Page 401 - Between One and Many The Art and Science of Public Speaking

368 Part 4 Contexts for Public Speaking

Exhibit 13.2
Explaining a process such as . . . Explaining a concept such as . . .
Possible Speech
Topics for Informative
• Global warming • Credit card fees and how they can
Speeches accumulate
• How hydrogen can power cars
• A type of art; for example, impressionism
• How solar panels convert sunlight into
electricity • The nature of a disease; for example,
muscular dystrophy
• How West Nile Virus is transmitted
• Compound interest and how a small
• How exposure to UV rays causes skin amount invested over time can grow
cancer
• Musical harmony

Demonstrating how to . . . Describing . . .
• Grow your own herbs • A visit to Rio de Janeiro
• Fill out the EZ1040 income tax form • The most unforgettable person you ever
met
• Fly fi sh
• The weaknesses in airport security
• Give CPR
allowing hijackers to take over planes
• Prepare your favorite food
• The beauty of Yosemite National Park
• Properly protect yourself from injury • The judging of an Olympic sport such as
while skiing
gymnastics

One Final Word

If a word could be used to summarize the difference between an outstanding
and less successful informative speech it would have to be enthusiasm. There is
simply no substitute for your enthusiasm with your topic and the pleasure your
audience senses that you receive from talking about it. Enthusiasm is conta-
gious. When you are enthused, it is hard for your audience to avoid sharing your
enthusiasm. Obviously, this fact reminds us of an additional one: Your success
with informative speaking depends upon a carefully selected and researched
topic you care about!

Summary

Informative speaking is the process by which an audience gains new informa-
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tion or a new perspective on old information from a speaker.
To evaluate your understand-
ing of this chapter, visit our • Learning is frequently the goal of informative speaking.
Online Learning Center Web
site for quizzes and other • Informative and persuasive speaking are two opposite ends of a continuum.
chapter study aids.
• It’s important that the individual learning styles of audience members be
refl ected in the verbal and nonverbal content of informative speeches.