Speaking to Inform #5 - The Abstract Concept

(See sample speech here)



Introduction:

In most cases, speeches of information will be on readily explainable subjects familiar to your audience, such as sailing or our company's progress on a project. Occasionally, however, the subject may not be as concrete. You may be asked to analyze a philosophical idea, economic or political theory, engineering principle, social issue, or historical force and make it clear and interesting for our audience. Such subjects cannot be demonstrated, yet they can have a direct impact on our lives. Consider, for example, the difference in living under a capitalist or communist system, even though you could not directly picture either one.


Executive Summary:

Explaining a theory, principle, philosophy or social issue can be challenging. Make sure the audience knows the general concept and how your speech relates to it. Show how your topic relates to listeners' everyday lives. Use plenty of examples, anecdotes, illustrations and visual aids to help listeners understand and visualize your points, and avoid technical jargon.


Objectives:

  • Research and analyze an abstract concept, theory, historical force, or social/political issue.

  • Present the ideas in a clear, interesting manner.

Time: Six to eight minutes





Your Assignment:

For this project, prepare, rehearse, and deliver a six- to eight-minute talk about an abstract subject such as a concept, idea, theory, historical force, or social issue. Your purpose is to clearly explain the meaning of the subject to the audience and use definitions, examples, anecdotes, illustrations, quotes from experts and visual aids to explain concepts.

This information is provided as a service to members. For full details on this speech project, refer to the Speaking to Inform manual. All materials in the Toastmasters Educational Program are copyright Toastmasters International. All rights reserved..


The Speaking to Inform Manual

Informational speeches are one of the most common types, so most likely you will be asked to present one sometime. This manual contains information about organizing an informational speech, tailoring your speech to the audience, conducting a demonstration, presenting a report and delivering a speech about an abstract subject.

(See sample speech here)