Page 264 - Between One and Many The Art and Science of Public Speaking

Speaking of . . .

Organizational Patterns

Any of the patterns we’ve discussed could be used to fulfi ll any speech purpose. However,
certain patterns seem more suitable for one or two purposes than do others. This table high-
lights the patterns most likely to be useful for each speech purpose.

Pattern Informative Persuasive Entertaining
Time X X
Spatial X
Categorical X X X
Extended Narrative X X X
Alphabetical X X X
Problem–Solution X
Stock Issues X
Comparative Advantage X
Refutational X
Causal X X
Motivated-Sequence X
Wave X X X
Spiral X X X
Star X X X

nity to expand the ways in which speeches may be organized, it should be used
only when you are certain of your skill in this respect.
The box titled “Speaking of . . . Organizational Patterns” summarizes the
patterns we have discussed and suggests which patterns work best for various
speech purposes. Whatever pattern we choose, we want to be sure it is appropri-
ate for our audience, topic, and purpose. Sticking with one pattern for all the
main points of the speech also helps to avoid audience confusion.

Transitions

In addition to constructing the actual body of the speech, it is important to help
our audience follow our organization. As Chapter 2 explained, signposts are one
type of transitional statement that bridges main points. They tell the audience
where we have been and where we are going. Transitions help those who have
become lost or inattentive to pick up the thread of a speech.
Transitions serve to verbally link our thoughts as we speak. It’s always a good
idea to let our audience know that there is a sequence to our message—“Let’s
consider three important issues”—and then to remind them where we are in that
sequence—“Having covered the fi rst issue, let’s now look at the second.”
For example, to add a point, we use words or phrases such as furthermore, in
addition to, and besides. To emphasize something, phrases such as above all, indeed, 231