Personal Introductory Speech

   This speech involves two parts: a personal anecdote and a possible career choice. The speech begins with some brainstorming, next a formal outline is written, and finally note cards are written.

Personal Anecdote

   Each student will identify one or two events or people from their lives that emphasize human interest. The anecdote(s) should be brief and appealing for the audience.

Career Research

   A high school counselor presents the general topic to a Transitional English classroom. Explanations provide the students with an overview of a career search on the computer program called WOIS.

   Students research two career choices in a computer lab under the guidance of a counselor and the teacher.

   From these two vocational choices the student selects one to build a speech.

Parameters for the Career Speech:

1. Students print two personal interest careers from WOIS, and one will be developed as a part of their speech.

2. A one page outline will be submitted to the teacher when the speech is given.

3. Note cards are used by the student. The outlined speech appears on the cards, not written paragraphs.

4. Only the first and last sentences are memorized.

5. The speech will be three minutes in length.

6. Voice, posture, composure, and other speaking techniques will be evaluated along with the content of the speech.

Worksheet PDF

Formal Outline

I. Introduction

   Two sentences in length introducing the speaker and their career pathway.

II. Personal Anecdote(s)

   A. Information with supporting data

   B. Information with supporting data

III. Vocational / Career Choice

   A. Item of Interest

         1. Supporting Data

         2. Supporting Data

   B. Item of Interest

         1. Supporting Data

         2. Supporting Data

   C. Item of Interest

         1. Supporting Data

         2. Supporting Data

   D. Item of Interest

         1. Supporting Data

         2. Supporting Data

IV. Conclusion

   Two sentences in length drawing your career choice to a close. Please thank your audience.

   Although the outline presents only four items of interest with two pieces of supporting data, each speaker may adjust the outline to match their anecdote and researched career.

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