The document outlines an eight step process for writing a speech: 1) analyze the occasion and audience, 2) select a topic, 3) write a central idea sentence, 4) determine the general purpose, 5) write a specific purpose statement, 6) conduct research, 7) organize the speech outline, and 8) practice delivery. Each step is briefly described, with examples provided for some steps. The overall process guides the speaker from analyzing the initial context and goals through organizing and practicing the completed speech.

1. Speech 1
Eight Step Process
On the Agenda….

2. Eight Step Process– Unit 8
Step 1: Occasion and Audience Analysis
 Start the speech writing process with thinking about your audience.
Why are you getting together?
Is this a club, business, or class meeting?
Are we paying tribute to a member or members of a group?
Is it a commencement?
“why, when, and where”
 Learn as much as you can about the physical environment.
Will you need special equipment?

3. Eight Step Process
Determine “Who”
Are they members of a local political party? Church group?
Club? Do they represent a governmental agency or an
educational institution?
Answers to these questions will help you figure out
their needs and any special interests they may have.
Demographic Sketch p.99
Fill in what you do know. Do your best guess for the
rest. Must be filled out completely!

4. Eight Step Process
Step 2- Topic Selection
 Can be difficult because some people feel they do not have a topic
they know something about which would also interest others.
 While thinking about Step 1, ask yourself:
What am I interested in? What topics do I know about? What are
the “special interests” of my intended audience? What general
interests do we share in common?
 Remember you can always change your mind! If you can’t find enough
info or if you lose interest, just come back to step 2 and pick another
topic.

5. Eight Step Process
Step 3- Central Idea Sentence
Once you have your topic, you will need to get more
specific. What do you want your audience to know about
your topic?
The central idea sentence is a declarative statement about
the topic (aka thesis).
Focal point around which you will develop the speech
about your topic.

6. Eight Step Process
Step 4- General Purpose
You will choose from four categories: informative,
persuasive, entertaining, and special occasion.
Given what you’ve figured out for steps 1-3 will help you
determine your general purpose.
Do you want to increase their knowledge?
Do you want to change their minds on a topic?

7. Eight Step Process
Step 5- Specific Purpose Statement
Writing a specific purpose statement allows you to identify the
speech’s main points.
Given your topic, central idea, and general purpose, you will
need to write a statement that identifies your main points.
Topic: Crime
Central idea sentence: “Crime is increasing in professional
sports”
Purpose: to persuade
Specific purpose statement: “I want my audience to be
convinced that crime is increasing in professional football,
basketball, and baseball in the US resulting in serious social
harm.”

8. Eight Step Process
Step 6- Research
 Once you’ve identified your main points it is time to start
researching information to support your central idea sentence
(aka thesis).
 Four basic methods for gathering info:
Personal observation
Written publications
Electronic media (internet)
Interviews
 Credibility

9. Eight Step Process
Step 7- Organization
After you’ve completed your research, it is time to synthesize
your information and create an organized outline.
Use outline patterns from Unit 11.
Step 8- Practice Delivery
Rehearse your speech using your delivery outline.
Practicing will help you familiarize yourself with the
material and enhance your chance to be an effective
speaker.
Practice also reduces speaker communication
apprehension.