Central Idea For A Speech

Finding Your Central Idea for a Speech: A Guide to Powerful Public Speaking

Introduction:

So, you've got a speech to write. The assignment looms, the deadline approaches, and the blank page mocks you. The biggest hurdle? Finding that central idea, that core message that will resonate with your audience and leave a lasting impact. This isn't about stringing together random facts; it's about crafting a compelling narrative that informs, persuades, or inspires. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of identifying your central idea, crafting a powerful speech structure, and delivering a memorable presentation. We'll explore various techniques, provide practical examples, and offer tips to help you conquer speech anxiety and deliver a truly impactful speech.


I. Understanding the Power of a Central Idea:

A strong central idea is the bedrock of any successful speech. It's the single, overarching message you want your audience to take away. Without a clear central idea, your speech will feel disjointed, unfocused, and ultimately ineffective. Think of it as the thesis statement of your speech – it's the argument you're making and the point you're trying to prove. A well-defined central idea provides:

Clarity: It gives your speech direction and prevents rambling.
Focus: It keeps you on track and prevents you from including irrelevant information.
Impact: It ensures your message is memorable and persuasive.
Organization: It provides a framework for structuring your speech logically.


II. Identifying Your Central Idea: A Step-by-Step Process:

Finding your central idea is not always straightforward. It requires careful thought and reflection. Here's a step-by-step process:

1. Brainstorming: Start by jotting down everything you know about your topic. Don't censor yourself; just let your thoughts flow freely.
2. Identifying Key Themes: Look for recurring themes or patterns in your brainstorming notes. What are the most important points you want to convey?
3. Focusing on a Single Message: Choose one key theme to be the central idea of your speech. It should be concise, specific, and easily understandable.
4. Refining Your Idea: Once you have a central idea, refine it until it is clear, concise, and impactful. Ask yourself: Is it arguable? Is it relevant to my audience? Is it something I can convincingly support with evidence?
5. Testing Your Idea: Test your central idea on a friend or colleague. Get their feedback and make any necessary adjustments.


III. Structuring Your Speech Around Your Central Idea:

Once you have a central idea, you need to structure your speech to support it effectively. A typical speech structure includes:

Introduction: Grab the audience's attention, state your central idea clearly, and provide a brief overview of what you will cover.
Body Paragraphs: Develop your central idea using supporting evidence, examples, and anecdotes. Each paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of your central idea.
Conclusion: Summarize your main points, restate your central idea in a memorable way, and leave the audience with a call to action or a thought-provoking statement.


IV. Examples of Central Ideas:

To illustrate, let's consider a few examples across different speech types:

Persuasive Speech: "The benefits of regular exercise significantly outweigh the perceived challenges."
Informative Speech: "The Amazon rainforest plays a crucial role in regulating global climate patterns."
Motivational Speech: "Overcoming adversity builds resilience and fosters personal growth."


V. Speech Outline Example: The Power of Resilience

Speech Title: Building Resilience: Overcoming Adversity and Embracing Growth

Introduction: Hook (personal anecdote about overcoming a challenge), state central idea (Resilience is key to overcoming adversity and achieving personal growth), preview main points.
Chapter 1: Understanding Resilience: Define resilience, explore its components (mental toughness, adaptability, optimism), provide examples of resilient individuals.
Chapter 2: Strategies for Building Resilience: Discuss practical strategies (positive self-talk, mindfulness, seeking support), provide actionable steps the audience can take.
Chapter 3: The Benefits of Resilience: Explore the positive outcomes of resilience (improved mental health, enhanced problem-solving skills, increased success).
Conclusion: Reiterate central idea, summarize key points, leave audience with a call to action (engage in self-reflection, develop a personal resilience plan).


VI. Detailed Explanation of Outline Points:

(a) Introduction: The introduction needs to immediately grab the audience’s attention. A captivating story, a startling statistic, or a relevant question are all effective techniques. Clearly stating the central idea early helps the audience understand the purpose of the speech. The preview of the main points provides a roadmap for the speech, ensuring the audience understands the flow of information.

