for an informative or persuasive speech, likening the process to training for a marathon. It emphasizes the importance of gathering credible research materials from reliable sources, such as college libraries and reputable news organizations. The speaker advises against using Wikipedia and encourages using the triangle method to verify information across multiple sources. Organizing the material into main points and sub-points is crucial for clarity. Ultimately, the speaker highlights the need for audience-centered communication, stressing the importance of presenting researched information with proper citations.

Takeaways

• 🏃‍♂️ Starting your speech preparation is like training for a marathon; set clear goals.
• 📚 Research is crucial for informative and persuasive speeches; rely on credible sources.
• 🏛️ Utilize college or public libraries to access academic journals and reliable databases.
• 📰 Refer to reputable news sources like The New York Times and CNN for trustworthy information.
• 🌐 Be cautious when using the internet; avoid biased, commercial, or entertainment-focused sites.
• 🔺 Use the 'triangle method' to confirm information by finding it in three separate credible sources.
• 📊 Organize your research into main points and sub-points to structure your speech effectively.
• 📖 Always give proper oral citations for the information and quotes you include in your presentation.
• 🎯 Your presentation should prioritize the audience's need for credible information over personal opinions.
• 📈 Remember, effective speeches are built on organized, researched materials that connect to real-life situations.

Q & A

What is the initial analogy used in the transcript?

The transcript uses the analogy of preparing to run a marathon, highlighting the process of setting goals and making decisions before starting an informative speech.

Why is it important to gather supporting research for a speech?

Gathering supporting research is essential because it provides credible, reliable information that helps inform and persuade the audience, enhancing the quality of the presentation.

What are the recommended first steps in gathering research materials?

The recommended first steps include visiting your college or public library to access credible research journals, periodicals, and academic databases, rather than relying on Google or Wikipedia.

What specific online sources should be consulted for credible information?

Credible online sources include major news organizations like The New York Times, Washington Post, CNN, NPR, Fox News, ABC, NBC, and CBS.

What is the 'triangle method' mentioned in the transcript?

The 'triangle method' involves finding the same information from three separate credible sources to ensure its reliability and accuracy.

How should one organize the gathered information for a speech?

Once the information is gathered, it should be organized by grouping it into categories that align with the main points of the speech, with each supporting detail corresponding to a main point.

What role do subpoints play in a speech?

Subpoints are supporting details that help clarify or substantiate the main points, including statistics, definitions, expert quotes, and analogies that aid audience understanding.

Why is it essential to give proper credit for researched information?

Properly citing researched information is crucial to acknowledge the original sources, maintain credibility, and prevent plagiarism in public speaking.

What is the speaker's primary focus when delivering an informative or persuasive speech?

The primary focus should be on presenting organized, researched material that meets the audience's needs, rather than solely sharing personal thoughts or opinions.

What is the overall takeaway regarding the role of research in public speaking?

The overall takeaway is that effective public speaking requires gathering expert information, organizing it clearly, and centering the presentation around the audience's needs while maintaining proper citations.