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Public Speaking: Types of Speeches

This guide will help speech students with tips and tricks on presenting speeches and projects to an audience.

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How to Write an Informative Speech 

This module features a step-by-step process to create an informative speech. It provides concise instructions supported by topical learning resources (textbook chapters, short online articles, brief videos).

 

Public Speaking for Biosecurity Advocates I: Creating a Persuasive Presentation 

Wisc-online lesson

 

Public Speaking for Biosecurity Advocates II: Risk Communication Skills 

Wisc-Online lesson

 

Argument 

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 4.0 License. The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

 

Speeches 

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 4.0 License. The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

 

The Accidental Communicator 

The Premier Blog For Quickly Improving Your Public Speaking, Presentation & Communication Skills

 

Fundamental of Public Speaking from University of Houston, , Prof. Deborah Bridges 

Video Lectures

EBooks from Galileo

Video Tutorial

Types of Speeches

Types of Speeches

Informative Speech

Informative speech

In an informative speech, the presenter will share information about a particular person, place, object, process, concept, or issue by defining, describing, or explaining. 

The main types of informative speeches are:

  • definition
  • explanatory
  • descriptive
  • demonstrative

Persuasive Speech

Persuasive Speech

In a persuasive speech, the presenter will attempt to reinforce or change their audiences’ beliefs, attitudes, feelings, or values on a specific topic or idea.

Examples of Persuasive Speeches:

  • Sales Pitch
  • Propositions of Fact
  • Propositions of Value
  • Propositions of Policy

Commemorative or Entertaining Speeches

Commemorative or Entertaining Speeches

These types of speeches often strengthen the bonds between audience members from recalling a shared experience or intend to amuse audiences through humor, stories, or illustrations.

Examples of commemorative speeches:

  • the eulogy
  • nominations
  • dedications
  • testimonials
  • the wedding toast
  • award acceptance speech