(b) Chapter 1: Understanding Resilience: This chapter focuses on defining resilience and exploring its key components. Using examples of resilient individuals, from historical figures to everyday people, helps to illustrate the concept and make it relatable to the audience.

(c) Chapter 2: Strategies for Building Resilience: This is the practical section of the speech. It provides specific strategies that the audience can use to cultivate resilience in their own lives. Actionable steps, such as practicing mindfulness or engaging in positive self-talk, are essential for making the speech impactful.

(d) Chapter 3: The Benefits of Resilience: This chapter focuses on the positive outcomes associated with resilience. Highlighting the benefits – improved mental health, better problem-solving skills, and increased success – helps to reinforce the importance of cultivating resilience.

(e) Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main points, reinforcing the central idea. It's crucial to leave the audience with a memorable takeaway message. A call to action encourages the audience to apply the information learned and integrate resilience strategies into their lives.


VII. FAQs:

1. What if I can't find a central idea? Brainstorm extensively, consider different angles, and seek feedback from others.
2. How long should my central idea be? Aim for a concise and memorable statement, ideally one sentence.
3. Can my central idea change during the writing process? Yes, it's okay to refine or adjust your central idea as your speech develops.
4. How do I make my central idea engaging? Use strong verbs and evocative language to make it compelling.
5. What if my audience doesn't agree with my central idea? Present your arguments logically and respectfully, acknowledging counterarguments.
6. How can I ensure my speech stays focused on my central idea? Regularly check your outline and ensure each point supports your main message.
7. What if my speech feels too long or too short? Adjust the content and depth of your points to fit your allotted time.
8. How can I practice delivering my speech effectively? Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself, and seek feedback from others.
9. What if I get nervous while delivering my speech? Deep breathing exercises, visualization, and preparation can help manage speech anxiety.


VIII. Related Articles:

1. Crafting a Compelling Speech Introduction: Techniques for grabbing audience attention.
2. Effective Speech Body Paragraphs: Structure and Support: Strategies for building a strong argument.
3. Writing a Powerful Speech Conclusion: Techniques for leaving a lasting impression.
4. Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety: Practical tips and strategies for managing nerves.
5. The Art of Storytelling in Public Speaking: Using narratives to connect with your audience.
6. Using Visual Aids Effectively in Speeches: Enhancing your presentation with visuals.
7. Different Types of Speeches and Their Structures: Understanding the nuances of various speech formats.
8. How to Research and Support Your Speech Arguments: Finding credible evidence to bolster your claims.
9. Delivering a Memorable Speech: Tips for Engagement: Strategies to captivate and inspire your audience.


