What can be said about repeating the main points in the introduction the body and the conclusion of a speech?

Unit 9: Introductions and Conclusions

Now that you have an understanding of how to develop the body of your speech, it is time to focus on creating an engaging introduction and memorable conclusion. This unit will provide information on the functions of an introduction and conclusion, as well as it will provide tips on developing effective openings and closings to your speech. You will also review analysis of introductions and conclusions in this unit to use as models in understanding which techniques work best in developing strong introductions and conclusions. As you review the resources in this unit, keep in mind that terminology used in instruction can vary from source to source. Moreover, some sources will group together information which others keep separate. These two traits are often the case with resources which discuss the functions of speech introductions and conclusions. When you encounter differences in the resources in this section, consider focusing on that resource which breaks down the information the most. Such a breakdown can be used as a checklist of what you must accomplish to be effective when you present these sections of your speech. This is particularly important with introductions and conclusions since different sources identify between three and five functions which these sections must fulfill. As a result, you should favor that source which identifies the most functions, thereby insuring that your introduction and conclusion sections are as effective as possible.

Completing this unit should take you approximately 5 hours.

• Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • identify the functions of an introduction;
  • demonstrate effective techniques for attracting the attention of an audience based on an audience analysis/profile;
  • construct clear and complete thesis statements;
  • identify the functions of an effective conclusion;
  • define the serial position effect; and
  • demonstrate effective techniques for concluding a speech.

• 9.1: Functions of the Introduction

  • Read the Chapter 9 introduction and Section 9.1. These sections describe five functions your introduction must accomplish. Introductions are essential, not optional. You must start your speech with an attention-getter because if your audience is not paying attention to your words, they won't hear or understand you. Your audience must understand why you are addressing them, what you hope to accomplish, and why you are worthy of their attention. Starting with your introduction, you want to make sure your audience anticipates the information you present. Their comprehension will increase when they know what to expect. Attempt the exercises at the end of the section.
    

  • Read this overview of the functions of introductions and conclusions, strategies for preparing them, and samples. This chapter reinforces why we write the introduction and conclusion AFTER the body of the speech.
    

  • Watch this video about the functions of introductions, their components, and tips for creating an effective introduction.
    

  • This interactive presentation summarizes the purposes of an introduction, gives examples of introduction tactics, and explains why we write the introduction after the body of the speech. Complete the exercise at the end of the presentation.
    

• 9.2: The Attention-Getter: The First Step of an Introduction

  • Public speaking has existed for a very long time. As a result, many experienced and knowledgeable individuals have contributed ready-made ideas and techniques. Use these suggestions rather than struggling to produce brand new ideas or techniques. Try to answer the questions at the end of the section.
    

• 9.3: Putting It Together: Steps to Complete Your Introduction

  • This section goes into greater depth on how to fulfill the functions of an introduction. It explores how to get your audience's attention, using the introduction to build credibility, and developing a thesis statement as a forecasting device. Attempt the questions at the end of the section.
    

  • Watch this example of how to use the introduction model in an impromptu speech.
    

• 9.4: Analyzing an Introduction

  • This section gives an introduction to a sample speech. You will encounter it again later. If you want, check out some of the other sample speeches.
    

  • Watch this video and practice your speech evaluation skills.
    

• 9.5: Functions of a Conclusion

  • Read the introduction to chapter 11 and section 11.1. Inexperienced speakers frequently leave their audiences unimpressed because the speaker has put little effort into developing their conclusion. The three primary functions of a conclusion are to restate the thesis, review the main points, and use a memorable closing device. However, this resource doesn't mention two other important functions of a conclusion: signal to your audience that the speech is about to end and remind them of the topic's significance or their relationship to it. Answer the questions at the end of the section.

  • This interactive presentation summarizes the purposes of a conclusion and gives examples of common tactics. Complete the exercise at the end of the presentation.
    

• 9.6: Steps In Developing a Conclusion

  • Each part of a speech – introduction, body, and conclusion – repeats information from previous parts. Effective communicators use repetition to ensure the audience absorbs their message accurately. Repetition is sometimes referred to as the Tell'em3 Principle (pronounced "Tell 'em cubed"): tell your audience what you are going to tell them, then tell them, and then tell them what you told them. The Tell'em3 Principle is particularly important to use with listeners because they can't go back and review what you said earlier.
    

  • Watch this series of videos, which walks through preparing a successful conclusion in four simple steps.

• 9.7: Analyzing a Conclusion

  • Section 11.3 presents the conclusion of a sample speech for you to analyze. Complete the "Your Turn" exercise using what you have learned from the speech analysis as a model.

  • Watch this speech conclusion and evaluate it based on the criteria we've discussed. Does the speaker use all three parts in the conclusion? How could the conclusion be improved?
    

• 9.8: Unit 9 Exercises

  • After you finish this unit, respond to the activities in sections 9.5 and 11.4 . If you get any questions incorrect, review that material from the chapter.