Page 72 - Between One and Many The Art and Science of Public Speaking

Chapter 2 Your First Speech 39

Time Pattern Categorical (Topical) Pattern
Specific purpose: to inform audience how Specific purpose: to inform listeners about
to change a tire types of classes they may take at the university
I. Remove jack and spare from trunk I. General education courses
II. Loosen lugnuts II. Courses in the major
III. Use jack to raise car III. Electives
IV. Remove flat tire
V. Replace with spare tire
VI. Lower car

Spatial Pattern
Specific purpose: to inform audience about
regions of the U.S.
I. Eastern seaboard
II. Midwest
III. Rocky Mountains
IV. Pacific States

Exhibit 2.2
Common Patterns for Organizing the Main Points of a Speech

Provide Transitions
We also want to emphasize the importance of using transitional statements, such
as signposts, that bridge your main points. For example, you might say some- signposts
thing as simple as, “My second point is . . .” or “Now that you understand the Transitional statements
problem, let’s examine some possible solutions.” The goal in using transitions is that bridge main points.
to provide your audience with guides along the path of your speech so that they
will know where you have been, where you are, and where you are going next.

Conclusion

All too often, speakers invest so much energy in developing the introduction and
body of their speeches that they run out of gas at the end. The impact with which
you conclude a speech is just as important as the impact with which you began.