  central idea for a speech: TED TALKS: The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking Chris J. Anderson, 2016-05-03 The inside secrets to giving a first-class presentation from the man who put TED talks on the world’s stage Amid today’s proliferating channels of instant communication, one singular skill has emerged as the most essential way to communicate - a brief, polished, live-audience video talk. Since taking over TED in the early 2000s, Chris Anderson has tapped the world’s most brilliant individuals to share their expertise. Anderson discovered early on that the key to getting an audience to sit up and pay attention is to condense a presentation into 18 minutes or less, and to heighten its impact with a powerful narrative. In other words, to tell a terrific story. TED Talks is chock full of personal presentation suggestions from such TED notables as Sir Ken Robinson, Mary Roach, Amy Cuddy , Bill Gates, Elizabeth Gilbert, Dan Gilbert Matt Ridley, and dozens more - everything from how to distill your speech’s content to what you should wear on stage. This is lively, fun read with great practical application from the man who knows what goes into a great speech. In TED Talks, Anderson pulls back the TED curtain for anyone who wants to learn from the world’s best on how to prepare a top-notch presentation.
  central idea for a speech: Persuasive Communication Skills S. Steinberg, 1999-10-31 This series covers topics in interpersonal, small-group, organizational and mass communication. Each chapter offers an overview, a list of key terms and learning objectives while activities reinforce and expand learning through self-evaluation.
  central idea for a speech: Principles of Public Speaking Kathleen M. German, Bruce E Gronbeck, Douglas Ehninger, Alan H. Monroe, 2016-05-23 Balancing skills and theory, Principles of Public Speaking emphasizes orality, Internet technology, and critical thinking as it encourages the reader to see public speaking as a way to build community in today's diverse world. Within a framework that emphasizes speaker responsibility, critical thinking and listening, and cultural awareness, this classic book uses examples from college, workplace, political, and social communication to make the study of public speaking relevant, contemporary, and exciting. This brief but comprehensive book also offers the reader the latest in using technology in speechmaking, featuring a unique and exciting integrated text and technology learning system.
  central idea for a speech: Principles of Public Speaking Kathleen German, 2017-06-26 Balancing skills and theory, Principles of Public Speaking, 19th Edition, emphasizes orality, internet technology, and critical thinking as it encourages the reader to see public speaking as a way to build community in today’s diverse world. Within a framework that emphasizes speaker responsibility, listening, and cultural awareness, this classic book uses examples from college, workplace, political, and social communication to make the study of public speaking relevant, contemporary, and exciting. This edition opens with a new chapter on speaking apprehension, and offers enhanced online resources for instructors and students.
  central idea for a speech: Contemporary Public Speaking Courtland L. Bovée, 2003 Contemporary Public Speaking includes all the traditional fundamentals as well as the hottest issues in public speaking today. Featuring a conversational style and an extensive photo and illustration program, this comprehensive coverage provides students with the tools they need to analyze and apply public speaking principles. Examples, exercises, and boxed features offer insights into major themes such as speaking across cultures, developing creativity, improving critical thinking, overcoming speech anxiety, focusing on ethics, and learning from real-world speaking situations. Students will also explore how to speak on the job and in small groups, develop persuasive strategies, and use audio/visual aids--from flip charts to multimedia presentations--and will learn basic ways to become more effective speakers and listeners. A Collegiate Press book CONSULTING EDITORS: JoAnn Edwards, University of Mississippi Jon A. Hess, University of Missouri, Columbia Cynthia Irizarry, Stetson University Shannon McCraw, Southeastern Oklahoma State University Timothy P. Meyer, University of Wisconsin, Green Bay Louis J. Rosso, Winthrop University
  central idea for a speech: Presentation Zen Garr Reynolds, 2009-04-15 FOREWORD BY GUY KAWASAKI Presentation designer and internationally acclaimed communications expert Garr Reynolds, creator of the most popular Web site on presentation design and delivery on the Net — presentationzen.com — shares his experience in a provocative mix of illumination, inspiration, education, and guidance that will change the way you think about making presentations with PowerPoint or Keynote. Presentation Zen challenges the conventional wisdom of making slide presentations in today’s world and encourages you to think differently and more creatively about the preparation, design, and delivery of your presentations. Garr shares lessons and perspectives that draw upon practical advice from the fields of communication and business. Combining solid principles of design with the tenets of Zen simplicity, this book will help you along the path to simpler, more effective presentations.
  central idea for a speech: Principles of Public Speaking Dakota Horn, 2024-04-29 Now in its 21st edition, this introductory public speaking textbook encourages the reader to see public speaking as a way to build community in today’s diverse world. Within a framework that emphasizes speaker responsibility, listening, and cultural awareness, this classic book uses examples from college, the workplace, and political and social communication to make the study of public speaking relevant, contemporary, and exciting. Balancing skills and theory, new author Dakota Horn provides expanded coverage of speaking anxiety and understanding and delivering digital presentations along with two new chapters on culture and diversity and diversifying speeches. Each chapter also contains in-class applied activities to support students' learning. This textbook is ideal for general courses on public speaking as well as specialized programs in business, management, political communication, and public affairs. An Instructor’s Manual featuring discussion questions and guides, exercises, quiz questions, and suggestions and resources for syllabus design as well as PowerPoint slides is available at https://www.routledge.com/9781032537634
  central idea for a speech: Speaking with a Purpose Arthur Koch, Jason Schmitt, 2023-08-03 Now in its 11th edition, Speaking with a Purpose is designed to help speakers develop the skills they need to prepare and deliver effective speeches. Using a traditional step-by-step approach combined with up-to-date communication theory, this no-frills textbook allows students to prepare, practice, and present speeches. This new edition places greater emphasis on the skills needed to communicate effectively both online and offline. It analyses the similarities and differences between in-person speaking and online video conferencing and explores technical online attributes such as best Zoom protocols. This new edition also provides a deeper focus on the ethics and ethical implications associated with communicating in public and assesses issues such as trustworthiness, integrity, and respect for others. A valuable resource in the traditional, online, or hybrid classroom, this is an essential textbook for general courses in public speaking and speech communication and composition. Online resources for instructors include a fully updated test bank and an Instructor’s Manual containing learning objectives and discussion questions. They are available online at https://www.routledge.com/9781032502700.
  central idea for a speech: What Snowflakes Get Right Ulrich Baer, 2019 In What 'Snowflakes' Get Right About Free Speech, Ulrich Baer draws on jurisprudence, philosophical texts, and his long experience as a senior university administrator to show that debates surrounding free speech on university campuses are not about the feelings of offended students but about our democracy's commitment to equality and the university's critical role as an arbiter of truth in society.
  central idea for a speech: Preaching for Special Services Scott M. Gibson, 2001-04-01 Sooner or later, every pastor will be called on to conduct special services. Baptisms, weddings, funerals, infant presentations, and evangelistic services, each in their own way, challenge pastors to find the right words to mark the occasion. Preaching for Special Services will help pastors prepare sermons for these special services. Each chapter explores a different occasion and offers the perspective, encouragement, and practical advice that pastors need as they plan their messages. Through this useful book, pastors will discover how Christ-centered special occasion preaching can make a difference in the lives of their listeners.
  central idea for a speech: Communicating Roy Berko, Andrew Wolvin, Darlyn R. Wolvin, Joan E. Aitken, 2016-09-16 This highly-regarded introduction to communication book offers a comprehensive blend of basic communication theory, research, and skills, with a strong emphasis on relationship communication (social), workplace (career), and intercultural communication (culture). Communicating introduces the basic principles of communication and applies them to interpersonal, group, interviewing, and public speaking contexts. The book stresses communication competence through boxed material, Learn by Doing activities, thought-provoking questions, and self-assessment tests. New and strengthened pedagogy highlights and reinforces the book's social, career, and cultural themes, with a particular emphasis on intercultural communication and communicating in an increasingly high-tech, global environment.
  central idea for a speech: Public Speaking for Success Dale Carnegie, 2006-05-04 Dale Carnegie, author of the legendary How to Win Friends and Influence People, began his career as the premier life coach of the twentieth century by teaching the art of public speaking. Public speaking, as Carnegie saw it, is a vital skill that can be attained through basic and repeated steps. His classic volume on the subject appeared in 1926 and was revised twice-in shortened versions-in 1956 and 1962. This 2006 revision-edited by a longtime consultant to Dale Carnegie & Associates, Inc., and the editor in charge of updating How to Win Friends and Influence People-is the definitive one for our era. While up-to-date in its language and points of reference, Public Speaking for Success preserves the full range of ideas and methods that appeared in the original: including Carnegie's complete speech and diction exercises, which follow each chapter, as the author originally designated them. This edition restores Carnegie's original appendix of the three complete self-help classics: Acres of Diamonds by Russell H. Conwell, As a Man Thinketh by James Allen, and A Message to Garcia by Elbert Hubbard. Carnegie included these essays in his original edition because, although they do not directly relate to public speaking, he felt they would be of great value to the readers. Here is the definitive update of the best-loved public-speaking book of all time.
  central idea for a speech: Shared Experiences in Human Communication Stewart L. Tubbs, 2020-03-12 A novel approach to traditional subjects, the wide variety of opinions, and the extensive introductory material lift this book out of the ordinary “readings class, and will reward the reader with understanding and appreciation of a complex subject. This collection of 37 provocative selections on human communication shares with the reader the experience and insights of some of the best minds in the discipline. The selections for the most part deal with traditional communication topics in a novel way. For example, in the chapter on verbal communication, there is a selection on profane language; in the chapter on nonverbal communication, there is a section entitled “The Silent Language of Love”; in the chapter on small group communication, there’s the Parkinson article on laws in groups; and in the chapter on mass communication, there’s one on today’s interest in sexually oriented magazines. The entire spectrum of topics usually found in beginning courses in speech communication is here. An extensive Section Two includes discussion on the psychological and transactional analysis views of communication. A brief introduction precedes each section focusing on the key ideas of each reading. Sources include the Journal of Communication, Industry Week, Journalism Quarterly, Psychology Today, Supervisory Management, Journal of Social Issues, Harvard Business Review, and Today's Speech.
  central idea for a speech: Oral Workplace Communication Thomas Cheesebro, Linda O'Connor, Francisco Rios, 2006 The 2 nd edition of this text provides an excellent, easy-to-read explanation of the tools needed to be successful on the job. Organized into easily understood 3-part chapters, Job Talk provides ample coverage of standard communication topics, and addresses content essential for workers in todayrss competitive job market. Beginning with an overview of the communication process, it then addresses skills related to diversity, listening, interpersonal relationships, oral presentations, teamwork, job search, and customer service. Because of its ease of use this guide is invaluable to those who need to present information from all walks of life: from students to trainer-facilitators to CEOs. Adult learners who develop the skills presented in this book can expect to experience more satisfying work lives, improved interpersonal relationships, and increased self-confidence.
  central idea for a speech: The Public Speaking Playbook Teri Kwal Gamble, Michael W. Gamble, 2022-12-08 The Public Speaking Playbook coaches students to prepare, practice, and present speeches—whether in the classroom, public sphere, or in a virtual setting. Authors Teri Kwal Gamble and Michael W. Gamble employ an interactive approach to building skills through various exercises that allow students to practice and improve their public speaking. Features such as objectives, coaching tips, and new self-assessments in each section further aids student success and reinforces key competencies. The Fourth Edition makes this text more relevant, timely, and engaging with increased coverage of recent events and a focus on improving virtual presentation skills. This title is accompanied by a complete teaching and learning package. Contact your SAGE representative to request a demo. Learning Platform / Courseware SAGE Vantage is an intuitive learning platform that integrates quality SAGE textbook content with assignable multimedia activities and auto-graded assessments to drive student engagement and ensure accountability. Unparalleled in its ease of use and built for dynamic teaching and learning, Vantage offers customizable LMS integration and best-in-class support. It’s a learning platform you, and your students, will actually love. Learn more. Assignable Video with Assessment Assignable video (available in SAGE Vantage) is tied to learning objectives and curated exclusively for this text to bring concepts to life. Watch a sample video now. LMS Cartridge: Import this title’s instructor resources into your school’s learning management system (LMS) and save time. Don’t use an LMS? You can still access all of the same online resources for this title via the password-protected Instructor Resource Site. Learn more.
  central idea for a speech: BUSINESS COMMUNICATION Veera Thakur, Vikrant Verma, 2024-11-01 Buy E-Book of BUSINESS COMMUNICATION For MBA 1st Semester of ( AKTU ) Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University ,UP
  central idea for a speech: The Competent Public Speaker Sherwyn P. Morreale, 2010 Based on the National Communication Association's conceptual model for teaching and evaluating undergraduate public speeches (as developed by the author and others), Sherwyn P. Morreale offers a highly accessible, easy-to-teach, easy-to-learn approach to public speaking. The approach adopted in the text includes eight public speaking competencies - four on speech preparation and four on speech delivery - which are enhanced by emphasizing the impact of technology, ethics, culture, and diversity on public speaking. A number of unique features designed to improve teaching and learning include: - Students used as examples in each chapter so that readers can follow them as they learn about public speaking; - Tables and boxed text to reinforce the most important learning points; - Checkpoint and self-assessment tools so that readers can determine their level of competence and find out whether they are ready to proceed to the next chapter; - Competence-building activities for students to apply chapter concepts and practice public speaking strategies in the classroom or as take-home assignments; - An accompanying website which is updated on a regular basis and offers a forum for students to contact the author. Designed for introductory-level public speaking courses taught at two- and four-year colleges and universities, this text offers a distinctively practical alternative for students and teachers to achieve consistency across multiple sections of the public speaking course. An instructor's manual is available on request.
  central idea for a speech: The Art of Effective Science Communication David Dannenfelser,
  central idea for a speech: Public Speaking W. A. Kelly Huff, 2008 Why are you speaking, what is your purpose, your topic? Who comprises your audience and how will they be affected by your message? How will they react? What are supporting materials, where does one find them, and how does one incorporate them into presentations? These questions and more are addressed in this accessible introduction to public speaking. The reader will learn all the tools of giving an effective public presentation, including how to put a speech together, how to choose supporting materials, and strategies for how one should look, sound, and act while delivering a speech. The book addresses different types of speeches and provides suggestions for how to cope with the fear of public speaking - and how to turn that fear to one's advantage. Practical and useful, Public Speaking: A Concise Overview for the Twenty-first Century is a roadmap that helps its readers navigate the challenges of effectively conveying thoughts, ideas, and messages from one person to another.
  central idea for a speech: Biblical Sermons Haddon W. Robinson, 1997-02 Haddon Robinson's method in Biblical Preaching is employed in twelve expository messages with accompanying comments on each by the editor and interviews with each preacher.
  central idea for a speech: An Essential Guide to Public Speaking Quentin J. Schultze, 2020-03-17 Communication expert and popular speaker Quentin Schultze offers a practical, accessible, and inspiring guide to public speaking, showing readers how to serve their audiences with faith, skill, and virtue. This thoroughly rewritten and expanded four-color edition has been tested and revised with input from Christian undergraduates and contains new chapters on timely topics, such as speaking for video, conducting group presentations, and engaging society civilly. A complete public speaking textbook for Christian universities, it includes helpful sidebars, tips, and appendixes. Additional resources for students and professors are available through Textbook eSources.
  central idea for a speech: Public Speaking Basics Michael A. Griffin, 2008 Public Speaking Basics provides a semester's worth of information and exercises to help college students master public speaking. There is an emphasis on creating good thesis sentences and on using effective forms of outlining. A sample speech is provided with each of the six different speaking assignments.--BOOK JACKET.
  central idea for a speech: The Complete Idiot's Guide to Public Speaking: 2nd Edition Laurie Rozakis, 1999-06-01 You're no idiot, of course. You can hold your own in water cooler conversation, are the life of the party at get-togethers, and have no problem firing a quick comeback at your smart-alecky friends. But when it comes to standing onstage in front of a group of people, you feel like you're the one in your underwear, not the audience. Don't hide behind the lectern just yet. The 'Complete Idiot's Guide to Public Speaking, Second Edition' helps you feel confident and build the skills you need to deliver winning speeches and presentations. In this completely revised and updated Complete Idiot's Guide, you'll find: -Professional guidance on identifying your audience and adapting to the situation. -Expert advice on effective wardrobe and body language. -Useful pointers on how to tell jokes. -Valuable tips on handling hecklers and negative audiences. -Cutting edge information on using Powerpoint and other visual aids.
  central idea for a speech: A Brief Introduction to Speech Donovan J. Ochs, Anthony C. Winkler, 1983
  central idea for a speech: Talking With Confidence for the Painfully Shy Don Gabor, 1997 Tells how to overcome shyness, learn to make small talk, present toasts, host parties, present oneself effectively at a job interview, run a meeting, and give a speech
  central idea for a speech: Purposeful Communication in a Digital Age Jason Schmitt, Arthur Koch, 2018-06-13 In recent years, the process and outlet for public speaking has grown with digital progressions such as TED talks and Facebook Live. Purposeful Communication in a Digital Age, 2nd Edition, provides a practical, step-by-step approach to developing and delivering effective speeches. Offering supplementary articles, case studies, and interviews with key leaders within the text and online, this is an all-in-one resource for the traditional, online, or hybrid classroom. The new edition devotes focus to presenting in the digital world, addressing both traditional and contemporary forms of presentation, and specifically directs students on seeking out credible sources when conducting research. Its eResource features video speech examples, classroom exercises, an instructor manual, and a quiz bank.
  central idea for a speech: The Complete Idiot's Guide to Public Speaking Laurie Rozakis, 1999 Stresses the value of being able to speak in public and offers advice on speech writing, handling specific types of speeches, preparing and rehearsing, overcoming stage fright, and delivering an effective speech
  central idea for a speech: Outreach Presenter's Resource Guide , 1996
  central idea for a speech: Speak for Yourself James H. Byrns, 1985
  central idea for a speech: Communicating for Success Cheryl M. Hamilton, 2016-07-22 This text focuses student-learning on the key communication competencies recommended by the National Communication Association. With applied examples and a vibrant and engaging design, this text covers all the expected topics in an introductory course (foundations of communication, interpersonal communication, small group communication, and public speaking - plus a special appendix on interviewing). Scenarios begin each chapter with a problem to which students can relate and then solve as they learn about the concepts discussed in each chapter. A concentrated focus on careers in communication, highlighted in a two-page spread near the end of each chapter, brings home the relevance of communication outside the classroom and helps students learn more about how studying communication can help them throughout their lives. Additional emphasis on topics such as ethics, culture, gender, and technology is found throughout the text.
  central idea for a speech: A Survey of Human Communication Michael A. Griffin, 2015-12-14 This textbook provides a survey of the Speech and Communication Studies areas of Communication, focusing on human communication through the transactional model of communication. Interpersonal Communication chapters constitute the largest portion of the book, with the Public Speaking chapters the next largest block, followed by the Intercultural and Small Group/Organizational Communication chapters. Homework and/or classroom exercises are provided in nearly every chapter to enable students to learn the related skills and/or reinforce their knowledge. There is a unique money talk section in the Relationship Communication chapter, an in-depth problem-solving exercise with sample content information in the Small Group/Organizational Communication chapter, an overview of controversial Intercultural topics in the Intercultural Communication chapter that can be optional reading, and a step-by-step process for learning how to write thesis sentences in one of the Public Speaking chapters. In addition, instructions for and samples of seven different types of speeches are provided, as well as evaluation forms, to give instructors suitable choices.
  central idea for a speech: Talking Is a Gift Rhonda Harrington Kelley, Monica Rose Brennan, 2014-02-01 Talking Is a Gift is the only comprehensive book about communication and public speaking written from a Christian perspective by women and for women -- an unmatched source for Christian women enrolled in academic programs, leading in local churches, or serving in itinerant speaking/teaching ministries. This distinctive text from experienced authors Rhonda Harrington Kelley and Monica Rose Brennan offers essential skills for women in personal life and varied ministry contexts. And as the title suggests, the content of the book supports the premise that talking is simply a talent when used for personal pleasure, but it is a spiritual gift when used to minister to others. Kelley and Brennan divide the book into three parts: interpersonal communication, verbal communication, and nonverbal communication. Specific chapters cover issues including audience and outline, research and supportive material, anxiety and fear, delivery and details, and more. Discussion questions for each chapter, informational charts, and a glossary of terms are also featured.
  central idea for a speech: Speak Out, Call In Meggie Mapes, 2019
  central idea for a speech: A Practical Guide to Ethics Rita Manning, Scott R. Stroud, 2018-05-04 This essential new text is designed for courses in contemporary moral issues, applied ethics, and leadership. Emphasizing personal choice in the study of ethics, the authors take the reader on a journey of self-discovery rather than a mere academic survey of the field of ethics. A Practical Guide to Ethics: Living and Leading with Integrity helps students develop their skills in ethical decision-making and put those decisions into effective practice. Its unique focus on leadership, especially the moral dimensions of understanding one's own values, teaches students to understand and, through dialog and negotiation, communicate their own beliefs as a step to building coalitions with those who may hold different views. It is also distinctive in combining ethical theory with both multicultural ethics (Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, feminism) and a practical orientation to moral decision-making and leadership.
  central idea for a speech: Getting at the Core of the Common Core with Social Studies Thomas N. Turner, Jeremiah Clabough, William Cole, 2014-11-01 For social studies teachers reeling from the buffeting of top-down educational reforms, this volume offers answers to questions about dealing with the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). Each chapter presents and reviews pertinent standards that relate to the social studies. Each chapter also deals with significant topics in the social studies from various social sciences to processes such as inquiry to key skills needed for success in social studies such as analysis and literacy. The most important aspect of these chapters though is the array of adaptable activities that is included in each chapter. Teachers can find practical approaches to dealing with CCSS across the social studies panorama. The multiple authorships of the various chapters mean a variety of perspectives and viewpoints are presented. All of the authors have fought in the trenches of K-12 public education. Their activities reflect this in a way that will be useful to novice or veteran teachers.
  central idea for a speech: Biblical Preaching Haddon W. Robinson, 2014-03-18 This bestselling text by Haddon Robinson, considered by many to be the teacher of preachers, has sold over 300,000 copies and is a contemporary classic in the field. It offers students, pastors, and Bible teachers expert guidance in the development and delivery of expository sermons. This new edition has been updated throughout and includes helpful exercises. Praise for the Second Edition Named One of the 25 Most Influential Preaching Books of the Past 25 Years by Preaching [An] outstanding introduction to the task of preparing and presenting biblical sermons. More than any other book of the past quarter century, Biblical Preaching has profoundly influenced a generation of evangelical preachers.--Preaching
  central idea for a speech: Shut Up and Speak! John Sheirer, 2002 Why does your mouth suddenly go dry, your throat tighten, your face get hot, and your knees buckle when you have to address a group of people? The old story goes that more people are afraid of public speaking than they are of death. So people at a funeral would prefer to be the person in the casket than the person delivering the eulogy! Shut up and speak means that you must stop dwelling on how difficult or frightening public speaking is. Shut up and speak means that you can't become a better public speaker simply by studying communications theory or relying on public speaking folk wisdom. This book gives you the guidance to shut up by tuning out all of the interference that doesn't help you become a better public speaker and to speak by throwing yourself whole-heartedly into speech-making.
  central idea for a speech: Voice, Speech, and Gesture Hugh Campbell (M.D.), Robert Frederick Brewer, Henry Neville, 1895
  central idea for a speech: Six Sigma Loon Ching Tang, Thong Ngee Goh, Hong See Yam, Timothy Yoap, 2007-04-04 The 2007 winner of the Masing Book Prize sets out important Six Sigma concepts and a selection of up-to-date tools for quality improvement in industry. Six Sigma is a widely used methodology for measuring and improving an organization’s operational performance through a rigorous analysis of its practices and systems. This book presents a series of papers providing a systematic ‘roadmap’ for implementing Six Sigma, following the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve and Control) phased approach. Motivated by actual problems, the authors offer insightful solutions to some of the most commonly encountered issues in Six Sigma projects, such as validation of normality, experimentation under constraints and statistical control of complex processes. They also include many examples and case studies to help readers learn how to apply the appropriate techniques to real-world problems. Key features: Provides a comprehensive introduction to Six Sigma, with a critical strategic assessment and a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis. Presents some prominent design features of Six Sigma, and a newly proposed roadmap for healthcare delivery. Sets out information on graphical tools, including fishbone diagrams, mind-maps, and reality trees. Gives a thorough treatment of process capability analysis for non-normal data. Discusses advanced tools for Six Sigma, such as statistical process control for autocorrelated data. Consolidating valuable methodologies for process optimization and quality improvement, Six Sigma: Advanced Tools for Black Belts and Master Black Belts is a unique reference for practising engineers in the electronics, defence, communications and energy industries. It is also useful for graduate students taking courses in quality assurance.
  central idea for a speech: Elements of Public Speaking Harry Garfield Houghton, 1916 It is the purpose of this textbook to present a cleare statement of the elements of speaking via accurately expressed theory and a method of practice.